Don’t Miss These Tips When Buying Metal Buildings in Texas

Metal buildings are increasingly gaining popularity in cities across Texas. If you are also planning on investing in a highly durable, versatile, and robust structure, you will need to make some significant decisions before settling on the right one. There are several controllable and uncontrollable factors that you should be prepared for. It is always wise to plan ahead as it reduces the room for surprises and helps you factor in the essentials.

Weather Conditions

When planning to invest in a metal building, one of the most important considerations to make is the weather conditions. You will have to choose among the design elements based on the local climate. Moreover, the addition of extra supporting components and reinforcement requirements are also dependent on the regional environment.

Understanding Texas climate

• Texas weather is sweltering and humid. The Gulf Coast region of Texas faces up to 90% humidity.
• Texas is considered the third hottest state in the US, with temperatures reaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Cities in the east, like Piney Woods, receive up to 60 inches of rainfall every year.
• Cities like Houston and Galveston are susceptible to hurricanes as well as tropical storms.
• Texas is part of Tornado Alley, and cities like Harris Country and those along the Red River Valley see the most tornadoes in the state.

Having an in-depth understanding of your local climate will help you in choosing the right roof and gauge options.

Moreover, you should always consider the local wind-load and snow-load requirements for buildings. Metal buildings are known to withstand wind speeds up to 180 miles an hour, and snow loads up to 80 lbs per square foot.

In hot and high-humidity regions within the state, you will have to consider taking measures to reduce moisture buildup as much as possible to avoid rust and corrosion.

Taking these considerations into account will also help you in scheduling the installation at the right time. Ideally, you should install these structures in dry and mild temperatures.

Purpose

Another crucial consideration to make is regarding the purpose of your metal building. What are you planning to use it for?

• Movie theater
• Office space
• Parking garage
• Livestock barn
• Manufacturing unit
• Shopping mall
• Restaurant
• She shed/Man cave

The purpose of installing the steel structure is essential to know the type, size, and ideal customizations required to maximize the functionality and lifespan of the building.

For instance: If you want a simple carport structure, then most integrations like HVAC systems and insulation can be avoided, but for large multi-purpose steel buildings, these might be essential.

Dimensions and Placement

Your building’s purpose will also help you in deciding on the size of the structure. Once you determine the purpose, you can seek expert help to understand the perfect length, width, and height that will accommodate your needs.

You will also have to consider how much space will be required to set up the structure. Will you have to rent or buy a new piece of land, or can you install it in your backyard?

Tip: To build a strong foundation, it is important to clear and grade your construction site and properly compact the ground.

Deciding on the installation site early on helps you in taking other things into account, such as:

• How are you planning to level the site before the installation process begins?
• Is the construction site easily accessible for metal building dealers to bring the prefab materials easily?
• Is there enough space to accommodate your desired structure?
• Is there easy access to water and power lines?
• Will the site allow for a proper drainage system to be installed?

Budget

The size of your metal building will directly impact its price. It is crucial that you make several budget-related considerations in order to prevent yourself from spending more than you intended to. Knowing the following can help you in setting up a realistic budget:

• What are the local steel prices?
• What are the regional labor costs?
• How does your manufacturer calculate the delivery costs?
• Are there any hidden charges? (If you are unsure, check with your metal building dealer)
• How can long-term repair and replacement costs be avoided in a weather like Texas?
• How much will the customizations that you plan on integrating cost?

It is extremely helpful that you settle on a budget, as it will keep you in check and prevent you from going overboard. Consider taking a needs-first approach, as it will help you significantly narrow down your options and make quick decisions without wasting time and energy.

Local Building Codes

It is ideal to seek all the required permits and know the local building codes before you begin the installation process of your metal building. This will not only ensure that you follow the law but also will prevent you from having to pay hefty fines.

Texas follows the International Building Code (IBC) for a general structural guideline. It may vary from region to region. You should also ensure that your metal building complies with local zoning regulations.

For instance, some cities restrict the construction of steel building structures to agricultural or industrial zones and do not permit them in residential spaces.

The following can be a general guideline:

• As some areas in Texas experience hurricanes, as per IBC standards, the buildings should be able to withstand winds up to 140 mph in such regions.
• All electrical setups should follow the National Electrical Code to ensure proper safety.
• While Texas sees mild snow, some northern regions may have a snow load requirement.
• Installation of buildings in flood-prone areas in Texas must follow the FEMA floodproofing requirements.
• Among the permits, you can check which of these are required in your locality — building permit (costing $200 to $500), foundation permit, and electrical and plumbing permit.
• Check zoning laws to know what should be the distance of your metal building from property lines.
• Find out about any height restrictions in your area.
• Some authorities also carry out inspections of any sort — pre-construction, structural, foundation, or final.
• All buildings should comply with fire safety requirements. While metal buildings are fire-resistant, check with local authorities to know if any additional compliance requirements are to be followed.

It is ideal to check the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) website or visit the local municipality office to gain an overall understanding of required permits.

Tip: Make sure that you opt for engineer-certified metal buildings to comply with safety standards and local structural codes.

Customization

For the Texas climate, it is necessary to install a structure that is robust, moisture-proof, and resistant to rust and corrosion. Besides being highly beneficial, metal buildings offer numerous personalizations to fit adverse climates. Decide the following to ensure you choose the structure that is sturdy and meets your aesthetic preferences:

• Should you opt for a strong vertical roof and side panel?
• Will your building require additional braces, brackets, and purlins?
• Do you need to add a ridge cap to your roof?
• Do you need to reinforce the structure with heavy-duty fasteners and anchors?
• Are you considering upgrading to 12-gauge steel frames and 26-gauge steel panels for better structural integrity?
• What are the number and type of doors and windows to install?
• What is the desired height of the structure?
• Which type of ventilation and insulation is perfectly fit for your building?
• Whether you wish to integrate colored screws or not?

Installing The Perfect Metal Building In Texas

In varied climate conditions like that of Texas, metal buildings are performing exceptionally well. However, you can miss a great opportunity if you end up installing a structure on half-cooked thoughts.

Our experts at Carports Advisor have a deep understanding of how to build the perfect metal building for Texas residents suiting their requirements. Whether it is a shed, workshop, garage, carport, AG barn, or office space, contact us at (336)-914-1654, and we will design the ideal building to withstand Texas’ scorching sun as well as intense spells of rain.