The Importance Of Steel Aircraft Hangars In Aviation Businesses

From flying over the oceans and dropping people off at their destination to running on the runway with proper landing, an aircraft has to handle a lot of stress and wear & tear. Hence, proper storage with timely maintenance and repair becomes essential. And for that, what could be the better option if not a metal airplane hangar? “Why?” you may ask. Well, let’s take a closer look at this.

Prefab Aircraft Hangars: The Benefits

1. Affordability

Now, you must be wondering if all this must come at a steeper price point. However, that’s far from real. Clean-span buildings using steel are easy to design. In fact, the frame consists of only three parts: rafters, tapered columns, and ridge/ eave haunch. You will need far more complex wooden/ concrete architects to achieve the same. Not to mention, the cost will skyrocket as you size up.

For instance, a clear span steel structure of size 80 x 100 x 20 (in ft.) is suitable to store the popular aircraft Embraer Phenom 300, which is 52.2 ft. long, 53.2 ft. wing span, and 16.5 ft. high from the ground. For a final quote on such steel buildings, contact Carports Advisor. We offer a custom-built structure that shelters your beloved flying beast.

Prefab aircraft hangars can be cleaned with water, a pressure washer (at the lowest setting), and mild detergent. A soft bristle brush can remove any stain on metal panels. They can be cleaned twice a year. This saves a lot of money as cleaning isn’t that frequent.

Tip: You can also add lean-to for extra space.

2. Advantage Of Clear Span

Aircraft are large structures with wing spans that can range from 50 ft. to almost 200 ft. for commercial crafts. Hence, dismantling them for parking isn’t really a convenient option. Plus, after every ride, they need to be examined for damage before being sent back to the runway.

Storage and inspection need a large, obstruction-free space without any internal support columns so that airplanes can easily enter and leave without delays. This is where metal aircraft hangars come into the picture. But what do steel buildings have to offer?

Clean Spans are made using rafters and tapered columns that hold the weight of the entire structure. There are no trusses or obstructing columns. You can customize a steel structure to be as high as 40 to 60 ft. and as wide as 300 ft. The sizing offer varies with metal builders.

But is it not possible with other materials? Yes, it is, but there is a caveat. The wider the timber or concrete structure you want, the more complex and expensive it gets. So, stick with a metal airplane hangar for the best result. How? Continue reading.  

3. Easy Repair & Maintenance

As we discussed above, aircraft need timely repair and maintenance to prolong their lives and ensure the safety of the passengers. The maintenance team performs most of the inspection, repair, and routine checkups in hangars.

They may require painting, repairing, or replacing tails, wheels, brakes, windows, frames, batteries, etc. The plane must be in flying condition before it hits the runway. So, how does a metal aircraft hangar help here?

The steel structure contributes to the efficiency of inspection operations. It provides a single unit under which all jobs can be done. Workers can quickly review stats and inspection reports, and repairs are necessary between flights. In addition, replaceable parts can frequently be stored in the hangar to fix the issue quickly.

The faster the servicing is done, the quicker the place will be on the runway. This means more profit for the aviation industry. Not only that, but the steel structures themselves don’t need frequent maintenance, which saves a lot of money. Want to know how? Let’s see that in our next point.

4. Resistant Against Elements

Weather (The Sun, Wind, And Snow)

Prefab aircraft hangars have large roof areas. These can be coated with reflective paint or light-colored paint to redirect sunlight and keep the interior cool. Further, you can also install solar panels, as metal roof panels are sturdy and can bear more load.

An engineered-certified steel building can withstand high-speed winds, heavy snow loads, and hail storms without any major structural damage. This helps metal retain its structural integrity over time.

Pests

Metal is inorganic. It does not provide bedding and food for termites, insects, and other pests. A clear-span steel building designed without trusses leaves no place for birds to rest or nest indoors. Moreover, metal is also anti-fungal. It does not promote mold and mildew growth.

Rot & Decay

Steel is a non-porous and dense material. Unlike wood, it does not absorb water with changing seasons. Hence, it does not rot or decay with time, reducing the frequency of repair and replacement.

5. Protection 

Whether personal or commercial, an aircraft is an expensive investment. Therefore, proper sheltering and security are essential for retaining its value and keeping it functional for a long time. Having controlled access to a hangar helps with security. But what benefits do steel buildings offer for aircraft security and safety?

Galvanized steel panels are sturdy and durable. They can’t be knocked down or cut through easily. You can install steel doors that will protect against forced entry or prying eyes. Typical door styles for aviation include sliding, folding, bi-fold overhead, and hydraulic doors.

Metal airplane hangars are also fire-resistant. Certified metal structures can withstand fire for up to four hours when coated with fire retardant.

Metal Aircraft Hangars: The Versatile Buildings

Are you wondering what else a steel hangar can be used for? Let’s examine some common remodeling possibilities.

• Warehouse
• Riding arena
• School
• Gymnasium
• Factory setup
• Greenhouse
• Malls

Anchor Your Plane To Steel Aircraft Hangar

At Carports Advisor, we offer a range of customization options, from size to colors, that seamlessly fit the bill and sync with your property aesthetics seamlessly. To know more about clear span metal building details, call (336)-914-1654 today.