Pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMBs) are incredibly popular, and they account for a substantial percentage of nonresidential low-rise buildings in the United States. These are unique building systems that deliver a variety of advantages, but their foundations shouldn’t be an afterthought.
The foundation designs for metal builds are just as important as the structures to the integrity of the overall system. An inadequate or sloppy framing job can compromise the durability and strength of your PEMB.
If you want your PEMB to last and give you the best return on your investment, here are seven quality tips for metal building foundations that you can use:
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Quality Framing Translates to Quality Foundations
Each and every part of your PEMB is designed, fabricated, and engineered with precision. Likewise, you won’t be able to have a foundation that is anything less than precise. In other words, your foundation can’t be out-of-square or fashioned from inferior materials.
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All Metal Building Foundations Must Meet Standards
The foundation for your PEMB must work in concert with your metal building system. It should be designed and constructed with the same commitment to precision and quality as your structure. A quality foundation must meet certain standards:
- Match the PEMB system exactly and not just “come close.” Every building and location is different, so every foundation must be customized.
- Must be designed to suit your area’s climate and soil conditions.
- Have steel anchor bolts inserted in the wet concrete precisely according to the manufacturer’s plans.
- Meet the requirement of all local building codes.
- Have perfectly square and crisp corners.
- Contain the right amount and type of concrete to support both the building and its intended contents.
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Only Use Quality Concrete Contractors for the Job
A foundation is not a place to attempt to cut corners in a construction project. The concrete contractor that works on your project should have substantial experience with PEMBs as well as be licensed and fully insured.
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You Have Choices for Your Metal Building Foundations
While most PEMBs will be installed on a solid slab, there are other options. For example, you can use traditional footing styles with some types of steel buildings. If you have a PEMB that has a dirt floor, such as a livestock pen, you can also use perimeter footings or piers.
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Always Stay Compliant With Local Regulations
Your PEMB contractor should always do everything by the book. This means that they’ll obtain the proper building permits before beginning any construction work and will adhere to all building code requirements.
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Site Preparation is Vital to the Integrity of Your Foundation
Before your foundation work gets underway, your site needs the right preparation. This involves creating a level and solid foundation bed, which is something that needs to be handled by a professional.
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Give Your Foundation Time to Set Before PEMB Construction
Rushing to install your PEMB too soon after your foundation is poured can be a recipe for disaster. The factors that can impact the curing of cement include temperature, ventilation, and weather conditions. If you need to speed up this process, speak with your contractor about chemical additives for your concrete mix that can help.
K-Con, Inc. Delivers Quality PEMB Systems
At K-Con, Inc., we’ve established a reputation for delivering quality PEMB projects to both commercial and government clients. Our certified design-build team will be with you from the start of your project until delivery, and we never compromise on metal building foundations.
Whether you are spearheading a new project or need to expand your current space, we can help. Contact us today to learn more about our PEMB solutions that are faster and more affordable than traditional construction methods.