Metal buildings

[RPF2509]

It seems a bit profane to ask about metal buildings in the forestry forum - I'd like to be talking timber frames but I have a need for a quick fireproof shop and have been looking into metal buildings for a workspace.  It would be about 20x30 with a concrete slab underneath.  I've done a bit of internet research and the variety of building styles and construction techniques is enormous.  I'd like to do most of the work myself and could borrow a backhoe but anything bigger would not be able to access the site.  I live in the mountains of CA and it would have to support a heavy snow load.  I'm looking to build next summer. Any advice /experiences/ good/bad/ ideas/ warnings would be appreciated.  Thanks in advance! RPF2509

[LittleJohn]

Put tubing in the slab; radiant heat is awesome!!

Even if you do not plan to turn it on right away, its easier to put in before the concrete goes down

[Den Socling]

These represent a couple different methods.



 

The green section on the left was bought as a kit and I put it up myself. The tan section was prefab and I had a contractor erect it. What you can't see is a connector between the two. It's maybe 20' x 30'. I built it from parts I ordered from a catalog. And yes, put in the radiant heat. And you'll eat up 600 sq. feet in a hurry.

[Al_Smith]

Utility buildings and building of same depends on a persons skill level and how much of a junk yard dawg they are .I am one of later myself .

I once built a 20 by 30 open machinery shed using salvaged 2" rigid steel conduit for the frame and trusses .1980 as a matter of fact that all told was less than 600 dollars including the metal roof and 20 tons of stone inside it .

That aside there must be 20 zillon places that offer kits .Again 20 by 30 is kind of small .

[POSTON WIDEHEAD]

I'm getting ready to put up a 60 x 80 steel building. Poured the piers yesterday. Hope to start setting steel soon. 

[Den Socling]

Also, you need a forklift that will reach high enough to place steel. That stuff is heavy.  :D

[Raider Bill]

I'm getting ready to put up a 60 x 80 steel building. Poured the piers yesterday. Hope to start setting steel soon. 

I guess you sold a bunch of those $300 slabs? :D

[Al_Smith]

I suppose you could use whatever works to set steel .On my shop I used a Pittman Polecat II line truck with 32 feet of boom to set trusses on my large shop which is 60 by 72 feet .

[POSTON WIDEHEAD]

I'm getting ready to put up a 60 x 80 steel building. Poured the piers yesterday. Hope to start setting steel soon. 

I guess you sold a bunch of those $300 slabs? :D

;D

[coxy]

I think mine is made by us buildings in S.C 35x40( that's too small ;D)18feet in center I also put in a 6x6 box steel top beam in just to be safe the only thing is there are 6000 bolts and nuts that hold it together we have had it 12years now with no trouble and get heavy snow  anything you have is better than working out side  :laugh:

[RPF2509]

Thanks for the replies.  Unfortunately 20x30 is as big as I can get with the space I have.  Anything would be better than the half a garage I currently use.  Keep 'em coming good - bad - ugly.

[Holmes]

If you can increase the height of the roof you could put in a partial or full mezzanine .