A metal building system consists of integrated, carefully designed, factory fabricated components. The typical system is composed of primary and secondary framing, roof, wall and accessory subsystems, designed to give the building customer versatility, protection, performance predictability and life cycle value.

 

Using state-of-the-art design techniques and precise, in-plant manufacturing equipment, manufacturers produce elements that are sheared, punched and precisely shaped by machine to the customer’s exact specifications.

 

Structural components are shipped to the job site for fast, accurate assembly by independent steel erection contractors thoroughly trained to erect quickly and safely. Working with local contractors experienced in the use of the system is also part of the planning, design and construction of an entire facility.

 

Both the independent steel erectors and local contractors (some of whom have their own erection crews) are likely members of the Alberta Metal Building Association.

 

These sophisticated systems are routinely designed so that all structural members work together and mutually support each other forming a building structure and envelope that meets design and code requirements, locks out weather and limits heat gain and loss. Structural integrity in a metal building system is best achieved when the components are designed into an integrated system and fabricated by one manufacturer. The system manufacturer has a detailed and thorough knowledge of how the building will behave as a system under various loading conditions in its completed state, and will stand behind the building’s ability to perform as specified.

 

Computer-aided design has made it possible for building systems to capture a greater share of customized projects. Industrial structures can be routinely designed to support the loads from heavy overhead cranes. There is almost no limit to building heights, widths or clear span interiors for effective space planning.

 

Factory-based technology, therefore, brings the following cost economies to building system customers:

• Reasonable Initial Cost - Individual building components for the complete system arrive at the job site ready for immediate assembly and erection. This facilitates fast and firm construction timetables.
• Faster Occupancy - A building system project generally can be completed in one-third less time than other types of construction.
• Cost Predictability – Since the building system unit price can be quickly and precisely calculated, the local builder/contractor can add-on-site labour and other constructions costs and quickly provide customers with firm project cost figures.
• Lower Energy Costs – A properly insulated building system can provide high thermal efficiencies with U values in the 10 range.
• Economical Maintenance – Metal will not deteriorate because of cracking, damp rot and insect damage.
• High quality silicon polyesters, fluoropolymers and other coatings resist cracking, peeling, chipping chalking and fading.
• Flexibility – Typically, a building system can be expanded by removing the end or sidewalls, erecting new framework and adding matching wall and roof covers.
• Special note: It is estimated that the share of the low-rise, non-residential marker in Alberta in 2005 exceeded 40%.