Why It’s Necessary to Choose Your Metal Building Foundation According to Climate Conditions

What is a Metal Building Foundation?

Metal buildings are some of the most convenient structures on the market; they are strong, durable, and last for years. It’s no wonder that they’re in such high demand. But do you know what makes or breaks any metal building? It’s the foundation. Like all good things, a strong foundation is necessary for creating a high-quality product. Remember the adage, ‘a house built on sand is sure to fall?’

You’re probably wondering what exactly makes a metal building foundation so strong. After all, certified metal buildings are the toughest buildings around, so their foundations must be equally strong. It all boils down to two things: a level surface and proper anchors. No matter what material your foundation is made out of, as long as it is level with the right anchors to secure the building, your metal structure will stand firm for years to come.

So, just what kind of foundation can you have?

1) Ground

The first foundation type is the simplest one possible: a ground foundation. This foundation is fashioned from dirt. All it requires is clearing vegetation and debris and the leveling of the surface area where you plan to install your building. Carport Central’s excellent installation team will use one of two different anchor types depending on the type of ground. Rocky soil requires a different anchor style than loose, rock-free dirt. Be sure to let your building specialist know what kind of dirt your foundation is made from so our installation team secures your metal building properly.

2) Concrete

The most popular foundation option is a concrete foundation. This foundation style is popular because it provides your metal building with a clean, finished look. Craftsmen and repair shop owners often prefer poured concrete slabs because they can easily be finished with carpet or wood flooring. Concrete foundations are easy to clean and make overall maintenance a breeze.

One important aspect of concrete foundations is that your slab must be cured and completely dry before your metal building installation day. Be sure to let your building specialist know that you have a concrete slab foundation.

3) Asphalt

Some of our customers prefer an asphalt foundation to a concrete slab. This is an excellent option for those looking to use their new certified metal buildings as a carport or a garage. Asphalt slabs are an exceptional way to keep your vehicles’ tires out of the mud and still keep a little extra padding in your pocket. Asphalt is typically the more inexpensive foundation material compared to concrete. As always, be sure to let your building specialist know what kind of foundation you’ll be using ahead of time to avoid any installation issues.

4) Gravel

The last common foundation is a gravel foundation. These foundation types are the best of both worlds. They are more straightforward than asphalt and concrete foundations because they require no mixing or curing times and provide more protection than a dirt-based foundation does. Gravel foundations keep your stuff and your vehicles’ tires protected from the elements while still being suited for outdoor applications. Once again, make sure you tell your building specialist that you’re using a gravel foundation so that the team has the correct anchors on metal building installation day.

Does the Weather Affect My Foundation?

Have you considered how the weather will affect your foundation? This is a vital consideration since just about every region in the United States experiences some form of severe weather. Whether your location experiences heavy rain, extreme heat, or freezing low temperatures, your foundation will probably be affected.

As you might have seen on any highway in the US, concrete and asphalt can be significantly affected by temperature variations and rainfall. This might sound strange since we often think of concrete and asphalt as among the most durable materials around. However, major temperature fluctuations can crack and damage both concrete and asphalt surfaces over time, severely limiting the lifespan of your foundation.

• The Issue of Temperature

Both cured concrete and asphalt can withstand high and low temperatures. However, significant temperature shifts and variations can cause issues. Cured concrete and asphalt will contract in cold temperatures and expand in hot temperatures. Modern design takes this into account when planning for foundations. However, considerable temperature shifts can prove troublesome for newly poured concrete or asphalt. These shifts can cause premature contracting or expansion that damages the structural integrity of the foundation.

• The Issue of Rain

As before, concrete and asphalt are made to withstand weather conditions like rain. However, neither foundation material is equipped to withstand moisture and rain before it has finished curing. Moisture and rain pull oil in the asphalt to the surface, causing early cracking and pothole formation. Concrete is affected similarly, as water destabilizes the mix and makes it unlikely to dry correctly.

Here’s What You Need to Remember When Choosing a Foundation Type

The type of foundation you need for your certified metal building or metal building kit depends on your specific location and the type of building you need. Maybe your metal building will be secured to a slab on grade foundation or a foundation poured directly on the ground. However, more complex structures or buildings designed as living spaces might require more labor-intensive foundations, like trench footing, moment-resisting, or deep foundations.

The best way to understand what kind of foundation you require is by considering five factors: your land, the wind speed, the weather conditions, the type of metal building you’re getting, and your new metal building’s load capacity.

1) The land

The type of land on which your building is installed is vital to consider, as is the soil content. Loose, sandy soils require deep foundations that are solid and secure on their own. Conversely, on hard-packed clay soils, slab on grade foundations work well. To determine your exact soil type is to consult with a grading expert.

2) The wind speed

High winds are a problem for metal buildings and metal building kits, or any structure for that matter. The h3er the winds are, the more substantial and more secure your certified metal building and its foundation need to be. If you live in an area that frequently experiences high winds, you’ll need to choose a durable foundation that’s directly secured to the ground.

3) The weather conditions

As we’ve already mentioned, the weather can greatly affect the overall stability of your building. Temperature shifts, rain, and wind can all damage concrete and asphalt foundations, and the best way to avoid this is to keep a watch on the weather during the curing phase.

4) The type of building

Large and small buildings require different foundation types. This is also true for commercial and residential buildings. To determine what foundation works best for you, you’ll need to develop a clear plan for your structures and then follow that specific metal building style’s guidelines.

5) The load capacity of building

Every metal building that we sell is certified to meet your specific area’s local codes and requirements. The type of foundation you’ll require will be determined by how your metal building interacts with the world around it.  Buildings that need to withstand heavier snow and wind loads will need to be engineered to meet that standard.

Why are Metal Building Foundations so Important?

Metal buildings and metal building kits need a strong foundation. We cannot stress enough that your building’s foundation is what makes it solid and secure. A good foundation is critical to your certified metal building’s overall integrity. Not only does it ensure your metal building stays level and appropriately aligned, but it also prevents any excess wear and tear on the building components themselves. Solid foundations also prevent water from pooling around the bottom of panels and support posts, allowing your metal building to stand strong for years and years to come.

Carport Central is Quality All the Way Around

A steel building or metal building with living spaces is only as strong as its foundation. Choosing the proper foundation that matches your location’s weather conditions is an essential part of buying a new metal building. At Carport Central, we’re here to ensure that your building is the stands the test of time. If you’re ready to dive in and invest in the building of your dreams, give one of our building specialists a call at (980) 321-9898. Carport Central is your one-stop-shop for quality metal products, and we aim to provide you with excellent customer service and a one-of-a-kind experience. Don’t hesitate, reach out today!