Jump to:
As you may know, metal buildings are increasingly becoming popular in construction because of their multiple benefits. You can choose from steel and aluminum, depending on your preferences and needs, and both offer strength, durability, low maintenance and more.
However, one thing to keep in mind when building a metal building of any size or shape is the foundation system you need to build it on.
At least three kinds of foundations are available to choose from: concrete piers; slab-on-grade; and stem wall foundations.
How the Structure Is Supported
A building’s foundation is usually divided into two types: below-grade and above-grade. A commercial building’s foundation is made up of three basic parts: footings, floor beams and piers, and walls or columns.
The foundation design may vary from one part of the country to another, or even from one company to another. Below-grade foundations are typically called basement structures; above-grade foundations are known as first stories.
In general, above-grade foundations are deeper than below-grade foundations. The depth of your commercial building’s foundation depends on geology in your region and soil conditions where you want to build.
Your construction contractor will advise you on what type of concrete footings to use for support. A structural engineer is often involved in designing commercial building foundations as well.
This information was presented by our team who provides commercial foundation repair in Oklahoma City. If you’re a business owner who needs commercial foundation repair, always be sure to schedule a foundation inspection first!
The Difference Between a Pier and An Anchor
Piers and anchors both serve as foundations for structures. Their purpose is to hold up part or all of that structure, but what’s important in deciding which one you use is your particular building’s load-bearing ability.
When you have heavy loads like high winds or heavy equipment, then an anchor may be more appropriate; when it comes to less demanding loads like living areas, offices and storage space, then a pier may be more efficient for your needs.
When you are deciding between an anchor and a pier, it’s important to consider your building’s weight. If it is going to hold up heavy machinery or wind turbines, then you need to build with concrete piers. For light loads like store fronts and living areas, then wood blocks or wood pilings may be more appropriate because they are lighter in weight.
Different Methods of Attaching the Foundation to The Building
There are many different methods for attaching a metal building to its foundation. The following options can be used when constructing a commercial building: Concrete pads, drilled piers, helical piers, spread footings and reinforced slabs.
The type of foundation needed depends on several factors including: soil conditions, size of structure and seismic requirements. The general rule is that if your soil conditions require pilings or caissons then they must be used regardless of other considerations.
Soil conditions may require pilings or caissons if there is significant settlement potential from soft soils or high water tables.
Anchor Bolts vs. Concrete Footings
When you’re planning to build an industrial-grade metal building, you’ll first need to make some decisions about what kind of foundation will support it. You might be wondering: do I need anchor bolts or concrete footings for my commercial metal building foundation?
It turns out that there are a few pros and cons to both types of foundations. Which one is right for your project depends on factors like soil conditions, surrounding topography, and budget constraints.
On one hand, anchor bolts are much less expensive than concrete footings, which will save you some money on your project. They’re also less labor-intensive to install than footings, which means you can get your building up and running faster. Anchor bolts are also relatively lightweight, so they won’t negatively impact soil stability when installed correctly.
Installation with Precast Columns
If you plan to construct an industrial building with precast concrete columns, then these columns must be installed before any other part of your structure. It’s important that these concrete pillars are deep enough to reach solid ground; otherwise, they can crack or even collapse as your building starts going up. If your site is prone to flooding, look for stronger alternatives—like piling—to support your metal structure.
If you’re looking to erect metal walls, then your structure should stand on continuous beams. If you’re adding multiple levels to your building, make sure that there are interior posts between each floor, otherwise your ceiling will sag.
Beams and columns for industrial buildings must be made from high-quality steel and reinforced with rebar; ensure that these elements have been properly welded together before your project begins. If you’re constructing an industrial building with precast concrete columns, then it’s important to keep in mind how much weight they can support.
Also See: Different Types of Decorative Concrete?
Foundation Expenses
It’s not cheap to install or build foundations. Foundation costs range from $5 to $37 per square foot. For example, if you have a 1,000-square-foot building, your foundation will cost between $5,000 and $37,000.
And that doesn’t include construction costs for walls and other structures. Costs will vary greatly depending on the type of foundation you go with as well as the location that you’re looking to build on.
Be sure to receive a foundation inspection before beginning any project!
