Pre fab Metal buildings? - Lateral-g Forums

**FETorino** · #1 11-17-2012, 05:21 PM

Does anyone on here have experience buying a prefab metal garage or shop?

Specifically has anyone bought one on the West coast?

What size structure did you buy? Who did you buy from? Why them?

Any regrets?

**GregWeld** · #2 11-18-2012, 09:35 AM

You and I have already been discussing my "shed" --- but as usual -- I like to post for everyone else that is maybe just reading.

The one thing I would have done differently on my project is that I'd have asked for a credit for the roofing... and instead of the metal roof -- gone with plywood sheeting and roofing to match my house (which I have now done).

My plan is also to strip the metal siding at some point and replace it with sheeting and siding to match the house. I'm just too lazy to make a call to the contractor and have the disruption in the driveway.

I will also share --- that in a "shop" like this --- having metal support structure has been very handy. I like stuff that is made of STEEL -- is bolted or welded rather than nailed together. I have used the steel beams to lift a bunch of stuff with chain hoists etc -- things I would not have done if it was a wood framed building.

The downside --- it's METAL.... and in the Pacific NorthWET.... I'm already seeing signs of corrosion at the bottom edges of the siding. It might take years before I have a real issue (it's already been 8) but stuff like that bothers me. Of course, in the NW -- wood has it's issues too!

These building are made for Billy Joe Bob and his cousin to install out in the middle of BFE.... My retired builder buddy and I put this together from ground up in about 2 weeks working at "Greg's pace". In other words -- we enjoyed the time. I rented a forklift that could be extended -- and it was really really useful for arranging the piles of stuff - as well as lifting the supports for installation.

**WSSix** · #3 11-18-2012, 10:10 AM

I'm interested in this as well. I think eventually, this will be the route I go simply for cost and ease of assembly. At least, those are my thoughts but I have no experience.

rjsjea · #4 11-18-2012, 12:04 PM

In my metal building, which is spray foam insulated, i have to run a de-humidifier constantly to keep the moisture out of the air.

It did the same before I had it spray foamed. I live in the wet pacific NW tho....SoCal may be different.

**GregWeld** · #5 11-18-2012, 12:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rjsjea

In my metal building, which is spray foam insulated, i have to run a de-humidifier constantly to keep the moisture out of the air.

Another reason I keep my shop heated 24/7....

WE also took extra care to block moisture from wicking via the cement floor... But it's keeping the heat in there that I think helps the most with ambient humidity.

rjsjea · #6 11-18-2012, 04:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GregWeld

Another reason I keep my shop heated 24/7....

WE also took extra care to block moisture from wicking via the cement floor... But it's keeping the heat in there that I think helps the most with ambient humidity.

Not to take away from the OP, but any idea on a good electric heater for a shop? 600 sq ft shop