Metal Building Foundations: Pier, Perimeter, and Slab on Grade
Metal buildings come with just about everything except the foundation. Without a foundation, a building will not maintain its stability and original configuration because nothing anchors it. Thus, when constructing a metal building for residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural use, the foundation becomes a critical part of the structure, providing stability and making the metal building permanent, affording a solid building to use for residential, work, or storage space.
At Sierra BIM Solutions, our team of engineers can manage the challenges presented by designing a foundation that may be placed in diverse environmental conditions. We can assist you with designing a sturdy foundation that meets local building codes and standards as well as severe weather conditions.engineering services for metal building foundations
What We Do
Our Design & Engineering Process
Foundations for metal buildings may not require an initial site visit. Our professional team of engineers has a proven process for designing and engineering a foundation for your chosen metal building that can include developing construction documents without visiting a site.
The structural requirements and the environmental conditions of the site can be added to our design from other resources, so we can create the construction documents without having to spend time driving out to rural areas, which can require significant time and may increase the cost of developing the necessary documentation.
Below is an overview of our process for developing construction documents:
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Complimentary Initial Consultation
Our process begins with an in-depth complimentary consultation where we discuss the layout and placement of the building. We’ll ask questions about your intended use, and specifically about what needs to be supported by the foundation, such as heavy equipment.
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Complimentary Site Assessment and Evaluation
Once we’ve begun the process with an initial consultation, we may arrange a time to conduct a thorough site assessment. We use LIDAR scanning technology to document the area and its condition. After conducting a site assessment, the information will be used to develop a proposal for the project.
If we are not conducting a site assessment due to the building’s location in a far removed rural area, we will use resources at our disposal for required soil and weather information.
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Proposal for Professional Services
Our proposal includes the investment for developing the construction documentation, as well as our terms and conditions. We also outline a design schedule, so you have a timeline for the delivery of the construction documents for the project.
As for choosing a metal building, if you’re not sure about which metal building will suit your needs, we can assist in the procurement of one or more metal buildings. We can also provide architectural and structural guides for prefabricated metal buildings, which is different from the instructions that come with them. The documentation we create, such as the site plan, architectural drawings, and site layout can be submitted to the building department to pull permits required to construct the building.
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Custom Design and 3D Modeling
Upon receiving a signed proposal with payment, we move into the design phase. Using innovative software, we re-envision your intention for the project. Our technical skills and creative design ability allow us to design a foundation specifically for your building.
Preliminary drawings will be sent out for review and acceptance. This phase allows you a clear understanding of the proposed design, allowing time for any necessary adjustments before moving forward to the next step. Once the preliminary design is accepted, we move into engineering the project.
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Structural Engineering with Code Compliance
After changes in the design for your project are completed, we finalize the structural calculations and drawings. During this step, all the necessary details for putting the project together are added to the construction documents.
At Sierra BIM Solutions, we focus on clarity in the construction documentation, so you and your contractor can move forward to begin construction on your plans.
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Permit Submission and Approvals
During this step, the construction documents are submitted to the authority who has jurisdiction, or the building department, for review and approval.
The department will review the construction documents for planning and code compliance. Our role is to provide support during this step, answering any concerns the building department may have regarding the construction documents.
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Final Approval and Construction Support
Once the construction documents are approved by the building department, the contractor can pull permits for the project and begin construction. While we don’t handle the physical construction ourselves, we provide support to the contractor so the project is built according to the approved plans.
The final step acts as a seamless transition from the design phase to the construction of your project, allowing you peace of mind that your vision moves from inception to construction.
Components of a Foundation for Metal Buildings
Sierra BIM Solutions will explain the foundation options available for metal buildings. Choosing the right foundation is crucial for the long-term stability and performance of the structure. Each option meets different needs and can be tailored to the soil or use of your project:
- Pier Foundations: Pier foundations are used at each column to support the frame of metal buildings. Piers are strategically placed at each column around the structure, allowing enhanced stability. They’re also used for buildings that require a more elevated base.
- Perimeter Foundations: Perimeter foundations are typically used for buildings that need reinforced edges. This type of foundation supports the weight of the building along its perimeter, preventing settlement, while contributing to long-term structural integrity. Perimeter foundations are typically used to tie the structure together.
- Slab on Grade: A slab turns a simple metal building into a workshop or residence. It creates an even flat surface for the structure.This type of floor is ideal for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, cementing the structure’s stability in inclement weather conditions and severe environmental events.
Contact Sierra BIM Solutions Today
Do you have a metal building in mind? Or do you need to know which suppliers we use for metal buildings? Contact Sierra BIM Solutions today to schedule your initial consultation. We’ll assist you in deciding which foundation will work best for the intended use of your metal building. And if you want a metal building but haven’t decided on one, we can help you with that decision as well. We look forward to hearing from you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
A metal building foundation is the base that supports a metal structure, transferring the weight of the building to the ground. It is critical for long-term stability and durability of the building, preventing issues like settlement and structural failure due to environmental factors, such as wind, snow, and soil conditions.
The design of a metal building foundation considers several factors, including the size and weight of the building, local environmental conditions, such as wind and snow loads, the soil where the building will be placed, as well as the seismic activity in the area. These factors help determine the type of foundation and load distribution needed for the structure to maintain its stability, as well as to be in compliance with local building codes.
Common components of a foundation for a metal building include the pier foundation and perimeter foundation, then the slab. Slab on grade provides a flat, solid base for the building, which is especially advantageous for a residence or a workshop, or for storing heavy equipment. Pier and perimeter foundations provide support for the building.
Yes, even small metal buildings require a properly designed foundation. A solid foundation prevents shifting, settling, or water damage, increasing the longevity, stability, and usability of the building. The foundation type may vary based on the size and purpose of the building, but it is absolutely necessary for structural integrity.
The timeline for designing and installing a metal building foundation depends on the complexity of the project, the size of the building, and site conditions. Typically, foundation design can be completed within four weeks, but it may take longer. Installation of a foundation can take weeks to months, depending on site preparation, weather conditions, and project scope. The timeline for installation depends upon the contractor and metal suppliers chosen. At Sierra BIM Solutions, we work to provide timely and efficient construction documentation to keep your project on schedule.
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