Constructing a Steel Garage

A steel garage may come in a variety of colours and styles. These buildings may be used in various applications including agricultural, residential and commercial use. Although steel garages may vary as per the manufacturer, generally the basic approach to building them is similar. The structure may be completed in the same manner as wood garages using materials such as shingles for covering the roof or wood siding or aluminium on the walls.

A steel garage may be an excellent addition to one's property. They are fairly inexpensive, sturdy, easy to erect, long lasting and versatile, therefore they may be modified to size in order to include either a workshop or any other feature. They come in kits together with building instructions and require a solid foundation most preferably poured concrete, however the other tools will be already in the work kit of the homeowner.

Many communities have their own regulations about steel buildings, so ensure to check with local zoning and building authorities before you start. It can be helpful to carry along the product specifications you are considering prior to making a purchase as this will allow you to install the garage which meets your personal needs and also satisfy building codes.

Measure and then mark the steel garage perimeter using builder's twine and stakes as per the garage kit specifications. Measure diagonally then compare the distances. If the two diagonals are similar, the construction site is square. Depending on the recommendations of the manufacturer, excavate 8-12 inches for a foundation. Build wooden forms with 2x6 or 2x4 boards for concrete depending on the recommended depth of the foundation and this should be staked safely in place. Check the building square. Using a mechanical or hand tamper, compact the soil. Lay down gravel about 4-6 inches depending on the depth recommended and compact using a tamper.

To the apex of the wooden forms, pour concrete and then level using a long board. Smoothen using a trowel and also concrete finishing tools. Put anchor bolts upright inside the concrete as the instructions recommend. The bolts must be delivered with the kit. Use oil to coat the tops of the bolts to prevent the concrete from getting inside the threads. These should be accurately placed to match the holes in the underside rails of the walls. If you are not sure of the measurements then create a wood pattern in order to line up these holes accurately.

Lay out steel components in their planned spaces for ends, roof and side walls. A number of manufacturers recommend assembling the walls and then erecting them as one unit, fastening them in an upright position using anchor bolts. Others recommend bolting in place bottom nails and then adding top and side frames and finishing with siding. Ensure you follow the directions and erect all the four walls and then fasten together as per the directions on the kit.

Install roofing as per the kit directions. A number of kits have steel rafters which are then covered with panels. Others may be having pre-built roof panels which are lifted then bolted in place. Fix doors as per the directions on the kit.