Weatherproof?

[Chip]

Is a steel building weatherproof? I live in a region of the country where it rains a lot in the summer, can get pretty cold in the winter... and boy! ... when it snows, it REALLY snows. So, if I invest in a steel building, will it rust or leak? If I invest in the best as far as air conditioning goes, will it leak air or will it be climate contolled?

Any information that anyone has would be helpful.

Thanks,

Chicago Chip

[KPAX]

Boy you know "weatherproof"...that's a toughy...in my experience "extremely weather resistant" is a better description...I don't know what part of Chicago you live in but 30 to 40 lb. would be the snow load and a 90 mph wind load is probably good...those loads along with a proper seismic coding (I don't think Cook County is that high) will probably work. That aside, minimizing roof perforations for skylights and vents will also help. I've seen warranties as high as 50 years on steel buildings so I guess thy are getting closer to a "wewatherproof" solution. Hope this helps.

[Chip]

Yes. Thanks, KPAX! That does help.

Chip

[freeski23]

It probably depends on the quality of steel building you purchase and experience of the erector. I'm sure if you find a dependable provider and describe your needs you can find a building that will fit your needs. I've seen steel buildings used from horse barns to office buildings.

[Riveting]

I like the quality mention. Make sure it's 26 gauge commercial grade steel.

[Amy K.]

Yes, Chip, most steel buildings are "weatherproof" in the sense that the joints that connect the steel beams that build them are very, very tight! That means that the air and moisture outside has a very hard time getting inside. Of course, you will need a high quality roof to repel the water and/or snow and shed it off into the downspout. They also have the potential to be "climate controlled." This means that they can maintain a comfortable working environment despite the outside temperature. (I know, I know. Some of you who work in warehouses are cursing me now because your guys didn't invest in a good HVAC system! My little violin is playing for you.)

Amy

[Instigator]

Roof perforations and intrusions should be kept to a minimum in order to achieve true "weathertight" conditions ehanced by a "climate controlled" interior environment. Maximizing any perforations needed to be placed in side and endwalls only helps with this scenario.