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Steel Garages Make Life Easier

Posted on October 8, 2018 by - ASI, Blog, Buildings, Lifestyle, Steel Structures

Metal garages are something we’ve long strived to perfect, because with the perfect metal garage, you’ll have plenty of storage space. You can put your lawnmower, weed eater, farm tools, and other equipment in a safe, dry space and still have enough room to park your car. And that, folks, is what makes metal garages and steel sheds among the most valuable additions to your home or workplace. They make life easier. Here’s how.

The right metal garage gives you easy access to just the right kind of storage space. This is especially true if you have a load of household possessions in need of storage and no place to put them. The perfect metal garage lets you store everything with confidence, where you know it will be dry and you know it won’t be subjected to weather damage or theft.

But how do you find the right metal garages? For a high-quality solution to your storage needs, metal garages from American Steel Carports provide lasting peace of mind. Take a look at this 30′W × 25′L × 9′H:

  • Vertical Roof
  • 12-Gauge Galvanize Tubing
  • 9’x7 Roll-Up Door
  • 16’x7′ Overhead Door
  • 36″x80″ Walk-In Door
  • 2 – Windows
  • L-Brackets

The steel construction is designed and engineered for long-lasting protection against rain, snow, sleet, and hail—not to mention damaging wind and rain. With the right steel garage, even pollen and debris are things of the past. You’ll save countless hours when you don’t have to wash your car of all the natural elements that might harm your perfect paint job. Metal garages provide shelter for your valuable vehicles and storage space for anything you can’t bear to see damaged by the hazards of nature.

You can customize the size and color of any metal building to your needs. Give us a call at 866-730-9865, and let our experts assist you in customizing the BEST structure within your BUDGET. Remember, delivery and installation are INCLUDED on your level land or concrete pad!

Protecting your Investments Year-Round

Posted on October 2, 2018 by - ASI, Blog, Informative, Lifestyle, News, Questions

In the summer months they are all over the highway, weaving in and out of lanes, onto the shoulders, across the center lines, and nearly into the ditch. Clearly, many people sitting behind wheels of large recreational vehicles are not used to driving 40-foot boxes on wheels, even without wind. Their poor driving skills are most obvious when they try to negotiate the most basic right and left turns.

Driving skills aside, have you ever wondered how much those gas-guzzling behemoths cost, especially since the average price of a passenger car has surpassed $31,000? In 2018, the average cost of a new recreation vehicle is around $135,500. Depending on the options, prices can range into the millions.

It’s unfortunate that having money to burn doesn’t mean having the skill to actually drive an RV safely! Regardless of this, given the size of their investments, owners of RVs want them to look good as long as possible, hopefully until they’re paid off. After all, who wants to drive around in a vehicle that looks like it belongs to Cousin Eddie? Not driving it would defeat its purpose, but owners at least want assurance that they can keep their six-wheeled monstrosities safe when they’re off the road.

Most people don’t own barns or garages large enough to house a 40- or 50-foot RV, so the most practical way to protect it from the elements is with a prefabricated metal building or metal RV carport. Although steel buildings are colloquially referred to as metal carports, they are available in sizes large enough to accommodate the biggest RVs. It’s also good to know that these carports are affordable. This makes them excellent options for owners of boats, motorcycles, and all-terrain vehicles who don’t want to pay for offsite storage. The bottom line is that anyone looking to shelter their expensive vehicles from snow, ice, rain, and sun can get durable protection without spending thousands of dollars.

Although metal carport prices vary, even the largest, most deluxe metal RV port will be considerably cheaper than rented storage space. Owners will know be happier knowing that their vehicles are safe and sound on their own premises.

f you live in an area with lots of adverse and unpredictable weather conditions, then you know how important it is to plan ahead and protect your vehicles during the winter months. If you haven’t made these preparations yet, you might want to buy a carport.

For example, hail, which is often not covered by car insurance, can be especially damaging to cars. In more than half the cases in which hail destroys the structural integrity of a car, the damages are not repaired. With the help of carport installers, however, you can ensure that your vehicle is not harmed by Mother Nature.

In particular, metal carports made of galvanized steel can be effective in multiple environments, from industrial settings to coastal areas. People who specifically near the ocean and own boats will find that these structures can protect their property well throughout the year.

An additional benefit of a steel carport is that it can be recycled in perpetuity without losing its strength or sustainability over the years. You can protect your prized possessions while being environmentally responsible.

When you choose a company to help you install your carport, you will want to base your decision on who can get the job done in a timely manner with the highest-quality materials. When it comes to protecting your property from the elements, it’s important to make sure that you have peace of mind and can go about your day during a nasty storm without worrying about the physical state of your vehicle.

 

Lighting & Metal Buildings

Posted on September 27, 2018 by - A-Frame Horizontal, A-Frame Vertical, Agricultural, ASI, Barn, Blog, Buildings, Carports, Custom, Customer Builds, Garage, Informative, Lifestyle, News, Questions, RV Carports, Spotlight, Standard, Steel Structures, Workshop

Are you worried that your metal building might attract lightning? We’ve all been there. Fortunately, I’ve got good news and great news.

Here’s the deal:

The common myth is that out of all types of structures, metal buildings are the most prone to lightning strikes. In other words, metal buildings and metal roofs are basically lightning magnets. Makes sense, right?

Wrong.

A ton of other crazy myths are also still floating around—including that being outside in a lightning storm is safe as long as you’re not wearing metal jewelry and that wearing metal cleats or carrying something with metal makes you more prone to getting struck by lightning.

Also wrong.

I bet you’re thinking, “OK, but then what is lightning really attracted to?”

Long story short, lightning is not actually attracted to specific materials. Lightning can strike anything. Overall, “lightning occurs on too large of a scale to be influenced by small objects on the ground, including metal objects.”

That’s the good news.

Ready for the great news?

Because metal buildings are not especially prone to lightning strikes, you can easily take precautions to ensure that you and your steel structures are safe!

Most people know that counting the seconds between the flash of lightning and the following crash of thunder gives the approximate number of miles between you and the storm.

So, instead of worrying that lightning may have it in for you or your building, here’s what you need to know:

As it turns out, steel is not a lightning magnet! Lightning does not care about the small amount of metal that you might be wearing or carrying.

Instead, lightning is most attracted to targets that are higher off of the ground.

On the slight chance that a steel building or roof is struck by lightning, both are less likely than other types of building and roofing materials to spark a fire. A metal building and roof will usually survive a lightning strike with minimal damage.

In fact, a properly grounded metal building actually creates a more secure way for lightning to travel. Should your metal roof or building be grounded? The answer is a definite yes!

Why a Metal Roof?

Posted on September 25, 2018 by - A-Frame Horizontal, A-Frame Vertical, Agricultural, ASI, Barn, Blog, Buildings, Carports, Custom, Customer Builds, Garage, RV Carports, Standard, Steel Structures, Workshop

Metal roof systems have always been known for their long lives, but exactly how long they last has been a subject of debate.

According to a 2014 study conducted by the Metal Construction Association and the Zinc Aluminum Coaters Association, the projected service life for GALVALUME® standing-seam roof systems is a minimum of 60 years. This is the longest service life of any commonly used roof system on the market. Interestingly, this was calculated using a conservative estimate of the expected lifespan of the butyl sealant used in laps, flashings, and penetrations. In a 2015 study, the National Coil Coating Association reviewed data on pre-painted PVDF fluoropolymer metal panels subjected to exposure testing in South Florida. They concluded it was reasonable to project a minimum service life of 40 years for these.

As with any roofing material, proper design, detailing, installation, and maintenance are critical to achieving the best performance and service life. However, all roof systems, including metal ones, eventually need to be replaced or re-covered. What happens then?

As a roofing professional, building owners will turn to you for advice on whether to replace or re-cover their existing metal roof systems. When considering the re-cover option, there are several elements to keep in mind to maximize the longevity of the new roof system.

Replace vs. Re-cover

There are two types of metal roof system: structural and nonstructural. Structural systems’ panel profiles can generally carry significant wind and snow loads over framing members spaced at intervals up to 5 feet. Structural panels are typically characterized by significant rib dimensions to provide the necessary strength, and they are used in metal building system applications. Nonstructural metal roof systems require a structural deck or substrate to support the new roof and loads. This article focuses on structural systems because these are more common.

According to the Metal Building Manufacturers Association’s historical shipment data, there are billions of square feet of structural metal roofing currently on buildings that are more than 40 years old.

The advantage of replacing a roof system is that it allows vinyl-faced insulation, which may have deteriorated over time, to be removed and replaced. However, this can present some challenges, as the process also exposes the building and its contents to the elements, and this exposure can be prolonged if other structural elements must be added.

The advantage of re-covering a roof is that the original materials can remain in place to protect the interior during installation of the new materials, allowing the building’s normal operations to continue. Re-covering takes full advantage of the existing insulation with the option of easily adding more, increasing the building’s energy efficiency. Keeping the original roof system in place also provides a safer work surface than open framing for the workers installing the new system. In addition, re-covering reduces landfill waste and the need for a large laydown area for temporary storage of old roofing materials. All these factors can lead to a lower cost for re-covering than for replacement.

Many conventional roof systems have inherent excess capacity because their structural systems are not amenable to optimization. However, metal roof and metal building systems can be highly optimized for design load requirements so that materials can be used more efficiently. Because of this, the materials used during a re-cover installation must be lightweight (less than 3 pounds per square foot) so structural modifications are not needed or are kept to a minimum to carry the added roofing materials.

 

  1. Lee Shoemaker, Ph.D., P.E., is director of research and engineering for the Metal Building Manufacturers Association;

Vincent E. Sagan, P.E., is senior staff engineer for the Metal Building Manufacturers Association;

History of Barns

Posted on September 20, 2018 by - A-Frame Horizontal, A-Frame Vertical, Agricultural, ASI, Barn, Custom, Informative, Steel Structures

Since the days of Thomas Jefferson, the barn has been a staple image in the American consciousness.  These structures represent tradition and security and encourage feelings of closeness to the lands that house them as well as the communities that build them. Over the centuries, the barn has remained an iconic feature of farms everywhere. Although the world of agriculture has changed and evolved into a multimillion-dollar business, the barn still serves the same purpose.

Then

Barns were added onto the land when farmers needed housing for livestock or storage for grain and crops. Materials for these structures were usually made out of timbers from the trees on the farms. Using mortise and tenon joints, woodworkers would join these pieces of timber by connecting them at 90-degree angles. Although this construction process was simple, it was also quite durable and strong.

After the mid to late 19th century, timber buildings were replaced by “truss-framed” or “plank-framed” barns. The invention of steam-powered sawmills allowed farmers to affordably buy dimensional lumber. The joints for this type of lumber were connected with bolts or machine-cut nails.

When people think about these old historic barns, they often think of structures covered with red paint. Historians have theorized that this color choice was popular because it was the cheapest and most readily available, which was due to the fact that the ferric oxide needed to create red paint was similarly inexpensive and common. The downside of this type of barn was that the combination of lumber, flammable paint, and hay-filled interiors caused fires that were almost always considered total losses to the farms.

Now

Traditional wooden barns are still constructed all over the world; however, steel has quickly become the material of choice. There are several reasons why this type of building has grown increasingly popular over the years.

Steel barns provide the option of easily adding additional space as your farm continues to grow.

Steel barns are built to withstand the forces of nature: snow, rain, wind, fire, and even earthquakes.

Steel barns eliminate the problem of wood-eating pests such as termites.

Steel barns do not require the costly maintenance necessary for preserving traditional wooden structures. Additionally, the construction materials are less expensive than traditional wood, making steel barns the most cost-effective option.

Whether you love the nostalgia of the traditional American barn or the beauty and strength of a steel agricultural building, this great country has the history for both. From the seaside farms in the East Hamptons to the organic ones in California, these buildings will always be part of our great American history.

Little Known Techniques to Customize Your Metal Building

Posted on September 19, 2018 by - ASI, Blog, Custom, Steel Structures

So far, you’ve seen what we’re capable when it comes to metal structures. From huge warehouses to the simplest tiny carport for your vehicle, American Steel Carports knows it all. If you pay attention to certain details on other structures, you might notice that there are garages or workshops with features that you haven’t seen before in our products. Well, you’re absolutely right! Some of our customers prefer to provide their own walk-in doors, windows, or even just openings.

When you’re making an order or talking with one of our representatives, you can let us know that you will provide your own walk-in door or window. With the right measurements, all that’s left for us to do is to frame out the openings according to the size of your custom walk-in doors, windows, roll-up doors, etc. This 30’W x 41’L x 10’H is a good example of what we’re talking about:

  • A-Frame Vertical Roof
  • 12-Gauge Galvanize Steel
  • Horizontal Sides & Ends
  • 10’x10′ Roll-Up Door
  • Walk-In Door Frame Out
  • 2 – 3’x8′ Skylights
  • Concrete Anchors w/ L-Brackets

Openings like this walk-in door come with an additional price (depending on the size). The only downside of this option is that it will void any warranties that the building may have due to the modification of its original state.

This might be an option that many customers don’t need, but it is still open to be considered. If you have any additional questions, feel free to give us a call and let one of our experts help you with your concerns. And don’t forget to ask for your local dealer!

Get Started on Your Future Project

Posted on September 10, 2018 by - ASI, Blog, Customer Builds, Steel Structures

Owning a metal building can be a simple matter if you follow the right procedures. Permits can be hard to obtain, depending on the county you’re located in, but it’s not impossible. The important thing is to know the dimensions you want for your building. Whether you’re considering getting a standard carport, a garage, a workshop, or even a barn, you have to decide how big it will to be. Of course, we can suggest sizes that might work, depending on what you will be storing inside, but remember, this is will be your property, and you know your own property better than anyone else.

After you decide on the size of the metal structure, you can consider whether you want any extra features, such as roll-up doors, walk-in doors, windows, or different styles of roof. You name it! Whatever idea you have for your metal structure, our specialists will know exactly how to work with it.

 

What about the positions of the doors and windows?

All our buildings are custom-made to satisfy your needs, so we will follow your plans and specifications.

This metal garage, measuring 24′W × 41′L × 9′H, is a good example of general ideas and the placement of doors and windows:

  • 12-Gauge Galvanized Tubing
  • A-Frame Vertical Roof
  • Horizontal Sides & Ends
  • 2 – 10’x8′ Roll-up Doors
  • 36″x80″ Walk-In Door
  • 2 – Windows

Metal garages like the ones we preview have become an inspiration for most of our customers. If they really like a building, they’ll stick with its size, features, and even colors. But you shouldn’t feel bound to a previous customer’s design; you can always change the dimensions, the placement of the doors and windows, and of course the color.

Interested in getting one yourself? Give us a call and speak with one of our experts! We’ll help you create the metal building of your dreams for an unbeatable price! Don’t forget to ask about our financing options.

 

Traditional Garage for a Lower Price

Posted on August 29, 2018 by - ASI, Blog, Customer Builds, Steel Structures

Thinking about buying a metal garage? Then you’ve come the right place to get yours just in time!

Fall is right around the corner, and you know what that means… Leaves everywhere, the debris from trees, temperatures changing; it’s the time where we’re transitioning to colder weather. Why not protect your vehicle(s) or valuables inside a metal garage? Here at American Steel Carports, we have been manufacturing high-quality, long-lasting metal garages and buildings for decades. We have the experience and resources to help you custom-design your very own metal garage, carport, or barn from scratch. Our buildings are engineer-certified and constructed entirely with high-strength steel and a durable design to withstand severe weather conditions.

Take a look at this 26’W x 26’L x 9’H metal garage with overhead doors:

 

If you’d like to know more information about investing in your own metal garage, call today to speak with one of our experts. Our friendly staff would be happy to answer any questions you have about the design and building process so that you can be positive that a metal garage from American Steel Carports is the best choice for you. Financing is available for many of our buildings, so call today and let us design a metal garage or building around your specific needs.

Get Started with Plenty of Space for Your Workshop!

Posted on August 8, 2018 by - ASI, Blog, Customer Builds, Steel Structures

Need a metal building to get started on your project? Have an idea in mind? Need help visualizing what you’re looking for? If your answer is yes, then American Steel Carports is your best choice. With over 20 years in the industry, we know exactly how to deliver a great experience with our metal buildings.

Steel structures can offer a variety of different uses for specific needs: they can protect our vehicles as steel garages, provide shade and housing as steel workshops, or work as your personal gym or shop. See how the options vary depending on your needs? And most importantly, we sell nothing but engineer-certified metal buildings, without the need for you to pay an additional price for a certification package.

Check out this 30’W x 31’L x 10’H metal workshop rocking our slate blue and white colors:

 

 

This steel workshop comes in 12-gauge with a vertical roof, a 10’ x 10’ roll-up door, two (2) 36” x 80” walk-in doors, and concrete anchors with L-brackets.

Remember that the placement of the doors, colors, size, and features can be customized according to your needs. We just like to show live samples from real customers and real metal units that were recently installed.

Feeling inspired? Give us a call now to speak with one of experts to help you build that metal workshop you’ve been wanting. We can always provide you with a free sketch for visual purposes. And don’t forget to check out our previous blogs for more pictures and ideas.