Metal & Steel Building Anatomy
Metal Buildings 101: The Metal Building Anatomy
It helps to know the basic terminology for steel and metal buildings so that you can convey your needs clearly and effectively to your Arco sales representative.
Arco steel or metal buildings have three basic dimensions: width, length, and eave height. The width is the distance from the outside of the sidewall girt on one side to the outside of the sidewall girt on the opposite side. The length is the distance from the outside of the endwall girt on one endwall to the outside of the endwall girt on the other endwall. Eave height is the distance from the bottom of the base plate to the top of the eave strut.
20' (to centerline) x [4"/12"] = 6'8" (of rise) + 12' eave height = 18'8"
Arco Steel Building Frame Systems
Metal Buildings 101: Arco Frame Systems
Either clear span frames or frames with interior columns are available. Widths greater than 80 feet are more economical with an interior column. Endwall frames feature a beam and column design, unlike the rigid frame design used on the interior frames of the building, for maximum cost effectiveness. Optional rigid frame endwalls for future expansion may be ordered for the endwalls. All frames are finished with a red oxide primer.
Most, but not all, sidewall columns are tapered but may be ordered straight upon request. In most cases, a tapered column is more economical.
Gabled (Clear span)
A ridged (double slope) building in which the ridge is in the center of the building. Welded plate, tapered column "clear span" system, available in 1:12 or 4:12 roof slope. Standard widths are 20′ to 120′, eave heights of 10′ to 25′, and bay heights of 20′, 25′ or 30′. Greater widths and eave heights may be achieved, but must go through Design prior to quoting.
Gabled (with interior columns)
Gabled (with interior columns) A ridged (double slope) building in which the ridge is in the center of the building. A modular, tapered column system, available in widths of 80′ to 240′, with eave heights of 12′ to 25′ and standard bay lengths of 20′, 25′ or 30′. Roof slope is 1:12. Greater building widths may utilize more than one row of interior columns to reduce cost.
Single-Slope
A sloping roof in one plane with both high sidewall and low sidewall columns. The slope is from one wall to the opposite wall. These are typically used for strip malls/shopping centers and office complexes. Façades or parapet walls are commonly used to give the appearance that all four walls are the same height. Single-slope buildings are also used when adding on to an existing building in the event that it was not designed to carry the load of a lean-to.
Lean-to
Perfect for providing you with that extra storage space you need alongside your building. The Lean-to ties in at the eave of another building or below the eave and can provide a variety of uses…from just a covered area to a completely enclosed addition to your building. Available in all width extension increments for all new structures. Width and height maximum dimensions will vary according to loading requirements. Inside clearances can be specified for all frame options.
Covering & Trim Details
Metal Buildings 101: Covering and Trim Details
Both panel types are available in 24 gauge or 26 gauge steel with a painted or Galvalume finish. Galvalume is a zinc and aluminum coating over the steel that offers extremely long life and weathers to a light finish.
PBR Roof and Wall Panels
Arco uses a 26 gauge PBR panel for our standard roof and wall covering. An industry favorite, the PBR panel's deep ribs create an even-shadowed appearance. The panel laps are easier to align and stitch together properly, so the panels install more quickly, and the area between the major ribs is reinforced with minor ribs. On roofs, the bearing leg protects against foot-traffic damage and helps prevent the panel from "rolling" and perhaps creating leaks. The PBR panel is one of the most economical and durable covering systems available.
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