Steel Buildings Key Terms

Learn the lingo of steel buildings

Steel buildings can be an affordable way to create a new office or storage space. Business owners, however, want to know what they're purchasing before they sign on the dotted line. Does the building use a standing seam metal roof or coated and crimped sheets? Are they willing to purchase a pre-engineered steel building or a steel building kit? Some people may worry that buildings made of steel are ugly, but through the use of custom exteriors, a steel building can be every bit as attractive as other types of buildings.

 

Standing seam metal roof

Standing seam roofs are made from metal panels that interlock with each other. The connection point, or seam, is slightly raised, allowing water to easily run off.
Try: BobVila.com explains standing seam roofs and how to install them.

Custom exteriors

Business owners use custom exteriors to improve the look of a steel building. For example, they may choose to use a custom stone exterior, which makes the building look as though it was built from stone.
Try: Anthem Steel describes how you can improve the façade of your building by using custom exteriors.

Mansards and parapets

Mansards and parapets also improve the exterior of the building. Mansards are an architectural element that is used to improve the front of the building, while parapets are a wall-like structure that can be used for storage.
Try: Learn more about the uses of mansards and parapets from General Steel.

Steel building kit

A steel building kit is for smaller steel structures, such as storage sheds. The building is delivered in pieces and the customer can easily put it together.
Try: SteelMaster describes steel building kits and has several pictures on its website.

Pre-engineered steel buildings

A pre-engineered, or pre-fabricated, steel building is made off-site at a factory, then delivered to the permanent location to be assembled. It is larger than a steel building kit and requires professionals to assemble the building.
Try: The Steel Building Guide talks about pre-engineered steel buildings and how you can save money by purchasing one.

Coated and crimped sheets

Coated and crimped sheets are often used to build the walls of steel buildings. Coating the steel makes it less corrosive and easier to paint. Crimping means that the sheet has slight grooves along its length, which improves its strength.
Try: See a description of coated and crimped sheets, along with pictures at Alfa Steel Building Solutions.

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