Start with the Right Foundation!

How To Create a Metal Building Foundation
If you’re considering erecting a metal building, you’ll first need a foundation for the building to rest on. Not only is the foundation a crucial piece of how strong and rigid the metal building will be, but the foundation will also help protect the metal components from corrosion and other damage as a result of excess moisture or water.
That said, while you can certainly try it yourself, it’s often best to hire a concrete contractor to do the work for you. After all, problems with a foundation can jeopardize the integrity of any building that sits on top, and that could be a real danger for the equipment or people inside. In addition to following industry standards and best practices, a contractor experienced in laying foundations will also help you avoid common pitfalls and give your new building the best chance of standing the test of time.
But before any work can start, you’ll need to secure a building permit first. A building permit is what allows you to create that metal building foundation, as well as erecting the building that sits on it. If you neglect this step, you could end up facing fines and other penalties, and you may even be required to tear down your building, or a significant part of it, after it’s all said and done. That’s because inspections and the permitting process can be extensive, and if you just barrel ahead and hope to figure it out later, it can mean significant backtracking, if not an eventual reboot of the entire project.
Once you’ve secured the building permit, the next step is to decide on metal building foundation details like where the building will go and the exact footprint of the building. To keep things simple, and especially if you’re using one of our pre-engineered steel building kits, you’ll want to stick to classic rectangular designs instead of going with something more complicated. Keep in mind that things like soil and drainage are important when it comes to the longevity and integrity of your metal building and its foundation, so make sure you get the opinion of a professional and exhaust all avenues and options before moving forward.
Now it’s time to prep the site for the foundation. Hire surveyors to stake the area and clear away any trees, shrubs or rocks. While you can certainly try to level the ground by hand, it’s often best to hire a professional. They’ll be able to advise you on the type of foundation your metal building needs, whether it’s a ground mount or concrete slab. For longevity, a concrete slab is best, though in instances of metal garages and other storage areas, you may be able to get away with a ground mount foundation.
Depending on the type of metal building foundation you opt for, specialized work will be required to create a foundation that will enhance your metal building’s strength, not detract from it. After the foundation cures, you’ll be able to start assembly up top. However, keep in mind that improper curing can reduce the strength of your foundation by up to 50 percent, jeopardizing the integrity of the building itself.

SCAM ALERT!… never buy or book a foundation without the contractor or company coming to your building site IN PERSON before you order or provide a deposit. Buy want you need not what they want to sell you, it may not pass building inspection or be the right foundation you need for that site and building.