Key Considerations Before You Go To Extend Your Steel Barn

Do you have a steel barn and want to extend it because your needs have outgrown the structure? It happens with many people and leads them to buy a new metal barn. Investing in a new structure is costly, so it's not the best idea for people with a tight budget. But what to do when your steel barn building has served you well for several years, whether for housing animals, storing equipment, or running a small business, and now it's no longer the best fit?

What to do when your needs are simply growing faster than you expected. Hold on for a sec before you call a contractor to build a new structure. Since it's a steel barn, why not extend it? But this is also not easy. It involves planning, permits, structural checks, and smart choices. One small mistake can lead to big regrets later.

But it's not as costly as installing a new structure. It can be an easy process if you follow the right steps to extend the structure. Have a look at the key things you must know before you go for an expansion, so your bigger barn feels just right for your bigger goals.

Why Do You Want to Extend the Existing Steel Barn?

Before you even touch a single screw or measure a beam, you need to ask yourself, what’s the real reason behind the extension? It is because expanding a metal barn is a big decision, and having a clear goal will guide every next step. Here's why figuring this out matters:

1. More Space for Equipment or Vehicles
2. Additional Shelter for Animals
3. Want to Add a Workspace or Office?
4. Seasonal Storage Needs
5. Planning for the Future
6. Better Organization & Safety
7. And others

Key Considerations To Extend a Steel Barn

Extension can be tricky if you do not follow the sequence. Think for yourself what step will be the best and easy to cut short this process and still get the best result. We have helped you in the space below. Take help from the key considerations provided below and make the best decision.

1. Assess the Existing Steel Barn Condition:

Once you have figured out why you need to expand the existing structure, now comes the sequence of steps. The first is checking the condition of the building inside and outside for a custom metal barn.

• Corrosion check: Expansion can be very difficult if you go for it without checking corrosion on the building's walls. Always inspect for rust, which can compromise the bond and weaken the structure.
• Alignment Verification: Ensure the existing barn is straight and properly aligned. A flaw in the alignment can affect structural changes.
• Load Analysis: If you want to extend the structure to store heavy items, determine if the existing prefab structure can handle additional loads post-extension.

It's crucial because a thorough assessment prevents future structural issues. Even after extension, your structure will remain sturdy and durable for a long time.

2. Choose the Right Extension Method:

Several methods are available for extending steel barns. A metal building dealer uses one as per the structure's condition and the customer's needs. But you should have basic information about methods to make the right decision. Lapping is one of the methods in which the new barn overlaps with the existing one. It's simple and cost-effective, but requires sufficient space and may not be suitable for high-stress areas.

The other method is mechanical couplers. It connects two barns end-to-end using a coupling device. This method can work best if you live in areas with space constraints and high-stress zones. However, it falls on the higher end of the budget. You will need to partner with precision engineers. Next is welding. It joins the barns by melting and fusing them together.

3. Adhere to the Building Code and Standards:

Although you are not installing a new structure, you should still check local building codes and standards. It ensures safety and avoids unnecessary fines because of not considering building codes. In Seattle, the Department of Construction and Inspections provides specific requirements for substantial alterations, which may include steel barn extensions. Similarly, other states in the USA have their own standards. So, you should check with the authorities where you live or where the steel barn building is located.

4. Consider Environmental Factors:

Do not forget the weather conditions of the region where you live. Because they significantly impact the performance of steel structures. In coastal areas like Seattle, salt-laden air can accelerate corrosion. Extreme temperatures can cause expansion or contraction. It affects the bond between barns and makes it difficult for building installers to install a structure successfully.

So, in this case, using epoxy-coated or stainless steel barns can mitigate this risk. You can also choose the best insulation type for your custom farm structure. It protects the building from extreme weather.

5. Plan for Future Modifications:

Once you have realized that a barn should be designed keeping future needs in mind. Now, do not make the mistake of avoiding future needs. Even if you are extending an existing structure, do it keeping possible storage needs in the future. It's a safe side to use the structure in its full strength. Design extensions in a way that allows for easy access if further modifications are needed.

Likewise, keep the records of extension methods. It is crucial for future reference if you again need expansion. Do not forget to ensure that any new extensions are compatible with existing structural elements.

6. Partner with a Reliable Company:

You can't extend an existing metal farm structure on your own. It includes many steps, requires skills, and engineering. So, you will need to partner with a metal building company. It takes care of everything from assessing the structure to choosing the right anchors, joints, and checking the local building codes. Most dealers have skilled engineers who work on building expansion projects.

But you need to find a reliable firm because many dealers make false claims. With little research, checking reviews, and talking to customers, you can easily determine which would be the best dealer for your steel barn extension.

7. Monitor and Maintain Your Barn:

Do not leave your barn after expansion. Because sometimes a structure does not turn out as you expect it to. Regular monitoring and maintenance are vital to ensure proper modifications. Periodic checks help to find out problems in a structure early. You can also check signs of corrosion, cracks, or other issues before it's too late.

Moreover, monitoring helps to update records that can serve as future reference if you need more changes or simply want to install a new prefab barn.

Final Thought

So, extension is possible, but it requires precision. Partner with skilled engineers because it's an important decision that ensures the safety and longevity of a structure while meeting your growing needs. But research and plan for everything. You can ensure a successful and durable outcome by understanding the purpose, assessing existing conditions, choosing the right method, adhering to codes, considering environmental factors, maintaining the extension, and more. Key considerations shared above will help you put the best foot forward and complete the steel barn's extension impeccably. Remember, when in doubt, consult with structural engineering professionals to guide you through the process.