A metal building is the most affordable, durable, easy-to-install structure with high tensile strength.
Metal buildings are primarily about function rather than form. Prefab metal buildings, whether used for offices, garages, or storage, are often utilized daily, making it easy to overlook basic maintenance tasks until a significant structural problem arises.
As a result, if
Custom metal garage sheds or barns remain unused for an extended period, bacteria growth and other undesirable microbes can make the place unpleasantly smelly.
Daily wear and tear can cause issues such as water leakage, rust, or corrosion, which may weaken the metal structure, reducing the overall strength of metal buildings.
As the saying goes, ignore your metal building for a while, and you will end up with a larger maintenance dilemma.
Benefits of Building Maintenance
Safety
A neglected building is a disaster waiting to happen. Take, for instance, the collapse of the Champlain Towers in South Florida in 2021. The structural supports, made from reinforced concrete, were damaged, likely due to unaddressed deterioration from water exposure. This tragic event led to the death of 98 people, 11 injuries, and nearly $1 billion in property damage.
When crucial maintenance is overlooked, the results can be catastrophic. Regular building maintenance significantly enhances safety and helps prevent costly or tragic incidents.
Cost Savings
Skipping regular building maintenance to save money is a short-sighted approach. Planning a budget for ongoing long-term upkeep is much more manageable than dealing with the unpredictable costs of unmanaged deterioration. It also costs significantly less than emergency repairs. Several strategies can help you plan ahead and keep building maintenance costs down, such as:
● Using a CMMS: Track asset life expectancy and get alerts when equipment is nearing the end of its useful life.
● Scheduling preventive maintenance: Set up systems for accountability to ensure tasks aren’t overlooked.
● Increasing productivity: Automate activities like preventive maintenance scheduling and purchasing workflows.
● Checking for energy efficiency lapses: Identify and fix drafts or leaks.
● Managing assets and inventory: Measure usage and identify costly assets in terms of energy and maintenance.
Improved Building Functionality
Like any machine, a building will deteriorate without regular maintenance inspection and repair. When systems within your building fail – whether a utility or part of the infrastructure – it becomes less usable.
Regular maintenance allows for early detection of emerging issues, enabling timely intervention. It also ensures that components are less likely to break down, preventing outages and disruptions.
Compliance
Knowledge about best practices for building safety and maintenance evolves over time. Governments enforce regular maintenance through strict standards to ensure occupant safety.
Regular building maintenance is essential to comply with ever-changing building and safety codes, as well as state and federal regulations. It also minimizes liability and legal risks for your organization.
Low Maintenance for Commercial and Residential Metal Structures
The low maintenance cost of commercial metal buildings makes them popular across the nation. Prefab metal structures require minimal care for upkeep.
Roof panels, doors, windows, and other metal building accessories can be cleaned easily with a soft-bristled brush and mild laundry detergent.
Other prefab metal building parts can be maintained with these simple cleaning processes.
Common Problems from Lack of Metal Building Maintenance
Your metal building is a significant investment that requires occasional attention. Regular checks can prevent major damages and extend its lifespan. Without proper maintenance, you may overlook structural damages.
Neglecting timely metal building maintenance can lead to significant repair issues. In areas with fluctuating weather or temperatures, it's crucial to monitor for rust and corrosion. These issues can reduce the building’s aesthetic and visual appeal.
Expert Tips for Metal Building Maintenance
If you notice minor issues arising in your metal building, these maintenance tips will help prevent potential damage to the structure.
Thorough Cleaning of the Structure
Regularly washing your metal building with warm water and a cleaning solution every 3-4 months can remove dirt and maintain its original color and shine. If your building is in a heavily industrialized area, consider a power wash three times a year.
Preventive Measures:
Mold and rust thrive in moisture, so close all windows and doors tightly when washing.
Cover plants and bushes with tarps to protect them.
Turn off all power supplies, especially external electrical sockets and lights.
Cover all utility boxes, exterior lights, power outlets, and other openings to prevent water from penetrating the building.
This task can be a DIY project if you follow all preventive measures carefully.
Insulation Check
Insulation in metal buildings helps control moisture, temperature, and noise. Ignoring insulation maintenance can lead to energy loss and restricted airflow. Insulation blankets may fall due to various factors, including adjacent building components.
Maintenance Tasks:
Replace insulation bands.
Modernize or upgrade the insulation system.
Secure insulation with friction washers or glue pins—clean the metal panels for adhesion and use one pin per square foot.
Lace banding over purlins, leaving the banding open to feed the insulation blanket through.
Insulation maintenance can be technical, so call experts if you notice any damage.
Check for Loose Roofing Fasteners and Rust
Regular roof inspections can prevent structural problems caused by weather, loose or damaged fasteners, external physical damage, or corrosion. Moisture can weaken the roof's surface materials.
Steps to Follow:
Remove surface rust from fasteners with a scraper.
Check the fastener; if clean metal is visible after wiping, it's fine. Replace if it shows deterioration.
Incorrectly placed bolts or missing screws can weaken the structure's tensile strength.
Consult your metal building company for inspections and guidance on proper maintenance.
Check Gutters and Drains
Ensure that drainage pipes function correctly to avoid water overflow and leaks. Clogged drains can cause water to overflow, leading to rust, mold, and corrosion.
Inspection Steps:
Check for and remove any blockages in drains and gutters manually.
Flush the drain with a power washer to eliminate smaller elements.
Inspect areas often missed in DIY projects, such as the back of the gutter and bends in plastic guttering.
Professionals can provide thorough inspections and ensure everything is clear.
Oil the Hinges and Doors
Regularly check and maintain door and window hardware to ensure they open and close smoothly.
Maintenance Tips:
Ensure closure hardware, locksets, and hinges open and close naturally.
Oil hinges and check for damage.
Inspect door seals and frames, repairing any loose fasteners and cleaning any mold. Replace if damaged.
Apply the same maintenance to windows to maintain firm seals and proper function.
Repair the Paint
High-quality paint on metal structures maintains their appearance and protective value longer when properly maintained. Over time, dirt accumulation can affect the panels' look.
Steps for Paint Repair:
Identify minor scratches and clean off dirt, grease, and other residues.
Apply a layer of primer followed by paint on the cleaned spot and let it dry.
If you can't find the correct paint shade, contact your metal building company for professional assistance.