Site Preparation Guide

You researched and customized, and you are ready for your new metal building! Now, you must prepare the property. Your building needs appropriate site preparation because the long-term structural integrity of the project depends on it.

If your structure is built on an incorrectly prepared site, the building may be fined or cited by a building inspector. Worse, a shift in the soil may compromise the strength of the building. If your building is not properly certified by an inspector, you may not be able to sell the property in the future. For all these reasons and more, it is imperative that you correctly prepare your building site before your new metal building arrives. The good news is that you will find this relatively easy to do!

Site Preparation Considerations

Research Building Permits Requirements and Codes in Your County

You should always begin a project with a call to your local building office. Your designated inspector will guide you through the list of necessary permits. You may discover that it is cheaper and easier to choose a smaller structure. Some municipalities have material requirements or ask that a permit be posted at the site. Whatever the rules are, researching zoning requirements before beginning your project can save you a lot of headaches in the long run.

Location of Your Building

You can stake out the perfect place for your new metal building by choosing a slightly elevated area. This will allow for drainage and keep stormwater away from your building. Clear more space than the building will occupy so that your crew will have plenty of space to work, and maintenance will be easy. Stay aware of easements and property lines, especially if you plan to pour concrete.

Lay the Groundwork

Check for existing utilities and evaluate for drainage. If you are planning underground utilities, be sure to have them in place before laying your foundation.

Prepare the Foundation

You will probably need the help of a licensed professional with a backhoe for this task. “Grading” is the process by which the soil is leveled and sloped around the edges of the installation site. If you have chosen a soil foundation, then this may be the most important step in your soil preparation process. Your drawings should have an anchor blot setting plan so a qualified engineer will be able to design a suitable foundation for your structure.

Removal of all Barriers & Barricades

Whether you have a professionally installed concrete pad or a gravel foundation, you will need a clear site for metal building installation. The site must be completely cleared of vegetation and debris before your building can be installed. Even the simplest tufts of grass and rock could disrupt the foundation of your new building! You should be sure that everything is cleared from the site before delivery day.

Choose a Foundation

Ground Base

Perhaps, your custom building is small, your lot is level and dry, and you are comfortable with a simple ground foundation. We recommend clearing all brush and debris from the site several days in advance and keeping an eye on how the bare soil responds to weather and water. Your judgment matters when it comes to your project, and our experts will be happy to discuss different anchoring and installation options!

Gravel Base

Are you searching for a quality budget option? While it may not be your first choice, gravel is a great beginning foundation. As with all foundation options, be sure your space is level and cleared of all debris before delivery. We recommend purchasing enough gravel to provide a buffer zone around your building and allowing it some time to settle before adding a second layer. Once your gravel is leveled and tamped down, your building can be secured atop with drive anchors.

The best part of a gravel foundation? It is easy to pour a concrete foundation over the gravel in the future when your time and budget allows! In the meantime, a properly leveled gravel foundation will keep your building secure.

Asphalt Base

If you prefer the appearance of asphalt, you’ll be happy to discover that it is slightly cheaper than concrete. However, if you have a large custom building, you may need to upgrade to concrete. Asphalt is a very durable option, making it popular with commercial and personal consumers. Bear in mind that it requires regular maintenance and yearly sealant to prevent cracks.

As with concrete, anchoring your building to asphalt is simple and will provide an excellent, stable foundation.

Concrete Base

Concrete is an excellent choice for your foundation due to its durable and stable nature. While it is more expensive than other options, when it is professionally installed, you can rest assured that your building will be secure! Depending on what you are storing, concrete provides a dry, raised floor to protect your belongings from the elements.

Our experts advise that you have a professional pour your concrete foundation. They can communicate with you about your building’s requirements, know when to pour concrete with reference to temperature and humidity, and ensure it is properly set before your building’s installation day.

Once your beautiful custom metal building arrives, simply bolt and anchor it to your new foundation!

Don’t Forget: Other Considerations

Access

When the big day arrives to install your metal building, the crew and machinery will need space to work. Be sure you have cleared, not only the space for your building, but also the ten feet surrounding the site. This will allow enough space for equipment and steel components to be maneuvered easily during the installation process.

Orientation

Take time to consider how the sun, wind, and other weather factors will affect your building. Do you want windows facing south? Would you like your door opening west for the breeze? Have the building orientation marked before delivery.

Utilities

Check with your local utilities before the installation begins. Know where your water, power, and internet lines run through your property!

You Deserve the Best from Liberty Metal Structures!

Liberty Metal Structures has proven itself as an industry leader by providing outstanding service to every customer! Our quality buildings and fantastic prices are only part of the story; when we commit to a project, we know that we are building more than a structure. We are building a relationship!

Do you need answers about a custom option? Our experts will be happy to help. Do you have concerns about delivery and installation accuracy? Our representatives will be with you every step of the way!

Make the call today at (800) 440-7309! Discover for yourself that the experts at Liberty Metal Structures are passionate professionals who put the customer first!