Metal Building Site Prep: What to Know First
Site location and preparation matter for your next metal building project
Metal Buildings are a popular choice due to their flexibility, durability, and energy efficiency – but you’ll want to find and prepare the right site first. There are several things to consider when preparing for your next metal building project.
1. Site evaluation and selection for Metal Buildings
Before you proceed with your project plans, do some basic evaluations of the area to evaluate the suitability and work needed to prepare the site.
- Pay attention to the slope. Having some minimal slope may assist drainage, but too much slope may require extensive grading work or even retention walls.
- Look for the right soil and drainage: This could require a geotechnical survey. You’ll want to make sure the soil type will support the weight and make any adjustments that are necessary due to soil type. Make sure the water drains away from the building foundation is sufficient.
- Research any environmental regulations: Investigate any wetlands or conservation areas that may affect your building plans.
- Check local zoning, building codes, and easements. Easements for utilities could affect your building placement and construction design. Your local building codes may dictate snow and wind loads.
- Check for easy access for construction vehicles. Having sufficient roadways and parking for large construction trucks can make the project run smoother.
2. Clearing and Grading Before the Metal Buildings
The next step will be to clear and grade the area to make space for the construction process.
- Remove vegetation, rocks, and debris. If you are removing trees (or larger shrubs), be sure to remove their root system as well to prevent their decomposition over time.
- Perform the rough and final grading. Create a flat surface level for the foundation, while ensuring there is some grading away to allow for drainage.
- Compact (or fill) the area. During this important step, you’ll want to compact the soil to meet certain specifications. Without it, the project could experience settlement or foundational cracks. Consider filling in the area with the right type of material to get to the right density.
3. Address the Drainage
Proper drainage is important for the longevity of the construction project.
- Plan to appropriately redirect water. Common methods include ditches, swales, or underground drainage.
- Add a drainage layer or gravel under the foundation. This can prevent water from pushing up against the foundation and seeping through. You’ll want to keep the foundation dry and stable.
4. Prepare the foundation
The foundation is one of the most important components of your construction project.
- Determine the foundation type. Typically, these include slab, pier, or perimeter foundations.
- Pour the concrete carefully to specifications. Remember, this foundation will need to handle the building’s load under year round conditions.
- Cure the concrete properly. Wait the appropriate amount of time to let the concrete fully cure for the best results.
5. Arrange for Permits and Inspections
This is a vital and necessary step to help bring your construction project to completion.
- Check your local municipality to see which permits are necessary. Make sure you follow all instructions to apply properly.
- Schedule timely inspections. This will keep the project timeline moving.
Proper planning makes for smooth projects
Working with experienced professionals can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches by doing the proper planning upfront and managing the process. Ready to select and prepare a site for a metal building project? Contact D.R. Poulin Construction Co. at 978-353-6740 to discuss your next commercial or residential metal building construction project.
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