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Introduction To Metal Buildings PDF
Introduction To Metal Buildings PDF
M e s c o B u i l d i n g s S o l u t i o n s
Introduction to
Metal B uildings
NCI Building Systems, L.P.
7301 Fairview
Houston, Texas 77041
713-466-7788
Copyright 2001
R-2/09-2003
This publication is a general guide to the Metal Building Industry and should not be relied upon for specific engi-
neering, technical or legal problems, or legal advice. In no event will Mesco Building Solutions or NCI Building
Systems, L.P. be responsible for any special incidental or consequential damages incurred by the reader for any
reason. Strict adherence to the manufacturer's installation/erection manual is required. Further, this manual is
intended as an instruction aid in the assembly of metal buildings and components. The Introduction to Metal
Buildings manual is not being offered nor should it be construed as a comprehensive analysis of all aspects of
the metal building assembly and safety issues. Neither Mesco Building Solutions, NCI Building Systems, or any
of their affiliated entities intend the presentation of this manual as an exhaustive study of all safety issues involved
in the assembly of metal buildings, and expressly disclaim any liability therefore. Prior to beginning any con-
struction project, a builder should familiarize himself with all applicable metal building assembly installation and
erection procedure as well as all applicable safety laws and regulations.
Table Of Contents
Introduction
Successful Selling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Functions of a Builder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
The Introduction to Metal Buildings Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Introduction to Metal Buildings Has Application Knowledge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Mesco - The Builder - The Industry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Corporate Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
The Builder Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Mesco's Building Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Design Build . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Mesco and the Builder as a Sales Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Competition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Glossary
Basic Terms Used in the Metal Building Industry A - Z . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95-109
Introduction
Successful selling today does not depend as much on B. Product Knowledge - You must learn the sources
working harder than your competitors, but rather on of information and sales features of your products
being "smarter" in selling. As in other fields, the effort and services, and how they help your prospective
you put forth is important, but what really count are the customer.
results you obtain. Today's successful Builders are
those who take a consultant approach to establishing C. Product Application - You must be able to select
and solving the building needs of customers. the best possible building solution to meet the spe-
cific needs of the customer.
If you have chosen to become a Builder, it carries two
implications. It implies that you desire to acquire the D. Pricing - You must be able to calculate the prices
necessary knowledge and skills to become a reputable of your products.
Builder. It also implies that you are willing to accept the E. Inside Work - You must be able to file your infor-
responsibilities inherent in marketing a product and mation and working materials systematically,
service involving a major capital investment by your handle job correspondence, and organize other
customer. information pertinent to the job.
Introduction to Metal Buildings Has tems for commercial, industrial, agricultural and com-
munity service purposes. NCI markets its building
Application Knowledge systems through a sales force and Authorized Builder
Organizations.
The purpose of this manual is to enhance your knowl- NCI Building Systems was founded in 1984. In 1989, an
edge of the industry and our products, increasing your opportunity appeared to acquire a related business. A
sales and revenue. It is important that you be able to financial group was assembled to help the company
project to prospective customers the image of the capitalize on that opportunity, which launched NCI
Manufacturer as a long-established, reliable firm that Building Systems on its accelerated path of success. In
has proved itself worthy of the customer's confidence. April 1989, NCI Building Systems leased and assumed
Projecting a favorable image of the relationship operations at the Houston facilities of the Mid-
between the Manufacturer and you, the Builder, is even West/Metallic division of American Buildings Company.
more important.
The NCI family now consists of several divisions and
During the study of Introduction to Metal Buildings, you principal subsidiary companies, each offering a cus-
will learn about the basic relationship between Mesco tomer building solutions that are faster and more
and the Builder. The manual introduces you to some of economical than traditional construction methods. NCI
the principles of building design, sales aids, and the also operates its own coil coating facilities. With more
sales information system. Introduction to Metal than 3.0 million square feet of operating space across
Buildings also provides an opportunity for you to the United States, NCI's divisions and subsidiaries now
become acquainted with the major product systems, offer complete or partial pre-engineered metal building
components, and basic construction methods. It is the packages in all sizes, a full range of metal building
stage for developing sales points you can use to sell components, self-storage buildings, doors and light-
your products and services. gauge steel studs. NCI markets building systems and
The more sales-oriented each member becomes, the building systems components under several well
more effective the team will be in accomplishing respected trade names.
common goals. If you are not employed as a sales-
person, don't let this diminish your enthusiasm for The Builder Organization
pursuing Introduction to Metal Buildings. As you study
this material, you will find many things useful for your Much of the success of Mesco Building Solutions can
job and for your association with this industry. be attributed to its Builders. Mesco and the Builder have
worked closely together through the years to establish
If you find something you don't understand, make note themselves as a team whose activities are well known
of it and discuss it with your supervisor or your District in the construction industry.
Manager. Also, the Mesco Training Department wel-
comes any questions, comments, and/or suggestions Shortly after World War II, various individuals wanted to
that might help improve this manual. buy the rigid frame buildings that were such an impor-
tant part of the shelter solution during the war. These
Mesco - The Builder - The Industry individuals sold hundreds of buildings for a wide variety
of uses. This was the start of the dealer program. As the
As a Builder, your knowledge should be sufficient to end uses increased, the need arose for more complete
enable you to project an image of the Buildership as a construction packages.
capable and a reliable business. To do this you must be The dealers began taking more responsibility, including
able to answer questions intelligently concerning Mesco, the foundation, steel erection, insulation, masonry work,
the Builder organization, and the industry. It is only interior finishing and mechanical trades. It soon became
appropriate to start with some general information about evident that those dealers were simply more than
the company that provides the Buildership with many of dealers in material - they were Builders of complete
the products utilized in construction projects. The buildings. Thus in 1955, the word "dealer" was replaced
Standard Specifications on your Information Systems by the more appropriate term "Builder".
CD gives a brief history of Mesco building systems.
Traditionally people think of building construction as the
Corporate Operations process of pouring some concrete, laying bricks or
blocks, and installing a roof that will keep out the rain.
The various Building Divisions of NCI Building Systems When you really give thought to the matter, this is a very
design, manufacture, and market metal building sys- tedious and complicated way to build. It means that all
8 Introduction to Metal Buildings
Introduction
the various raw materials involved must be obtained Gable Unsymmetrical: A ridged (double slope)
from numerous suppliers, each delivering their own building where the ridge of the roof is off-center.
materials to the building site. After delivery the material
must be cut, welded, mixed, and fitted in accordance
with the architect's design or at the contractor's discre-
tion.
With the evolution from "dealer" to "Builder" comes the
growth of a modern and more efficient construction
method. With this modern system of construction, most
materials are ordered from Mesco, saving the owner in
delivery costs. Each piece of Mesco's material is
designed and pre-engineered to expedite the erection
process. This insures better erection with materials
being assembled in accordance with the total design.
Pre-engineered materials like Mesco's are checked by
exhaustive quality control techniques. This ensures
better quality materials versus those fabricated in the Single Slope: A sloping roof in one plane. The slope is
field. Also, factory fabricated materials mean savings in from one sidewall to the opposite sidewall.
construction cost because labor and time involved at
the job site are reduced.
Competition
Of course, like any other good business, there is com-
petition. There are many fabricators of metal buildings
and components, and they range from small shops to
large companies.
In 1956, producers of metal buildings formed the Metal
Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA) for the
purpose of:
1. Establishing design standards and criteria.
2. Assuring certifiable product quality (AISC)
3. Collectively participating in pro-active building
codes and insurance standards.
4. Continuing to progress in standards and practices
Building Forms
Post and Beam
Our ancestors used natural shelters, such as caves, for
refuge. Their first efforts to construct a man-made
shelter probably resulted in a lean-to of branches and
leaves.
This developed into the simple post and lintel system of
LEAN-TO
construction where two or more vertical members sup-
ported a horizontal member spanning between them.
The roof, of course, completed the structure.
Although post and lintel was the descriptive term for this
type of construction, the present day term is beam
instead of lintel. Lintel continues to be an architectural
term, but it is primarily used for the structural member
above doors and windows.
SIMPLE POST AND LINTEL
The Arch
Early Romans readily adopted materials to perfect the
arch for spanning large areas without the necessity of
posts and beams, thus introducing a building form that
was both functional and architecturally beautiful.
The arch has a building design concept that does not
exist in the post and beam - the side thrust. There are
two ways to meet the side thrust:
1. External abutments
ARCH THRUST
2. Downward pressure of massive walls against COUNTERACTED BY ABUTMENTS
which the thrusts operate
We have mentioned the post and beam and the arch
because both forms are still in popular use today. The
post and beam, even though a very simple design, will
be important to you in sales presentations. The arch
principle is pertinent because it is closely related to the
rigid frame primary structural system that will be one of
your "best sellers".
Despite limitations of available materials and design
know-how, early Builders continually looked for ways to ARCH THRUST
obtain greater and greater clearspan (areas without COUNTERACTED BY MASS
supporting members). The construction and design
principles were based on the use of load-bearing walls
and of thrust counteracted by weight and mass. These Today, a popular and practical structural scheme is that
principles endured for a very long time, but eventually consisting of a skeletal framework with a variety of
the introduction of steel and reinforced concrete external materials attached. This provides an endless
brought about many new possibilities of construction. variety of buildings forms and styles.
Introduction to Metal Buildings 13
Lesson 1
Construction Material Requirements and economy. However, its basic requirement must be
one of protection.
Consider some of the key factors that influence the You might analyze this a step further and really consider
selection of construction materials by the manufacturer, two kinds of protection.
the designer and the user.
One type is protection against forces or loads that may
STRENGTH is a very important factor. be exerted upon the building. Unless the structure can
offer adequate resistance against various loading con-
AVAILABILITY of material influences its selection, ditions, the safety of persons and the value of property
cost of material and final in-place cost. are endangered. This is where sound design consider-
ation must be given as to the strength of the building
To facilitate design and fabrication, a material must and particularly to the structural system.
possess a good degree of WORKABILITY.
Another kind of protection is protection against rain,
WEIGHT and BULK become important from a wind, heat, and cold. Any of these can contribute to the
handling and shipping standpoint. discomfort of persons and cause a decrease in the
value of contents. The degree of protection against
DURABILITY of the finished product is measured them is determined by the weather tightness and
in terms of its resistance to wear and destruction thermal efficiency of a building. These things, of course,
from all causes. greatly influence the design of roofs and walls - also
known as the covering system.
Materials must be capable of presenting a
pleasing APPEARANCE. Design Loading
Steel is used extensively in many segments of con-
If you were to ask an engineer to design a structure of
struction, especially in standard structural members.
a certain size, he/she would first have to know what
When you hear a construction worker refer to "red iron",
loads would be imposed upon the building - their type
he/she is talking about steel.
and magnitude. Only with this basic information will
The primary advantage of steel is its strength. The he/she be able to design a building that will meet the
material, as it comes from the mills, has very exacting prospective customer's exact needs for loading condi-
specifications, enabling engineers to design structures tions, it is important that you have a basic
with a high degree of accuracy. In addition, steel is a understanding of design loading.
plentiful and well-accepted material. It has a high
A load is a force exerted upon a structure or one of its
degree of workability because it can be cut, welded,
members. There are many different kinds of loads that
shaped, and formed to meet a great variety of needs.
must be taken into consideration in various situations,
Steel can also take a great deal of abuse and wear.
but only those that are of prime importance will be cov-
The greatest disadvantage of steel is that it will rust - ered at this time.
deteriorate by a process of oxidation - when exposed to
Dead Load: The weight of the metal building system,
the elements. This is prevented, however, by the appli-
such as roof, framing, and covering members.
cation of protective finishes and paints.
Although steel will not burn, it is not classified as fire-
proof because it can become distorted, lose its
structural strength, or even melt - depending on the
intensity of the heat. Nevertheless, compared to many
materials, steel offers a great deal of fire resistance due
to the large amount of heat needed to cause it damage.
Snow Load
Auxiliary Loads
(Note: Very wet snow 6" deep is equal to one inch of
water. One inch of water on a square foot of surface
weighs five pounds.)
Wind Load: The forces imposed by the wind blowing Collateral Load: The weight of additional permanent
from any direction. materials, other than the weight of the metal building
system, such as sprinklers, mechanical and electrical
systems, and ceilings.
Resistance of Material to Forces For an illustration of a few of these terms, take a simple
rubber eraser and draw evenly spaced straight lines
Loading has been defined as a force exerted on a across its width as shown in Figure A.
building. Such forces, in turn, are transmitted through
joints and connections to individual parts or compo-
nents. This eventually leads to a consideration of the
properties of materials to resist forces in order to pro-
vide the engineer with a basis for subsequent design
calculations.
You are not expected to be an engineer in order to sell Figure A
buildings, nor does this manual intend to delve deeply
into technical subjects. By the same token, the more By grasping the eraser in both hands and pulling
understanding you have of building design and terms, (Figure B), you are exerting tension on the eraser. Its
the better job you will do working with engineers, archi- resistance to breaking is its internal resistance. This is
tects, or other technically minded individuals. indicated by the widening of the spaces between the
Stress: The force acting on a member divided by its lines drawn on the eraser.
area. Tension
Tension: Stresses acting away from each other that
produce a uniform stretching of a member.
Force Force
In Tension Figure B
Using the eraser again, grasp it in both hands and push
towards the center of the eraser (Figure C). Notice how
Compression: Stresses acting toward each other that the lines tend to become closer to each other. This is
causes a member to compress. compression. The internal resistance of the eraser pre-
vents its parts pushed together.
Force Force Compression
In Compression
Force Compression
Force Shear
Figure D
16 Introduction to Metal Buildings
Lesson 1
Column Reactions The load at the base of the column will be a vertical load
and also a transverse thrust or "side kick". These trans-
Any structure placed on a foundation causes a load to verse thrusts can become very sizeable figures and
be imposed on that foundation. All buildings have these must be taken into consideration when designing foun-
loads imposed by the columns on the foundation. These dations for rigid frame buildings.
loads are called column reactions.
Column reactions are often expressed using the term
"kip". A kip is a commonly used engineering term for LOAD
1,000 pounds, derived from the contraction of the words
Kilo (1,000) and Pound.
Framing structures exert a load on a foundation both
vertically and transversely. The vertical load is the result
of the dead weight of the structure, and other loads
such as snow on the roof, wind loads, crane loads, or
seismic loads. THRUST
Building Codes
2 kips x 12 feet = 24 -ft- kips).
You needn't understand the total engineering involved,
but you should know that the loads exist, and how they Building code is a set of minimum requirements for con-
are expressed. You'll find these loads shown on the struction covering safety and serviceability. This safety
anchor bolt drawings. involves life, health, fire, and structural stability. Most
areas have enforced codes governing construction in
Load Transfer the community. They may be administered by a city,
county, or state, or by a combination of the three.
Regardless of the type of load or where it is exerted on
Building codes are necessary since their purpose is to
a rigid frame building, it is always transferred from part
benefit the public by helping eliminate unsafe design,
to part down to the foundation.
poor construction practice, and unsightly buildings.
Assume, for example, a man standing on the roof. His
By the same token, they should be modern and clear.
weight is directly on the panels, but this load is trans-
They should also provide for updating. Unfortunately,
mitted through the panels to the purlins - the closest
many communities have codes that are old and obso-
purlins taking the greatest part of the load. The purlins
lete, and fail to recognize the parade of new materials
transfer the load to the rafter, the rafter to the column,
and designs.
then the column to the foundation.
Conclusion
welding of structural components. It assures the cus-
tomer that his building is of the highest quality and
meets all applicable national standards.
Remember, nothing being presented should be con-
Other professional affiliations of Mesco: strued as an intention to train you to become an
engineer. The materials presented, including technical
portions, are merely fundamental and will provide back-
Founding Member of the Light ground and basic training for improving your job skill
Gauge Structural Institute (LGSI) level.
CWB
Canadian Welding Bureau certified
CERTIFIED
1. Our ancestors' first effort to construct a man-made shelter probably resulted in?
A. An Arch
B. A Metal Building
C. A Lean-To
D. A Conventional Stick House
E. None of the Above
2. A building should have many desirable characteristics, such as a good appearance, long life, flexi-
bility of use, and economy, but its basic requirement must be one of protection.
A. True
B. False
3. The introduction of what materials inaugurated many new possibilities for the construction industry?
A. Thrusts
B. Steel and Reinforced Concrete
C. Clearspans
D. Post and Beam
4. A load is simply a force that is exerted upon a structure or one of its members. Prime examples of
different loads that can affect a metal building are: live, auxiliary, collateral, seismic, snow, and
dead.
A. True
B. False
5. The primary advantage of steel is:
A. Availability
B. Workability
C. Durability
D. Appearance
E. Strength
6. The primary disadvantage of steel is:
A. Steel Rusts
B. Bulk
C. Weight
D. Steel will not burn
E. None of the Above
7. A seismic load is defined as the lateral load acting in any transverse direction on a structural system
due to the action of a hurricane.
A. True
B. False
8. The early Romans perfected the arch for spanning large areas without posts and beams. What
structural system is closely related to the arch?
A. Post and Beam
B. Purlins
C. Girts
D. Rigid Frame
E. None of the Above
Standard versus Non-Standard The MPact software program is one of the most inno-
vative design and estimating packages to be introduced
You will hear the word standard used many times in our to the metal building systems marketplace. MPact is
business. It is misunderstood more than any other flexible and user friendly, allowing the Builder to seek
word. Certainly any manufacturer who designs and pro- the most efficient design in order to achieve the most
duces parts that must fit together to provide a competitive price. MPact is the primary pricing tool used
completed product has a definite direction or "stan- by our authorized Builders and our sales staff.
dard", which is the base of normal application of the Approximately 90% of the building systems priced in the
product. Consequently, standard items are considered market can be successfully designed and priced within
to be those that are commonly manufactured on the MPact. MPact is available for purchase by an author-
production line and those that are purchased by cus- ized Builder. To utilize MPact the Builder must attend an
tomers. MPact Training Seminar. The seminar not only trains
the Builder in how to operate MPact in the Windows
However, if a situation arises involving something that is environment; it also spends a great deal of time
"nonstandard", it is still possible and practical to meet enhancing the Builder's product knowledge.
that need in many cases. Our engineers believe nothing
is impossible but variation from a standard often means Express is used to price our smaller building systems.
extra work, expense, and time. Sometimes this is negli- Using combinations of optional building widths, lengths,
gible, but at other times it might be quite involved. and eave heights along with a wide range of acces-
sories, unique and functional building layouts can be
Usually, the information we present is on standard prod- designed and priced. The building systems are small
ucts. Slight modifications of a product can be made to clean box buildings that are pre-engineered, with a four-
meet the specifications needed by the customer. week delivery time frame. The Express program is
Builders handle some variations by fieldwork. In other user-friendly, window based, and available to author-
instances, we will make the modifications at the factory. ized Express Builders. The program not only designs
It is important to note that any variation from the stan- and prices these smaller buildings, but also produces
dard might have a serious effect on the design (loading, elevation drawings and anchor bolt drawings that a
strength, etc.). Only qualified individuals should make Builder can print in his office. The quickest route to
these variations and modifications. project completion is the Express Building. Owners get
their buildings faster, and completion and occupancy
Pricing and Design Programs occurs sooner. A satisfied owner is the result of the
speed and quality produced by this Express Building
Pricing a building manually can be time consuming, not System.
to mention the designing phase. Mesco strives to make
it as easy for the Builder as possible. Mesco Building Mesco continues to expand and refine both the MPact
Solutions offers a computer pricing software program to and Express programs to help its Builders deal with the
our Builders, MPact. ever-changing metal building market. Any authorized
Builder interested in purchasing the MPact or Express
This tool offers guidance in designing our buildings programs should contact his District Manager.
22 Introduction to Metal Buildings
Lesson 2
100'
These thrusts, however, are easily counteracted by a EW = Endwall
MF = Main Frame
properly designed concrete foundation. We have used
the expression "easily counteracted " purposely
because a qualified engineer can design an adequate The main frames indicated by MF in the drawing above
foundation using the reaction charts supplied by the support a roof area of two half bays. The endwall
manufacturer. There are many buildings, both over- frames indicated by EW, however, only support one
designed and under-designed, in use today that have half-bay of roof load.
improper foundations simply because the person
designing the foundation was either unqualified or did From this you can readily see that the endwall frames
not refer to the reactions furnished by the manufacturer. need not be as strong as the main frames. It is for this
reason that in addition to expandable main frame end-
The building drawings include reaction charts with var- walls, we offer lighter non-expandable mainframe
ious loading conditions for standard main frames. The endwalls, or even lighter bearing frame endwalls,
MPact pricing program produces preliminary mainframe depending on your customer's requirements.
column reactions as well. Make these charts available
to your architects and engineers so that foundations will RAFTER
be priced properly and economically.
Main frames are normally connected to the foundation
by using the appropriate anchor bolts in a configuration COLUMN
that is described as a pinned condition. This means that
COLUMNS
the loads transmitted to the foundation are vertical OR
loads and transverse loads. POSTS
VERTICAL
ANCHOR LOAD MAIN FRAME
BOLTS HORIZONTAL
LOAD
BEAM
COLUMNS COLUMNS
OR OR
POSTS POSTS
Endwall Frames
Assume a building is 100' long, consisting of four 25'
bays as shown above. BEARING FRAME
PURLIN
Girts Flush girts attach to the web of the columns, with the girt
face in the same plane as the column face. Which pro-
Girts are secondary framing members that run horizon- vides greater interior clearance.
tally between main frame columns and between endwall
columns. They are zee shaped members like purlins,
also available in depths of 8", 10", or 12", and gauges
of 16, 14, 13, or 12. MAIN FRAME COLUMN
OR
ENDWALL COLUMN
Standard girt spacing is the first girt at 7'-4" above finish
floor and a maximum of 6' there after. This standard
spacing fits doors, etc., utilizing optimal design. Other
spacing is available to satisfy design criteria. A low girt
option is available on request at 3'-6", which stiffens the
wall section, and is standard in high wind conditions.
Girts and purlins are pre-painted at the factory. Mesco
welds all girt attaching clips to the frames for easier and
quicker erection. FLUSH GIRT
GIRT
FACTORY WELDED
GIRT CLIP
COLUMN
Bracing
Bypass girts attach to the shop welded clip on the out- In addition to main frames, endwall frames, eave struts,
side flange of the columns creating a more efficient girts, and purlins, the building system must have ade-
design. The girt is lapped at each frame and at the first quate bracing to make the system stable in a lengthwise
interior frame from the endwall. Bypass girts are used to direction. Bracing systems transfer wind loads from
take into consideration the design advantages of con- endwalls and sidewalls to the foundation. Wind bracing
tinuous beams spanning from bay to bay. systems must include two types:
MAIN FRAME 1. Longitudinal bracing, for wind on the endwall.
OR ENDWALL
COLUMN 2. Transverse bracing, for wind on the building side-
wall.
Requirements for bracing systems described on these
pages are based on the specifications of applicable
codes.
A variety of methods are available for providing bracing
for wind on the building endwall. Bracing systems of this
type serve a secondary purpose of squaring the
building. In addition to the standard method - diaphragm
BYPASS GIRT
action, alternatives include X-bracing (cable or rod),
fixed base columns, portal frames, and wind bents
attached to column When bracing must occur in bays
where doors or other accessories are required, fixed
based columns or portal frames should be used.
26 Introduction to Metal Buildings
Lesson 2
Diaphragm Action
Diaphragm action utilizes the diaphragm resistance of
the wall panels to transmit lateral wind or seismic forces
to the foundation. Diaphragm action utilizes undisturbed
sheeting, floor to roofline, and assumes all wall panels
are installed correctly.
X-Bracing
When diaphragm action of the panels is inadequate or
not allowed, the first alternative is to provide cable or
rod bracing between columns. X-Bracing transfers lon-
gitudinal forces to the foundation.
Fixed Base
Portal Frame
If neither X-Bracing nor fixed base columns are accept-
able, a portal frame (wind bent) can be used. A portal
frame is an I-shaped section of built up material con-
sisting of two columns and a rafter, running parallel to
X-Bracing
the sidewall, and attached to the web of the sidewall
Cable or Rod columns. As a standard the portal frame usually does
not induce a moment to the foundation.
CABLE BRACE
HILLSIDE
WASHER
FLAT
WASHER BRACE GRIP
HEX NUT
EYE BOLT
WEB OF FRAME
CABLE BRACE TO
FRAME CONNECTION Portal
1. Secondary framing members include purlins, girts, eave struts, bracing, and main frames.
A. True
B. False
2. The major parts of a main frame are:
A. Web
B. Flange
C. Haunch Plate
D. Stiffener
E. All of the Above
3. What is the rise of the gable peak from the eave line of a 120' wide building with a 1¹⁄₂ on 12-roof
slope?
A. 8'
B. 10'¹⁄₂"
C. 100
D. 7'-6"
4. Main frame endwalls do require additional bracing
A. True
B. False
5. Which endwall is designed to support a future expansion?
A. Bearing Frame
B. Post and Beam
C. Full Load Main Frame
D. Half Load Main Frame
E. None of the Above
6. Purlins and Girts are zee shaped, available in depths of 8", 10", or 12", and are available in gauges
of 16, 14, 13, or 12.
A. True
B. False
7. As a standard Mesco's first girt is located at?
A. 6'
B. 7'
C. 8'-4"
D. 7'-4"
E. 3'-6"
8. Which girt type has the girt face in the same plane as the column face and provides greater interior
clearance?
A. Bypass
B. Flush
C. Staggered
9. All primary framing members are painted with red oxide primer and can have a finish paint applied
in the field. However, secondary framing members are pre painted by the supplier with a baked on
red primer and can be very difficult to repaint in the field.
A. True
B. False
Clearspan Buildings
Clearspan buildings allow for the maximum use of inte-
rior space, which is particularly important in
manufacturing plants, warehouses, offices, and retail
stores where uninterrupted space is required. Size flex-
ibility also pays off outside where optimum land use is
an equally important consideration.
SINGLE SLOPE CLEARSPAN
Virtually every symmetrical, unsymmetrical, and single WITH TAPERED COLUMNS
AVAILABLE UP TO 150' WIDE
slope building size and shape is possible as a standard 1/4 : 12 THROUGH 4:12 ROOF SLOPE
product. Inside the clearspan building you have almost
total flexibility in determining the height, width, and roof
slope you want: building widths from 20' - 150'; eave
heights from 10' - 30'; and roof slopes from ¹⁄₄:12 to
4:12. Building widths of 80' or less are available with the
option of straight columns instead of tapered columns.
Lean-tos are available for future expansion or additional
space. A lean-to can be designed to match the eave
height and roof slopes of the clearspan building if the
building was originally designed to take on the loading SINGLE SLOPE CLEARSPAN
WITH STRAIGHT COLUMNS
of an additional lean-to load. Lean-tos are available in LIMITED TO 80' WIDE OR LESS
widths from 8' - 60', eave heights from 8' - 30', and roof
slopes from ¹⁄₄:12 to 4:12.
LEAN-TO
STRAIGHT COLUMNS
LIMITED TO 60' WIDE OR LESS
CLEARSPAN WITH TAPERED COLUMNS
AVAILABLE UP TO 150' WIDE Note: All stated limitations and parameters are those
1/4 : 12 THRUOUGH 4:12 ROOF SLOPE standards imposed by MPact. Wider widths and greater
roof slopes are available upon request.
Introduction to Metal Buildings 31
Lesson 3
Modular Buildings
A modular building (with interior columns) is specially
designed for large buildings such as manufacturing
plants, warehouses, truck terminals, and retail stores.
Interior columns are either built up 'H' columns or pipe
columns. 'H' columns are mandatory in a building with a
top running crane. Modular buildings combine the
proven practicality of a rigid frame with almost unlimited
size flexibility.
With a building that is 100' wide or less, the building can
be designed with both clearspan frames and modular
frames. This could serve the benefit of having a portion
of the building with an unobstructed floor area while
maintaining the cost savings of a modular building.
Lean-to
Modular buildings are also possible in any symmetrical,
unsymmetrical, and single slope building size and The lean-to is ideally suited to give that extra space
shape as a standard product offering. Inside the mod- needed alongside the building. The lean-to ties in at or
ular building there is almost total flexibility in below the eave of the building and can provide a variety
determining the height, width, and roof slope is wanted: of uses, from just a covered area to a completely
building widths from 40' - 500'; eave heights from 10' - enclosed addition to your building. A lean-to structure
30'; roof slopes from ¹⁄₄:12 to 4:12; and interior module has only one slope and depends upon another structure
spacing from 20' to 100'. Modules are defined as the for partial support. A lean-to can be located at eave or
space between interior columns. MPact is limited to 8 below eave of the supporting structure.
interior modules but more modules are available on TIE-IN GIRT MAIN
FRAME
request. Building widths of 40' - 80' are available with
the option of straight columns instead of tapered
columns. Lean-tos are also available for future expan- SHEETING ANGLE
(IF SHEETED BELOW)
sion or additional space if the original main structure
had been designed to support the additional load of a
lean-to. LEAN-TO
PURLIN
LEAN-TO CONNECTION
• Bearing Frame The expandable clearspan main frame endwall can pro-
vide an entirely open endwall up to 150' wide. This
Expandable Main Frames could be the answer to a covered truck dock across the
end of the building; or, total flexibility in placement of
The expandable main frame endwall is a combination of framed openings.
the standard main frame with endwall columns. The
It is also possible to interchange the interior modular
endwall columns do not support the rafter but serve only
main frames comprised of different modular spacing.
as columns for attachment of endwall girts and transmit
For example:
the wind load into the foundation and structural frame.
The 120' wide building could have 3 - 40' wide modules
The expandable main frame's largest advantage is that
or 2 - 60' wide modules. By interchanging some 60'
it provides for easy expansion. Since it is a main frame
module frames within the structural system we can
it will carry the design load of a full bay, and it can
retain the lower cost of the interior columns yet provide
remain in-place if the building is expanded.
larger unobstructed areas.
Non-Expandable Main Frames Also, using the 3 - 40' modular main frame endwall in
place of the 2 - 60' module spacing, you would be able
The non-expandable main frame endwall is still a main to place an overhead door in the center of the endwall
frame with endwall columns, but cannot be used for without difficulty.
future expansion. The non-expandable frame can only
carry the design load of one half bay. Many times the ability to interchange frames and end-
walls can bring about cost reductions, which will amount
Both the Expandable and Non-Expandable main frame to several thousands of dollars. These can be very
endwalls provide for more flexibility and ease in locating important savings if you are working against competi-
large framed openings or entrance doors. Locate the tion or a low budget. Keep in mind the largest benefit of
openings by simply adjusting the endwall columns our MPact Pricing/Design software is that you can
spacing. Also, the main frame endwalls do not require process your project several different ways to arrive at
any form of bracing, therefore, X-bracing or portal the most economical price without dedicating a lot of
frames will not interfere with large openings. time or hassle.
1. What type of building allows for the maximum use of uninterrupted interior space?
A. Modular Building
B. A building with Interior Columns
C. Lean-to
D. Clearspan Building
E. None of the Above
2. Clearspan buildings with tapered columns are limited to 180' as a standard.
A. True
B. False
3. A modular building with 3 interior columns will have how many modules?
A. 1
B. 3
C. 2
D. 5
E. 4
4. The most economical endwall is a (this question is not considering the width of the building, endwall
column spacing, or the loads of the building)?
A. Expandable Main Frame
B. Bearing Frame
C. Non-Expandable Main Frame
5. Which type of building is not a self-supporting structure?
A. Single Slope
B. Gable Unsymmetrical
C. Gable Symmetrical
D. Lean-to
6. When a lean-to does not extend the full length of the main building and begins or ends at an interior
main frame, a bearing frame endwall is the standard condition on the lean-to. However, a main
frame endwall could be used if necessary.
A. True
B. False
7. Is it imperative that the bay spacing of a lean-to equals the bay spacing of the supporting structure?
A. Yes
B. No
8. Long Bay buildings refer to:
A. Large clearspan structures
B. Unobstructed craneway buildings
C. Lengthening sidewall bay spacing
D. Increasing interior module spacing
9. The best roof framing system for 50' sidewall bay spacing on a metal building is:
A. 10"-12" Zee purlins 12 gauge
B. Mesco's Long Bay® System
C. Bar joists
"PBR"
36"
12" 1 1/4"
COLOR
"PBA"
36"
12" 1 1/8"
COLOR
Covering
Thickness of material may be expressed in either
inches or the decimal equivalent. Most of the time,
Introduction to Metal Buildings 41
Lesson 4
thickness is referred to as a gauge, which is a standard good color finish. In any event, the first painted metal
numbering system to designate the thickness of mate- buildings were coated by a standard procedure of
rials. 29 gauge material is our lightest or thinnest gauge applying a good primer and then a good grade of com-
used only for liner. Most of our standard panels are mercial paint. Generally, paint consist of three basic
rolled with 26 or 24 gauge material, where all standing ingredients:
seam panels are at a minimum of 24 gauge. The lower
the gauge is the thicker the material. 1. Pigment - this gives the paint its color.
2. The vehicle or carrier - this provides paint with flex-
Finishes ibility and offers protection of the pigment.
Mesco's panels are available in three different finishes. 3. Solvent - this assures a compatible joining of the
• Galvalume® Plus pigment and vehicle and proper curing.
• Signature® 200 The wide selection and proportions possible with each
of these basic ingredients are reasons why you see
• Signature® 300 such a great number of paints available for so many dif-
ferent purposes.
Galvalume® Plus Typical color finishes do not bond very well to metals,
Recently a new development has introduced a new especially Galvalume® Plus steel is limited because of
product called Galvalume® Plus. Galvalume® Plus is the the corrosion resistance. Therefore, it is necessary to
trade name for a patented sheet steel product having a apply a primer to insure adequate adhesion of the
highly corrosion resistant coating of 55% aluminum - system to the metal substrate and to obtain optimum
44% zinc alloy followed by a state-of-the-art polymeric corrosion resistance.
passivation system. This newly developed passivation To capitalize and insure a quality product, in 1998 NCI
system is a two component package consisting of an Building Systems purchased several coil-coating plants
acrylic-based polymer resin system and an inorganic strategically located throughout the United States.
corrosion inhibitor. These coil-coating plants use an innovative process of
Galvalume® Plus is excellent where corrosion resist- oven-baking the finish on the coils.
ance is required and can be used in high profile Coil stock goes through an exacting pre-cleaning and
application like architectural panels and residential pretreatment process to insure proper adhesion of the
roofing. Galvalume® Plus is also perfectly suited for Signature® 200 or Signature® 300 finish, uniformity of
standing seam roofing applications. thickness, and flexibility for forming purposes. The fol-
The base metal is 26 or 24 gauge Galvalume® Plus lowing is a typical process:
steel. The base metal is pretreated and then primed 1. Coil stock starts by receiving a hot alkaline deter-
with a primer for superior adhesion and superior resist- gent wash, under pressure, to remove oil and other
ance to corrosion. The painted panels are available in residues.
two finishes: Mesco's standard Signature® 200 or
Mesco's premium finish Signature® 300. 2. Material is rinsed thoroughly.
3. A pretreatment coating system is applied.
Signature® 200 and Signature® 300
4. The primer is roller coated on both sides.
Appearance is one of the most important features of a
5. Polymer coat is oven-baked.
covering system, particularly the walls. Nothing
enhances the appearance of a wall more than the color 6. Final color finish is applied by roller coating to
finish. In addition, the color finish of a building will often assure a uniform film of finish to the exterior sur-
provide added protection against normal weathering. face and polyester baked to the interior surface.
After early metal buildings were established as good
utility buildings, people began to consider them for other 7. Finishes are oven-baked.
uses. Galvanized steel was often painted to provide a A warranty is a very important sales tool. Almost as
more pleasing appearance. This is certainly under- important as the warranty itself is the exacting means of
standable, since color plays such an important role in judging whether or not the finish falls within the limita-
our lives. Even bare wood or concrete block is not a par- tions of the warranty. A standard 20-year finish warranty
ticularly attractive material unless it has been given a is available on all of our panels against peeling, blis-
42 Introduction to Metal Buildings
Lesson 4
tering, cracking, fading, and chalking. This warranty manufacturer insulation, but the MPact program does
covers cost of labor and material to repair, replace, or have the capability of pricing insulation within a building
repaint material proved to be defective under the terms quote. The insulation is the standard white vinyl backing
of the warranty. If you have never seen or heard of the in the thickness of 3", 4", or 6". However, it is good prac-
20-year finish warranty ask your District Manager to tice to work with a local insulation buyer in your area.
supply you with a copy.
Signature® 200 is Mesco's standard modified sili-
Joining and Fastening
conized polyester paint system. Most of Mesco's panels All the elements or parts that go together to make up a
are available in the standard color offerings. Signature® complete wall or roof system must join and fasten
200 offers optimum exterior protection and resistance to together in such a manner to assure pleasing appear-
chemical corrosion and ultraviolet radiation. This ance, good protection, and low maintenance.
coating also offers excellent chalk, fade and mar resist-
ance. Laps and Joints
Signature® 300 is Mesco's premium fluorocarbon paint Lapping, tongue and groove, or snap down or mechan-
system. Signature® 300 coating is formulated with ical seaming can be used to join the panel edges of two
Kynar 500® /Hylar 5000® polyvinyulidene fluoride resin panels that are set side by side.
and modified with a proprietary resin for toughness.
This long-life finish offers the ultimate in color retention,
film flexibility and durability.
Fiberglass
Another material available for use in the light transmit-
ting panel is high strength translucent glass fiber
LAP JOINT
reinforced polyester. The light transmitting panels
match the standard panel profiles and are ¹⁄₁₆" thick,
weigh 8 ounces per square foot, and are white with a
granitized top surface. Mesco's light transmitting panels
are available in both insulated and uninsulated panels
with a UL 90 Wind Uplift rating. Insulated light transmit-
ting panels are available in "PBR" panel and Standing
Seam Panel profiles only.
The benefits of the use of light transmitting panels are
obvious: TONGUE AND GROOVE
• As light transmitting panels, the need for artificial SNAP DOWN SEAM
light is reduced and electrical cost lowered.
• As decorative panels, the appearance of a
building is enhanced.
Insulation
It was mentioned earlier that one of the most important
SNAP DOWN PROCESS
jobs a covering system must perform is to retain heat
inside a building during winter, and keep heat outside in MECHANICALLY SEAMED
the summer. Heat flow cannot be stopped but it can be
slowed considerably by using heat-reflective materials
or colors, materials that are poor heat conductors, or by
trapping still air. Therefore, a good insulation may have
a reflective surface exposed to heat, plus many small
cells or pockets to trap and hold air as still as possible.
This explains why most good insulating materials are
made of light, fluffy substances like fiberglass, organic MECHANICALLY SEAMING PROCESS
fibers, cotton, cork or foamed plastics. Mesco does not
Introduction to Metal Buildings 43
Lesson 4
Sealants
Regardless of the joining and fastening method used in
a covering system, a sealer, or sealant, is invariably
used to provide added protection and weather tight-
ness. Three basic types of sealants are:
Tube Sealant: such as mastic from a caulking gun.
Tape Sealant: Tri-Bead - often referred to as mastic
tape. It is used at the eave, outside closures, endlaps,
and trim connections.
Minor Rib - used to fill voids at minor ribs of the panel at
the eave.
Factory Applied Sealant: a foam sealant that consists of
a glue and gas mixture that is factory injected into the
female leg of the standing seam panels.
Fasteners
The fastening or attaching of panels to structural mem-
bers and to neighboring panels is of such prime
importance that they are emphasized frequently in
FASTENER # 1E selling situations. As the design and material of the cov-
ALL LOCATIONS ering panels have improved throughout the years, so
4 have the methods of fastening.
Standard fasteners come in two (2) types and groups,
7 1 3 2 5 6 8 various lengths and colors, and three (3) different
grades. Using the correct fastener for the right job is
vital. It is important to take into account the location,
application, and circumstances when choosing the fas-
tener that is best for the particular job.
Joining is particularly important when weather protec-
The two (2) types of fasteners are self-tapping and self-
tion is being considered. Roof panels must always be
drilling. The type that is used is determined by the
joined so that the upper panel laps over the lower panel
preference of the builder. The self-tapping screws
44 Introduction to Metal Buildings
Lesson 4
require pre-drilling the panel/trim prior to applying the Again, the grade will be dependent on the specific
fasteners. This step is not necessary for the self-drilling. needs of the customer and the building. The three
The self-drilling fastener combines a unique non- grades are carbon steel or zinc capped head, which are
walking point with a drill bit shaped tip to provide quick, also known as Long Life, and stainless steel. You
positive penetration of both metal panels and steel should always use a Long-Life fastener (Zinc Capped or
framing. The threads are engineered to maximize strip Stainless) when a finish warranty is desired.
out and pull out values while avoiding over-driving
torque. Electric Seamer
Self-drilling fasteners should be used with unpunched
panels and framing structural members. The self-drillers
are now available in various sizes. Keep in mind that
panel fasteners are used for two different purposes.
One is for fastening the covering panel to the interme-
diate structural members. The second purpose is for
attaching panels to one another, such as side-to-side or
end-to-end.
Panel screws are used for two (2) purposes. Depending
on the use of the fastener, all fasteners will fall into one
(1) of two (2) groups -- member screws and stitch
screws.
Fasteners used in panel-to-steel, trim-to-steel, and
steel-to-steel applications are member screws.
Fasteners being used in panel-to-panel and trim-to- The electric seamer works at close tolerances and folds
panel applications are stitch screws. The length of the the panel edges over twice creating a double standing
member screws is primarily dependent on the thickness seam, which is weather tight. This mechanically formed
of insulation used. Stitch screws are a standard length standing seam fastening system is a revolution in the
(³⁄₄" for self-tapping and ⁷⁄₈" for self-drilling.) Fasteners metal roof industry. With the electric seamer, the cost of
being used on colored panels or trim will match the the standing seam roof has been cut while its features
color of the material, plain fasteners will be used on have been saved.
Galvalume® panels.
Trim and Flashing
The final element of a good covering system is the
method of handling its edges. For example, there must
be some method of joining and finishing so that the tran-
sitions from wall panels to roof panels offer both
weather protection and good appearance.
Flashing is a word used to describe a material for
STITCH SCREW joining two components together to provide proper
weather tightness.
Fasteners come in three (3) grades. The grades apply Trim on the other hand, generally refers to a material or
to the material of which the fastener is constructed. part used to finish out and cover a joint or juncture to
Introduction to Metal Buildings 45
Lesson 4
EAVE TRIM
GUTTER
RIDGE FLASHING
RAKE TRIM
RAKE ANGLE
PEAK BOX
WALL PANEL
improve appearance.Gutter refers to a channel member ments, all of which are very important to the complete
installed at the eave of the roof for the purpose of car- building system. In presenting the various elements of
rying water from the roof to the drains or downspouts. the Mesco covering system, we have tried to acquaint
you with the terminology used in the metal building
Conclusion industry. We have also tried to provide a brief descrip-
tion of the products and methods associated with the
The purpose of this lesson was to encourage you to Mesco wall and roof systems.
think of a covering system as possessing several ele-
1. Why do many potential building prospects never give serious consideration to a pre-engineered
metal building?
A. Traditional Beliefs
B. Misconceptions
C. Lack of knowledge of Pre-engineered Metal Buildings
D. All of the Above
2. What are the two most obvious, but equally important, features of a covering system, (as stated in
this manual)?
A. Structural Stability and Resistance to Sound
B. Economical and Easy Installation
C. Appearance and Protection
D. Control Moisture Condensation and Protect Against Fire
3. A properly designed covering system must have sufficient strength and rigidity to resist forces and
transmit applied loads to the structural system.
A. True
B. False
4. Mesco's panels are available in what finishes?
A. Galvanized Steel, Signature® 200, and Galvalume® Plus
B. Galvalume® Plus, Galvanized Steel, and Kynar®
C. Galvalume® Plus, Signature® 300, and Signature® 200
5. Roll-Forming is a continuous process performed on a machine consisting of a series of graduated
metal rolls arranged in pairs, called stands.
A. True
B. False
6. An end-lap is when two panels join together end to end. Roof panels must always be joined so that
the upper panel laps over the lower panel an adequate distance. What is the minimum overlap dis-
tance?
A. 4"
B. 10"
C. 5'
D. 3"
E. 8"
7. Self-drilling fasteners should be used with pre-punched panels and framing structural members.
A. True
B. False
8. When fastening a wall panel to a girt, it is considered?
A. Roof Panel to Panel
B. Wall Panel to Panel
C. Roof Panel to Structure
D. Wall Panel to Structure
METAL DECK
ADHESIVE
METAL DECK
BALLAST
Metal Roofs
Even though we have frequently pointed to metal build-
ings as the "modern way to build", it is interesting to
observe that metals have long been recognized as the
best roofing materials.
In order to obtain the many advantages offered by metal
at a reasonable price, today's building owner can now
LAP SEAM turn to roof panels made of either aluminum, aluminum-
zinc alloy coated steel, or aluminum clad steel; all of
which are available at relatively economical prices.
Originally, metal sheets used for roofing were flat and it
was necessary to join them by either welding or sol-
Both sealants and sealing techniques must be compat- dering, or to introduce lap seams and joints. To facilitate
ible with the membrane materials. The following is a list this type of installation, it became a common practice to
of sealing methods and materials: crimp or flange the edges of the panels. Later, in order
Adhesive is used with thermosetting materials such as to provide panels with greater strength, the metal sheet
neoprene and EPDM. The adhesive is usually applied was formed so as to have ribs or corrugations.
52 Introduction to Metal Buildings
Lesson 5
The illustration below represents an early application of 2. Die formed ridge saves time on installation.
this principle of the continuous corrugated panel.
Although largely replaced by more appealing configura- 3. The panel is available from all plants allowing low
tions, it is still available through our components division freight to any location.
and is known as the "C" and "D" panel. The "D" panel 4. Start installation at either end; therefore, allows
has the extra purlin bearing leg for roof application. flexible installation.
Standard Screw Down Roof Panel 5. The economical profile is cost effective.
6. Finish Warranty available. The panel has a 20-year
To help achieve just the look you want in your new life span when used with long life fasteners.
building, we have a selection of attractive, long-life, low-
maintenance panel systems. 7. Wind Uplift Rating. The panel qualifies under sev-
eral UL90 construction numbers.
The deep-ribbed "PBR" panel is ideal for roof and wall
applications. It provides an even-shadowed look 8. Profile light transmitting panels are available for
designed for commercial and industrial applications. the "PBR" Panel.
9. Extra Purlin Bearing Leg ensures flush fit for better
"PBR" Panel sidelap connections, and fewer leaks.
3¹⁄₂" 1³⁄₈"
check for proper coverage. See illustration for panel
"PBR" Panel sheeting sequence.
Standard Colors: Architectural Series 2. Panel side laps arrive at the job site containing fac-
tory-applied sealant, which contributes to the
Warranty: 20-year available system's weather tight construction.
Sealant: Factory applied mastic 3. Optional weather tightness warranty that assures
Insulation: Can accept up to 6" of fiberglass and 1" that the roof system will remain weather tight for
rigid thermal blocks extended service life.
Wind Uplift: UL90 rated - tested in accordance with 4. May be factory notched at both ends, allowing for
ASTM E283 and E331 for water penetration and air field installation to commence or finish from either
infiltration. FM class 1 rated as well. end of the building.
Endlaps: Prepunched endlaps ensure proper place- 5. Endlaps have a 16 gauge backup plate with pre-
ment of fasteners. Mastic is applied between panels punched holes allowing for a solid connection at
and secured with #¹⁄₄ - 14 x 1 1/4" self-tapping fas- endlaps and proper fastener spacing.
teners through the panels and into the backup plate to 6. High or low clips accommodate a variety of insula-
form a compression joint. tion systems, with up to 1" thermal spacers at the
Fasteners: Standard coated, zinc- aluminum cast purlin.
head, or stainless steel head screw. 7. UL 90 rated for lower insurance costs.
Light Transmitting Panels: Optional insulated or 8. Does not use the mechanically seamed system.
non-insulated This panel interlocks when snapped together;
therefore, there is no need for seaming equipment,
Ultra-Dek® allowing ease of installation.
Usage: New and retrofit applications
9. Economical standing seam roof panel.
Introduction to Metal Buildings 55
Lesson 5
¹⁄₁₆" COLOR
2"
MECHANICALLY SEAMED
Panel Size: 16 inches wide, 2 inch high standing
seam
Gauge: 24 gauge, 22 gauge available on request but
not standard
Length: Recommended 55'-0" maximum.
MECHANICALLY SEAMING ENGAGEMENT
Substrate: Galvalume® Plus
Standard Colors: Architectural Series
Features and Benefits of Double-Lok®:
Warranty: 20-year available
1. No panel penetration is required over the building
envelope other than at the end laps, which are Sealant: Factory applied
connected by a compression joint, which is spe-
cially designed to seal out the elements. Insulation: Can accept up to 6 inches blanket fiber-
glass and 1 inch rigid board thermal blocks
2. Panel side laps arrive at the job site containing a
factory pre-applied sealant, which contributes to Seamed: Roof is mechanically seamed in the field
the system's weather tight construction. Wind Uplift: UL 90 rated
3. Optional product and weather tightness warranty is Concealed Clips: A choice of concealed fastening
available, contributing to additional customer con- clips is available for this panel system including UL
fidence. rated clips. These clips hold the panel firmly in place
4. May be factory notched at both ends allowing for without unsightly exposed fasteners. Each clip system
field installation to commence or finish from either offers the ability to accommodate thermal movement.
end of building or on both sides simultaneously
Ideal Retrofit Roof System
5. Endlaps have a 16 gauge backup plate with pre-
Usage: This panel is a structural panel that spans up
punched holes allowing for a solid connection at
to five feet on purlins, or can be used as an architec-
endlaps and proper fastener spacing.
tural panel over a solid deck. This flat panel is
6. High or low clips can accommodate a variety of designed with striations to minimize oil canning. It is
insulation systems, including 1" thermal spacers at designed to meet the ever-changing AISI specification
the purlins. and other industry codes.
7. UL 90 rated for lower insurance costs on Factory Limitations: Recommended for roof slopes of ¹⁄₂:12
Mutual class 1-rated projects. or greater. Oil canning is not a reason for rejection.
56 Introduction to Metal Buildings
Lesson 5
Advantages of BattenLok®:
1. Aesthetically pleasing architectural design with
vertical ribbed seams, which are easily custom
flashed.
2. A great product for hip and valley, and turndown
mansard application. The panels can be turned
down over the eaves to form a wall panel appear-
ance.
3. A feature of the BattenLok® is that the sidelaps are
mechanically seamed with an electric seamer for a
sure lock.
4. This system features easy to handle 16" wide
panels with over 50 years of service in the market-
place. The proven durability and performance of
the BattenLok® panel, with the factory-installed
mastic and swaged endlaps, ensures weather
tightness.
5. BattenLok® is a structural panel that spans up to
five feet on purlins, or can be used as an architec-
tural panel on plywood and felt substrate.
6. BattenLok® is a flat panel with vertical ribs creating
no voids, therefore, no eave closure plugs are
required
7. BattenLok® is designed to meet the ever-changing
AISI specifications and other industry codes
8. The natural forces of expansion and contraction
can cause roof leaks. The BattenLok® system is
Battenlok® Panel Used in a Retrofit Roof
installed using special clip assemblies that allow
Application
for roof movement. This system is designed to
handle thermal shock; therefore, it won't crack,
blister, absorb moisture or require painting, SuperLok®
patching, or caulking usually needed with ordinary
nonmetal roof system. 16"
2. Factory notched for endlaps allowing ease of Even an inorganic roof that is weather tight at the time
installation. of construction may cause the owner inconvenience
and costly maintenance if the original design failed to
3. Clip allows 2" panel movement allowing for expan- consider the effects of wind uplift and expansion and
sion and contraction. contraction.
Wind Uplift
4. Sealant factory applied for less field labor and
longer life.
5. Weather tightness warranty available When the wind blows over the roof of a building, suction
is created. Similar to the airfoil effect on the wing of an
6. System qualifies for UL 90 wind uplift ratings under airplane, this exerts an upward pull, or wind uplift, on
four types of construction including open framing, the roof. Therefore, the stronger the wind, the stronger
composite, and solid deck methods. the upward force wanting to separate the roof from its
7. Metal Closures for longevity supporting framework.
Oil Canning
BattenLok® and SuperLok® panels have striated sur-
faces to meet the demand of any design challenge.
While Mesco has recognized and responded to this
requirement we have a responsibility to point out that a
wide and perfectly flat appearance is not possible. In A key design factor in combating wind uplift is the
some wide products, panel distortion, called oil canning, method of fastening the roof to the structure. Greatly
will occur and tolerance and/or additional support due to superior fastening design implemented by
behind the panel may be more visible under certain Mesco, all of the roof systems have withstood and
lighting conditions. Minimizing foot traffic during and passed the rigorous testing required to meet
after installation can eliminate the need for additional Underwriters Laboratories Class 90 wind uplift ratings
support behind panel faces. and the Code of Engineers Guide Specification CEGS-
07416.
Expansion and Contraction to the purlins without the need of any holes through the
panel's roof surface. The floating clip allows the roof to
Every roof moves due to expansion and contraction. move transversely 2" in each direction, accommodating
Unlike the forces of wind uplift, you cannot resist the for the expansion and contraction imposed on the roof.
forces of expansion and contraction without impairing
the weather tightness of your roof. Therefore, your roof
must be designed to allow for that movement.
STANDING SEAM
ROOF PANEL
Retro-R® Panel
INSIDE METAL 36" NET COVERAGE
CLOSURE
12" 12" 12"
TRANSVERSE
EXPANSION JOINT
TRIM 1¹⁄₂" 2" 2" 2¹⁄₈"
¹¹⁄₁₆"
COLOR
STANDING SEAM
FIXED SIDE ROOF PANEL
"PBR" Panel
"PBR" Panel Features and Benefits: 2. The striations reduce oil canning, textured appear-
ance.
1. 36" Coverage for ease of erection.
3. Available in the standard Signature® 200, which is
2. Manufactured at all plants for low freight to any a silicone polyester color offered with a standard
location. 20-year warranty.
3. Start installation at either end for flexible erection. 4. Single continuous panel to sill until panel exceeds
40'-0 length for attractive application with no end
4. Economical profile that is cost effective.
laps, and ease of installation.
5. Finish Warranty - 20-year life when used with long
5. Signature® 300 premium finish optional for a finish
life fasteners.
with 20-year warranty, ultimate resistance to color
6. The panel provides diaphragm capabilities and girt change and chalk.
stability in metal building construction.
6. Embossed texture available, embossing the metal
7. Profile wall lights are available for the "PBR" Panel. reduces glare and the potential for oil canning.
8. The panel can be reverse rolled putting the paint 7. Fire rating, the panel carries a UL "Class A" fire
finish on the under side for installation as a wall rating.
panel.
"PBU" Panel
"PBA" Panel
36"
6"
COLOR ³⁄₄"
36"
12" 1¹⁄₈"
COLOR
"PBU" Panel
"PBA" Panel
Description: This utility panel with ribs 6" on centers
is especially useful for liners, partitions, soffits, etc.,
Description: The Architectural "PBA" Panel for side-
because of its shallower ³⁄₄" deep ribs and relative
walls produces a decorative smooth shadow line
ease of installation.
creating a distinctive architectural effect with semi-
concealed fasteners. Ribs are 1¹⁄₈" deep and major Gauge: 29, 26, 24, and 22.
corrugations spaced 12" on center. The net coverage
of panel is 3'-0". Finish: Galvalume® Plus and Commercial Industrial
Series (29, 24, and 22 Ga. available in Polar White
Gauge: 26 and 24. and Galvalume® Plus).
Length: Maximum recommended 45'-0". Longer Length: Maximum recommended 40'-0". Longer
lengths available on special order. lengths available on special order.
Fasteners: Various, depending on application. Usage: Wall panel, liner panel, soffit panel, mansard
panel face, and back sheet.
Finish: Galvalume® Plus and Commercial - Industrial
Series.
"PBU" Panel Features and Benefits:
Dimensions: 36" wide by 1¹⁄₈" deep. 1. Signature® 200 has 20-year warranty.
Usage: Wall panel, liner panel, soffit panel, mansard 2. Reverse rolled profile that places color on the
panel face, and back sheet. reverse side of the panel yields a flat profile
Limitations: Installation may be difficult with very appearance with fasteners recessed in flutes.
thick insulation. 3. Fire rating, the panel carries a UL "Class A" fire
rating.
"PBA" Panel Features and Benefits:
4. Single continuous panel eave to sill until panel
1. Semi-concealed fastener panel for attractive archi-
exceeds 40'-0" length causing an attractive
tectural application.
66 Introduction to Metal Buildings
Lesson 6
appearance with no end laps, and ease of installa- Flat Panels - Artisan Series
tion.
5. Signature® 300 optional finish that offers the pre-
12"
mium paint finish with 20-year warranty, ultimate COLOR 1"
resistance to color changes and chalks.
L12
6. Face fastener that yields diaphragm capabilities
and girt stability.
4" 4" 4"
7. Embossed texture optional, embossing the metal COLOR 1"
reduces glare and the potential for oil canning.
L12 with beads
8. Optional Perforated condition for ventilation or
acoustical applications.
Artisan Series
NuWall™
Description: The simplicity of the Artisan Series
panel is its best design feature. Uniform dimensions
12" and clean appearance allow the designer to plan mod-
ules, eliminate complicated pieces, and follow wall
COLOR curvatures.
2¹⁄₂" Gauge: 26, 24, and 22 (26 and 22 Ga. may require
minimum quantity).
NuWall™ 1¹⁄₂" Finish: Galvalume® Plus and Polar White (Smooth or
Embossed Texture with or without stiffener breaks),
Commercial - Industrial Series.
Length: Maximum recommended 20'-0" Rules of
Description: NuWall™ combines the ease of installa-
Thumb for Artisan Panel Lengths:
tion in both new and retrofit applications with a
pleasing aesthetic appeal. The shadow lines created Up to 4'-0" Long Use L12, L10, or L8
with the NuWall™ panel will enhance any structure's 4'-0" to 10'-0" Long Use L8 Only
appearance. Installation of panels is performed com- Fasteners: Concealed fastening system Artisan
pletely outside with no disruption of the workplace on Series panels use the Positive fastening method and
the inside. are attached directly to the substructure. The fastener
Gauge: 22, 24, and 26 (All gauges have a minimum is concealed behind the flush face.
quantity required) Dimensions: 8", 10", and 12" wide by 1" high.
Finish: Galvalume® Plus and Architectural Series. Usage: The Artisan panels are used for soffits and
Length: Recommended 40'-0" maximum. interior liners.
Artisan Series Features and Benefits: the building with an expansion fastener. Both are pos-
itive fastening methods that create secure interlock
1. Factory applied sidelap sealant for watertight con- between panel and structure.
nection.
Dimensions: 16" wide by 3" high.
2. The panel sidelap has passed tests for air infiltra-
tion and water penetration per ASTM E283 and Usage: The ShadowRib™ panel can be used for
E331 test procedures. walls, fascias, and equipment screens. Apply the
panel over light gauge framing, purlins, girts, structural
3. The panels qualify for 1, 1¹⁄₂, and 2 hour UL fire rat- steel, and joists. In many instances, the panel can
ings when installed under certain composite span from floor to ceiling without interior support,
construction methods. This provides possible making it ready to apply a variety of insulation
lower insurance costs, and meets code require- methods into the 3" cavity.
ments.
4. Perforation available for ventilation or acoustical IPS - Insulated Panel Division of NCI
applications.
5. The panel is available in the rock wall option, which
is an aggregate coating for aesthetic applications.
6. Structural integrity due to panel depth and gauge
availability, large spanning conditions are avail-
able.
7. Finish warranties available, a 20-year warranty is
available for Galvalume® Plus and a 20-year war-
ranty is available for Signature® 300.
ShadowRib™
16"
IPS's Company History
NCI Building Systems, L.P. acquired Insulated Panel
COLOR
Systems (IPS) in February 1997. IPS manufactures a
3" 1¹⁄₂" complete line of insulated panels for both wall and roof
applications at the plant located in Stafford, Texas. IPS
serves both the new and retrofit construction market.
5¹⁄₂"
These products have undergone careful research and
ShadowRib™ development. Testing consists of thermal resistance, air
leakage, water penetration, strength, wind uplift, ignition
properties, surface burning, room fire test, roof deck fire
test, and roof covering fire test.
Description: ShadowRib™ combines aesthetics,
economics, and function to bring definition to metal Exclusively from Insulated Panel Systems is the "SSP"
structures. ShadowRib™ is a proven performer and a roof panel. The "SSP" panels are ideal for temperature
versatile tool to the designer. controlled roof systems and can be snapped together
with IPS's patented Versalok™ sidelaps then mechani-
Gauge: 24 and 22 (22 Ga. minimum quantity may be
cally seamed. IPS's "EWP" Wall Panels, "ESP" Wall
required).
Panels, and the "IPP" Partition Panel system are all
Finish: Galvalume® Plus and Architectural Series. thermally efficient, affordable, aesthetically pleasing
products. All of the wall panels are available with our
Length: Maximum recommended 40'-0". Rockwall™ system. The Rockwall™ process bonds real
Fasteners: Concealed fastening system. Panels may stone aggregate to steel panels, combining the advan-
be secured to the structure from outside the building tages of steel with the durability and beauty of stone
with the ShadowRib™ concealed clip, or from inside aggregate.
Insulated "EWP" Wall Panel maximum use of shadows and flat surfaces for
strong vertical accents.
Dimensions: Width: 36"; Thickness: 2", 2¹⁄₂", 3", and Fasteners: Concealed with clips at side joints.
4". Dimensions: Width: 36"; Thickness: 2", 2¹⁄₂", 3", and
Usage: Contemporary look and vertical linear profile 4".
allow maximum use of shadows and flat surfaces to Usage: "ESP" is an architecturally pleasing econom-
create a custom wall effect. ical insulated wall system.
Limitations: Load/span tables for wind loads are Limitations: Load/span tables for wind loads are
available upon request. available upon request.
Insulated "EWP" Features and Benefits: Insulated "ESP" Features and Benefits:
1. Foam thickness of 2", 2¹⁄₂", 3", and 4" that provides 1. Foam thickness of 2", 2¹⁄₂", 3", and 4" for excellent
excellent insulating properties providing R-values insulating properties providing R-values from 17.2
from 17.2 to 30.6. to 30.6.
2. Complete Load/Span tables available allowing 2. Complete Load/Span tables available, allows
designer to make proper use of panel span capa- designer to make proper use of panel span capa-
bilities. bilities.
3. Excellent test results for air leakage and water 3. Excellent test results for air leakage and water
penetration through panel joint that confirms penetration through panel joint confirming weather
weather tightness in compliance with specifica- tightness in compliance with specifications.
tions.
4. Good Surface burning characteristics comply with
4. Good Surface burning characteristics, which model building codes for foam plastics.
comply with model building codes for, foam plas-
tics. 5. Concealed fasteners with clips provide a contem-
porary alternative to exposed fasteners.
5. Concealed fasteners with clips, which provides a
contemporary alternative to exposed fasteners. 6. Lightly striated design gives a flat appearance for
most architectural and commercial applications.
6. Vertical indented ribs at 6" centers which utilizes
Introduction to Metal Buildings 69
Lesson 6
Insulated "IPP" Liner Panel uous uninterrupted partition walls capable of with-
standing most interior design loads (5 psf).
8. Instant interior partition that is energy efficient.
9. Offset lap joint that retains high thermal properties.
Reinforcement
The type of reinforcing steel used varies widely with the
precaster. Pre-stressing is usually provided. Pre-stress
is the process to introduce internal stresses into (as a
structural beam) to counteract the stresses that will
result from applied load (as in incorporating cables
under tension in concrete).
Inserts
Inserts or other lifting devices are used to lift panels
The entire construction procedure should be organized from lifting beds. Top edge inserts are often used to
to proceed in an orderly sequence. During space-plan- erect panels. Type of inserts and methods of lifting
ning of the job site, it is often helpful to use scaled panels will vary among different precasters.
model cutouts of wall panels and equipment on a print The details shown apply equally to precast panels as
of the building floor plan. well as tilt-up panels. Use of precast wall panels often
Tilt-Up walls are the most commonly used Concrete requires the utilization of a precast concrete subcon-
Wall System in the erection of Mesco Building System's tractor in the builder's area. The type of wall panels or
projects. sections used on a project depends on the types com-
monly manufactured and supplied by the local
subcontractor. Double-tees, single-tees, or flat panels
Precast Wall Components may not be available in all areas.
A subcontractor usually supplies precast wall compo- Erecting precast panels is done after the primary struc-
nents. They are manufactured off-site using permanent ture has been erected, which is just opposite of the
casting facilities and transported to the job-site. Several tilt-up procedure.
precast wall systems are flat panels, flat panels com-
Fire Resistance
The market opportunities for Mesco Wall Systems are
Concrete wall systems offer fire resistance in a range similar in many respects to those corresponding roof
from incombustible for precast tees to 4 hour separation systems. However, the availability of multiple different
for a 7¹⁄₂" thick flat panel. Low insurance premiums are wall panels from Mesco, MBCI, and IPS offers even
assured for the owner. greater flexibility.
The exact choice of the wall system that you decide to
Weather Resistance present to your customer will probably not be made
The stubborn resistance of concrete to all kinds of during the initial stages of the sale. The requirements of
weathering is well known. Properly constructed con- the specific job, the individual customer, and the exact
crete panels will provide a lifetime of service even in the selling or competitive situation will greatly affect the final
most severe climates. selection.
Only you and your customer can determine the correct
Maintenance building solution and selection of wall materials.
Concrete wall systems with natural finishes and long It would not be possible or practical to include a long list
life, all-weather sealants provide many years of mainte- of competitors who make products similar to the wall
nance free service. systems that have just been presented. The flexibility of
Mesco's complete series of wall systems provides you
Durability with a great market potential to out class your competi-
tors. So far, no competitor has been able to offer a
Concrete wall systems are highly resistant to damage comparable selection of walls. With the combination of
resulting from physical contact. They withstand the hard Mesco, MBCI, and IPS we have the capabilities of
day-to day usage present in many warehouses and offering our builders the advantage of a single source
offer excellent security against theft and vandalism. supplier with the widest range of product offering in the
metal building industry. Generally, you really do have a
Sound Transmission great opportunity to sell smarter than your competitors.
3
1
PEAK
PANEL
BIRDSCREEN
5
2 IN
G
E ET TION
SH EC
10'-0" CONTINUOUS R
DI
VENT
DOWN HILL
ROOF
PANEL
Louvers GIRT
TAPE
SEALER
WINDOW
WALL
PANEL
Windows BASE
MEMBER
Windows are openings in the wall of a building for the
admission of light and air. The standard windows avail-
able through Mesco are horizontal slide units; with a mill
standard finish with bronze painted finish as an avail-
able option. The windows are furnished with complete
EAVE STRUT
DOOR FRAME
GIRT
WALK DOOR COLUMN HEADER
ANGLE (WDA)
USED FOR
BRACING
GIRT
BASE
ANGLE
JAMB
JAMB
OPENING WIDTH
The threshold of the door is aluminum and supplied with
flat head screws and expansion shields for attachment
to a masonry floor.
HEIGHT
(OPTIONAL)
by themselves to meet client's needs and/or desires.
When a metal building is opened for collateral material
it is considered an open wall condition. A few common
collateral materials are masonry, glass, wood, and con- FINISHED FLOOR
crete or any combination of these. Mesco has
developed details for the integration of these materials
into the building system. Refer to the following details. Tilt-Up (Spandrel Beam Optional) -
Open for collateral material with a spandrel
Typical Open Wall Conditions beam. Collateral materials are tilt-up walls
or concrete block walls (CMU). The
spandrel beam is designed to provide for
support of collateral material that weighs
62.5 #psf, which is equivalent to 5" tilt-up or
8" hollow CMU.
HEIGHT
FINISHED FLOOR
HEIGHT
HEIGHT
FINISHED FLOOR
FINISHED FLOOR
Masonry - Open
for masonry wall. Deduct Panels Only
Canopies
The function of the canopy is to provide shelter to areas 12
1
that require open access. Loading docks are prime
examples of such open areas where a "roof overhead"
is put to good use. Not only do canopies protect mer-
chandise and supplies as they are loaded and unloaded
but shelter and shade the crews during work opera-
ELEVATION
tions.
PROJECTION
A canopy over a doorway or walkway is especially
appreciated during rain, sleet, or snowstorms, when
people enter or leave a building. Below Eave
Mesco offers three types of standard canopies on the
sidewall-eave follow the roof, below eave, and box
follow the roof.
Refer to the following details. As a standard minimum
canopy projection is 1' and maximum projection is 15'.
Any canopy over 6' projection will utilize acantilever
beam, see details below.
ELEVATION
PROJECTION
PROJECTION
M INI M UM
2 '-0"
A mansard or facade is defined as an architectural treat-
ment, partially covering a wall, usually concealing the
eave and/or the rake of a building. A mansard is a
sloped architectural treatment, whereas, the facade is
vertical. A mansard or facade can be located on the
sidewall, the endwall, or both. As a standard
mansards/facades are limited to 1'6" minimum projec-
tion, 6' maximum projection, and a maximum height of
9'. Refer to the following details for more information. Mansard - Sidewall Elevation
3
6"
Vary
HEIGHT
MINIMUM
2'-0"
SOFFIT ELEVATION
SOFFIT ELEVATION
PROJECTION
PROJECTION
Examples of Mansards/Facades buildings have come a long way since their introduction
to the market. It is very common to not even know that
a metal building is a rigid metal structure, with all the
accessories and auxiliary materials available to
enhance and hide metal framing members.
Conclusion
It is to be understood that the lesson covering acces-
sories of a metal building is just an introduction to the
accessories available on a Mesco building. This lesson
did cover the most common accessories used in the
market today. Accessories can have a common use
such as doors and windows or accessories can be used
to "dress-up" the appearance of a metal building. Metal
1. A mansard or facade is defined as an architectural treatment, partially covering a wall, usually con-
cealing the eave and/or the rake of a building.
A. True
B. False
2. A standard roof vent operator does not include?
A. Cable
B. Pulleys
C. Cable Clamps
D. Handle
E. Eye Bolts
3. Liner panel is a metal panel attached to the inside flange of the girts.
A. True
B. False
4. Which of the following is not a standard window size offered by Mesco?
A. 3' x 3'
B. 4' x 3'
C. 4' x 6'
D. 6' x 3'
E. 2' x 7'
5. All of Mesco's windows and louvers are self-framing.
A. True
B. False
6. Which of the following is not a standard door size offered by Mesco?
A. 7' x 4'
B. 3' x 7'
C. 4' x 7'
D. 6' x 7'
7. Overhead door framing is designed to resist applicable wind loads and consists of channel jambs
with a structural header at the bottom of the opening.
A. True
B. False
8. Which standard open wall condition would be used to open a building into another building?
A. Open for Masonry
B. Open for Collateral Material
C. Open for Glass
D. Open to Remain Open
E. None of the Above
9. Any canopy with the projection of over 6' will be designed with a cantilever beam.
A. True
B. False
Most of the emphasis in Introduction to Metal Buildings struction of most buildings: The General Contractor and
thus far has been on the presentation of product infor- Subcontractors.
mation. Knowledge of Mesco products is probably the
single most important job objective of any Builder who General contractors can be organized in two different
is truly interested in becoming an effective building con- formats: Bid or Design Build. For the purpose of overall
sultant. discussion general contractors will do both bid and
design build work.
The bidding general contractor bids on the total building
project, with the use of relatively complete plans and
specifications, usually prepared by an architect or engi-
neer who has been retained by the owner, and arrives
at the total selling price. If he/she receives the contract,
he/she then awards bids to subcontractors who have
agreed to perform their duties within a designated time,
and of course, within the contract price.
The general contractor is responsible for overall coordi-
nation of the project, from clearing of the land to
installing the lock on the front door, readying the
building for occupancy. When a contractor has this full
responsibility, many refer to it as a "turn key project".
Most building projects will have one or more specialty
An area that is particularly useful in building sales effec- builders, or subcontractors, who perform part of the
tiveness is product application and construction. work. Following is a list of duties generally handled by
Knowledge of construction is essential for the subcontractors:
Buildership so that it can convert the customer's needs
1. Removal of existing obstacles
and desires into building plans and specifications that
can, in turn, be interpreted into preliminary building 2. Grading and excavation
costs. This information is an important part of almost
every building proposal. Apart from the fact that knowl- 3. Masonry
edge of construction better equips you to convert needs 4. Electrical work
and desires into building solutions, it also helps you
understand plans and specifications. A factor that is 5. Heating and air conditioning
equally important is that customers judge you on your
6. Plumbing
knowledge of buildings and the building industry.
Obviously, the better equipped you are to answer the 7. Finished floors, ceilings, etc.
customer's questions and solve his/her building prob-
lems, the easier it will be to eliminate competition. The 8. Paving and landscaping
result? Better use of your time to help the customer The general contractor usually does concrete and car-
reach a favorable buying decision sooner. pentry work. However, on some jobs, the
Two distinct working groups perform the actual con- subcontractors perform this portion of the job.
Concrete Work
project. If it is necessary to remove any existing build-
ings, a wrecking or demolition contractor performs this
work prior to the rough grading or rough leveling of the
land.
Grading
Rough grading is leveling the site to conform to the
designed building and site elevations. This is usually
called the subgrade. The rich top layer is removed and
saved to be spread over the area later.
After the site has been leveled, the exact location of the
building is marked. With the use of a transit and a meas-
uring tape, the corners are located and staked out
according to the plans.
Fill or back fill might also be required in order to achieve Selection of Materials
the necessary grade level. Filling is simply adding earth
and rocks where void places exist. In cases where the The materials used in making concrete are water,
slope of the land is abrupt, it maybe necessary to build aggregates (sand and gravel), portland cement, and
walls to support this fill. When back filling the soil must admixtures.
be well compacted or packed solidly in order to insure
against future settlement. There are several types of portland cement available for
different types of jobs. However, we are mainly con-
Drainage cerned with the normal Type I portland cement, as it is
the one most commonly used on construction of foun-
Throughout the site preparation, excavations should be dation and floors.
kept dry. Whenever ground water is present, it should
be removed from the site, either by draining into pre- Together with the water, aggregate and cement, addi-
pared pits, or by pumping out the water. Some site tional elements are sometimes required in the concrete
locations might even require the placement of well to help make it react differently. These elements are
points, where pipes are put into the ground to drain called admixtures. One such admixture is used to accel-
Introduction to Metal Buildings 87
Lesson 8
erate the rate of early strength gain so that forms can be No element in the entire cycle of quality concrete pro-
removed earlier. This reduces the time it usually takes duction requires a more careful consideration than the
before concrete can be finished, also known as the final operation of placing and finishing. Placing and fin-
appropriate curing time. ishing are both dependent on workmanship, so here,
care and skill are especially important.
In addition, there are other ingredients, which can be
added, such as air infiltrating agents used for roadwork, Forms hold the concrete in place until it has hardened.
where the concrete must be resistant to salts and They are usually constructed of wood or metal, and
freezing. Retarders are sometimes used during hot must be rigid enough to support the weight of the con-
weather so that concrete may be moved from the mixer crete without deformation or appreciable deflection, and
to its final position before the initial set takes place. should be tight enough to prevent the seepage of water.
The concrete is deposited uniformly in order to prevent
Proportioning of Materials segregation of the aggregates and to make certain the
reinforcing steel is completely covered without voids.
Quality concrete inherently possesses high compres- Concrete is conveyed from the mixer to the forms by
sive strength. If a tensile strength is desired, steel means of barrows, by inclined chutes, or is pumped.
reinforcing bars must be embedded in the concrete to Normally, the concrete is vibrated by an electric or
resist this tension. Tensile strength is the resistance to pneumatic vibrator or spaced to assure well, uniform
stretching or drawing out of the concrete. The most coverage, and to prevent honeycombing from occur-
important, single consideration in obtaining the desired ring. In placing concrete in deep layers, a gradual
strength of concrete lies in the proper proportioning of increase in water content in the top layers usually
the materials. results from the increased pressure on the lower por-
tion. This excess water is called Latinate, and should be
The compressive strength is usually defined in terms of
removed before further finishing, because it produces
so many pounds per square inch in 28 days, which is
lower strength concrete in the upper levels if permitted
the norm for concrete to reach its designed strength. A
to remain.
typical batch of concrete with a specified strength of
3,000 psi at 28 days would have approximately these When pouring concrete floor slabs, the surface is
proportions: screeded prior to finishing. Screeding is the process of
striking off the excess concrete to bring the top surface
• Cement . . . . . . . . . .94 pounds
to proper contour and elevation. A template is moved
• Sand . . . . . . . . . . . . .185 pounds back and forth on the forms, with a sawing motion, to
force concrete into the low areas.
• Coarse Aggregate . .360 pounds
After the foundation or floor is roughly leveled, the sur-
• Water . . . . . . . . . . . .5¹⁄₂ gallons face is ready to be finished. Wood or metal floats are
Practically all concrete is machine mixed in a rotating used initially to compact the concrete, forcing the larger
drum cylinder, either in a "Ready-Mix" truck, or a similar aggregates below the surface. Steel trowels are then
mixer on the job site. used to obtain a smooth surface and to compact it for a
hard finish. If there are areas exposed to outdoor
usage, such as walks or driveways, a broom finish is
Placing and Finishing of Concrete recommended. The broom finish is simply taking a
broom and wiping it across the concrete. This roughens
the surface for a friction grip, so that the concrete is not
slippery when wet.
Curing of Concrete
Concrete hardens because of the chemical reaction
between portland cement and water. This process con-
tinues as long as temperatures are favorable and
moisture is present.
The quality of concrete, or the strength of the concrete,
is dependent on the temperature and moisture condi-
tions in which it cures. In addition, its resistance to
abrasive action is also increased by these same ele-
88 Introduction to Metal Buildings
Lesson 8
ments in curing. 2. Footings
While it is important that the amount of water used in A foundation wall means any wall with a major portion
mixing be controlled so that the consistency is as nearly located below the grade level. The wall serves as a
normal as practical. It is just as important that concrete base support for other walls and columns. A footing is a
is not allowed to dry out too soon or it will reach strength structural unit used to distribute building loads to the
less than 50% of its potential. bearing materials.
Temperature has a considerable effect on the rate of Foundations used for rigid frame buildings are consid-
hardening. In the past, you could not pour concrete erably different from those normally required for
during the winter season because the water in the mix- conventional structures with load-bearing walls. The
ture would freeze and prevent the proper setting. But choice of foundation is determined in part by the basic
now, construction operations may continue throughout loads, which need to be resisted.
the year. The most favorable conditions are between 50
and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, good curing tem- Foundations for metal buildings are usually not subject
peratures may range below 50º F and even below 32º to extremely heavy vertical loads; however; they are
F, if the concrete is properly protected from cold air required to withstand transverse loads of considerable
during the first 72 hours after being placed. magnitude. Transverse loads tend to push out the foun-
dation, and if not adequately provided for, they could
With suitable precautions, concrete can be placed cause failure not only of the foundation, but also of the
during cold weather and have the same qualities as main structural framing members. These loads are
concrete cured during the summer months. resisted by two methods:
1. Use of steel tie-bars. The reinforcing bars are con-
Foundations nected to anchor bolts, providing a continuous tie
between the column bases.
A spread tie, or hairpin, which transfers the load
from the column anchor bolts to the welded wire
fabric (used in floor slab) is used where the trans-
verse loads are not large. Basically, it utilizes the
same design principle as the tie-bars.
2. Increasing size of footing. Increasing the size of
the footing helps counteract the force exerted by
transverse loads, thus preventing the movement of
the foundation. This method is usually the most
The actual construction of a building must obviously expensive.
begin with the laying of the foundation, a necessary
base for any structure. Because all ground, regardless The type of foundation depends upon the geographical
of the bearing value of the soil, has a tendency to move, location of the building, topography of land, frame loads
the building must be built on a good, strong foundation imposed on foundation, local building code restrictions
that is designed for the anticipated loads. and architectural considerations. Generally, there are
three types of foundations used with our building sys-
The old saying, "a building is only as strong as its foun- tems:
dation" is still just as true today as it was years ago
when someone coined that phrase. While materials and
methods are much improved, faulty foundations remain
a paramount source of trouble for some building con-
struction. Leaky basements, cracking walls, and settling
floors are typical trouble spots. And once they exist,
they can present some of the most difficult problems to
solve.
Foundations are actually broken down into two classifi-
FLOATING SLAB
cations:
1. Walls 1. Floating Slabs. Floating slabs consist of a concrete
slab, monolithically poured with a continuous
Introduction to Metal Buildings 89
Lesson 8
grade beam. The grade beam is either spread considered in order to establish the floor design.
directly under the column or reinforced along the
bottom to carry the vertical column loads. Many local building codes establish minimum floor-
design loads for various end uses.
Another consideration in the floor design is the type of
joints used. A construction joint is simply a joint required
where construction begins and ends, from one day's
pour to the next.
An expansion or control joint is used where the floor
slab abuts a wall or where a steel column or pier passes
through the floor. It is used to control the contraction
that will occur, by merely forcing the crack to occur at a
LOAD BEARING predetermined point. Actually, an expansion joint in a
FOUNDATION WALL concrete foundation might better be classified as a con-
traction joint because during the curing process, the
concrete shrinks in volume approximately the same
amount that would normally result from a 100 degree
drop in temperature.
If the finished concrete floor is to be sealed, hardened,
or waterproofed. Chemicals or additives are often
applied during the final finishing or soon after curing to
achieve the results desired.
A floating slab, or slab on grade, is the general type of The vehicle transporting your building parts must gain
floor system often used with metal buildings. It is either access to the building site from the adjacent highway or
poured monolithically with the foundation wall, or road. Such access should be studied and prepared in
poured after the foundation wall is in place. In both advance of arrival. All obstructions, overhead and oth-
cases, the concrete slab encases steel serving as rein- erwise, must be removed and the access route
forcement. This steel reinforcing reduces the cracking graveled or planked if the soil will not sustain the heavy
of the floor and helps control expansion and contraction. wheel loads.
Where there are additional concentrated-load require- Inspect to insure that there is enough room to physically
ments standard reinforcing bars are often necessary. perform the tasks required to erect the building.
Application of sheeting and trim can be expensive when
Many floor slabs are constructed with a vapor barrier to there is not sufficient working space because of the
prevent passage of moisture from the soil through the proximity of adjacent buildings or other obstructions.
concrete. The most common barrier used is a polyeth-
ylene sheet material. This is placed on top of a gravel or The availability of any required utilities should also be
sand base, with the concrete being poured directly over considered in advance. Take careful note of any over-
the material. head electric lines or other utilities to avoid hazards and
damage (notify your utility company when necessary).
The type of floor system required and the thickness of
floor depend on what loads are anticipated. The Develop a comprehensive safety awareness program in
average of these floor loads is uniformly distributed. Any advance to familiarize the work force with the unique
concentrated load, such as machinery or storage racks, conditions of the site, and the building materials, along
and any moving load, such as forklift trucks, must be with the appropriate "Safe Work" practices that will be
Pre-planning of the unloading operations is an impor- a. When items, boxes, crates, bundles or other large
tant part of the erection procedure. This involves components are received and unloaded for the
careful, safe and orderly storage of all materials. carrier, they should be checked off from the
Detailed planning is required at the job site where packing list. If during the inspection, damages, or
storage space is restricted. Here, a planned separation shortages of items are found a report should be
of materials in the order of erection process is neces- filed with the carrier immediately at the site. When
sary to minimize the costly double handling of materials. damages are evident from the exterior of con-
While set procedures are not possible in all cases, spe- tainers, they should be opened and inspected
cial attention should be given to the following items: thoroughly at the time of receiving shipments.
1. Location of carrier vehicle during unloading. b. When bundles, crates, cartons, boxes, etc. are
Unload material near their usage points to mini- opened following delivery, another check must be
mize lifting, travel, and rehandling during building performed to determine the quantity received and
assembly. their condition. If during this inspection damages or
shortages of items are found upon opening the
2. Prepare necessary ramp for truck. The edges of crates or cartons, a written claim should be sent to
the concrete slab should be protected to minimize the carrier no later than fourteen days after
the danger of chipping or cracking from truck traffic delivery. If a shortage is discovered within a con-
if the materials are to be laid out on the slab. One tainer, then a written notice should be mailed or
important safety consideration is the fact that faxed to the manufacturer at the same time the
materials stored on the slab may subject the claim is sent to the carrier. Unless these two impor-
workers to possible injury from falling objects. tant inspections are made and any reports or
claims are filed immediately, settlements become
3. Schedule lifting equipment. The manufacturer nei-
very difficult and usually all parties suffer the loss.
ther supplies lifting equipment nor labor to unload
Storing Materials
AIR CIRCULATION
Responsible personnel, experienced in rigging and 7. When the first bay is completed, the individual
handling light steel members in a safe manner should frames are erected and tied together by skeleton
complete the layout, assembly, and erection of the or lead purlins and the fill-in purlins are installed
metal building. Improper handling can easily result in after the costly lifting equipment has been
injury, delays and unexpected added costs. This is par- released.
ticularly true when raising assembled rafters for wide 8. When the proper tools and equipment are avail-
buildings. able in sufficient quantity and in good/safe working
Mesco Building Solutions includes a Installation Manual condition.
with each job. In addition, these manuals may be pur-
chased from Mesco's Sales Department. The Conclusion
Installation Manual is a guide for the erection process
and reflects the techniques in use in the metal building The basics of metal building erection, from the primary
industry believed to be most representative of good structures to the secondary structures, have been cov-
erection practices. The erector should always use ered in this workbook. We have briefly encapsulated the
proven and safe erection methods. Knowledge of basic sequence of events from construction site plan-
and adherence to OSHA and other local codes or ning through erecting a Mesco Building System. Many
laws governing jobsite safety is critical, and is the other phases, such as mechanical, electrical, interior
responsibility of the erector. If any questions arise finishing and landscaping need to be done to finish and
regarding erection questions on a specific building, the complete most projects. Although there are many other
erector should contact Mesco's Customer Service events, procedures, and essentials that are involved in
Department. the erection of a metal building, the brief overview
Introduction to Metal Buildings provides will benefit not
Tips to Keep Erection Costs Down only Builders but also their employees with knowledge
to better serve the customer.
Minimum costs should be obtained when the following
conditions are met during the erection of a Mesco
building:
1. When safety practices are discussed and initiated
in advance of any work procedure.
2. When the overall work of erecting the building is
divided into individual jobs, and when each job is
assigned to teams of workers consisting of two to
seven workers each, with three to five worker
teams preferred.
3. When individual workers are properly trained and
instructed in advance as to what they are to do and
the safe way to do it. This eliminates time wasted
while waiting to be told what to do next.
4. When building parts are properly laid out according
to advanced planning so as to avoid lost time in
repetitive handling or in searching for specific
items.
5. When as many parts as can be safely raised in a
single lift are bolted together in subassemblies on
the ground where assembly work is faster and
safer, thereby, requiring fewer lifts and fewer con-
nections to be made in the air.
6. When erection of the steel framework starts at one
end and continues bay by bay to the other end of
Introduction to Metal Buildings 93
Lesson 8 Self Test
1. Which one of the following is the Builders usually offer the owner design service by his/her staff
architects an/or engineers?
A. Bid General Contractor
B. Bid Subcontractor
C. Design Build General Contractor
D. Design Build Subcontractor
E. None of the Above
2. Which of the following is not a pre-construction site consideration?
A. Laying the Foundation
B. Building Codes
C. Previous use of Land
D. Building Site Restrictions
E. Utility Connections
3. To which load is a foundation extremely subjected?
A. Snow
B. Collateral
C. Vertical
D. Transverse
E. None of the Above
4. During the Pre-Installation stage it is necessary to develop a comprehensive safety awareness pro-
gram in advance to familiarize the work force with the unique conditions of the site, and the building
materials, along with the appropriate "Safe Work" practice that will be utilized during erection.
A. True
B. False
5. What are the two essential requirements of quality concrete?
A. Cement and Sand
B. Coarse Aggregate and Water
C. Strength and Durability
D. Placement and Curing
6. Which of the following is not a common location of building parts during unloading, layout, and
storage of material?
A. Purlins and Girts near the sidewalls
B. Central location of Hardware Packages
C. Endwalls are laid out at each end of the slab
D. Accessories are unloaded in the center of the slab
E. None of the Above
7. What are 3 criteria that handling and storing panels should meet?
A. Handle carefully
B. Stored elevated off the ground.
C. One end of the panels be elevated higher than the other end to promote drainage.
D. B and C
E. A and B
F. All of the Above
8. Safety issues should be discussed and initiated in advance of any work procedures.
A. True
B. False
Lesson One
1. C 7. B
2. A 8. D
3. B 9. C
4. A 10. D
5. E 11. A
6. A 12. A
Lesson Two
1. B 7. D 13. A
2. E 8. B
3. D 9. A
4. B 10. E
5. C 11. B
6. A 12. B
Lesson Three
1. D 7. A 13. C
2. B 8. C
3. E 9. B
4. B 10. E
5. D 11. A
6. A 12. B
Lesson Four
1. D 7. B
2. C 8. D
3. A 9. C
4. C 10. A
5. A 11. A
6. D 12. E
Lesson Five
1. A 7. D
2. B 8. A
3. D 9. A
4. B 10. D
5. B 11. E
6. C 12. B
Lesson Six
1. E 5. D
2. D 6. D
3. E 7. A
4. A 8 B
Lesson Seven
1. A 6. A 11. B
2. D 7. B
3. A 8. D
4. C 9. B
5. A 10. B
Lesson Eight
1. C 5. C
2. A 6. D
3. D 7. F
4. A 8. A