Combining Wood and Steel Framing

When you decide to build a metal building, but want a more traditional looking interior, you can opt to finish the inside with wood framing and even drywall. Doing so allows you to gain all of the benefits of steel where it counts while utilizing wood framing inside a metal building where you are less likely to need the durability of steel. Framing out multiple rooms or even a second level with timber can add to the final cost of your building, but creating interior partitions can also increase the functionality of the structure and even increase the building’s value.

“When you talk about corrugated metal, it’s hard for some people to look beyond the image of a rusty shed,” said Jeff Etelamaki, the principal of Etelamaki Architecture in Brooklyn. “But it has a great texture and gives the building a very contemporary look.”

Wood Framing in a Metal Building Shell

A base building package begins as a metal building shell, which is essentially just a large empty space with unlimited possibilities. Along with adding your choice of customization options, you can plan to have internal walls constructed and situate the floor plan to suit your needs. Since metal buildings feature column free construction, you can build non-load bearing walls almost anywhere and create a second level easily if the building’s height can accommodate it.

Invest in Steel Where it Counts

The best metal buildings are engineered with your location in mind resulting in unmatched strength and reliability that you would not be able to depend on if you choose to build your structure completely out of wood. General Steel buildings have stood up to Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy, and they are designed to withstand earthquakes and heavy snowfall. Investing in historic durability of pre engineered buildings is extremely important in the Southeastern United States and other regions with non-temperate climates or seismic activity.

Framing Inside Building
Pre Construction Considerations

While the advantages of combining a metal building shell and wood framing in the interior certainly outweigh a 100% wood structure, some HOA boards and municipalities will not approve the metal siding that forms the skin of the steel building. Before buying land, find out if there are any laws or restrictions for a metal building in that area. If there are restrictions, most can be overcome by installing a non-traditional siding like faux stone or insulated stucco panels.

Stacked Faux Stone Siding on Metal Building

GenStone siding can be installed over metal siding creating a more traditional look. GenStone is available through General Steel and can be purchased along with windows, doors and other components.

More on Insulation

To save money on heating and cooling, getting your steel building properly insulated is key. Since steel is a conductive material, you can lose heat through the walls if the building is not insulated properly. When your steel building is insulated properly, you can also avoid the possibility of rust and limit the noise of hail or rain makes on your metal roof.

The most common form of insulation is fiberglass, which comes in batts or rolls. It is the most affordable insulation option and is the most popular type of insulation for both homes and commercial buildings.

Foam board insulation is the next most affordable. It comes in rolls or sheets and is commonly used in metal buildings.

Spray foam is a more expensive option and is not currently an industry standard because it has the potential to trap in moisture and eventually cause rust to form.

Finishing the Walls

Once you have the framing and insulation in place, it is time to add the electrical wiring and plumbing. This is also when you should have your heating and cooling systems installed. You can add your window and door frames at this point, and install the windows, but wait to install the doors.

After everything is installed, you can finish the walls with drywall, wood paneling, or any other material you choose, and paint them. Even if you are not installing the doors at this point, this is a good opportunity to get them painted.

Wood Framing Inside Metal Building
Flooring

Now is when you add your flooring, whether it be carpet, hardwood, linoleum, or any other type of flooring. Everything is painted, so you do not need to worry about getting paint on your recently installed floors. Any type of flooring you choose can be installed over the building’s concrete foundation or you can choose to stain the building’s concrete foundation.

Stained Concrete and Finished Metal Building Shell
Finishing Touches

It is now time to install your lights, doors, cupboards, sinks, and anything else you want to add. It is best to wait to install the cupboards until after you have put in your flooring, so if you ever remodel you are not left with gaps in the flooring of the rooms.

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