Bespoke Steel Buildings: How To Design Your Dream Garage

Design your dream garage with bespoke steel buildings—learn how customization, durability, and style come together for the perfect fit.

If you have a car, you often need a garage. This structure protects your vehicle from the elements and keeps it out of the way of other cars. Metal garages are fantastic for this purpose, as they're easy to construct.

Steel buildings are generally more durable and cost-effective. Many residential properties are also utilizing them nowadays for their benefit. However, you might not know how to make one, so let this piece help you.

Planning Your Garage

Planning your metal garage should be the first thing you do. Construction becomes a cinch when you have all the necessary details of your structure on paper.

Purpose

Will the building solely be a garage, or will you use it as additional home storage space? Some property owners even use their garages as a recreational area.

A clear purpose keeps you from adding unnecessary things to the structure. However, any garage should still have a dedicated space for tools, electrical outlets, and ventilation.

Budget

Your budget influences the size of your garage. Besides building costs, funds should encompass permits, utilities, site prep, and future maintenance expenses.

Go for as large a garage as your budget allows. The last thing you want to say is that you wish you'd gone for a bigger structure instead. Consider working with experts from companies like Murray Steel Buildings. They can help you identify the best size for your project costs while providing quality buildings that last.

Location

Picking the right location is vital. If you're constructing a home garage, ensure it doesn't cross over your neighbor's property. The soil below the structure should also be stable for ample support. If you're erecting it somewhere else, take note of zoning regulations, local building regulations, and other restrictions.

Determining Dimensions

Size matters with steel buildings, especially if they're used for storing cars. Mind the length, width, and height of your garage.

Having multiple vehicles requires a decent amount of space inside. Also, consider how you'll arrange your cars. Will you have them parked one after the other or side by side? You should have enough free space between vehicles and other equipment inside.

Don't forget about the structure and door height. Be as generous with the clearance as you can. It's better to have extra room than your car roof slightly graze the top door frame. A taller entrance is also great if you bring in large equipment.

Choosing Materials

Once you have the basics down, select the correct materials for your metal garage. Modern steel buildings typically use galvanized steel to resist rust and corrosion. Thick steel or heavy-gauge panels are strong enough to support a large structure. Consider 12-gauge steel or 14-gauge steel for the framing to boost your garage's lifespan.

Other things to note are the foundation and the flooring. Even with good soil, you need a firm base for your metal garage. A material you could use is a concrete slab, which experts recommend for its durability. A gravel base is a budget-friendly option but is not as sturdy.

Many reputable suppliers of prefab metal buildings understand the need for structural stability and longevity. They also ensure that their structures comply with local regulations. Their steel building kits already incorporate high-quality materials. They'll just erect the building, and it should be good to go.

Other Factors to Consider

A smart property owner knows to treat their steel buildings like their home. To design the best metal garage you can have, focus on details that differentiate it from other basic steel structures.

Ventilation

Just because the building only houses cars doesn't mean you should forgo proper ventilation. A well-ventilated structure protects its contents from moisture buildup that causes metal to rust.

There are various garage vents, including side, ridge, and roof vents. Exhaust fans are also must-haves. With them, your structure will have better airflow and protection against condensation. If you do other activities in your garage, you'll also be comfortable being inside.

Insulation

Ventilation and insulation go hand in hand. During winter months, steel buildings should secure contents from cold temperature-related damage.

Garage insulation types like fiberglass batts, spray foam, or rigid boards work in this case. They fight condensation while keeping the internal temperature bearable. Excellent insulation design could even make your building more energy-efficient.

Proper insulation also serves as a sound barrier. Check out some auto repair shops in your area. Do you hear any ear-splitting noise from their work as you pass by? A building with good soundproofing will muffle the clamor happening inside.

Wind Resistance

Metal buildings are usually much lighter than traditional structures, so wind resistance is a valid concern. The steel building industry understands this. That's why when you partner with a company, they not only provide the materials but may suggest locations with less wind.

So, pick a location that's not at risk of hurricanes and other severe weather. And even in an area with a milder climate, don't cut costs on a sturdy structure.

Expansions

One of the perks of steel buildings is that you can expand them if you want. Before erecting the structure, think about your future needs. You might opt for additional space to accommodate more cars or equipment.

Security

Lastly, you must prioritize your metal garage's security. Ignoring this factor could make your building a prime target for theft.

To make your garage door more secure, consider shortening the emergency release latch. Burglars will be unlikely to pull it. Then, add motion sensor lights that illuminate when they pick up nearby movement. Other devices like door jammers, locks, and alarms are viable security features. If you have windows, secure them, too.

Conclusion

Constructing high-quality steel buildings to serve as garages involves thorough planning. Budget, location, materials, and other factors are important in the grand scheme of things.

Collaborating with metal structure providers can make the process seamless. The experts know what they're doing and will gladly give you a durable garage for your needs.

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