By Hamish Bell
In today’s rapidly evolving landscape of construction and development, the demand for efficient, durable, and cost-effective solutions continues to soar. Enter pre-engineered metal building (PEMB) – a game-changer in the industry. A pre-engineered metal building system is a building that is constructed with a steel frame system that supports a metal roof and wall panels. They are pre-designed to adhere to precise dimensions in a factory, then the building components are brought to the site in completely knock down condition (CKD), and finally, they are fixed/jointed at the site and raised with the help of cranes.
An efficiently designed pre-engineered building can be lighter than the conventional steel buildings by up to 30%. Lighter weight equates to less steel and potential price savings in structural framework.
PEMBs have revolutionized the construction landscape across various sectors, including agriculture, recreational sports facilities, warehouses, aircraft hangers, community centers, storage warehouses, and more. These structures offer a plethora of benefits that make them an ideal choice for developers, investors, and owners.
The Benefits of PEMB
There are countless benefits of using pre-engineered metal buildings, including:
- Cost efficiency
- Speed of construction
- Design
- Structural integrity
- Sustainability
- Flexibility of expansion
Cost efficiency: One of the most significant advantages of pre-engineered metal buildings is their cost efficiency. These structures are typically more affordable to construct compared to traditional building methods—the streamlined design and manufacturing process of PEMBs results in reduced construction time and labor costs. Additionally, the durability and low maintenance requirements of metal buildings translate to long-term cost savings for facility owners. Pre-engineered metal buildings are resistant to pests, rot, and corrosion, reducing the need for frequent repairs and upkeep. This translates to lower maintenance costs and enhanced durability over the lifespan of the facility.
Speed of construction: Pre-engineered metal buildings take almost half the time of a traditional construction project to build, saving you time, labor, material, and money. Time is money, especially in the world of construction.
Design: Many owners interested in pre-engineered metal buildings are looking for a structure with an open, extensive interior space. There are endless options for the design of pre-engineered buildings, both inside and out. Modern advancements in technology and construction techniques have made it possible to customize PEMBs to meet specific aesthetic and functional requirements. Whether you envision a sleek and contemporary structure or a more traditional look, pre-engineered metal buildings can be tailored to suit your preferences.
Structural integrity: Pre-engineered metal buildings are renowned for their strength and resilience. Constructed from high-quality steel, these buildings are often more reliable, durable, and resistant to extreme weather conditions, seismic activity, and other environmental factors.
Sustainability: Pre-engineered metal buildings are inherently eco-friendly due to their recyclability and energy efficiency. Steel is one of the most recycled materials in the world, making it an environmentally responsible choice for building construction. Furthermore, the energy-efficient design of metal buildings helps reduce energy consumption and operating costs over time. These structures are tightly sealed, require less insulation than standard buildings, and can be designed with roofing that deflects the sun’s harsh rays.
Flexibility of expansion: PEMBs can be easily expanded in length by adding additional bays. Also, expansion in width and height is possible by pre-designing for future expansion.
PEMBs versus Conventional Steel Buildings
So how do PEMBs compare to conventional steel buildings? Here’s the basics1.
The Final Word
The benefits of pre-engineered metal buildings are undeniable as an investment alternative. They can be built and adapted to suit a wide variety of applications across a variety of industries. Investors and individuals who are looking to build or expand can 
capitalize on incorporating a PEMB given the economic advantage of investing in a structure that takes less time to design, produce, erect, and maintain.
Pre-engineered metal buildings prove their worth from day one, providing companies and professionals with many opportunities for expansion and growth. They are also expandable and easily customized to meet the needs of a growing business across various industries. New sections can be bolted onto any side. If a section of the building is damaged, repairs can be performed easily, often using replacement parts from the original manufacturer.
Construction time, labor costs, and material costs are more predictable with a pre-engineered metal building system than with conventional construction. Components are manufactured and shipped from a controlled site, so there are fewer labor and human error costs to consider.
Hamish Bell, President of Forge Building Company, is a key figure in the development of steel and self-storage projects across the nation. Hailing from New Zealand, Hamish ventured to the United States following the completion of his education. He began his career working alongside industry-renowned figures, Hayden Farrell and Glen Farrell, gaining valuable experience in the installation sector. In 2007, Hamish and Hayden founded Forge Building Company, leveraging their expertise in the installation of self-storage steel structures. Over the course of 17 years, Forge Building Company has established itself as an industry leader and expert in steel building, design and erection. With a strong presence throughout the United States, the company has earned a reputation for excellence and expertise in its field.
Reference
- The Constructor. (n.d.). Retrieved from theconstructor.org: https://theconstructor.org/building/pre-engineered-steel-building-components-difference-advantages/37187/
