Metal building sales can be tricky, and it is always easier to make the right choice by having access to all the options available. When it comes to choosing the right metal building, the more information you have at hand, the better. The following metal information will help you make an informed choice for yourself and be sure that you get the building you need.

Steel vs. Metal

A common misconception is that steel buildings are made out of steel, but they are actually made from aluminum or a combination of different metals, including aluminum, zinc, magnesium, and copper. The steel is galvanized to prolong the life of the metal building materials. Aluminum is also lightweight and resistant to corrosion. 

Galvanized steel is coated with zinc through an electroplating process which helps to prevent rusting on the surface of the metal building materials. The other common type of coating found on metal building materials is a thick paint-like coating that guards against scratches, stains, and moisture damage.

The main difference between steel and metal is the components used in each one's manufacturing process. 

Metal Types

Metal buildings are very popular and have a variety of uses. Below is a description of the different types of metals used to manufacture metal buildings. These include:

• Galvanized sheet metals are coated with zinc, which protects the steel from rust and increases its lifespan.
• Tin-coated sheets are made of steel coated with tin. They're among the most affordable options and provide decent strength and durability.
• Stainless steel sheets are produced using durable stainless steel. They're ideal for harsh environments and offer high corrosion resistance.
• Aluminum sheets are typically used for non-load-bearing walls. They're relatively affordable, but they offer less strength than steel sheets do. 
• Steel is strong and highly durable, but it can be quite expensive. It's also easy to work with, so it's often used as a base material for other sheet metal products.

One thing to keep in mind about building materials is that it's often a good idea to stick with products made by reputable manufacturers. 

Building Size and Number of Stories

Metal building systems are available in a range of shapes, sizes, and styles. These systems are created by manufacturers to accommodate the most common building applications. As with all building systems, designers have many choices that can be adapted and modified to fit unique circumstances.

Typical metal buildings are constructed in three basic types:

• A-frames: A-frames, also called double slope or center ridge buildings, are simple structures with only two sides to the roof that slope down from the center.
• Lean-to Roofs: Lean-to or "shed" roofs have a single slope that drains to one side. They are a popular choice for storage buildings because they can be designed to accommodate a variety of ceiling heights and layouts.
• Flat Roofs: The roof panels span from wall to wall without support columns or beams, creating large interior volumes for work areas. Metal buildings can be designed with flat roofs using corrugated sheet metal panels or standing seam profile sheet metal panels.

Whether a user chooses an A-frame configuration, gable roof, or flat roof, these basic building types can be combined into more complex designs.

Having an idea about the different types of metal buildings and the sizes that are available will make the process of choosing a building a whole lot easier. Contact a metal building sales service to get help finding the right building for your needs. 

For more information on metal building sales, contact a company like Florida Metal Buildings.