Barndominium to Greenhouse: 7 Structures You Can Build with Steel
What comes to mind when you think of a steel building? An airport? A warehouse? The truth is, you can build almost anything from steel. Residential steel construction is becoming more popular because of the many benefits steel offers, like cost savings and durability, when compared to wood and brick.
Structural steel products are relatively easy to work with — you can bolt beams and trusses together with no mess or product wastage. Steel also offers high strength and excellent durability against weather, fire, and pests. It doesn’t matter if you’re a master steelworker or want to take up your first project; steel is a great material for residential construction projects. Here are some of the most popular applications:
Carports
A carport is a popular steel construction project because it can be built in a day or two and the materials are affordable. Carports typically require steel posts, beams, and roofing. Steel tubing is a good option for frame construction, but it’s worth noting that you’ll need a solid concrete foundation to anchor the steel.
Customization is probably the best thing about building your own carport, and one of the reasons this is such a popular project. Need shade for a pickup truck and an RV? Extend the height of your carport by a few inches. It’s an easy adjustment. The same goes for trailers and boats; you can tweak the specifications to suit any vehicle.
Garages
If you want more than sun protection for your vehicle, a steel garage is a step above a steel carport in terms of functionality and complexity. With this project, you’ll build walls and add a door for vehicle access. Most residential steel garages are bolted together, which is much faster and easier than welding.
A garage benefits from insulation, especially if you plan to use it for storage. Constructing a steel garage with proper insulation will regulate the temperature and create a more substantial barrier against outside moisture.
Barndominiums
A steel frame barndominium combines the industrial feel of a steel barn with a stylish interior to create an open-concept living space. Barndominiums are a popular choice for main houses or accessory dwelling units (ADUs) , and they can serve both as homes and workspaces.
Barndominium construction uses steel beams and trusses to support the weight of the roof around the perimeter of the structure. This method leaves the inside completely free of load-bearing elements, giving you more flexibility to alter the layout of rooms as your needs change. Finish the exterior with metal siding to embrace the sleek, modern look of steel or cover it with wood for a more traditional design.
Backyard Workshops
Steel is the ideal building material for a workshop or freestanding hobby room. Steel beams can span relatively long distances without requiring additional support from below. This benefit allows for an open interior space, free from columns and walls that could obstruct your machinery and workbenches.
You don’t have to stop at using steel for the structure itself. Once you have your shell, you can customize the space by adding built-in shelving units and storage racks made from steel channels and angle irons.
Storage Sheds
Carbon steel is a tough alloy of iron and carbon — a much stronger and more durable building material than wood. That means better protection for your garden tools, pool furniture, or whatever else you need to store. Building a steel shed is relatively simple. Start with a concrete foundation, bolt the frame together, add your roof and wall panels, and then voilà.
There are many other configurations possible once you understand the basics. With the addition of a glass sliding door, windows, electrical wiring, and some drywall, you have a fully functional “man cave” or “she shed” where you can enjoy all of your favorite hobbies (or just some time to yourself).
Greenhouses
A steel greenhouse creates a safe, enclosed environment for growing plants. The best types of steel for greenhouses are metal tubing (ideal for hoop houses and arched frames) and channels (suitable for A-frames). Look for lightweight steel profiles that bend easily if you’re going for a rounded roof.
Once the frame is constructed, purlins are needed to support the walls and roof. Clear polycarbonate sheeting is best. Steel frame greenhouses are less susceptible to corrosion than wooden ones: They won’t rot or attract pests. It’s a win-win for the structure and for your plants.
Metal Homes
Families often grow out of their homes. When that happens, moving house is not always easy or practical. That’s where ADUs come in. These are self-contained, permanent structures that you can build on your property to provide your family with some extra space. They work as guest houses, cottages, and home offices.
Building a home out of metal doesn’t mean it’ll look like a miniature warehouse. A steel building can be camouflaged entirely with wooden siding on the outside and drywall on the inside to match your original home. (That’ll keep your HOA happy!)
Buy Structural Steel for Your Building Project
Ready to tackle your next steel building project? Start with a trusted supplier. Eagle National Steel is a leading steel service center for the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. We can help you find the best types of steel for your project and answer any questions you might have about its construction. Visit our showroom in Hutchins or contact us for more information.
