There is a growing popularity of steel buildings being used for garages, workshops, and the new trend of barnominiums. 

With the ever-changing climate, the general consumer is looking for more durability, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. Steel is low maintenance, pest-proof, mold and rot-resistant. Yes, there is no doubt you will have a sturdy, resilient structure for any living, but it could all come crumbling down if the foundation is not right. 

The foundation is everything; this is common knowledge. 

A strong foundation that is able to take the load of the building and its contents is actually its most important job. The right foundation anchors it against the wind, protects it from shifting with soil erosion, and provides a level surface that will strengthen the integrity of the whole structure. 

Below, you’ll find a short guide to help you set the stage for the building’s long run.

The Concrete Slab (Monolithic Slab)

If your structure needs a strong, stable foundation, this might be an adequate foundation for your purposes. This is a single layer of poured concrete that has thicker sides (acts as footings) to support walls and a thinner level center for the floor. 

This type of foundation is usually reinforced using rebar or wire mesh:

Pros:

• It can be quick to put in.
• Fairly low cost.
• Less labor as it is all poured at the same time.
• Offers strong stability for a larger structure.
• Not resistant to frost heave, so better for a warmer climate.

Cons:

• There is an increased potential of cracking.
• Can become susceptible to frost heave without the FPSF (frost-protected shallow foundation).

Floating Slab

This type of foundation is different from option one, the monolithic slab. This slab is poured on a level gravel base (for drainage), and it is not attached to footings. This allows the foundation to shift if the soil is unstable and there is a high water table. 

This type of floor is not susceptible to frost heave.

Pros:

• Very economical.
• Easy to do it yourself.
• Added durability if reinforced with wire and rebar.

Cons:

• Durability can be compromised without proper insulation and waterproofing.
• It may not last as long as other foundations in severe weather conditions.

Pier Foundation

The pier foundation is great for uneven terrains, coastal areas, or any area where you want to lift the structure off the ground. Footings are poured for the concrete pillars to sit on, taking the weight of the structure on top. The pillars are placed in a specific area so the load is carried to the earth. 

There can also be extra supports to carry the load more evenly.

Pros:

• Quick way to get to all the wiring and plumbing (for maintenance).
• Not much excavation.
• Comfortable to walk on, as there is a little give in the floor.
• Adaptability to a challenging site.

Cons:

• Settling can throw the house off kilter, and the pillars might sink a little.
• If pillars are too far apart or too small for the load, there may be a separation between walls and floors or sagging.
• Pricy to install.
• Higher heating expenses at the bottom of the house, exposed to the elements.

Perimeter Wall Foundation (Strip Footing)

This foundation is a popular choice for homes. If the soil is stable, this option provides a strong foundation. This can be a cost-efficient choice, but you may need to call in the professionals if you are uncertain about your soil stability. You often see this in homes as basements. 

This can be good for large buildings where a basement is desired.

Pros:

• Cost-effective (less concrete and excavation).
• Fairly simple to build.
• Even weight distribution.
• Extra living/storage space.

Cons:

• Not suitable if the soil is weak/unstable.
• Load-bearing capacity, while evenly distributed, is limited (not ideal for heavy structures).
• Prone to shifting with high water tables.

Soil Conditions & Site Evaluation

There is a lot of planning and research that needs to go into the decision of building a steel structure, and deciding which foundations are best for your project should include seeking expert advice.

A company like Advanced Steel structures top-quality light-gauge steel buildings, plus they also provide you with invaluable guidance on choosing the right foundation for your project. Since they also work directly with portable storage units, commercial steel buildings, and various custom steel structures, they’ll have the experience and engineering expertise to give you the right advice before you build.

This project will give you something that will last for years and years, so it is best to get the experts who know the area to help with your research:

• What testing is needed (soil samples, water tables)?
• Building size.
• Local codes and standards.

Conclusion

What goes on top of the foundation will benefit from the research and early preparation you did in the beginning. 

If the foundation is stable, your project will have longevity. Be it a home, storage shed, garage, workshop, whatever your heart desires, it’ll be something of quality and will be strong and beautiful for many years to come. 

Do it yourself (DIY), do it with the experts, no matter what, do it well!