FS Construction Services strong columns machine storage

Project Profile: Strong Columns for Unmatched Space

At FS Construction Services we love an impressive feat of engineering. We work with so many construction materials so often that it’s genuinely exciting when someone comes along with a new and better way of doing something, including strong columns.

Superior Strength Columns Support Massive Space

For the past few months, we have been discussing the pork farm machine storage project we recently completed, which was a massive 81’ x 200’ x 20’ agricultural building. The project included a variety of highlights and features that we have since been breaking down in further detail.

Perhaps one of the most impressive things about this project is just how big the building is. Yet for all of its size, the interior of the structure is one giant, clear span of uninterrupted space. So we thought we would spend some time discussing how those big spans are achieved and how a building of this size can be constructed to last the test of time.

Our partners at Walters Buildings have used their in-house engineering team to create columns of superior strength in every way. These 3-ply columns utilize their Shear Transfer Plate technology which increases the load capacity of each column, essentially making them twice as strong as a solid 6×6 post. These columns were then fastened to the concrete foundation with L brackets, securing them in place along the entire length of the building.

The end result is a huge building that can easily accommodate large machinery while withstanding the wind, rain, and snow. If you are in the market for a new building, even if it’s not an 81’ x 200’ behemoth, please let Gateway FS Construction Services know. Give us a call at 866-551-3454, and let our specialists help you find exactly what you are looking for. We look forward to providing you the best customer service experience.

FS Construction Services pole barn vs. post-frame

Pole Barn Vs. Post-Frame: What’s the Difference?

Pole Barn vs. Post Frame: Today we are excited to tackle a regular source of confusion and discussion in our industry: what’s the difference between a pole barn and a post-frame building?

Explaining the Difference Between Pole Barn and Post-Frame

We would love to say that the answer is a complex debate that has raged on for decades, but the reality is actually fairly mundane, though no less important to understand. “Post-frame” is a type of construction method. According to the National Frame Building Association, “Post-frame construction is an engineered wood-frame building system that meets UBC and IBC standards.”

What separates it from other types of construction is their speed of installation and the materials needed. “Because the larger posts and interlocking frame can handle greater loads than stud-wall construction, fewer structural materials are needed, which saves time and other costs.”

So if that’s post-frame, what is a pole barn? Well, a pole barn is simply a common type of building resulting from the post-frame construction method. Most of us have a picture in our minds of what a pole barn looks like, but that’s actually why we wanted to take the time to make this distinction. All pole barns are post-frame buildings but not all post-frame buildings are pole barns. The number of applications for a post-frame building are vast, and not simply limited to a rectangular barn-style building.

Agricultural buildings, commercial buildings, municipal buildings, churches, schools, fire stations, and even homes are all possible post-frame building options. Post-frame buildings can provide huge open spans, easily insulated swaths of wall and roof, durability, customizability and more.

If you are in need of a new building, whether you are looking for a pole barn or something entirely different, please let Gateway FS Construction Services know. Give us a call at 866-551-3454, and let our specialists help you find exactly what you are looking for. We look forward to providing you the best customer service experience.

FS Construction Services Dripstop machine storage building

Project Profile: The Benefits of Dripstop

Recently, we discussed a major machine storage project we completed. This project featured so many specific types of work and skills that we thought it would be helpful to highlight certain aspects of it over multiple months, including our use of Dripstop.

Condensation Protection with Dripstop

The 81’ x 200’ x 20’ structure is not only huge, but we were able to install some of the highest quality materials to provide our client with a dependable storage building that will last them for many, many decades to come.

One of those features that will directly affect the longevity of the building is the inclusion of Dripstop technology. Dripstop is a way to prevent condensation from gathering inside the roof of a building. We wanted to take a quick look at why that’s so beneficial in a machine storage situation like the one we recently completed.

The HDF A felt of a Dripstop application is installed to an uninsulated metal roof. It’s made of polyester-interlocked fibers with tiny spaces among them. When the sun sets in the evening the felt reduces the difference in temperature between the air and the roof, delaying the condensation process. When condensation does start to build on the roof during the night, the felt traps the water particles inside. In the morning, as it starts to warm, rather than the water droplets falling onto the ground below, they are trapped inside the felt until the day when they quickly evaporate. This process protects any electrical equipment within the building from getting exposed to water.

Additionally, tests have shown that this adds more protection from the corrosive elements of livestock confinement. Though not the same as traditional insulation, Dripstop felt does actually provide some of the same benefits of heat insulation. It also helps deaden sound, is bacteria resistant, and has a low combustibility.

It’s no surprise why Dripstop is a favorite of ours and we were happy to include it as part of our major pork farm project. In the meantime, if you are in need of a steel building, wood building, or post-frame building, please let Gateway FS Construction Services know. Give us a call at 866-551-3454, and let our specialists help you find exactly what you are looking for. We look forward to providing you the best customer service experience.

FS Construction Services metal siding cleaning tips

Tips for Cleaning Your Metal Siding

It’s the time of year where you’re likely to find yourself outside watering plants and noticing the growing spiderwebs around your windows and doors. And while you may be tempted to knock them down quickly and carry on, it’s worth asking yourself when the last time you cleaned your siding was.

 

Low Maintenance Metal Siding Cleaning Tips

 

If you have metal siding, a little care here and there can go a long way towards extending the lifetime of that siding. The frequency at which you want to perform an inspection depends on where you live and the kind of beating your siding and roof takes on a regular basis. But generally you will want to first check for any obvious issues like chipped paint, rust, or other damages.

Check for any branches touching your siding or your roof and if you can, cut them back so they don’t scrape against the house. You will also want to clear off any leaves or other debris that might either damage the panels or clog your gutters.

Speaking of gutters, make sure to do an occasional check for clogs. Not only do you want to make sure your gutters are taking water away from your house, but standing water can cause corrosion after a long enough time.

Metal siding isn’t prone to mold or fungus, but you may want to give them a good washing every now and again. Rather than power washing, spray them down with a garden hose. If there are any spots that need extra cleaning, use a little dish soap or car washing soap to scrub at the problem area.

Metal siding and metal roofs such as products by our partner Fabral are a strong, unfussy solution for most houses. If you are in need of updating your current roofing or siding and have any questions, please let Gateway FS Construction Services know. Give us a call at 866-551-3454, and let our specialists help you find exactly what you are looking for. We look forward to providing you the best customer service experience.

FS Construction Services metal roof

Project Profile: The Elegance of a Metal Roof

We have been in business for close to 50 years now at FS Construction Services, but there is still something that feels fresh and exciting about a particularly well-implemented design. And one kind of project seems to inspire feelings most often: a brand-new metal roof. There’s something so satisfying about the clean lines, the sturdy construction, and the strong colors. Knowing that they’re designed to last longer than the amount of time we have been in business is just the cherry on top.

Consider Easy Maintenance Metal Roof

 

Recently we had the opportunity to install a 6500 sq. ft. roof for a client, and the result reminds us why we enjoy these projects so much. The 24-gauge 1.5” SSR standing seam roof replaced the old shingles we removed and disposed of. We laid down felt-backed insulation under the new roof as well as new 6” seamless gutters, downspouts, and leaf guards. We also put a modified roof onto the existing pergola to help water drain.

One of the other features of this project that we had to consider was the house’s skylight and chimney. We want our installs to be seamless, but also practical, so we took particular care to make sure that our roof plan incorporated these elements while still providing our client with a sealed and safe roof. Similarly, standing seam metal roofs will expand and contract with the changing temperatures. However, when they are engineered and installed properly, these movements are accounted for.

If you have been approaching the time for a new roof and have considered if a metal roof might be for you, be sure to check out just how they easy they are to maintain. If you have any questions at all, please let Gateway FS Construction Services know. Give us a call at 866-551-3454, and let our specialists help you find exactly what you are looking for. We look forward to providing you the best customer service experience.

FS Construction Services machine storage building

Brazinski Pork Farm #1: A Mammoth of Machine Storage

At FS Construction Services we always enjoy a good challenge. Often times our challenges involve making the right decision for a small space or figuring out how to best utilize a limited amount of resources. And we like that. Being backed into a corner usually inspires creativity. However, it’s not hard to admit that it’s a lot of fun during those rarer moments when we have the opportunity to go all out on a project, such as this machine storage building.

 

Huge, New and Functional Machine Storage Building

 

This was the case recently when we worked with a large pork farm to construct a brand-new machine storage and feed facility. We will actually be discussing this multi-month project for the next few months, highlighting a different aspect of the project each month. For now, though, we are going to discuss some of the overall features of the project as a whole.

This 81’ x 200’ x 20’ structure features huge, clear spans making it able to store multiple types of large agricultural machinery. The underside of the metal roof has been outfitted with Dripstop to prevent condensation from gathering inside the roof. The building also has 4’ blue wainscoting around its entire exterior. This not only enhances the building’s appearance, but it also makes for an easier replacement at the most likely damaged point of the building. Finally, we installed two sets of 40’ x 18’ double sliding doors and a 30’ x 18’ steel backed, insulated Raynor door with a 1.5 hp operator.

We will be diving into more of these aspects in greater detail in later months, so be sure to check back to learn more. In the meantime, if you are in need of a steel building, wood building, or post-frame building, please let Gateway FS Construction Services know. Give us a call at 866-551-3454, and let our specialists help you find exactly what you are looking for. We look forward to providing you the best customer service experience.

FS Construction Services Fourth of July

Wishing You a Great Fourth of July

After what may have been a couple strange years of Fourth of July celebrations, we here at FS Construction Services are happy to be celebrating in a year that feels more normal. So we wanted to take a moment to wish our family, friends, and clients a Happy Fourth of July. May it be full of laughter, hot dogs, fireworks, and a little bit of rest from the busyness of life.
 

Wishing You and Yours a Happy Fourth of July

 
We know that this time of year can bring a hundred worries, too much rain, not enough, too hot, too cool, and on and on. And yet, whatever worries we have today, we remain grateful for the worries and battles of those who came before us and made it possible for us to have backyards and parks and homes to celebrate in. We always appreciate the reminder to slow down for a moment and remember that none of what we have or experience is in a vacuum. Whether your own histories seem complex or simple, boring or exciting, we are grateful for the chance to think about ours here at FS Construction Services. The decades of relationships we’ve had, the services we’ve had the opportunity to provide, and the daily joy of getting to work in and around our community are all a part of a wonderful story we’re happy to be a part of.

We wish you the best this Fourth of July season and hope you have some time to relax and enjoy it all. Because of course, it won’t be long before we’re wondering where summer went and thinking about harvest all over again.

As always, if you are in need of a new building, grain storage equipment, seed systems, a garage door, a new roof, or some other kind of service, please let Gateway FS Construction Services know. Give us a call at 866-551-3454, and let our specialists help you find exactly what you are looking for. We look forward to providing you the best customer service experience.

FS Construction Services Fabral agricultural metal roof

Peace of Mind with a Fabral Agricultural Metal Roof

Depictions of agriculture often focus on dusty, rugged-looking trucks, machines, and boots. And it’s not like it’s without good reason, agriculture can be a dusty, rugged industry. And yet for all the images of weathered structures and equipment, something that may not be thought about as often is just how strong the actual roof of your barn, shed, or stable is. So often, agricultural buildings are isolated structures, with little to slow the impact of wind, rain, hail, and more. So whether you are housing machinery or animals, you want to make sure that whatever is inside can be kept safe and unbothered with an agricultural metal roof.
 

Consider the Many Benefits of an Agricultural Metal Roof

 
Thankfully, there is a solution. Our partners at Fabral specialize in just this type of thing. Their variety of metal roofs work for residential, commercial, and agricultural applications. Not only do their 50+-year lifespans warrant consideration, their unmatched strength, resistance to rot, various weather impact ratings, and the fact that they don’t constantly need to be inspected make them ideally suited to your building that’s going to take the biggest beating each year.

Additionally, these highly-reflective roofs stay cooler during the summer, meaning you will have to spend less keeping the building cool and get to be environmentally friendly at the same time. These metal roofs come in wide variety of styles and colors, meaning they can match perfectly to your structure. And finally, they can be installed over felt paper and plywood, preventing excess noise, which is particularly good for buildings that house animals.

So if it’s time to add or update the roof on your agricultural structure, why not consider the many benefits of a metal roof. If you have any questions at all, please let Gateway FS Construction Services know. Give us a call at 866-551-3454, and let our specialists help you find exactly what you are looking for. We look forward to providing you the best customer service experience.

FS Construction Services metal roof maintenance

How Easy Is It? Metal Roof Maintenance

Earlier this year we took some time to compare metal roofs with other types of roofing materials and explore the benefits a metal roof provides. This time we want to take a similar approach but zero in on the specific ways that metal roof maintenance compares to maintenance on other kinds of roofs. In general, metal roofs last over 50 years, carry long warranties, and require significantly less upkeep than their roofing counterparts.

 

Metal Roofs Easiest to Maintain

 

Asphalt

Starting with the traditional asphalt shingle roofs, their lifespan can be anywhere from 10-30 years, but they will need regular inspections throughout that time. It’s common for individual shingles or sections of shingles to need replacing. It’s also common to have to re-caulk and seal parts of the roof as time goes by and the shingles age.

Tile

Tile roofs can have a longer lifespan than asphalt roofs, even up to and beyond 50 years. Like asphalt roofs though, they will need regular inspections because tiles are prone to crack and slide out of place over time. Additionally, tile roofs provide limited wind resistance when compared to other materials, so if you have a tile roof in a generally windy area, it may require more maintenance.

Shake

A shake-shingle roof has a lifespan of around 30 years. While their rustic and natural appearance is pleasing, it comes with an added maintenance cost. Apart from annual inspections, shake-shingle roofs usually require maintenance every 2-4 years as they are prone to mold, rot, and leakage.

Slate

Slate roofs have a lifespan of 75 years and beyond, which is considerably impressive. Due to their heavy weight, it’s recommended to have a structural inspection before installation. After installation, an annual inspection is recommended as slate roofs can chip, crack, and slide. One other factor to consider is there are likely to be color variations if they need to be repaired.

Metal

Finally, our favorite material, the metal roof. They have a lifespan of 50-plus years and require fewer inspections than the other materials, usually based on the manufacturer’s recommendation. While it can happen, repairs and replacements are uncommon. Additionally, metal roofs are resistant to fading and rot, though if needed, they can be repainted.

 

So, there you have it. There are, of course, other factors to consider, but we always like to say there is nothing that beats the peace of mind of a metal roof. If you are interested in learning more, please let Gateway FS Construction Services know. Give us a call at 866-551-3454, and let our specialists help you find exactly what you are looking for. We look forward to providing you the best customer service experience.

FS Construction Services metal roof

How Does a Metal Roof Compare to Other Roofing Types?

When it comes to home ownership, it usually feels like there is always something that needs to be done. And to all but maybe a select few, the never-ending cycle of painting, repairing, and replacing can wear out its welcome very quickly. While we would love to say that we have the magic product that can make all those headaches go away, unfortunately that’s just not reality. However, we do have a product that’s maybe as close as someone can get to a maintenance-free life.

 

Invest in a Metal Roof with FS Construction Services

 

Here at FS Construction Services, we have talked often about the benefits of installing a metal roof. One thing we haven’t done though, is show how a metal roof directly compares to other kinds of roofing material, particularly in how much ongoing maintenance is required. One thing that’s true of metal roofs is there can be a bit of a heftier cost up front, but hopefully you’ll see in upkeep and longevity, they can more than make up for it.

Cost

A metal roof can run anywhere from $800-$1,200 per square (for 100 sq. ft.). Traditional asphalt shingles will run as low as $350 per square, a shake-shingle roof or a slate roof from can go up to $1,500 per square, and a tile roof will be somewhere in between. While an asphalt roof is significantly cheaper up front, it requires more upkeep and will need to be replaced sooner than any other type of roof.

Longevity

Speaking of longevity, that asphalt roof will probably last anywhere from 15-20 years. A shake-shingle roof has an average lifespan of 30 years, whereas tile and metal roofs have average lifespans of 50-plus years, and the slate roof can last up to 75 years.

Upkeep

Now here’s where the metal roof advantages really start to show. An asphalt roof needs regular upkeep, shingle replacements, and general repairs as it ages. Tile roofs have less wind resistance, so they will need regular maintenance and inspections. Similarly, because shake-shingle roofs are made of wood, they need to be checked regularly for rot and mold. Slate roofs, while built to last long, will need regular inspections to check for sliding slates, cracks, and chips. Metal roofs, meanwhile, rarely need replacements or repairs. Inspections are recommended but their strength and fade resistance often mean they can be installed and effectively let go for a long time.

Style

Asphalt and slate roofs come in limited colors and shades, while shake shingles are a more natural look for specific applications. Tile roofs have limited colors but a variety of styles. However, metal roofs, by nature of being metal, come in a huge variety of colors and styles to perfectly fit each application.

 

We could go on and on about energy efficiency and cheaper shipping costs, but the metal roof picture is pretty clear. While not as inexpensive as traditional asphalt roofs, metal roofs offer a peace of mind that no other roofing option comes close to. If you are in need of a new roof, please let Gateway FS Construction Services know. Give us a call at 866-551-3454, and let our specialists help you find exactly what you are looking for. We look forward to providing you the best customer service experience.