Comparing and Contrasting Two Popular Types of Buildings
As you explore the option of a pole building for your property, you’re bound to find that metal frame buildings can serve many similar functions. This being the case, you may begin to wonder, “what are the differences between metal buildings and pole buildings?”
To help clear up this question, we’ve outlined some of the most important distinctions between these types of buildings below.
Pole Buildings and Metal Frame Buildings Have Different Frames
If you’re familiar with what a pole building is, then you know that these structures utilize an all-wood frame. Everything from the posts and girts to the purlins and trusses are all made of wood, but pole buildings are usually given a metal exterior.
Metal buildings, on the other hand, have an entirely metal structure—no surprise there. While the different materials used to construct these types of buildings are worth noting, they’re not necessarily the most important difference between pole buildings and metal buildings.
They Require Different Building Processes
One of the biggest advantages to pole buildings is the fact that they do not require a traditional excavation, including footing and foundation, and their building process is very simple. This means that pole buildings can often be constructed much faster than metal buildings, which with growing labor costs means big savings for you.
Metal buildings do require a traditional foundation (and a more involved construction process overall), which generally means that they take longer to build.
Pole Buildings Are Often More Cost-Effective
Pole buildings have long been a favorite type of structure due to their affordability. Because they do not require a foundation, they require fewer materials, and they are less labor-intensive, pole buildings are frequently the most cost-effective option. To learn about this advantage in more detail, check out our post that answers the question, “Are pole buildings cheaper to build?”
Although pole buildings are often the most cost-effective option, metal buildings make more financial sense in certain situations. For example, if you’re planning to build a very large building (with a span wider than about 90 feet), then you’re likely to find that a metal building is more economical.
When it comes to long term maintenance, neither pole buildings nor metal buildings require much upkeep at all, so you don’t need to worry about an extra financial burden there.
Now that you have an idea of what sets pole buildings and metal buildings apart, we hope that you feel more prepared to move forward with planning the building of your dreams. If a pole building feels like the right choice for you, contact us to talk through the details of your project!