Base Condition

Every metal building has some type of base connection along the building perimeter, allowing the connection of sheeting. This "base condition" determines exactly how the panels connect to the foundation. To prevent water and pests from entering the building at the base, panels extend below the finished floor of the building. Online design and pricing systems allows users to choose from a number of different base options.

Standard Base Angle - Our system defaults to a standard base angle condition. This condition consists of a single angle member, attached to both the wall sheets and the slab. Please note that the standard base condition requires that the slab be formed with a 1½" sheet notch to allow the sheets to extend below the top of the slab.

Deluxe Trim - Deluxe base trim is another option for buildings with concrete slab foundations. Deluxe base trim combines base angle and trim into one piece, providing all the benefits of base trim and base angle. Deluxe base trim is only available in burnished slate color.

Base Girt - The base girt option is designed for buildings that sit on piers rather than a full slab. A base girt system does not rest on or attach to the foundation. The base girt attaches to clips on the columns about 6" above the foundation. The base girt provides a great connection for liner panel.

Base Channel - The Base channel is a "cee" shaped section that runs the perimeter of the building connected to the floor. It is most commonly used when a liner panel, or interior wall, is going to be installed. The "cee" section provides a pre-positioned connection point for inside panels. This approach requires a sheet notch in the slab (for an alternative, see the combination of base channel and base trim below).

Misleading Information - Deceptive Practices

The standards and values of our industry are regularly masked by the deceptive practices of the unprincipled few. These companies deliberately mislead people hoping to increase their chances of a sale. At Metal Building Depot we know that the more you understand about the product you are buying, the more confidant you will be at purchase time.

Arm yourself with information - No manufacturer keeps an inventory of buildings "ready to ship." Without exception, steel buildings are made specifically to order. A building should be designed to meet your needs and more importantly - your building code. Some companies create "general" price lists for common sizes, but the selection is very limited to a geographic area with limited variance in design.

Beware of companies implying they keep an existing inventory of buildings. To find out whether a "clearance" or "cancelled order" really exists inquire on the earliest ship date. You should be able to take immediate delivery on a building "ready to ship."

There is no such thing as making simple structural changes on a pre-designed building. Moving or adding a door opening on an existing or "ready to ship" building - could require the use of a wind column or portal frame. This could change the rigid frame design and render the existing design useless. Additionally, changing the wind or snow load could require the girt and purlin spacing to change and the location of connection plates along columns and rafters may not be located properly. The bottom line is that a structural change most likely requires a new building design. The moral of this story is: If a seller claims to have a building "ready to ship" make sure it will meet or exceed you local building codes and loads and more importantly - your needs.

Proposal or Propose "ALL" - We want to help you eliminate the "gray areas" in a typical building quote. The items listed on your contract should be made clear as to exactly what is being promised. Our itemized contracts are detailed and specific and you'll never see "included" in one price (without a description). All your accessories and options are listed as separate line items. With our online quote you will always know exactly what you're paying for.

Overall Heat Transmission Coefficient (U-Value)

A unit used to express heat passage through a complete building section, including air films. U-Values serve as a basis for determining transmitted heat loss. The lower the U-Value, the higher the insulation value.

Perm Rating

The perm rating, or permeance, is a measure of the amount of water that passes through one square foot of material per hour. The lower the perm rating, the more effective the barrier. A facing material with a perm rating of 0.1 or less is considered excellent. Anything with a rating above 1.0 is not considered a vapor barrier.

Facings as Vapor Barriers

The main function of facings is to act as a vapor barrier. While a vapor barrier may not necessarily be able to stop the flow of water vapor, it does an excellent job of minimizing the rate and volume of the flow. This prevents moisture from accumulating within the insulation blanket and the structure, which translates into consistent thermal values and lower heating and cooling costs.

Facings intended to serve as vapor barriers should be installed on the inner, heated surface of the insulation, where vapor pressure is the highest. This helps in preventing vapor from reaching the cooler air and condensing.

VAPOR BARRIERS PREVENT VAPOR FROM REACHING COOLER AIR AND CONDENSING.