May 12, 2011. Paul Hixon
There are two types of DIY metal building kits; those with steel frames and those with timber frames.
Timber framed buildings using treated timber and steel sheets to clad the timber frame are the best solution in many situations. You can buy a 32ft x 23ft building for less than $5,000. Even if you employ a builder it will only cost you an extra $2,000.
That is the kind of money you can probably raise without going to the bank, very useful when the banks are refusing to lend any money.
Steel framed buildings cost quite a bit more, but should have a longer life as long as the frames are insulated to prevent water reaching the steel and causing corrosion.
You can find all kinds of steel frame buildings, both as kits and with a full building option. These range from car ports and metal garden sheds to metal home building kits.
The key to any steel frame building is the insulation of the steel frame. If your roof does not let in water then the only source of water coming into contact with the steel is through condensation of water vapor from the air. Covering the steel with a spray on foam excludes air, so by definition, it excludes water vapor and no condensation can form on the steel and cause corrosion.
One of the most common steel frame building projects is to convert a car port to a garage. Insulation is the key. You will need to remove all traces of rust from the car port frame before bringing in a contractor who will spray the frame with foam insulation. As part of your garage conversion insulation you should install joists and a timber floor fixed to the joists. Fill the space between the joists with glass fiber insulation.
Updated May 12, 2011. Published January 31, 2011. Paul Hixon
