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3. 5 Metal Buildings Where Clear Spans Are Essential

The structural strength of metal buildings makes them useful for projects that require clear, open spaces.

One of the greatest advantages of metal buildings is their ability to provide clear spans. The structural strength of pre-engineered buildings allows for open areas that aren’t obstructed by additional support pillars.

There are dozens of applications where having a building of this type is not only beneficial, it’s essential. In general, they:

• Offer unimpeded movement
• Maximize usage of the building space
• Provide greater flexibility when floor planning
• Reduce accidental collisions with indoor equipment

In many cases, metal buildings can be built with clear spans up to about 150 feet, which is more than adequate for a range of industry sectors, including:

• Commercial
• Industrial
• Retail
• Agricultural
• Community

Here are some examples:

 

1. Sports Complexes

Can you imagine a hockey rink with a massive support column protruding through the centre ice faceoff dot? It just wouldn’t work.

The typical ice surface is 80 feet wide, which is significant in itself. When you add in the additional space required for seating and walkways, you’re looking at a span of well over 100 feet. Other sports facilities that require clear spans include:

• Basketball courts
• Indoor tracks
• Gymnasiums
• Riding rings

 

2. Furniture Showrooms

Furniture stores are a great example of a retail operation where metal buildings with open spans are handy. Being a furniture storeowner is a bit of a juggling act. You constantly have to tweak your floor plan to:

• Keep up with consumer trends
• Manage inventory effectively
• Promote sales
• Keep a fresh look

Also, people in this business are constantly dealing with large items such as:

• Bedroom sets
• Appliances
• Couches
• Electronics

By having a building where you’re unhindered by support columns, you can showcase your wares for maximum effect, with minimal hassle.

 

3. Storage Buildings

In agriculture, sturdy storage buildings are a must. Without them, you’d likely be exposing your hard-earned possessions to the elements. This could include: 

• Tractors and equipment
• Livestock
• Hay, grain and feed supplies

For the sake of maneuverability and convenience, steel barns or other storage buildings with open floor plans make life easier. 

 

4. Warehouses

When it comes to warehousing, owners are simply looking for the most effective use of space possible. Similar to a furniture store, having the freedom to set up your operation the way you see fit will make you more efficient and improve the bottom line.

 

5. Aircraft Hangars

Whether it’s a small turboprop or a super-midsize business jet, investing in an aircraft represents a major financial commitment. To protect that investment, an aircraft hangar will give you the space to:

• Perform maintenance and repairs
• Store aircraft out of the elements
• Provide enhanced security

For more on this, check out our post: 5 Reasons Pre Engineered Metal Buildings Make Good Airplane Hangars.

  

Do you need a commercial, industrial or retail building with an open floor plan? Call Metal Structure Concepts to learn why our metal buildings provide the ultimate in design flexibility.