Building a farm shed, livestock shelter or storage shed represents a significant investment, and requires any business to consider several factors before choosing the most appropriate material.
Sheds are typically made from structural steel or C Purlin. While both material options have their unique advantages, the choice comes down to the business’ immediate requirements as well as the need to future-proof their investment. When the requirement is for a medium-to-large shed, structural steel is a clear winner.
C Purlin sheds are often promoted as a ‘cost effective’ solution, and this argument does apply to small sheds. However, structural steel sheds are ultimately more economical when it comes to medium-large shed requirements.
Material
C Purlin sheds cannot be compared with structural steel sheds in terms of strength and durability. C Purlin sheds are often constructed using flimsy materials that are secured together using tek screws rather than cleats that are welded together in the case of structural steel sheds. C Purlin sheds are, therefore, vulnerable to splitting, warping, cracking and rotting.
Installation
Though C Purlin sheds are marketed as easy to construct, their installation can actually be more time-consuming since it involves considerable assembly of components. On the other hand, structural steel sheds come with prefabricated connections and can be easily erected on-site.
Customisation
Structural steel sheds can be fully customised and allow for larger span sizes, enabling the business to be future-proofed, and helping support new growth plans and areas of production.
Quality
Structural steel sheds have very low maintenance requirements, and can withstand the elements better without eroding or showing signs of ageing, making them an ideal long-term solution.
Durability
C Purlin sheds are extremely unstable until they are fully standing and cross-braced. Given their poor construction and low quality of materials, these sheds are more susceptible to harsh winds, and can collapse in heat from a fire. Structural steel is a sturdy material and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Initial savings achieved with C Purlin sheds may quickly burn out due to the high maintenance requirement. Their susceptibility to damage and inability to be modified to support future growth make them unsuitable as a long-term solution.
Wallandra has the expertise and capabilities to ensure their buildings are structurally designed and engineered to provide a future-focused, long-term solution.
