How to Choose Your Metal Building Foundation Based on Climate

Selecting the right foundation for your new metal building is one of the most important choices you’ll make in the whole process. Unfortunately, there is no one “best” foundation that will be right for every situation. Instead, there are many different suitable options available, and you’ll need to pick out something that fits your needs, climate, and more. This article will present some information to help you make a wise choice.

Climate Concerns to Consider

Before we get into the different types of foundations that could work for your new metal building, we first need to talk about climate and how it will affect that choice. The weather conditions in your area will have a lot to say about which types of foundations are a suitable fit, and which should be crossed off your list immediately. Here are some of the noteworthy factors to weigh in this process.

Wind frequency and strength

Do you live in a windy area? Strong winds can take a toll on any kind of building, and metal structures like carports and garages are no different. You’ll want to make sure your chosen foundation delivers the strength needed to secure the building and help it deal with those frequent windy days.

Precipitation

Consistent rain, or periodic heavy rain, can be tough for some types of foundations to handle. You don’t want to end up with water problems under your metal building, so the right foundation for a wet climate is important.

Temperature Swings

In some climates, the temperature stays relatively moderate throughout much of the year. In other places, however, extremes are more common, with very hot summers and bitterly cold winters. A climate with mild temperatures won’t demand much from a foundation, but those who live where big swings are typical will want to carefully select the material they use under a metal building.

Types of Foundations

So, what kinds of materials can you use for the foundation of a metal building, and how are they impacted by climate conditions?

Concrete or Asphalt

These are different materials, of course, but given their similarities, we will include them in the same category. Basically, you can think of these as hard surfaces for the foundation of your metal building, and they will probably be your first choice in most situations. A hard surface like this is great for windy areas where you need to secure the building to something that isn’t going to give way when the winds pick up. Be mindful that heavy rain can cause cracks or potholes in the foundation overtime as water destabilizes the concrete or asphalt mix.

Gravel

To save money, you can opt for gravel. With this material, you’ll simply need to prepare the building site, add the gravel, and move on with construction. You won’t get the same performance advantages as you’ll find with something like asphalt or concrete, but those in wet climates should still get some decent drainage through the gravel layer.

Bare ground

Cost savings are obviously a big selling point with this approach, but it won’t work well for those living in wet climates. Also, depending on the type of soil structure you have on your land, it might be difficult to firmly attach your building to the bare ground without some other type of rigid foundation structure to use for stability.

Build with Confidence

The durability of metal buildings is one of the top selling points for these structures, and you’ll want to make sure the foundation you choose is going to stand up for the life of the building. Carefully consider your options and how they will play out on your property and build with confidence once your choices have been made.

When the time comes to order your new metal building, be sure to start that process with Carport Kingdom. We have a Build & Price tool here on our site to make it easy for you to bring your ideal design to life, complete with the various features you need. If any questions come up along the way, just contact us and we will be happy to help. We appreciate your time and wish you the best of luck with this exciting project!