How much height do I need to add a mezzanine?
Ideally, you need a ceiling height of at least 15 to 16 feet. This allows for roughly 7 feet of “headroom” on both the bottom and top levels, while accounting for the thickness of the mezzanine floor and overhead utilities like lights and sprinklers.
Can any steel building support a mezzanine?
Most can, but it depends on the foundation. Your concrete floor (slab-on-grade) must be thick enough to handle the “point loads” from the mezzanine columns. If your floor is too thin, you may need to pour small concrete footings to support the weight.
Do I need a building permit for a mezzanine in Canada?
Yes. In almost every Canadian province, a mezzanine is considered a structural change. You will need a building permit and plans “sealed” by a professional engineer to ensure the structure is safe and meets the National Building Code of Canada.
Can I add a lean-to or a new window without voiding the warranty?
You must be careful. Most warranties state that unauthorized modifications void the coverage. If you cut into the structural steel or add extra weight without a certified engineer’s approval, the manufacturer will no longer guarantee the building’s integrity.
What is “Galvalume Plus™” and why is it better for warranties?
Galvalume Plus™ is a specialized coating made of aluminum and zinc with a clear acrylic finish. It provides superior corrosion resistance compared to standard galvanized steel. Because of its durability, buildings using this material often qualify for the industry’s longest warranties, such as the Metal Pro™ 50-year rust perforation guarantee.
Does a “Rust Warranty” cover all types of rust?
No. Most warranties specifically cover rust perforation, which means the rust has eaten a hole completely through the metal. Small spots of surface rust (often called “cosmetic rust”) are usually considered a maintenance issue and are not covered.
What is the difference between a Manufacturer’s Warranty and an Installer’s Warranty?
A Manufacturer’s Warranty covers the materials themselves, the steel panels, the frame, and the paint finish. It protects you against factory defects. An Installer’s Warranty (or Workmanship Warranty) covers the actual assembly. It protects you if the crew makes a mistake, such as installing a door crookedly or failing to seal a roof seam properly.
Which is better for resale value?
Clear Span buildings typically have a higher resale value. Because the interior is a “blank canvas” with no obstructions, the building is attractive to a wider range of buyers from warehouse operators to sports facility owners. A multi-span building is often more specialized and harder to repurpose.
Can I remove a column from a Multi-Span building later?
No. Support columns in a multi-span building are load-bearing. Removing one without a complete (and very expensive) structural redesign could cause the roof to sag or collapse. If you think you might need an open floor in the future, it is always better to invest in a Clear Span frame from the start.
How do these frames affect my concrete foundation costs?
This is a “hidden” cost many people miss. In Canada’s cold climate, foundations must handle heavy snow loads and frost. Clear Span: Concentrates all the weight on the outside walls, requiring deeper and more reinforced footings. Multi-Span: Spreads the weight across the floor through interior columns, which can often lead to smaller, less expensive perimeter […]