Bargain Barns USA

What Size RV Cover Do I Need?

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 21:07:19 GMT

RV Covers: What Size Do I Need? (Simple Guide + Most Common Size & Cost)

If you’re shopping for an RV cover (often called an RV carport), the #1 question is almost always: What size do I need? The good news is this is easier than most people think—because RVs are built to follow road limits, and those limits help us choose the right cover size with confidence.

Below is a straightforward way to pick the right width, height, and length , plus the most common size we build and what it typically costs.

Start With the Legal Road Limits (Width + Height)

Most RV owners overestimate how tall and wide their unit really is. But RVs that travel legally on U.S. highways are built around common restrictions:

Maximum road width: 8'6"
Maximum road height: 13'6"

That matters because if your RV can be legally pulled down the highway without a permit , we can design a cover that comfortably fits it.

What About Slide-Outs? (The Stationary “Real Life” Width)

When the RV is parked, the next question is:
How much space do I need to open my slide-outs under the cover?

Here’s the key detail:

Even the largest slide-outs typically won’t extend more than 4 feet per side (and most are less).
If you had huge slides on both sides, that’s up to 8 feet of added total width .

So, if your RV is 8'6" wide and you open slide-outs on both sides:

8'6" + 8' = 16'6" total maximum width with slides open

That’s why we almost never build smaller than 18 feet wide for RV covers—because it gives you comfortable breathing room for slide-outs, mirrors, awnings, and just moving around your rig.

Why 18' Wide Is the Sweet Spot

An 18' wide RV cover is the go-to because it balances:

Slide-out clearance
Ease of parking
Room to walk around
Future flexibility if you upgrade RVs later

In most cases, 18' wide means you’re covered (literally) even with slides extended.

How Tall Should My RV Cover Be?

We typically recommend a 12' leg height , because with a 3/12 roof pitch , it gives you about:

14'6" of clearance

That means anything you can legally pull down the highway without a permit will fit under a properly built 18' wide RV cover with a 12' leg height and a 3/12 pitch.

Length: Don’t Forget Your “Extras”

Length is where people most often come up short—because RV “length” doesn’t always include the extras.

When choosing length, think about:

Rear ladder
Spare tire
Bike rack
Trailer tongue (if applicable)
A little extra space for easier parking

A simple rule of thumb:
Pick a cover length that’s at least a few feet longer than your RV’s total tip-to-tip length.

The Most Common RV Cover Size (and Typical Cost)

The most common RV cover size we build is: 18x35x12

And the average cost is around: $3,000 (base pricing)

Of course, pricing can vary depending on location, steel pricing, installation details, and the options you choose.

Popular Upgrades & Options to Consider

Many RV owners customize their cover based on weather, storage needs, and how they use the space. Common upgrades include:

Enclosed sides (partial or full) for wind protection
Enclosed ends for even more coverage
Upgraded gauge thickness for heavier-duty strength
Certified/engineered packages for higher wind/snow requirements
Extra height for taller rigs or added comfort
Additional length to cover a truck, golf cart, or storage area

If you’re in a high-wind or heavy-snow region, the right upgrades can make a big difference in long-term durability.

Quick Size Checklist Before You Order

Before finalizing your RV cover, gather these details:

RV total length (tip-to-tip, including racks/ladders)
RV overall height (including AC units)
Slide-out count and which sides
Any extras you want under the cover (truck parking, storage, etc.)

If you’re unsure, don’t guess—measure your actual unit. Most people are pleasantly surprised that their RV is smaller than they assumed , especially in height.

Bottom Line

If your RV is road-legal without special permits, a properly designed cover will fit it—and for most RV owners, 18' wide is the safest, most practical starting point , especially if you want slide-out clearance.

Most common build: 18x35x12
Typical base cost: around $3,000
Comfortable clearance: about 14'6" with a 12' leg + 3/12 pitch

Get the coverage you need—without guessing. Explore our most popular RV cover builds and upgrades .

The Best Metal RV Covers for Winter

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 17:24:28 GMT

Metal RV Covers for Winter

Winter can be tough on your RV, but with the right protection, you can ensure your camper stays in excellent condition through the cold months. At Bargain Barns USA, we offer heavy-duty metal RV covers designed to protect your investment from snow, ice, and wind. The absolute best option for winter is a fully enclosed RV garage, which provides comprehensive protection from all sides.

Our metal RV covers start at just $2,325.00, and we proudly serve the entire United States, offering state-specific pricing. Whether you're in Alabama, Alaska, California, or anywhere in between, we've got you covered. You can easily find pricing for your state directly on our website.

A sturdy metal RV cover ensures that your camper or motorhome is shielded from harsh winter elements, preventing damage and reducing wear and tear. With durable construction, our RV covers will give you peace of mind, knowing that your vehicle is safe, dry, and ready for the next adventure.

If you're preparing for winter, don't wait - explore our RV cover options today to find the perfect solution for your state. Contact us for a free metal building consultation, and our experienced staff will help you find the best storage solution for your needs. With years of industry experience, we can guide you through your project, ensuring your vision comes to life.

We're happy to provide multiple quotes to help you budget, and our prices include both installation and delivery. Simply provide your location, and we can even calculate your local sales tax. We offer free consultations, price comparisons, engineered prints, blueprints, and 3D renderings.

When you call us, your call is answered directly by one of our team members—no automated systems. You'll always get a real person on the line, ready to assist you. Call today 405-872-0338 .

Metal RV Covers Pricing

Alabama , Arizona, Arkansas , California , Colorado , Connecticut , Delaware , Florida , Georgia , Idaho , Illinois , Indiana , Iowa , Kansas , Kentucky , Louisiana , Maine , Maryland , Massachusetts , Michigan , Minnesota , Mississippi , Missouri , Nebraska , Nevada , New Hampshire , New Jersey , New Mexico , New York , North Carolina , Ohio , Oklahoma , Oregon , Pennsylvania , Rhode Island , South Carolina , South Dakota , Tennessee , Texas , Utah , Vermont , Virginia , Washington , Washington DC , West Virginia , Wisconsin , Wyoming .

Safety Benefits of Steel Buildings

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 18:56:00 GMT

When considering a new building for your business or personal use, a crucial piece is identifying the best material for the job. And whether for personal or business applications, flexibility, durability, fire resistance, and protection from the elements and intruders are all factors helping to make your choice. But safety is the most crucial of all factors. The safety of your family, guests, customers, employees, and contents is essential regardless of your building’s purpose. Continue reading to learn more, then give the team at Bargain Barns USA a call today at (888) 607-4060 to schedule a free metal building consultation and quote.

About Steel Buildings

Without steel and its exceptional strength and durability, skyscrapers and other outsized structures could not exist. Before employing steel in construction, buildings were limited to only a few stories in height. Wood and other materials do not have the structural integrity, durability, or flexibility of steel, making steel the strongest and safest choice. Unlike steel which can flex and distort, other construction materials will splinter and break under the same stresses. Besides its natural strength and adaptability, steel is fire-resistant and creates a nearly impenetrable barrier to the elements.

Less Maintenance = More Safety

Over time, wooden structures require significant maintenance and are prone to deterioration from the elements, particularly water. Steel buildings eliminate the majority of these concerns and diminish the rest. Less maintenance means fewer man-hours performing potentially dangerous tasks on roofs and ladders or handling harsh chemicals, minimizing the risk of injury.

Protection against the Elements

Wind

Steel’s exceptional strength makes it the most durable choice in construction.

Water

Steel structures are virtually impervious to rain, snow, and hail moisture. Special coatings, paint, and other innovative finishing options help steel to repel even the most relentless onslaught of moisture. While regular inspection is prudent, and quickly addressing any potential issues is essential for the longevity of your steel building, you can promptly and speedily resolve nicks and dings you might find.

Earthquakes

Due to steel’s natural features, like its flexibility and strength-to-weight ratio, your steel building can survive the most significant seismic classification: Seismic Zone 4 events. Masonry, wood, and other less robust materials will suffer the most damage and can become a total loss.

Lightning

Interestingly, your steel building will not attract a lightning strike. Metal buildings are no more susceptible to this calamity than any other structure. Plus, should your steel building suffer a lightning strike, it will send that energy to the ground throughout its conductive structure.

Fire Resistant Steel

One significant safety feature of steel buildings is that they are virtually immune to structural fires. While the building may contain flammable materials and products, steel itself will not burn. Still, appropriate fire suppression and alarms are essential for safety and are typically a code requirement.

Safety from the Start

The safety features of a well-made steel building are significant and many. But you may not know that safety starts the minute you place your order.

Steel buildings are pre-made to factory standards and arrive on your job site ready to assemble. There are no teams of workers gathering raw lumber or other materials and altering them on-site to fit the design of your building. Reducing the number of workers can instantly lower your exposure to accidents. Minimizing job site activities, like modifying raw materials with power tools and creating waste piles, also mitigates the potential for injury.

The job site of a steel building’s construction is far different than that of other materials like wood or masonry. And not only are you reducing your exposure to costly accidents and injuries, but you are also eliminating the significant waste typical of other construction materials.

Safety in Sustainability

Steel is one of the most recycled materials on earth. Approximately 98% of structural steel is recycled into new products. Steel from the United States boasts 93% recycled materials.

Recycling can often result in lower quality, although eco-friendly, products. However, steel retains all of its strength and other physical characteristics, remaining a safe choice even as it is recycled over and over.

Safety for Your Bottom Line

The unmatched strength and durability, sustainability, longevity, adaptability, and precision construction of steel all work together to make your steel building safe. These same attributes protect your bottom line.

Minimizing job site activities and maintenance over time can substantially impact the lifetime costs of any building. Since steel can repel most forces of nature with minimal to no damage, your budget should see little impact from Mother Nature.

Workplace accidents and those at home are less likely with a steel building because of reduced on-site activity and ongoing maintenance issues. This benefit protects the people you care about and shields you against potential liabilities.

Conclusion

Regarding safety, steel is the hands-down winner when it comes to construction materials. No other material has the durability, flexibility, adaptability, and sustainability of steel.

The requirements for extensive on-site work to modify raw materials evaporates with a precision premade steel building. Your building will go up much quicker, with fewer human resources, and generate minimal waste compared to any construction material other than steel.

Find out more about the significant benefits of choosing steel for your next building; contact us today to speak with one of our friendly, professional team members.

Comparing Wood-Frame and Steel Garages

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 16:51:00 GMT

If a new garage is in your future, which is the better choice, pre-engineered steel or traditional wood-frame construction?

We base our buying decisions on value. Pricing is only one of the many significant considerations informing us of our decision’s worth. Ongoing maintenance, durability, sustainability, and construction time can be equally critical to your value equation.

The Cost

When considering a new garage, you want to look at the cost per square foot. Steel buildings usually cost between $10 and $25 per square foot but can be as low as $6 per square foot to over $100, depending on amenities and options.

Wood-frame construction will cost between $35 to $60 per square foot. However, lumber costs have been quite volatile for the last several years, and according to a 2022 lumber price forecast , lumber prices will probably rise again in 2023.

Time Is Money

Some items like site preparation, the foundation, compliance with local zoning requirements, and obtaining the appropriate permits are common to both construction models. However, these items will be less challenging with a pre-engineered steel structure.

You may need the services of an architect and a structural engineer before you can even begin a wood-frame project — all of which you avoid with a quality steel garage, saving time and money.

Traditional wood-frame construction requires a crew of experienced workers to be on-site measuring, cutting, and fabricating your new garage from raw lumber. Virtually all this work takes place on your property daily throughout the process.

All of this activity and noise can have a significant impact on your family and daily routines. And you are paying dearly for the experience.

Opting for a pre-engineered steel structure means a smaller crew can assemble your new garage in a couple of days.

Virtually all of the fabrication takes place before any material arrives on your property. The pros at Bargain Barns have all the experience, tools, and data to design, engineer, and produce the necessary components in our controlled facilities.

Choosing a metal building substantially reduces on-site activities and construction time. You will also experience much less waste with a steel building (approximately 2%) than with the typical on-site wood-frame project (roughly 20%).

With a pre-engineered steel garage from Bargain Barns, you save dollars with a quicker build and less waste.

Maintenance and the Elements

You are likely familiar with the cost and substantial maintenance that wood-frame structures require over time. Wood, while widely available and easy to work with, is also susceptible to damage from the environment and countless pests.

Wooden structures require regular and ongoing maintenance, like painting every 5 to 7 years. The roofs of these structures often need emergency repairs, and routine maintenance is a given. Also, you can plan on replacing your roof in a matter of years.

The roof of your steel garage will generally be steel as well, requiring little ongoing maintenance and virtually never needing replacement.

Your entire structure shares the same durability as your steel roof. The material itself is pest proof and resistant to the elements. We apply specialized coatings to protect your steel structure further. All you need to do is inspect your building annually for potential issues or damage and avoid letting organic debris build up on the surface.

You can learn more about maintaining your metal building here .

Unlike wood, steel will not rot, termites and carpenter ants will not eat steel, and neither will any of the invasive pests that threaten wooden structures.

Your steel garage can be engineered to withstand extreme wind, moisture, earthquakes, and other weather and environmental concerns common to your region.

Steel Is a Sustainable Product

Steel is the most recycled material on earth. Everything from nuts and bolts to fence posts and seafaring ships is repurposed into new steel products. Bargain Barns is proud to offer materials with substantial recycled steel content while maintaining superior quality.

When you couple this repurposing with the durability and minimal maintenance of a pre-engineered steel garage, you realize the significant value and sustainability of steel over wood-frame structures.

Simple and Flexible

The simplicity of buying and building a pre-engineered garage from Bargain Barns is challenging to overstate. Our experts will walk you through all the options and the necessities to make your experience something you will remember with satisfaction.

The flexibility that a steel building offers is virtually endless. Place windows where you need them. Do you want an open space with no obstructions? Then a steel building is what you need. The tremendous strength of steel allows for large open spans without additional techniques, materials, or expense.

Your steel structure will also be much lighter than a standard wood garage, meaning that there is less weight and pressure on the foundation/slab resulting in fewer cracks and less settling. Perhaps your garage is simply for storage, and you want something other than a slab. You can easily support all the uprights with appropriate footings and use whatever materials (or none) you wish for the floor, like crushed rock or wood chips.

And Finally

Fire is always a concern with garages. The types of activities and the related oils and solvents can quickly become fuel if not adequately accounted for. Undoubtedly, you are very careful with these things, but the concern remains.

While wood-frame structures will fuel the fire, your steel garage is fire-resistant. Careful attention to interior materials and other precautions can make a steel garage virtually fireproof. In any case, you will see far less fire damage with a steel structure than you would with a standard wood-frame garage.

Conclusion

Whether you need a new garage for your home or your business, you can trust Bargain Barns to make your vision a reality. Our expert craftsman and highly trained customer service agents will make the process as easy as the choice between a steel or wood-frame garage. Contact us today to learn more about your pre-engineered steel garage options and get your free assessment and quote.

We look forward to meeting you and making your vision a reality.

Tiny Homes – Why Steel May Be Your Best Choice

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 16:33:00 GMT

The Tiny House Movement is increasingly popular for their sustainability and affordability, as well as the lifestyle options it presents. Those seeking more engagement with the environment and fostering a more fulfilling lifestyle are turning to tiny homes as a strategy to reach their goals.

Choosing the Right Tiny Home

The key tiny home considerations are construction type, materials, style, and portability. Wood is the traditional go-to material, but is it the best choice for a tiny home? All things being equal, your steel tiny home will be between 30-60% lighter than a wood-frame version. Weight can be a significant factor when relocating a tiny home and is an essential detail in the design process.

The Steel Advantage

Lighter than wood, steel is also stronger and more durable, more structurally sound, fire resistant, pest resistant, mold resistant, will not rot or warp, and contains substantial recycled material. Steel is the most recycled material on earth. In the end, your steel tiny home will continue that legacy.

The tensile strength of steel (a material’s ability to resist breakage under tension) measures 700 compared to 40 for wood, making it approximately 18 times stronger while being substantially lighter. The metal screws and bolts in your steel tiny house are more secure than nails, which can loosen over time and with movement.

There are many other significant advantages to choosing a pre-engineered steel building for your tiny home, such as:

Durability – While steel’s strength is legendary, galvanizing and welding specific components can increase a structure’s strength and longevity.
Eco-Friendly – Your steel structure contains significant recycled materials and is easy to recycle.
Fire Resistant – Unlike wood, steel is non-combustible.
Pest Resistant – Pests will feast on wood. However, steel is not on the menu.
Convenient – Since all the components of your pre-engineered steel tiny home arrive cut to size and ready to assemble, no piles of sawdust, scrap lumber, or costly mistakes made translating blueprints.
Aesthetics – steel presents a blank canvas you can fabricate in virtually any form or style. It accepts almost every finish coating and is easy to alter and maintain.

How Much Does A Steel Tiny House Cost?

In 2022, the average cost for a tiny home was approximately $45,000. The average per-square-foot price for a tiny house is $300, roughly double that of a traditional home. Your specific choices of amenities and finishes can affect the square-foot cost of your tiny home.

Designing Your Tiny Home

Seeing your vision become a reality and creating your ideal dwelling for the lifestyle you seek can be a dream come true. Bargain Barns has several models we can easily modify as you like, with options for windows, doors, and other conveniences. Our professional team can help you evaluate your options to make your best choices.

In addition, our design team can create floor plans and 3D renderings to help you visualize your dream home. Your pre-engineered steel tiny house from Bargain Barns will be a high-quality dwelling with the looks to match.

Building Your Tiny Home

You could build your tiny home with a traditional wood frame, cutting lumber to size with all the mess and waste, but the time and labor necessary for this process is quite extensive.

A Bargain Barns pre-engineered unit eliminates much of the work and nearly all the waste necessary for wood-frame construction. Virtually all that activity happens in our facility. Each component is precision cut for a perfect fit and easy assembly. You supply the foundation, assemble your new home’s parts, and apply the finishing touches that make it yours. We’ll recycle all construction waste; you’ll never see it.

Income Potential

Offering your unique tiny home through services like Airbnb or VRBO is a great way to share your creativity and lifestyle while putting a little cash in your pocket.

This strategy can be incredibly profitable depending on the community and exact location. Whether a place on the beach, a sanctuary in the forest, or a base camp for backcountry recreation, the potential is impressive.

Summary

The popularity of tiny homes is undeniable. The motivations are personal and wide-ranging, with sustainability and lifestyle being primary. Along with saving money, tiny homes offer a unique opportunity to engage with your world.

Tiny homes also allow their occupants to relocate quickly and experience different regions and environments. Steel tiny homes are far superior to wood-frame models in these situations because of their strength, construction, and significant weight advantages.

If a tiny house is in your future, Bargain Barns offers several units we can easily fashion to your vision, with our Cabin models being our most popular designs for tiny homes. Contact us today at (405) 872-0338 to learn more and begin planning your perfect Pre-Engineered Steel Tiny Home and live the lifestyle of your dreams.

How to Maintain Your Steel Structure

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 17:08:00 GMT

Steel structures offer many benefits, and limited maintenance is a primary perk for many. Still, there are maintenance items that you must address. As with any structure, you want to protect it against the elements from the very beginning.

Just like your home, you want to manage groundwater and rain, protect the surface, keep dirt and other organic material away from your building, and repair any damage promptly. In this article, we will go over the key elements in maintaining your steel structure and help you appreciate the need for a process to preserve your asset.

In the Beginning

Start With the Basics

Maintenance of your new steel building should be top-of-mind from the moment you begin planning your new project.

Protect the Surface

The strength of a steel edifice resides in the shell, as with most construction types. Protecting a building’s surface is a best practice regardless of the material.

Choose appropriate coatings for your building type and local environment. Consult with your contractor or the experts at Bargain Barns to determine your best choice for your area’s steel structures.
Be sure to select a high-quality coating and professional application. Since this treatment should last several years and represents you and your company, this is not the best place to cut corners.

Water Management

Moisture is the enemy of all buildings. Wood will rot, steel will rust and corrode, mold and mildew will soon follow; it’s unavoidable. This is one item you definitely want to address during construction. The cost of adding overhangs, new or upgraded gutter systems, or re-grading your property after construction can be far costlier and frustrating.

Ongoing Maintenance

Sunshine beats down on your building, and wind and precipitation do the same. Industrial pollutants, pollen, and dust find a new home on its surface—all of these work to diminish the lifespan and serviceability of your steel structure. It’s critical that you develop a comprehensive plan to monitor, manage, and effect repairs to protect your assets and equity. That’s right, a lack of proper maintenance will impact the value of your property. So, let’s look at what this means.

Perform Bi-Annual Inspections

It’s crucial that you stay ahead of potential issues. Any damage or failing components will not achieve self-repair nor improve with time. Performing a comprehensive review of your structure and its elements is essential to minimize the cost and consequences of languishing issues.

Don’t forget to check the numerous fasteners like screws, nuts, and rivets. Also, inspect your steel piles for corrosion, making any necessary repairs by welding steel plates or rods as your engineer recommends.

Mooring fittings, including cleats, bollards, bitts, and clock, can rust, crack, and break. Tighten or replace the bolts and replace any corroded or broken fittings.

It’s also important to check the foundation for signs of damage or weakening and replace or reinforce as necessary. In some cases, it may be advantageous to consult with a structural engineer regarding significant issues with your structure or foundation.

Give It a Scrub

Keeping your building’s surface clean is essential for its longevity and performance. Plus, a buildup of organic material on the surface promotes the development of fungi and mold by retaining moisture.

After 12 months of exposure to the elements, your building likely appears dingy, not a good look for your structure.

Merely cleansing with water will remove organic materials from the surface along with a power washer or soft brush. You may add some bleach to sanitize and assist in your efforts for a brighter shine. A best practice is to establish an annual schedule for washing your building exterior. It can often be helpful to coordinate this activity with one of the bi-annual inspections since there is a significant overlap of activities.

Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear

Just like in your home, the gutter system on your steel building will only work if it is clear of debris and free-flowing. Water is your adversary, and overflowing gutters and downspouts create severe issues if left unresolved.

Whether you do this yourself, have a maintenance crew, or subcontract this activity, make sure this is an annual priority.

And Finally

While the ongoing cost and effort of conserving a steel structure are substantially less than wood construction, it does require attention and action. But, unlike standard construction, steel’s tenacity and incredible strength make it far less susceptible to deterioration over time. Regular inspections and promptly addressing issues will minimize potential problems and related expenses.

Remember to keep maintenance in your priorities while planning your build. Choosing Bargain Barns as your builder is the first step.

As a family-owned business, we consider our stellar reputation in the industry an asset we must protect. We work diligently to maintain our high standards of quality and service while making every effort to integrate designs and materials that can minimize the maintenance your structure requires.

You aren’t just a number; all of our phones ring simultaneously, and you will quickly be speaking with a team member.

We provide free:

Consultations
Price Quotes including multiple options
3D Renderings

Let the skillful professional team at Bargain Barns answer all your questions and show you the best materials, techniques, and strategies to bring your vision into reality.

Contact us today for your free online quote, or call (888) 607-4060 and talk with one of our experienced team members to learn more about how we can make your project as maintenance-free as possible.

Barn Design Concepts for Any Wedding | Barn Wedding Venue

Tue, 03 May 2022 17:28:00 GMT

If you are looking for barns that are ideally suited for weddings, whether you are going to buy, rent or maybe even build, there are several features and factors you should consider.

Location

Depending on where you live you may want to consider having backup plans. For example, the weather here in Oklahoma can be pretty unpredictable. If you’re hosting your wedding in say October, you may want to think about the possibility of a random cold front moving in or unforeseen rain. Make sure you can plan accordingly. Is the barn rain-proof? If not, can an area of the property be tented? Is the barn climate-controlled? If it isn’t, are there any heating or AC units available?

Group Accommodation

How many people will the barn and adjacent surroundings hold? If you’re having a larger wedding, you’re going to need all of the space you can lay your hands on for the service seating, reception with tables, ample parking spaces, bandstand and dance floor, and other activities.

Restrooms

City and county ordinances may come into play so check with your local governments. Whether you’re doing porta-potties or plumbed facilities, make sure your guests are going to be well taken care of. The last thing you want is to have guests getting frustrated with the lack of facilities.

Speaking of Ordinances

Know what the rules and restrictions are for parking, gatherings, food cooking, storage and serving, curfews, noise restrictions, underground utility locations, etc. One great way to keep any of this from upsetting your wedding is to hire a qualified wedding planner. They will know exactly what needs to be done to keep everything running smoothly.

Food Service

You will need to decide if you choose to cater or have food made on site. Do you have the necessary equipment and permits? Caterers are often very selective about what kinds of cooking and refrigeration equipment they are willing to work with.

Ensure that the location is acceptable to your local zoning board. The facility must be a commercial-grade kitchen; using your personal home kitchen is not allowed. If you plan to make this a business on your home property, you must construct a separate kitchen room dedicated to your food business. The dedicated kitchen must-have washable floors, walls, and ceilings. The lighting must be adequate for commercial purposes, and the room must be properly ventilated.

There are dozens more standards not mentioned here that must be met before you can serve food to the public. Check with your county government.

Insurance

Anytime the general public even crosses your property line, it’s recommended that you have insurance to protect yourself. It’s also important to hire insured companies, that way, you can have peace of mind knowing that the caterer and or bartenders are safely insured.

Installing Barn Tents

Will bugs be a factor? Depending on the season, insects (and allergies) can be unwanted “guests” at your wedding. So you may want to think about using tents to separate your wedding from the great outdoors.

Ideal Wedding Barn Facilities

Large open spaces to handle the biggest weddings.
Easy to clean and easy to traverse hardwood floors and smooth surfaces to eliminate tripping hazards, and sharp edges where people can be cut or injured.
A power supply that can support a local band, DJ, climate control, and lighting.
A master chef’s kitchen that would make Chef Mario Batali feel right at home.
A dance area big enough to accommodate all guests.
Certificates, Licenses, and permits to please even the most discerning city official.
Rustic looking but spotlessly clean.

Time To Start Planning!

Now that we have covered the various aspects of designing a barn that can handle weddings of any kind, it’s time to start planning! If you’re leaning towards building a new structure, we can take that project off your hands. With over 16 years of experience, Bargain Barns USA can handle any project. You can contact us today and schedule your free consultation. Once we have the concept finished you’ll get to see the blueprints and a 3D rendering of the venue. You can call us at 405-872-0338 or at 888-607-4060 to speak to a member of our team and get started today.

Constructing Your Carport While Solving the Metal Vs. Wood Dilemma

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 17:25:00 GMT

There are several ways to evaluate metal and wood used for construction. Durability, ease of installation, environmental footprint, damage and maintenance, assembly, time consideration, and cost are all factors worthy of consideration.

So, which is best? Drum roll, please… Constructing your carport out of metal is the winner. The materials and labor costs of maintaining wood are a big reason why. To see how we arrived here, read on to see what makes each of these building materials unique.

MATERIAL CONSIDERATIONS

It’s important to know what types of wood and metal are used in constructing your carport. We’ll break it down for you.

Engineered Wood & Solid Wood

Both engineered wood and solid wood are the most preferred method of building residential homes throughout the US and Canada. Wood building products can be found everywhere as the main construction components of our homes, with the ubiquitous 2×4 lumber and plywood used for bolstering a home’s structure.

Solid wood , or softwood, makes up the skeleton of the home—timber framing, internal partitioning walls, interior framing, beams and stringers, stud walling, floor joists, roof joists, etc. Solid wood is milled cutting lengthwise from trees and cut into boards and planks.

Engineered wood is made up of several layers of ply or veneers, which are cross-laid for greater durability and strength. Plywood is a classic example of engineered wood, which is one of the most used building materials there is. Heat and pressure are used with glues to form and seal the layers of wood to form the plywood which is used in roofs, floors, walls, shelving, cabinetry. In addition, oriented strand board (OSB), medium-density fiberboard (MDF), particleboard, engineered wood flooring, glulam timbers, and finger-jointed wood are all part of the engineered wood family.

Group Accommodation

There are many factors in the way wood is graded. Size and defects such as splits, discoloration, knots, missing pieces on edges and corners (wanes), and pockets are grading factors that affect the appearance and strength of the lumber. Higher grades are called select grades.

There are other factors in grading the wood.  Home Depot  defines some of the properties below:

Texture is the feel and condition of the wood’s surface. Wood’s texture is a key part of its stability and its ability to be finished or stained.
The color of wood determines the look and style of your project. If the wood won’t be visible, as in the case of a structural project, color won’t matter much to your selection process.
Density is a wood’s weight and strength. The denser the wood, the sturdier the result of your project. This is why the best wood for structural or supporting projects such as beams tends to be denser.
Grain is a tree’s unique growth pattern. No two boards will look the same. It’s important to consider grain when working on projects, specifically decor, to ensure you achieve the look you want. Aesthetic appeal matters most if the wood of your project will be visible.

Metal Buildings

First things first. Steel, being an alloy and therefore not a pure element, is not technically a metal but a variation of one instead. It’s partially composed of a metal, iron, but because it also has non-metal carbon in its chemical make-up, it’s not a pure metal like aluminum. However, for simplified understanding in this article, we are going to lump aluminum, steel, and galvanized steel into the METAL category as we are comparing them all to wood.

Steel  is the most popular, most widely used metal in the construction industry. Builders like to use steel because it can produce extremely sustainable structures that can be built quickly at low prices.

Aluminum  has physical properties that make it a perfect material for construction projects. It is lightweight but strong and durable and can resist corrosion better than most materials.

Galvanized Steel is the best metal for construction; U.S. Bridge has a great article explaining why this is the case.

What is Galvanization?

Galvanization is the method of applying a protective coating to steel by dipping it or submerging it into a hot bath of molten zinc which prevents rust and corrosion. Galvanized steel buildings are easy to maintain and the actual maintenance is minimal. It has a super long lifespan; galvanized steel can last more than 50 years in rural areas and often surpasses even the 25-year mark in highly trafficked urban, industrialized, or even coastal areas, too. There is a fast setup time using galvanized steel because no prep time or additional treatments or coatings are needed.

Durability

Both wood and steel make strong buildings. For hundreds of years in North America, buildings such as barns and houses were made of wood. Early settlers in North America used wood to build log cabins since it was more efficient than transporting other materials from Europe. Many wood barns over 100 years old are still standing. However, wood does not fare well to excessive moisture and can rot. It also is vulnerable to insects like termites, fires, and to harsh weather.

Steel, meanwhile, is far superior in harsh weather, coastal humidity conditions, fire, seismic activity, and insects.

Installation

The installation process for both metal and wood buildings is relatively simple. With steel, all the components are fabricated away from the building site with minimal adjustments made on-site and can be installed by relatively unskilled laborers.*

A wood building structure will be built and installed almost entirely on-site, with exceptions for wood trusses, stair railings, doors, and such. Highly skilled labor is required for best results.

*We recommend that if you decide to go with a metal building, you should find a building company that offers construction services, and not just erecting the building. You should find a metal building company that will also prepare the construction site, as well as provide any grading, measuring, concrete slabbing, drainage, foundation post hole digging, etc.

Environmental Smart Choice

The debate over which is better for the environment, wood or metal, has been going on for some time. The course blog of the College of Natural Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Amherst covers this in the article, ” What Building Material (wood, steel, concrete) Has the Smallest Overall Environment Impact? “ The authors conclude that wood is ultimately the most sustainable product for construction.

“Wood is reusable and clean to make into a building material.”

Damage & Maintenance

Metal is a huge winner in this category by a long shot, especially when made in the form of galvanized steel, due to its long lifespan and performing better over wood as a building material.

It is fair to say that prefab [steel] buildings are virtually ‘Maintenance Free

- BuildingsGuide.com

Unlike wood, weather conditions (rain and snow), ocean and lake effects do not affect steel buildings. Steel does not crack and is not vulnerable to insect attacks, whereas wood frequently needs to be weather-treated and painted. Prefab metal buildings often come with 25-30 year warranties so you don’t have to worry about painting them. In addition, metal roofs don’t need wood shingles, so you don’t have to worry about replacing them from time to time.

Costs

Wood remains the most commonly reported material shortage in the third quarter of the year, according to the  U.S. Chamber of Commerce Q3 Commercial Construction Index . Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, lumber prices have skyrocketed due to lumber mill shutdowns, supply chain problems, and increased demand. Experts caution that prices aren’t likely to decrease much further in the long term due to the continued demand for new home construction.

The cost of building with metal is still more expensive, even after the pandemic, but you should be aware that these are the short-term costs as steel requires no maintenance and is much more durable.

Summary

We don’t want to put wood down because it does come out ahead in some categories, like aesthetics for example. Some structures made of wood look spectacular when compared to a metal building. But when it comes to durability, cost, maintenance, assembly, and time consideration, metal carports come out on top. Contact us today to learn more or give us a call at (405) 872-0338 .

Choosing Your Dream Barn Loft

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 16:01:00 GMT

Are you dreaming of a life in the country with a beautiful and comfortable barn loft as your home base? If you are having trouble finding that perfect place to call your own, maybe you should consider building a barn loft on a lovely piece of land that offers the exact vistas you want to make your home everything you have always dreamed of. The best part of this is that it’s completely doable! Keep reading to find out how to build your dream home without breaking the bank.

The Charm of Barn Structures Made Practical

Refinishing old buildings such as barns is an adventure for many who are enthusiastic about restoration and who want to capture the look and feel of days past. As rewarding as these projects can be, starting with a new building might be more appealing to many. When starting from scratch, there are fewer surprises when budgeting and the look of older buildings can very easily be achieved with creative design and repurposed items, such as weathered structural beams and reclaimed barn wood and fixtures.

By starting fresh, you can build your barn home any way you want, from the classic gambrel roof and red painted exterior of the American barns of yesteryear to a minimalistic metal barn for those with a love of rugged and bare modern-industrial design. In fact, you can make your barn home anything that suits your style.

Borrowing Décor From History, with Modern Comforts: “Barndominiums” and More

While choosing what kind of style you want your own dream barn loft to be, you might want to look for inspiration from historical barns , as well as from any design elements that you enjoy and want to incorporate into the look and feel of your home. Pore over images of exteriors and interiors that appeal to you to get a good grasp of exactly the look you are going for before making any big design decisions.

A loft feel is generally associated with high ceilings, and the addition of big windows will bring in loads of natural light. Keeping this in mind will help make sure that your barn loft has an open and airy look and feel.

There is no shortage of barn-style home plans to look through, so do your research, and have fun finding all of the surprising extras that you can add to your own loft. Combining traditional or rustic elements with all of the modern comforts your life requires has never been easier to achieve.

Budget-Friendly Tricks for Dazzling Barn Lofts

Many people have tackled the job of making their home out of refurbishing antique barns , as well as building their barn-inspired homes from scratch. Here are a few tips for those who enjoy the look of barn décor in their own homes:

Don’t be afraid to get creative. Many successful designers find their rustic design elements from buildings that have been torn down. Repurposed barn wood is a popular material to look for, so keep your eyes peeled for weathered items from old homes, like doors, antique beams, and other hardware items that will lend an antique look.
Some designers have found that giving a weathered look to new wood has helped them give interiors an antique appearance. To artificially weather new wood, brew some very strong black tea and paint the bare wood with it. Allow it to dry, then paint the stained wood with vinegar in which you have allowed steel wool to soak for an hour or two. This faux finish creates a unique silver-gray weathered effect. (Tip: the longer you soak the steel wool, the darker the stain will be)
Exposed beams are one easy way to give your interiors a barn-like feel. Finding reclaimed beams will make your interiors extra rustic.

Most importantly, have fun with your barn loft! Put in lots of elements of your life, including all of the things you enjoy or collect. Creating a living space that borrows from the roomy, warm atmosphere of a barn can result in some of the most stylish and comfortable spaces to spend your time in. If you have any questions at all then contact us online or call us at 405-872-0338 and one of our team members would be happy to help!

How to Paint a Carport

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 19:29:00 GMT

Painting a metal carport might seem like a fairly easy project at first glance. After all, most people have painted a room or a wall in the past, so painting a carport certainly seems like a surmountable challenge. However, once you start the painting process, you will find this project is more complex than it appeared at first look.

Fret not, as we have learned a thing or two here at Bargain Barns USA on how to paint metal carports , metal garages , metal storage sheds , and more.

Sweat the Small Stuff of Painting Your Carport

Painting a carport is not the type of project you should dive into headfirst. Instead, take your time and pay attention to the subtleties of what the work will involve.

Painting metal carports the right way requires the use of a primer. However, if you are not careful, you will end up with primer and paint that are not compatible with one another. Even preparing the surface to be painted in the proper manner influences the outcome.

Oftentimes people rush through carport painting, adding several coats of paint without waiting for the initial coat to dry. Others make the mistake of painting vertically, in circular motions, or without any overarching strategy, making paint brush strokes as well as ugly dribbling painfully obvious.

Though each of these nuances is certainly a subtlety, it is the small stuff that ultimately determines whether your carport painting project is a success. The moral of the story is to take your time, pay close attention to the details of painting your carport, and pace yourself to minimize mistakes.

Consider the Condition of the Surface

If the carport consists of raw metal, it is in your interest to scrape away the old coat using a scraper. Some may find that using a sandblast is preferable. If you notice rust after scraping or blasting, you will need to perform a light sanding along with the addition of a red oxide primer that inhibits rust.

Selecting the top-coat paint will be that much easier if you have an idea of how you would like the finish to look. Enamels that are oil-based tend to be fairly glossy. Those who want a lovely sheen will favor acrylic or water-based paint.

If you choose acrylic paint, you will likely be happy with it but it will require a couple of coats of primer as the paint does not generate a sealing barrier on its own. Acrylic can be painted on oil but there is the potential for problems to arise when contrasting chemicals interact. When in doubt, paint a small section to get a sense of the reaction and how it looks before painting the entire surface.

If the carport has been galvanized to prevent rusting, things will get a bit trickier as the old paint must be removed to prevent an uneven aesthetic. Sandblast the old paint and you will have fresh galvanizing that should rust prior to painting. Give it a month prior to painting, use a high-quality etch primer along with a top-coat that is compatible, and you will be pleased with the results!

Above all, double-check to verify the primer and paint you choose are compatible with one another. Read the small print to ensure the paint will adhere the right way with the primer’s chemicals and you will be able to move forward with the rest of the project in full confidence.

Time Your Painting Properly

Once the surface of the carport has been sufficiently cleaned to eliminate contamination ranging from loose paint chips to grease, oil, and other gunk, the paint will be able to properly bond with the surface.

If there is any contamination remaining, use a wire brush or sandpaper to eliminate it. Roughening up the surface with sandpaper prior to the addition of primer or paint enhances the adhesive power between the primer and metal carports. Even small particles of dirt can lead to a disruption of the primer and paint bonding process, so be sure to pay close attention to the surface.

Once you are certain the carport is ready to be painted, be patient! Don’t paint one coat after another right away. Rather, it is better to wait at least an hour before adding another coat of paint. Otherwise, the carport will not have a smooth texture. Failing to wait also has the potential to cause the brush to become sticky to boot.

Mind Your Painting Stroke

It is a mistake to assume painting metal carports or steel carports in any direction will suffice. Unless you want to see dribbling, swirls, and paint streaks throughout your carport, it is in your interest to carefully paint from side to side.

Use horizontal brushstrokes that move parallel to the floor and the resulting aesthetic will prove quite impressive. Painting horizontally also reduces the level of dribbling. It will also help to minimize the amount of paint transferred from the brush to the wall with each application, as splashing a considerable amount of pain on your carport wall will cause excessive dribbling down to the floor.

Don’t Forget About the Carport Floor!

The carport floor is typically out of mind as it is not within your field of vision when you are painting the carport walls. Be sure to sweep the floor prior to painting. If the floor still has gunk and grime after a thorough sweeping, consider using a pressure washer to clean off all the sticky stuff. If there are any stains, it might help to apply a concrete degreasing solvent. It is also worth considering adding a concrete paint sealant to the floor after painting. The addition of a sealant will bolster the paint’s longevity and beauty all the more.

Got Questions?

If you have any questions about restoring your carport or just simply want to replace it with a new one, give us a call at 405-872-0338 or reach out to us online . When it comes to metal carports and buildings, our family-run business can handle any project or answer any questions you may have. After all, we’ve been doing this now for over 16 years and we can’t imagine doing anything else!

How To Convert Your Metal Building Into Your Dream Home

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 17:37:00 GMT

Metal buildings are extremely versatile. People use them for everything from carports and garages to outdoor workshops or private offices. Some people even live in them! If you can think of it, it can likely be done. That being said our carports are not engineered to be converted into homes. The following information will only work for our weld-up steel buildings.

But turning your metal building into a home means a few upgrades are likely required. Some are superficial, such as colors and texture, while others are vital to your way of life within your new four metal walls, such as installing electricity, insulation, and making your new home homier. But where do you start with any of this?

In this post, we break down exactly how you can turn your metal building into your dream metal building home.

In a rush? Feel free to jump to any section you like from the list below:

How to Prevent Condensation Problems in Your Metal Building Home
Tips and Advice for Insulating a Metal Building
The Benefits of Insulation
Choosing the Right Insulation for Your Metal Building
How and Why to Add Electricity to Your Metal Building
How & Why You Should Add Electricity to A Steel Building
Can You Paint a Steel Building?
Four of Our Favorite Steel Building Accessories
How We Can Help!

How to Prevent Condensation Problems in Your Metal Building Home

Metal buildings are great in many ways. They’re easy and inexpensive to assemble, they handle severe weather well, and they need very little maintenance to keep their appearance or their functionality.

That being said, they also experience a few problems that other buildings don’t see as often. The biggest of these is condensation and water damage.

Condensation is a common problem in steel buildings for a few reasons. First, because many metal buildings are uninsulated, condensation forms more easily in them than in other building types. The cool metal surface makes water vapor collect on the roof and walls much more readily than in concrete or wooden structures. Also, because steel rusts, condensation can lead to problems both with the structural integrity and appearance of your building.

There are a few main causes of condensation problems in steel buildings. Understanding why your building is experiencing condensation issues is the first step towards solving the problem.

Lack of Insulation

When there’s a big temperature difference between the inside and outside, condensation will form on your walls and ceiling. Water will always condense on a cooler surface, and metal walls or roofs are the perfect places for it to collect. Over time this can lead to rust, mold, and pooling water that can erode your foundations.

The most frequent cause of condensation problems is that the walls and roof aren’t insulated. This puts the cooler surface of the metal up against warmer, more humid air, and allows water vapor to condense on it easily. Fortunately, this problem is relatively easy to solve.

Insulation can be added to almost any metal building interior, which in turn reduces condensation and also helps regulate the interior temperature of the building. Whether you have a shed or a metal building, it would probably benefit from being insulated.

Insulation Problems

However, just adding insulation isn’t the end of the story. A special concern when dealing with insulated buildings is when the insulation itself is exposed to condensation. Buildings that are improperly insulated can experience even bigger problems than those that aren’t insulated at all. For instance, when fiberglass or blown insulation is exposed to water, it absorbs it and quickly grows mildew or mold, leading to odor and problems with rot, allergies, or illness.

Most insulation problems occur because the insulation was not properly sealed from the outside air. In a metal building, it’s especially important that you seal the top and bottom spaces with vinyl backing or a vapor barrier so you can keep humid air out of the insulated space. This will also prevent unwanted heat transfer, which in turn makes the insulation more efficient.

If you want to know more about keeping your metal building in top shape, contact us today at Bargain Barns USA. We’re the number one metal building contractor in Oklahoma and distribute our products to 25 states across the country.

Tips and Advice for Insulating a Metal Building

Metal buildings have many good qualities, but temperature regulation isn’t usually one of them. If you have a metal building you plan to use for an office, workshop, or other occupied space, you’ll need to think about insulation. A well-insulated metal building can be just as comfortable as a stone or wood structure – you’ll just need to plan ahead and choose the right insulation for your needs.

The Benefits of Insulation

There are many reasons why you should use insulation in your metal buildings, such as:

Temperature Regulation – The biggest benefit of insulation is its ability to keep your building’s interior temperature stable. This can make it more comfortable inside and prevent it from getting too hot or cold.
Energy Efficiency – If you heat your building during the winter or cool it in the summer, insulation helps preserve the temperature changes. This reduces your overall energy use and keeps your building at the desired temperature longer.
Moisture Control – One common problem with metal buildings is condensation. However, insulation can help prevent condensation problems by reducing the open air that can access the metal surfaces of your building. In turn, this also helps prevent mold, mildew, and water damage caused by condensation.
Sound Dampening – Insulation can also create a noise barrier that prevents exterior sound from getting inside your building, making it more comfortable to occupy and use.

Choosing the Right Insulation for Your Metal Building

When you do choose to insulate your metal building, you’ll need to determine which type of insulation is right for you. Different types of insulation have different qualities and suit different projects and budgets.

Here are a few of the most common types of insulation used in metal buildings:

Loose Fill Insulation

Loose fill insulation is a popular choice in many types of buildings, but it requires particular kinds of construction methods in order to be effective. Unlike other insulation types, loose fill insulation isn’t secured to the walls. It must be held in place by interior walls (such as drywall or sheetrock paneling) or drop ceiling panels. If your building has unfinished walls or ceilings, you won’t be able to use loose fill insulation.

That said, loose fill insulation does have some benefits. Because it is blown in rather than placed, it is good at filling in small and hard-to-reach spaces. It also creates a very good air barrier that preserves the temperature inside your building. If you plan on using your building as a living or workspace, the loose fill can be a good choice.

Fiberglass Batting

One of the most common and inexpensive forms of insulation, fiberglass batting is a great choice for metal buildings. Fiberglass insulation is quick to install and easily secured to a variety of surfaces. It’s also available in many different thicknesses and insulation values, making it appropriate for many different climates and use cases.

However, installing fiberglass insulation does require some expertise. It’s also bulky and can be difficult to work with if you aren’t experienced. Finally, fiberglass batting has a habit of leaving fibers behind on surfaces and in clothes that can be irritating to the skin and eyes.

Rigid Board Insulation

Rigid board insulation is similar in many ways to fiberglass batting, but instead of thick blankets, it is more similar to styrofoam packing material. Rigid board insulation is constructed from heat-resistant polyurethane boards in varying thicknesses. It is lightweight and available in many different insulation values, making it a good choice for many different climates and types of buildings. Rigid board insulation is also a good choice for buildings that may have increased fire risk such as workshops and barns.

However, rigid board insulation can be difficult to install if you aren’t experienced with it. Since the pieces are firm, they must be cut to fit different lengths and to avoid obstacles like wall studs or ceiling joists. They also have a hard time fitting in hard-to-reach spaces and can leave significant air gaps if they aren’t installed properly.

Spray Foam Insulation

A final type of insulation commonly seen on metal buildings is spray foam. Spray foam insulation is a type of expanding polyurethane foam that is blown onto the interior surfaces of your building. Because it is self-adhering, spray foam insulation is fast to install and can be used in virtually any building type. It is also excellent at filling in small spaces and getting around obstacles, and since it adheres directly to the interior surface, it leaves little to no air gaps.

That said, spray foam insulation is tricky to install and should be put in by a trained professional. It is also more expensive than other insulation types since it requires special equipment and expertise.

Should You Use Radiant Barriers?

Along with insulation, a radiant barrier is an important part of keeping any building’s temperature and moisture stable. Radiant barriers help reduce heat transfer by reflecting heat and infrared radiation back onto the exterior walls of your building. They can also help prevent condensation problems and make your insulation last longer and work better.

Radiant barriers come in several varieties appropriate for different types of insulation. However, you’ll need to install your barrier before your insulation is in place. Make sure you discuss radiant barriers with your contractor early on to make sure you get the right type and have time to install them properly.

If you have more questions about the installation and care of metal buildings, contact us today at Bargain Barns USA. We install and maintain a huge variety of metal buildings across the country, and we have the expertise you need for your building project. Call 405-872-0338 today or visit us on Facebook to learn more.

How and Why You Should Add Electricity to Your Metal Building

For many metal building owners, these buildings aren’t complete without the addition of electrical power. Whether you want light, heat, WIFI, or power for appliances, adding electricity can make a big difference.

Why Add Power to Your Metal Building

If you’re considering adding electrical lines to your metal building or shed, or if you just want to build a powered metal building, the first question you need to ask is, “What am I using it for?” Your answer will help you determine the best way to power your building.

For instance, if you only want to power a few lights or a utility outlet, you’ll most likely be fine with a simple, direct wiring job from your house’s main electrical panel. However, if you’re converting your metal building into a home, you want a higher-capacity solution.

In either case, adding electrical power to a metal building doesn’t have to be a complex job. Depending on the complexity of the wiring, you should be able to finish the work in a day or two.

How to Add Electricity to A Steel Building

Running electrical cables and getting power to a metal outbuilding might seem like a complex job, but it’s actually surprisingly simple. Of course, if you’re not experienced with do-it-yourself work or aren’t comfortable working with electricity, you can always call an electrician and have them do the tough stuff.

Step 1: Plan the Conduit

Before you start running wire, you’ll need to plan out the route that the wiring will take. For most backyard outbuildings, it’s easiest to run the power from the main panel. This will ensure that you’re not pulling too much power from another circuit in the house.

If your main panel isn’t easily accessed from your shed’s location, it’s also possible to run your wiring off an existing junction box or circuit; just make sure you’re not adding too much load to an existing circuit in your home. If you’re planning to run power off your main panel, you’ll need an electrician to make the final connection.

When planning the route your wiring will take, you need to keep angles in mind. The National Electric Council states that wiring is not allowed to “bend” more than 360 degrees when you’re running it through an electrical pipe.

Since you probably already have two 90 degree bends planned – one running down from your house to the ground, and one running up from the ground to your metal building – you’re limited to 180 degrees of bend or two 90-degree turns.

Once you have your conduit planned out, you’ll need to get wire. For most outdoor wiring, it’s easiest to run standard electrical wire through a rigid metal conduit, which resembles a thin metal pipe.

Rigid metal conduit, or RMC, only needs to be buried to a depth of six inches underground. Other types of underground wiring, such as electrical feeder cable, need to be buried 12 inches down. With Oklahoma’s rocky, clay-filled soil, you’ll save a lot of time and effort if you have to dig less.

Measure out the total length of the circuit, including the vertical length from your connections to your house and your metal building. Remember to add six inches on each end for the underground depth. It’s also a good idea to buy some extra wire and RMC, just in case.

Step 2: Dig the Trench

This is a relatively simple step. You need to dig a trench following your planned conduit route. The trench should be deep enough that the top of the RMC pipe is at least 6 inches underground. This is easiest to do with a pick or a mattock since their long, thin blades easily pull up dirt for a trench without it being too wide. You might also want to remove some grass or sod beforehand to lay over the filled trench when you’re done.

Step 3: Lay the Conduit

Once you’ve dug the trench, you’ll need to bend the conduit at the proper locations and lay it out. It’s easiest to do this if you assemble the lengths of RMC first, and then mark the locations where the bends will be.

You’ll need a pipe bender to make the 90 degree bends you need – most hardware stores allow you to rent them if you’re not interested in buying one.

After your conduit is laid out, you need to connect it to your house and to your metal shed. It’s easiest to do this with connectors called LBs. These connectors have access panels on the back that allow you to pull wire through easily. Plan the locations of your connections to the house and the metal building and mount them on the wall. You’ll need a long drill to make holes into the shed to complete the circuit.

Step 4: Fasten the Pipe and Pull the Wires

Now that your conduit is planned and laid out, you’ll need to fasten everything together and run the wire. Use pipe wrenches to fasten all the RMCs together, and use a compression fitting to attach the RMC to the LB at your metal building.

Now you have to run the wire, one of the trickiest parts of the job. Electricians use a tool called fish tape to do this task. You’ll need to carefully push the fish tape along the length of your completed conduit, and then attach it to a guide string at the other end. This part of the job is best done with two people, one at each end of the circuit.

Remember that you should never pull wire directly with the fish tape. Instead, pull a guide string through the conduit first, and then use the string to pull the wires. You’ll need at least two wires , one white (which lets the current coming from the outlet return to the panel) and one black (which sends power back and forth from the service panel & circuit), to complete the circuit.

If you’re doing a bigger job with a three-way switch or multiple circuits, you’ll need more wires. Pull the wire carefully through the conduit and into the LB, then feed it through the wall.

That’s it! You now have wiring leading directly to your metal building. From here, you can wire up lighting, outlets, or other electrical devices. Remember to attach a power disconnect switch to the circuit where it enters the shed, and then run your power how you like through the interior.

To learn more about metal buildings and their many uses, you can contact us today at Bargain Barns USA . We’re one of the country’s leading providers of metal buildings, sheds, and carports, and we’d love to help you with your metal building project!

At this point, your new metal home is insulated, you don’t have to worry about leaks, and you have electricity. Now let’s add some visual upgrades.

Can You Paint a Steel Building?

Steel sheds are built to last for decades and rarely need more than basic maintenance . However, many people ask if it’s possible to paint their old metal building in order to give it a new look or protect it from rust and corrosion. The answer? Of course, you can paint your building – but you should take steps to do it the right way. After all, a fresh coat of paint is definitely going to help change your metal building into your dream home.

Why Paint A Metal Building?

There are a number of reasons you might want to paint your steel shed or outbuilding. Some of the most common reasons people paint their steel buildings are:

Rust Protection – As steel buildings age, they can develop rust on areas exposed to frequent moisture. A coat of paint can help protect your shed against rust and prevent it from degrading over time.
Refreshed Appearance – Steel sheds maintain their appearance well over the years, but a coat of paint can help an older shed look fresh and new again.
Match Other Buildings – If you have a metal building near your house or if you have multiple outbuildings, a coat of paint can help it match the rest of your property.

Steps to Painting a Steel Building

If you want to paint your building, there are several steps to the process you’ll need to complete.

First, wash the entire building to remove dirt, dust, and debris. To wash your soon-to-be metal building home you can use either a garden hose and a gentle soap with a brush to scrub it down, or you can use a pressure washer on a gentle setting.

In either case, be sure to remove as much surface dirt and debris as possible. A clean surface will allow you to paint your shed easily and ensure good adhesion.

Next, remove any loose paint, rust, and corrosion on the surface of the metal. Use a putty knife or a scraper to remove loose or flaking paint (some of it may come off if you pressure wash your building as well). For rust and corrosion, you can sandblast the shed or use sandpaper or a sander. Be careful not to sand away any undamaged metal, but also be sure to remove as much rust as possible.

If the shed has any significant dents or cracks, you can fill these with a dent repair product such as auto body filler. Once you paint, this product will be almost invisible and will help your steel building look new again. Make sure you read and follow the instructions carefully for these products.

Also, remember that fillers are not meant for structural repairs – if your shed has any cracks or rust on frame members, you should get them repaired by a contractor to ensure your property is still solid.

Once your home is clean and all rust and loose material is removed, you can prime the surface with a metal primer. Be sure to cover all of the bare metal surfaces with a good coat to prevent corrosion. A good coat of primer will also help your chosen paint adhere to the surface of your shed better and will help the color look more natural.

Finally, apply your chosen paint according to the manufacturer’s directions. Choosing the right paint for your shed or metal building can be tough – make sure you get one that is rated for outdoor applications.

Acrylic and oil-based paints are good for outdoor use, but they’re a bit harder to work with and can give inexperienced painters some problems. However, you shouldn’t use latex paints on an outdoor shed, as they’re too prone to damage and chipping to last long.

There are several ways you can paint a shed, including with a:

brush
a roller
or a paint sprayer

Brushes and rollers are slower and more labor-intensive, but they also apply thick, even coats of paint. Paint sprayers are faster, but if you use one you will likely need to apply multiple coats of paint. You should also be careful of paint runs and drips that can ruin the appearance of your shed.

Of course, if your metal building is too damaged or corroded, a coat of paint isn’t going to fix it. However, new metal building homes are surprisingly affordable and can last many many years. Call Bargain Barns USA today at 405-872-0338 !

Why stop at paint? Let’s look at some other features you can to your new home:

Four of Our Favorite Steel Building Accessories

The versatility of steel buildings is one of their best qualities. There are hundreds of customizable features allowing you to change your new home to your liking. Here are some of our favorite ways to customize and accessorize a metal building – feel free to use this post as inspiration in your own steel building!

Gutters and Trim

Gutters and trim are a simple way to make your metal building more functional and attractive. They help give a simple roofline a more finished and home-like appearance and also protect the ground around your steel building from erosion.

Plus, channeling water away from the base of your steel building helps prevent rust and water damage, which will ensure that your shed has a long and useful life. And because they’re so simple to add, gutters and trim make an excellent first improvement to your new metal building home.

Windows and Skylights

Adding a window to your metal building might seem complex, but it’s really a very simple process. Steel buildings are easy to modify, so adding a window is a great way to open up space and add natural light without running electrical power to the building. There are several different kinds of windows available for metal buildings, including louvered windows, sliding glass panes, and fixed windows.

Another option is a translucent plastic skylight, which adds natural light through the roof instead of the walls. Try this if your metal building is frequently in the shade, or if you want to put up shelving that would block a window.

Vaulted Ceilings

The inside of a steel building home offers even more versatility than the outside. There are plenty of ways to maximize space inside a steel building. Shelves are an ever-popular option. Another way to add more space to your metal building is to install a lofted ceiling. These ceilings are going to take your new home to the next level of appeal.

Doors

You’re probably thinking, “of course I need a door for my house”, but depending on your style, you might want either a roll-up, a barn style, or a walk-through door, or possibly a combination of these options. Each option offers its own advantages – roll-up doors are great for letting in massive amounts of natural light, but take up more room in the ceiling space of your home.

Barn-style doors are great for open areas, but not so good in tight quarters. Lastly, simple walk-through doors are perfect if you’re using your building as a home. Fortunately, you can easily customize your metal building with the best doors to suit your needs.

How We Can Help!

These are only a few of the many ways you can add to a metal building to make it your own. For more information on steel buildings and how you can customize them, contact one of our representatives at Bargain Barns USA today. You can also follow us on Facebook for steel building updates and special deals!

Garages Vs. Carports: Everything You Need to Know!

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 18:30:00 GMT

When it comes to metal carports and steel garages, most consumers just aren’t that knowledgeable when they purchase these products. This isn’t out of ignorance, but rather a reasonable assumption that the manufacturers, resellers, and authorized dealers of steel carports, enclosed garages, and steel buildings would have most of the information readily available to the customer, informing them of the requirements for installing those products and what configurations and options are available. Unfortunately, that isn’t the case, leaving customers in the dark when it comes to their options and what product is best for them.

We here at Bargain Barns USA are dedicated to providing our customers with all of the information they need to make an informed decision and find the right fit for their specific needs. In today’s post, we tackle some of the most common questions first-time buyers have, as well as potential issues that can be easily avoided.

What is your need?
Carports and Garages – Top 10 Things You Should Know Before Buying
Garages vs. Carports; Which One is Right for You?
Attached vs Detached Garages & Carports – What’s the Difference?
Considerations for Attached & Detached Structures
Pros and Cons of Attached and Detached Structures
Can an Oklahoma Carport Be Converted Into a Garage?
Why (and Why Not) to Convert Your Carport
How to Convert a Carport Into a Garage
Deluxe Metal Garage
Regular Maintenance Tips for Your Metal Garage
Does Your Garage Roof Style Matter?
What Sets Us Apart?
Why we help

What is your need?

The first thing you should ask yourself is, “What is my need?” Do you simply need a metal carport to park a car, two cars, RV, or a boat? Do you need a fully enclosed garage to store antique cars? Do you need a large steel garage to be used as a workshop? Any reputable company or dealer should ask you about the intended function or use of the building that you plan to purchase. Below are a few examples of what we’ve experienced over the years and how we make every effort to assist and the customer to make the best possible buying decision.

Carports and Garages – Top 10 Things You Should Know Before Buying

Having worked in the industry for almost sixteen years, we’ve come across most of the common questions, issues, and problems and we’ve prepared a Top 10 List of things to know, along with the reasons why you should know these things.

Here are the top 10 things you should know before buying a steel or metal carport or steel garage:

What are your needs and what are you buying?
Where are you buying it from?
Can the carport or garage be on your property, or are there zoning restrictions?
Is the installation site already level, or do you need to hire someone to do so?
Have you mapped out utility lines and underground objects that would be affected by the project?
What do you need to know when you place your order?
What happens next after you place your order?
What will the process of the installation of your new structure look like?
What will the finished project look like?
Does your warranty cover damages due to wind and snow?

Most manufacturers sell their metal carports and garages through authorized dealers that have retail locations. Most of those dealers are selling other products and are not specialized in any one area. For that reason, not all authorized dealers have excellent product knowledge. At Bargain Barns USA , our focus is our customers and ‘just buildings’.

Through our many years of experience with this product and with our customers, we will share with you what we have learned along the way.

Garages vs. Carports; Which One is Right for You?

One of the best things about our steel barns and buildings is that they can be used in a wide variety of different ways. Though you might think that a barn has limited applications, the truth is that a well-constructed, high-quality metal outbuilding is only limited in use by your imagination. In order to show you how useful these buildings can be, here are a few of their many uses:

Additional Storage

The first and most common use for a metal building is increased storage space. However, this storage isn’t limited to farm or yard equipment. A high-quality metal building is durable enough to protect just about anything you keep inside it. Including clothing, tools, seasonal decorations, and more. Many people are concerned about leaks or damage. But in truth, a metal building offers just as much protection as storage inside your home.

A Second Garage

If you like to tinker, or if you have three cars but only a two-car garage, you would probably appreciate some extra room to protect your vehicles from the elements. A metal building makes a perfect garage for a seasonal car, motorcycle, or any other vehicle. Because they’re stronger than wooden sheds, they can protect your cars from extreme weather like hail, ice, and wind-blown debris.

Extra Living Space

Perhaps your lack of space isn’t in your garage but in your living room. If that’s the case, a steel building can be made into a surprisingly comfortable detached living area. With the right size building, you can make a private office, a game room, or even a guest bedroom. Metal buildings are easy to turn into finished rooms, and they’re far cheaper than building an extension onto your home.

Attached vs Detached Garages & Carports – What’s the Difference?

There are many things you’ll need to consider when you’re looking at installing a garage or carport on your property. One of the biggest choices you’ll need to make is whether you want an attached unit built onto your house or a detached unit that stands alone on your property.

Both attached and detached carports and garages have advantages – keep reading to find out which one might be right for you.

Considerations for Attached & Detached Structures

Before looking at the pros and cons of attached and detached metal buildings, it’s important to think about the different factors that can influence your choice.

Lot Size and Shape

One of the biggest factors in choosing an attached or detached building is which one best fits your property. Depending on the size of your property, the level of access you have, and the aesthetics of your home and yard. You might find one choice far more appealing.

Building Uses

Along with logistical and aesthetic considerations, you’ll also need to consider what you plan to use your new building for. Attached and detached structures are each better suited to particular uses, so you’ll need to think about why you want a new building on your property.

For example, if you want a garage or carport to protect your vehicle and to avoid walking through inclement weather, an attached carport or garage would be a better choice. However, if you want a garage or shed that can double as a storage area or workshop, a detached model can offer more privacy, additional space, and reduce the amount of noise inside your home. Detached garages are also safer than attached ones because they keep the risk of fire and other problems away from your house.

Home Style

Finally, you’ll want to think about the style of your home and of the homes in your area or neighborhood. Building a structure that is noticeably different from other homes in your area can reduce your property values and turn buyers off when they consider your home.

On the other hand, if you have a larger property that is farther away from other homes, you have the option to do what you like with your land. It’s important to build a structure that is good-looking and long-lasting in its own right. Whether it’s attached or detached.

Pros and Cons of Attached and Detached Structures.

Both attached and detached garages and carports have benefits and drawbacks. If you aren’t sure which one to choose, consider these pros and cons:

Attached Buildings

The attached buildings have several advantages, such as:

Being able to access your vehicles or storage from your home without needing to go fully outdoors.
Building onto your home allows you to use existing structural supports for strength and stability.

However, attached buildings can also have some negative aspects, like:

The need to secure permits and planning approval for your building before you construct it.
Having to match your building to your existing home in terms of style, which can increase construction costs.
The possibility of leaks and structural damage to your home from construction or due to gradual wear.

Detached Buildings

Just like attached buildings, detached structures like standalone carports and garages have several benefits:

Freedom and flexibility to build the structure that best fits your needs without needing to plan around an existing structure.
An overall increase in safety due to lower risks of fire and structural damage.
Less noise in your home from operating the garage door or from using tools.
Generally less expensive than attached buildings because you can use pre-engineered structures rather than needing a custom solution.

However, detached buildings do have a few potential downsides as well:

Being removed from your home requires you to go outdoors to get to your car or anything stored inside.
Detached buildings can require their own foundation and utility connections, depending on your needs.
Detached buildings take up more room on your property, which can reduce the available space for kids, pets, or outdoor activities.

Can an Oklahoma Carport Be Converted Into a Garage?

One of the most common questions we get about our steel carports is whether it is possible to convert them into garages. The answer? Of course, it’s possible – but it’s a bit more complicated than putting up some walls on the sides and calling it a day.

We frequently enclose carports we build for customers that want a full garage, but we also know that our carports are highly capable and very protective on their own. Read on to learn about why and how you can convert a steel carport into an enclosed garage.

Why (and Why Not) to Convert Your Carport

Both carports and garages add a lot of value to your home – they’re great for protecting your cars and other property from the sometimes harsh Oklahoma weather. So why are so many people keen on converting a carport into a garage? Below are a few of the most common reasons, along with our expert view of these opinions:

Idea : Garages offer better or more complete protection for cars and other vehicles than carports do.

Reality : Carports protect most vehicles just as well as garages do. It’s very rare for a car to get snow or ice on it while under a carport, or to be struck by any debris.

Idea : Garages offer private, enclosed storage for personal belongings.

Reality : While garages are inherently more private than a basic open carport, many carports come with attached storage sheds that are perfect for keeping tools or other belongings inside.

Idea : Garages are stronger and last longer than carports do.

Reality : A well-made steel carport is every bit as strong and durable as a garage. Steel carports can handle literal tons of snow and ice and will stand strong for years throughout any kind of weather.

Idea : Garages match the look of houses better.

Reality : This is mostly a matter of personal opinion. However, steel carports do come in a wide range of colors and styles to match almost any home with ease.

In the end, a carport fulfills most of the same functions as a garage – it keeps your car safe from the weather and it allows you to access your vehicles without exposing yourself to rain, snow, and hail. Both carports and garages add value to your home. Most of the time it’s not too hard to convert a carport into a garage, but it’s also not always necessary.

So why would you want to convert a carport into a garage? The most common reasons for pursuing the conversion are because garages are often used for more than just car protection – they’re a “utility room” where you can fix things and store bulky items. It’s tough for an open carport to offer this same utility, which is why many homeowners think converting their carport is a good idea.

If you’re considering converting your carport, think about why you want to do it. If you’re simply looking for more protection for your car from sun and rain, a carport is probably going to do the job just fine. However, if you’re looking for a workshop or a storage area you can use for your car, tools, and household clutter, you might be on the right track.

How to Convert a Carport Into a Garage

In most cases, converting a carport into a garage isn’t difficult. In fact, we regularly convert our own carports into garages for buyers who find their needs have changed over time. If you want to convert your carport, you’ll need to take care of the following steps:

First, contact your city or township planning commission and see if you need a permit to convert your carport into a garage. The rules for which construction jobs require permits are different from place to place and they can also be difficult to understand. Talk to a planner or a knowledgeable contractor before starting work to see what permits or permission you need.

Speaking of permission, if your house is part of a homeowner’s association, be sure to clear your project with them before you begin. It’s much easier to use a little foresight and get your project cleared than to tear it down and redo it after the fact when it doesn’t meet regulations.

You’ll also need to consider building codes, especially if you’re attaching your garage to your house or installing electricity or water in the structure. These are situations where an experienced contractor can help since they’ll know what codes to follow and how to do the work efficiently.

Remember that a garage is more than just a few walls and a big door. If you want your garage project to turn out right, you’ll need to consider:

Insulation to keep the space warm during the winter and cool during the summer.
Electric lighting to find your way around inside the garage after dark.
A strong foundation that will keep out moisture and other elements.
Additional support for the walls and garage door – a carport is meant to hold up its own roof, not its roof plus heavy walls.

Deluxe Metal Garage

At this point, we would like to promote our newest garage, the deluxe garage.

A new line of deluxe metal garages has been added to Bargain Barns USA’s products. At no additional cost, customers can choose to have our new wainscoting style garages with horizontal sheeting on the sides and ends.

These enclosed garages usually have 9′ sidewalls, but can customize to any size. The bottom 3′ panel is typically a darker color, matching the roof panels and the trim color. The upper 6′ section is a lighter color. Customers can choose from any of the 13 colors that we offer at Bargain Barns USA.

Regular Maintenance Tips for Your Metal Garage

When you buy a metal garage or steel building, you expect it to last for a long time. Even though steel is one of the most durable and economical building materials you can use, regular maintenance can help extend the life and condition of your metal garage significantly. Here are a few simple tips and ideas for keeping your steel garage in great condition.

Tip 1: Check and Replace Weather Stripping

One of the most frequent points of failure in any building is the weather stripping or weather seal around the edges of doors and windows. This rubber or plastic seal helps keep out cold air, moisture, pests, and other problems. However, it can degrade over time and become brittle, cracked, or worn down, which in turn can lead to leaks, drafts, and unwanted invaders. It’s always a good idea to check the weather stripping on your doors and windows at least once a year. If you find that any is starting to crack or go bad, replace it with new stripping from a home or hardware store .

Tip 2: Check Your Garage Doors

You depend on your garage doors to keep your car and stored items safe while also allowing you to access it all easily. That means it’s very important for you to keep an eye on your garage doors and make sure they’re functioning properly and in good condition. If you have a sliding garage door, make sure it’s traveling along the rails smoothly and that all the wheels are turning easily.

If it’s a swing-open or lift-open door, ensure that the hinges and other moving parts are well-oiled and moving freely. In both cases, don’t be afraid to use some grease to free up stuck parts and keep everything smooth. In the case of motorized garage doors, you may need to call a technician to help you fix problems that arise.

Tip 3: Examine the Interior and Exterior Walls

With a metal garage, it’s important to pay attention to the condition of your interior and exterior walls to catch any signs of rust or other damage before they become serious. It’s a good idea to do a regular walk around your garage and look for any signs of staining, wear, or rusting, especially near corners and at the base of the garage. On the interior, look around any shelves or mounted brackets you have in the walls for potential corrosion or other problems.

Tip 4: Keep an Eye Out for Moisture

Moisture problems in metal buildings aren’t uncommon, since metal surfaces provide a good place for water to condense inside the building. This condensation can lead to mildew or damage to items stored inside the garage if you aren’t careful. Fortunately, moisture problems in metal garages aren’t too difficult to fix – ventilation and insulation are often the best ways to prevent moisture problems from occurring.

Tip 5: Check Your Garage’s Floor

Oil stains, mud, water, and other products like paint or cleaners can make your once-pristine garage floor look tired and dirty. It’s a good idea to regularly clean your garage floor with soap or a gentle chemical. If you do have stains from oil or other products, you can use household items such as kitty litter and oven cleaner to break down and absorb the oil, leaving your garage floor looking new again. You may also want to think about garage mats or protective finishes to keep your floor looking good once it’s clean.

Does Your Garage Roof Style Matter?

Sometime back, we had a customer come in to purchase a garage from us. She had just purchased a home not too far from our company and she wanted a garage to store her car, lawnmower, and some storage. She told us that she had purchased a 20′ wide x 26′ long x 9′ side height garage from another company and it worked just fine. This customer already knew the size that she wanted.

Since we didn’t know the roof style that she had purchased, we informed her that we had three roof style options and explained the features and the benefits of each roof style.

We advised her that our vertical roof garage was the best and explained that it would take the water, snow, trash off to the sides of the building as compared to the boxed eave garage or the regular garage that has the roof panels turned horizontally.

At that very moment, a light bulb went off with the customer. She said that she had no idea that a vertical roof was an option in the garage. The company that she purchased from some years ago never took the time to tell her that was an option. She also said that twice each year, she hired someone to remove the leaves and trash from the garage because it just looked bad and she knew it would help the roof panels last much longer.

We agreed with her, as the acid from the leaves and the additional moisture being held on the unit would indeed shorten the life of the panels. We also explained that while we do offer those horizontal roof styles, we always recommend the vertical roof for the optimal life of the panels and ease of cleaning.

What Sets Us Apart?

You’ve heard the old saying, “How does it compare, apples to apples?” When it comes to vertical roof carports, garages, and barns, there is no comparison!

Our trim for those buildings is the best looking in the business. In this industry, most metal carports and steel garages are advertised as 18′ x 21′, 20′ x 26′, 24′ x 41′, etc. That measurement is the roof canopy.

Many competitors, on the vertical roof style buildings, cut off that overhang on each end of the building because they are using and installing a cheaper piece of “corner trim” or “eave trim” on that end of the building. When they do that, their roof canopies are only 20′ long when they advertise 21′ long.

What is the difference?

We used a special piece of trim that we make in-house that we call vertical roof trim. It covers both the tube and the hat channel used to support the steel panels and gives a much better appearance than the cheaper corner trim. When you buy a 21′ roof canopy from us, you are getting a 21′ roof canopy. Our vertical roof trim is more expensive to make than the corner or eave trim but it looks so much better as shown in the photos. We provide this at the same prices (or better) than our competitors.

We appreciate your business and we are committed to providing a superior product at the same price as the inferior products!

Why we help

A couple of years ago, a gentleman came to our retail location and pointed to our most basic regular carport and said, “I want that carport right there.” We told the gentleman that we could get one exactly like that unit out there to him. The carport that he had selected was an 18′ wide x 21′ long x 5′ side height, regular carport.

We then asked the gentleman what he would be storing under the carport. He explained that he wanted to park his extended cab work truck and his wife’s SUV in the carport. We asked him what the vehicles were and he pointed out to his work truck that was in the parking lot and he said his wife owned an Expedition.

He hadn’t walked around the carport that he had chosen and the only thing he saw was the price and he liked it. We explained that he really needed to consider a wider and longer carport since 21′ would just barely cover their vehicles and a 5′ side height certainly wasn’t tall enough.

It was my obligation to tell the customer the unit that he had chosen simply wouldn’t meet his needs. If he got the two large vehicles in the carport, he would likely have a difficult time getting out of the vehicles because they would be so close together. Even more concerning, if he could get out he would likely be beating up the vehicles with their own doors… for the next 20 years or so!

We, as a company, ask our customers why they need their building so that we can explain all the features that might interest them. Just imagine if we had not asked the right questions and the customer had a carport that was way too small to meet his needs. The unit would have been almost worthless and the customer would not have been happy with a brand new product!

Let Us Help You

Our point here is that any metal carport or steel garage company can sell you a unit. At Bargain Barns USA , we would like to sell you your next carport or garage but if we don’t, we hope that you either know exactly what you need and know each feature or we hope you find a company that will take the time to ask questions and to explain the product to you. Rest assured, we always will!

7 Reasons to Get A Metal Building In 2021

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 16:46:00 GMT

There’s no better time to increase your property value by adding a metal building to your property. There are a lot of benefits to adding something like a metal building to your property (which we’ll dive into shortly), but not only that, they can be heavily customized to match your unique needs. In this article, we break down all of the benefits and answer common questions we hear in regards to metal buildings.

While there are a lot of types of metal buildings, we’ll be using steel as an example for our blog, as that is the most common.

We cover a variety of topics in this post, so feel free to use the table of contents below to jump around as needed!

Four Things to Consider Before Building Any Metal Building
Reason One: They’re Easy to Maintain
Reason Two: Metal Buildings are Perfect for Farms & Ranches
Reason Three: You Can Protect Your Livestock
Reason Four: They’re Easy to Convert
Reason Five: They’re Environmentally Friendly
Reason Six: A Metal Building Will Save You Money
Reason Seven: They’re Oklahoma Strong

Four Things to Consider Before Building Any Metal Building

Even though a steel shed or storage building is a great investment for almost every home, there are a few things you should consider before installing your own metal building. Not every steel building is created equal, and you’ll want to look closely at your needs and your property before installing a metal building. Here are some of the biggest things to consider before you pick which shed you want next to your home.

What You Will Use It For?

When you’re choosing a metal outbuilding, probably the most important consideration is what you’ll actually use the building for. While most people still use their metal buildings for tool and equipment storage or an attic overflow, metal buildings are very flexible and can be used for much more.

For instance, you can easily turn a shed into a workshop, outdoor office or writing space, or even a small guest house. However, if you plan on using your new building for anything other than storage, you’ll want to pick a design that can handle expanded use. Fortunately, it’s simple to customize your building to your needs with options like doors, windows, roof vents, and power supplies.

Who Will Do the Work?

Unless you’re a construction professional, chances are you don’t have the time, experience, or resources to construct a steel building on your property alone. Before choosing a building, make sure you know what it will take to put it together and how long the construction process will be.

Many metal building companies offer construction services for their products, but not all of them do. Furthermore, some will only construct on a prepared site, while others can help get your property ready for a new metal building. You’ll need to check what your preferred vendor can do when you place an order to ensure you’re prepared.

Where You Will Build It?

Along with choosing the right metal building for your needs, you’ll need to make sure you have a proper site to put it on. A good site for any steel building is leveled and strong enough to take the weight of the building without settling or shifting underneath. Many people choose to pour a concrete or cement pad for their building, but they can go on almost any surface including gravel, grass, and asphalt.

However, be careful that your site isn’t near any flowing water that could cause the ground to erode or shift. If you choose your site carefully, your building will last much longer and remain stronger over time.

What Permits You Need

Every city, town, and state is different. Building a metal building in one town can be a simple and straightforward process, but just a few miles away it can involve miles of red tape.

Before you start building, make sure you (or the company building the shed) have the right permits and other documentation you need to erect your steel structure. The last thing you want is for your project to get shut down for being built without a permit or for not being up to code. Always do your research and planning ahead of time so you can stay in front of any problems.

Reason One: They’re Easy to Maintain

One recommended policy to follow with a metal shed or building is to wash it once a year. If you live in an area that’s particularly humid or close to the ocean, more frequent cleanings – say, every three months – are a good idea.

If you have a smaller building, you can simply mix some household cleaner with water in a bucket and use a scrub brush to clean the panels. If you have a larger or taller building, you may want to use a pressure washer – just make sure to turn the pressure down!

Your goal is to remove dirt and buildup that can trap moisture or damage the finish; you don’t want to strip the metal. Also, if you find mildew or fungus on your building, you can mix a small amount of bleach into your cleaner to take care of it.

Additionally, you’ll want to look at the overall condition of the metal and make any repairs that you can. If any fasteners or rivets are missing, you can either refasten the panels yourself or call a professional to take care of the job. Either way, performing repairs in a timely manner will greatly extend the life of your shed or barn.

During these inspections, you’ll want to keep an eye out for damage caused by water or any cracks or bends in the metal or paint. Precipitation and water exposure is the biggest danger to a metal building since even the treated metal used in metal barns and sheds can rust if left unattended.

Rust usually starts at the edges of panels or in places where water can pool, such as the base of the panels or any seams. Make sure to look closely at these areas when performing your inspection.

Beyond this simple inspection and cleaning schedule, metal buildings basically take care of themselves. If you want to learn more about choosing and taking care of a steel garage , barn , or other outdoor building, contact us today at Bargain Barns USA. Or, you can follow us on Facebook to get the latest news and special offers!

Reason Two: Metal Buildings are Perfect for Farms & Ranches

When you rely on a farm or ranch for your living, you need storage buildings that are tough, dependable, and long-lasting. A steel storage building from Bargain Barns USA fulfills all those criteria. Our metal barns and storage buildings are the best way to shelter your feed and equipment from the elements and keep them safe.

Bargain Barns offers a wide variety of metal barns and farm shelters to suit your needs. Our metal barns are constructed of steel panels with a tubular steel frame, making them exceptionally strong and hardwearing.

You can pick from a variety of other metal buildings and shelters for your farm or ranch. Whether you need open-sided equipment storage, a hay storage building, or a feed shelter, there is a metal building to satisfy your need.

What are the advantages of using a metal building or shelter on your farm or ranch?

Durability – A metal barn or shelter is far stronger than a wooden building. Metal buildings won’t rot or warp over time, and they stand up to termites, ants, and other pests far better than wood. You’ll also see much less maintenance on a metal building, letting you spend time on more important things.

Speed – Metal buildings can be built in just a fraction of the time it takes to build a wooden one. That means you get your farm or ranch in working order faster, with less downtime or interference. When your farm’s margins depend on exact timing, or you have animals you need to shelter, that difference matters.

Cost – Along with faster assembly, a metal storage building is often cheaper than a wooden building of equivalent size. Metal parts cost very little to manufacture, and the lighter weight brings shipping and assembly costs down as well. Installing a metal building can be a great way to save when you need storage or shelter.

Appearance – We might be biased, but we think that metal barns and storage buildings just look better than wooden ones. And because metal buildings hold their color better than painted wood, they keep their appearance longer with less upkeep. Your barn will look like you just installed it for years to come.

Reason Three: You Can Protect Your Livestock

Anyone who owns animals knows how important their safety and security is. When it comes to keeping them safe and secure, a well-built barn is vital. Many livestock owners think that wood barns are still the best option for keeping their animals safe, but metal barns are becoming a much more popular option as well.

The perks of choosing a metal barn over a wooden barn are:

Metal barns can carry heavier loads of snow.
Your metal barn will come with a longer warranty.
Your barn will provide better protections and hold up longer under fires

Reason Four: They’re Easy to Convert

One of the best things about metal buildings is their versatility. A metal shed or outbuilding can provide protection for equipment and tools, serve as a garage for your motorcycle or a project car, or even work as a new room. While it might seem like a huge project to convert your steel shed into a detached living space, it’s actually simpler than it sounds!

Let dig into the basics:

Step 1: Choosing The Right Shed

Many buyers select a metal building with the goal of turning it into an office or outdoor room from the start. In that case, you’ll need to choose a shed that suits this purpose.

Depending on your space requirements, either a metal garage or a weld-up building is a good choice for a home office. These buildings are enclosed and watertight, and they can be easily outfitted with doors, windows, and other accessories to make the space more comfortable.

Step 2: Readying the Interior

Once you have a shed picked out, you’ll need to decide how you’re going to outfit it. Some metal building owners also want to add plumbing to their work space, but this is a much bigger job than electricity and you likely won’t be able to do it yourself.

After installing an electrical system, it’s time for the walls and floor. Many metal building owners choose to install drywall in their shed, since it’s easy to work with and inexpensive. If you’ve ever installed drywall before, the process in a metal building is similar, but with one important change. Instead of drywall nails, you’ll need to use self-tapping screws to install drywall on the metal studs inside your steel shed. Nails won’t hold against the metal, so skip the hammer and get your power drill ready!

You’ll probably also want to install some additional insulation between the metal walls and the drywall. Spray or loose fill insulation is good for this, since it can easily fall down into the spaces between the studs. If you choose mat or roll insulation instead, you’ll need to install it before hanging your drywall.

Finally, the floor will also need some attention. Popular choices for home office flooring include carpet and hardwood paneling, both of which can be installed over the concrete footer. Remember to first install some foam or hardboard insulation on top of the concrete, as well as a layer of plywood or other material to secure the floor to. Also, make sure there are no gaps between the concrete and the bottom of the shed that could let moisture in from the outside and ruin your flooring.

Step 3: Making it Comfortable

Unless you want to keep the windows or doors open all year, you’ll probably need some ventilation into your office space. Roof vents are a simple and effective way to increase airflow into the interior of your steel building without much trouble. Experts recommend installing simple dome-style vents only if your shed will have an “attic” space. If you’re going for full-height ceilings, continuous ventilation along the top edge of the roof is a better idea.

Trim is another important part of making your metal building feel like a part of your home. Compressed wood or plastic trim is cheap and easy to install around door and window frames, making it a good option for use in sheds and metal buildings. Some homeowners prefer to take pictures of the trim inside their homes and match the new trim to it as much as possible before buying.

Finally, once the walls and floor are complete, you’ll need to finish the electrical system by adding plates and light switches, as well as installing other fixtures and eventually furniture. Though it may seem like a lot of work, a dedicated do-it-yourself-er can convert a metal shed into a comfortable and attractive office space in just a matter of days.

Reason Five: They’re Environmentally Friendly

If you’re looking to build an environmentally-friendly metal building, building it from wood might seem like the obvious choice. After all, wood is renewable and biodegradable, which makes it the most environmentally conscious, right? Wrong!

Steel buildings are every bit as “green” as wooden ones, for a few reasons:

Recyclability

The single biggest green benefit of steel is how recyclable it is. Steel recycling is a huge industry, and recycled steel accounts for a huge portion of all the steel used in modern construction. According to the American Iron and Steel Institute, steel is the single most recycled material on Earth in terms of weight – in 2014, 86 percent of all disposed steel was recycled into new products.

What makes steel so perfect for recycling?

Recycled steel’s chief draw is that it is every bit as strong and durable as new steel. In fact, of every three tons of new steel produced in North America, two tons of it is produced from recycled steel. This makes it extremely environmentally-friendly, as the use of new resources is far lower than with other building materials.

Steel’s strength and durability give it other environmental benefits as well. One such benefit is a long lifespan. Steel buildings have a much longer useful life than wood buildings due to their structural properties. Whereas wood rots or degrades over time, steel remains strong over many years.

Because steel’s lifespan is longer than that of other materials, it actually uses less materials and resources. A wood building may need to be repaired several times over the course of its lifespan in order to stay functional. In contrast, steel buildings rarely need major repairs or replacements – once they’re built, they stay up. That makes a metal building a much more environmentally friendly option over the long term.

Ease of Construction

The green benefits of steel aren’t just related to its strength. Another great fact about steel buildings is that they are extremely easy to construct compared to other materials.

Why is this a green benefit? Because they’re quick to construct, they require less resources and man-hours to build. They take less energy and fuel to put together, and steel’s light weight also makes it easy to transport. Additionally, steel structures can be expanded much more easily than other building types – it’s simple to add additional pieces to a steel building. This makes them very green compared to buildings made of other materials.

Energy Efficiency

Though many still have the perception that steel buildings are difficult to insulate and keep at a constant temperature, this couldn’t be farther from today’s truth. Modern steel structures are every bit as energy efficient as buildings made with more expensive and time-consuming construction methods.

Several new techniques and methods have contributed to this boost in energy efficiency. For instance, steel buildings can now be made with factory-insulated panels that boast insulation values that rival traditional wood-frame construction with batted or blown insulation.

Another advance is the roof – steel roofs can now be made with special coatings or pigments that help reflect light and solar radiation, keeping the whole building cooler. These “cool metal roofs,” as they’re known in the steel building world, have the capacity to save an owner thousands of dollars in cooling costs in warmer climates.

Reason Six: A Metal Building Will Save You Money

There are a number of factors that make metal buildings less expensive to construct or maintain than an equivalent wood-framed building.

Lower Construction Costs

The biggest money-saving aspect of metal buildings is that they’re cheaper to construct than wood-framed structures. Steel is lighter and easier to handle than wood, meaning it’s easier and cheaper to transport.

It also results in less waste, meaning the cost of cleaning up your building site is lower. And because every component in a steel barn or steel garage is machined precisely to fit the other parts, construction goes faster than it does with wood. All of these factors combined result in significant cost savings over traditional construction techniques.

Lower Maintenance Costs

Maintaining your new steel garage or shed is far easier than maintaining a wood-framed building. Wooden frames are subject to a number of problems, including damage from insects like ants and termites, rot and moisture damage, and warping and buckling after exposure to the weather. Metal buildings don’t have the same problems and are overall much simpler to maintain; they also handle inclement weather much better than wooden ones. For many customers, a quick yearly wash is all that’s needed.

Lower Insurance Rates

Potentially the biggest drawback of a wood-frame building is its vulnerability to fire and other problems. Most wooden buildings have a “C”-level fire resistance rating, meaning they are somewhat vulnerable to fires. Compare this to the “A”-level rating of metal buildings, which means they are highly fire-resistant.

But this better rating doesn’t just mean that metal buildings are safer than wooden ones (even though they are). It also means your insurance rates and premiums can go down, saving you more money over time. This can be a big advantage to homeowners and businesses alike.

Reason Seven: They’re Oklahoma Strong

Here in Oklahoma, wind is an issue for any building. Even without the threat of tornadoes, Oklahoma is known for the strong winds that sweep across the hills and plains. It’s not uncommon for straight-line winds to blow in excess of 50 or 60 mph! This can put an enormous strain on any building – which is why it’s important to consider wind load any time you build a new structure. Fortunately, steel buildings are perfect for Oklahoma’s windy climate.

Factors for Wind Resistance

When it comes to standing up to wind, there are several important factors you need to consider.

Exposure Rating

The first step to creating a wind-resistant building is knowing how much of a threat wind poses. Even in windy areas like Oklahoma or Texas the wind can be highly variable. One way to calculate the wind threat to your building is to have a building engineer determine your site’s exposure rating. In general, exposure ratings are:

Exposure B : Urban, suburban or wooded areas with buildings placed close together. Wind generally poses a low threat in these areas. Exposure B is assumed as the default exposure level unless the building site meets the characteristics for another exposure rating.

Exposure C : Open, rural areas with scattered buildings or hills that are less than 30 feet tall. This zone includes countrysides, grasslands, and some shorelines.

Wind loads for buildings on an Exposure C site are much higher than in Exposure B sites, so you’ll need to plan your structure with wind resistance in mind.

Wind Forces

Along with considering the amount of wind your building will get, it’s also important to consider the type of wind forces acting on your building. Structural engineers often consider three different types of wind force on buildings:

Shear Load – Wind pressure that is horizontal and which can force a building to tilt.
Lateral Load – Pushing or pulling horizontal wind forces that can cause a building to move off its foundation.
Uplift Load – Pressures from wind flow that cause lifting effects, which can damage a building’s roof and walls.

The wind forces acting on a building depend on many different factors, including how it is oriented to the wind, the way the building is built, and the strength of the wind itself. When you purchase an engineered or certified steel building, the engineer will take all of these factors into account when finalizing your building’s design.

Designing a Wind-Resistant Building

Of course, the building site and orientation aren’t the only factors in wind resistance. It’s important to have some design considerations in mind from the start when wind is a concern. Here are a few tips for making your building more resistant to wind:

Use Proper Anchors

One of the biggest sources of wind damage is uplift damage – an upward, “lifting” force that can cause damage to roofs and walls. Proper anchoring is essential to counteract uplift damage, since it helps secure your building and distribute uplift forces evenly. There are several different styles of anchors available for steel structures, and the best one for your needs will depend on your site and location.

Lower is Better

While tall buildings offer advantages in terms of storage capacity and flexibility, they also suffer from increased wind forces and damage. Lower, wider buildings are more stable in high winds than taller ones, so if you are worried about wind damage, you should consider reducing the height of your building as much as possible.

Consider Prevailing Winds

Wind can come from any direction. However, you should always consider whether your building is most likely to see wind from a certain direction. For instance, here in Oklahoma many of our most damaging winds come out of the south. In this case, it would be best to build a building so it is oriented away from the prevailing wind.

Clear Your Site

One of the biggest sources of damage in high winds is secondary damage from things like falling trees, downed power lines, or broken branches. Make sure you position your building away from risks and hazards and try to remove any potential sources of damage near your building.

That’s It Folks!

We’ve covered a lot here, but that doesn't mean we’ve answered every question you have or that there aren’t other topics up for discussion when it comes to picking out your custom metal building. We’re here to help you find the perfect structure that fits your needs.

The Ultimate Carport Guide For 2020 | Bargain Barns USA

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 14:45:00 GMT

There is no better time to upgrade your property with a carport. Whether it’s attached, detached, or maybe you need a carport for the RV you picked up for your summer vacation, it can be easy to get lost in all the different options. That’s why Bargain Barns has taken the time to put together the ultimate carport guide for 2020 and to hopefully answer any question you may have about carports.

Is A Carport Right for Me?
Will A Carport Add to My Home Value?
Does A Carport Really Protect My Car?
Picking The Right Carport Size For Me
Anchoring Your Carport
Does the Surface of My Carport Matter?
What Are Portable Carports?
Attached Carports Vs. Detached Carports
RV Carports

Is A Carport Right for Me?

This is one of the most common questions we get. The answer is unique to everyone. It boils down to your needs and wants. Carports excel at one thing and that’s protecting your car from the elements. If you are looking to protect your car, but don’t quite need the full security of a garage, then a carport is a great option for you and your family. You can always enclose your carport at a later date as well. Carports are also great if you just don’t have the space or finances for a garage.

Will A Carport Add to My Home Value?

One of the questions we hear most often is whether installing a metal carport will increase a home’s value. While it’s impossible to answer that question definitively across the board, in general, a carport adds value to a home in several ways:

Added Protection – The clearest and most important benefit of a carport is protection for your cars from the elements. A home with no garage or shelter for cars is often perceived as less valuable, especially in regions where damaging weather like ice and hail are common. A carport offers cars and trucks protection from hail, snow, rain, and falling debris like such limbs. It is a great way to help keep your vehicles safe but has a smaller carbon footprint than a full-sized garage.

Variety – Metal carports come in a wide variety of sizes and styles, so you can easily find one that matches the look and feel of your home. Creating a unified look for your property helps increase the value beyond a standard “one-size-fits-all” solution.

Lower Costs – One of the added benefits of carports is a lower cost compared to a full garage or home addition. A carport can cost as little as 50% of an equivalent garage, or even less in some markets. This makes it much more likely that you’ll be able to recoup your investment when selling your home.

Before you rush off and install that new metal carport though, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, consider your surroundings and market. If you’re thinking of installing a carport, you should see how other homes in your area handle the same need. Some suburban homes mostly feature attached carports rather than stand-alone units, for instance. You’ll have the best chance of raising your home’s value if your carport blends in with its surroundings rather than standing out.

Does A Carport Really Protect My Car?

When thinking about the protection a carport provides, it helps to consider all of the ways your car can be damaged by the elements. Cars are designed to be left outside, but any object left out in the elements for too long will suffer damage. For instance:

Solar radiation can cause your car’s paint to fade, cloud, or peel, and cause the interior to fade or, in the case of leather, crack and dry out.
Heat buildup in a car left out in the sun can damage the car’s electronics and personal belongings left in the vehicle.
Rain, snow, and ice can damage your car’s paint, tires, and the rubber seals around your doors and windows over time. Exposure to rain and water can also cause your car’s frame to rust faster than if it were kept dry
More inclement weather, like hail and wind-blown debris, can cause extensive damage to any vehicle.

However, when protected under a carport, these threats are all neutralized. Carports are excellent at protecting your vehicles from all types of environmental damage and are strong enough to stand up to even the toughest environments.

Picking The Right Carport Size For Me

Different buyers use carports for a wide variety of different things, such as sheltering cars, RVs, boats, farm or lawn equipment, or almost anything else that needs protection from the sun and rain. That means there’s no real “one-size-fits-all” steel carport model. Instead, we stock a range of different carports that vary in width, depth, and height. This makes different carports useful for many different tasks.

Single, Double, and Triple Carports

It’s common for many carport vendors and manufacturers to refer to their carports as “single,” “double,” or “triple” carports. These descriptions refer to the width of the carport – in other words, how many side-by-side cars could fit underneath it. The categories break down like this:

A “single” or “single-wide” carport is generally 12 feet wide and is suitable for one car.

A “double” carport can be anywhere from 18 to 24 feet wide and is good for two cars parked underneath side-by-side.

A “triple” carport is between 26 and 30 feet wide, giving it enough space for three cars. Triple carports are also often used for heavy equipment storage on farms or at businesses

Carport Height

For the most part, the height of a carport will be less than or equal to the width of the unit. For instance, a carport that is 12 feet wide can’t have a height of more than 12 feet, although it can be shorter than that. However, the maximum side height for any carport at Bargain Barns USA is 14 feet – more than tall enough for most customers.

However, how do you know how much height you need? After all, there’s no use in getting a carport that’s too tall. In fact, getting a carport that’s taller than you need can be a bad thing. Carports that are too tall don’t protect smaller items as well since it gives more room for wind and rain to blow in and for the sun to shine through. Plus, taller carports cost more. So how can you be sure your carport is the right height?

For cars and trucks, your maximum height should be only a few feet taller than the height of either your head or your car, whichever is taller. For instance, if your car is only 5 feet tall, a 7 or 8 foot carport is probably tall enough. If you drive a lifted pickup that’s 9 feet tall at the roof, you’ll probably want a carport that is 10 feet tall, and so on.

With RV trailers and motor coaches, the question is a little trickier. Most RVs are no taller than 13 feet at the highest point, and that point is generally the air conditioner unit on the top. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean you need a 13-foot or 14-foot tall carport. Depending on the style you order, the roof height will be greater in the center than the side height. That means if you order a 12-foot carport with an open-eave roof you’ll easily be able to park a 13-foot RV underneath it.

Carport Length

Along with width and height, you’ll also want to think about how long your carport should be. This will depend on what you want to park underneath it, but it also depends on how much extra room you want for additional protection from sun, rain, hail, and other inclement weather. Most of the time we recommend at least five extra feet of length beyond the length of the vehicle you’ll be putting inside.

Anchoring Your Carport

Anyone familiar with Oklahoma’s weather knows the damage that high winds and violent storms can do. If you’re considering buying a carport in Oklahoma, you might wonder how such a big, sail-like structure can be certified to withstand winds up to 130 miles per hour. At Bargain Barns USA, we use a variety of carport anchors to hold carports fast to the ground, even in the face of heavy winds and storms. Learn how these anchors work and which one is best for your carport installation in Oklahoma.

Different Anchor Types

In general, we use four different types of carport anchors when securing carports in Oklahoma: rebar anchors, concrete anchors, mobile home anchors, and lag bolts.

Rebar anchors are long pieces of rebar that are hammered into the ground with a sledgehammer. These anchors provide a strong hold for a wide variety of carports, but they are never used on certified units.

Concrete anchors , also called wedge anchors, are placed in holes drilled into concrete. When the bolt is tightened, the wedge expands and securely anchors the carport in place.

Mobile home anchors , or auger anchors, are long rods with augur ends that are screwed securely into the ground. These anchors are always used on certified carports placed over dirt or gravel.

Lag bolts are only used when the carport is placed over wooden surfaces such as a deck or patio. Lag bolts are tough and strong and provide a secure hold for carports on wooden surfaces.

Which Anchor Will My Carport Need?

Most of the time, the choice of anchors isn’t really a choice at all, but a consideration of where your carport will be built. If you’re installing your carport over asphalt, gravel, or bare ground, you’ll have a choice of rebar or mobile home anchors. If you’re installing over concrete, you’ll need to use concrete anchors. If you’re putting your carport over wood, you’ll have to use lag bolts.

For asphalt, gravel, and dirt surfaces, both rebar anchors and auger-style mobile home anchors can be used. However, if you want your carport to be certified for wind load, you’ll only be able to use mobile home anchors. All of our certified carports rely on the extra holding strength that mobile home anchors provide. If you choose a non-certified carport unit, you can still choose to install it with mobile home anchors for extra security and wind resistance.

Does the Surface of My Carport Foundation Matter?

One of the most common questions we get from buyers is whether they should lay down concrete or other materials for their carport before they build. The true answer to this question is that it’s totally up to you. A high-quality, 130 mph-certified wind resistant carport can be built on any surface, including dirt and gravel driveways and concrete pads alike. If you would prefer to have a concrete surface underneath your carport, you’ll obviously have to pour the concrete before the carport is built. However, the strength and stability of the carport doesn’t depend on the surface it’s built on.

What Are Portable Carports?

The term “portable carport” is often used to describe two very different products:

Steel-framed or aluminum-framed carports or garages with canvas covers that are meant to be temporary or seasonal structures.
More permanent steel-framed carports with steel protective panels that can be disassembled and moved.

Each of these structures has its advantages and disadvantages. Before buying one, you should understand what they are and what benefits they provide.

Canvas Portable Carports

Canvas carports are simple, temporary structures that provide protection from sun and rain for different types of vehicles. Most “canvas” carports aren’t made of canvas at all. Rather, they are made of vinyl or fabric sheets, tarps, or other materials stretched over a steel or aluminum frame. These carports are versatile and easy to set up and take down, but the protection they offer is limited.

The chief disadvantage of these portable carports is they simply aren’t very strong compared to more permanent structures. Most canvas portable carports are held down with stakes or posts, leaving them vulnerable to blowing away in even moderate wind. In addition, their fabric canopies, while often made of durable materials, simply don’t last as long as steel. Their seams stretch, their colors fade, and their ties and stitching break down. Canvas carports are also vulnerable to mold, mildew, and pests.

Advantages of Canvas Portable Carports:

Easy to set up and take down
Very portable
Low cost

Disadvantages of Canvas Portable Carports:

Not as durable or strong as steel
Not anchored securely
Vulnerable to mold, mildew, and other problems
Need to be replaced more frequently
Steel Portable Carports
Unlike portable canvas carports, a portable steel carport is basically a permanent structure. A properly-constructed steel carport will stand the test of time for many years without fail. Many steel carport owners have owned their carports for decades without having to replace them.

That said, these structures are still portable as well. While they aren’t quite as easy to deconstruct as canvas carports, bolt-up steel carports can be taken down in less than an hour by a few experienced workers. Once it’s disassembled, a steel carport is easy to load onto a truck or trailer and move to a new location.

The chief advantage of steel carports over portable canvas models is their significant increase in strength. Steel carports will stand up to the abuse that would tear down a canvas or fabric model with ease. For instance, at Bargain Barns USA, our steel carports are certified to stand up to 130 mph winds – about as strong as an EF3 tornado or a category 4 hurricane. Try finding a vinyl or fabric carport that can do the same.

While the cost of a steel carport is higher than the cost of a vinyl model, steel carports make up for that cost in longevity. Over time a steel carport will make up for its higher initial cost by needing less maintenance, less repair, and fewer replacements.

Advantages of Steel Portable Carports:

More durable construction
Better protection for your vehicles or stored items
More long-term value
More options for customization

Disadvantages of Steel Portable Carports:

Higher upfront cost
Somewhat harder to put up and take down

Attached Carports Vs. Detached Carports

Both attached and detached garages and carports have benefits and drawbacks. If you aren’t sure which one to choose, consider these pros and cons:

Attached Carports

Attached carports have several advantages, such as:

Being able to access your vehicles or storage from your home without needing to go fully outdoors.
Building onto your home allows you to use existing structural supports for strength and stability.

However, attached carports can also have some negative aspects, like:

The need to secure permits and planning approval for your building before you construct it.
Having to match your carport to your existing home in terms of style, which can increase construction costs.
The possibility of leaks and structural damage to your home from construction or due to gradual wear.

Detached Carports

Just like attached carports, detached structures like standalone carports and garages have several benefits:

Freedom and flexibility to build the structure that best fits your needs without needing to plan around an existing structure.
An overall increase in safety due to lower risks of fire and structural damage.
Less noise in your home from operating the garage door or from using tools.
Generally less expensive than attached carports because you can use pre-engineered structures rather than needing a custom solution.

However, detached carports do have a few negative aspects as well:

Being removed from your home requires you to go outdoors to get to your car or anything stored inside.
Detached carports can require their own foundation and utility connections depending on your needs.
Detached carports take up more room on your property, which can reduce the available space for kids, pets, or outdoor activities.

RV Carports

While it may seem like quite the investment to make after purchasing an RV, it’s nothing compared to the repair bill you may have to deal with in the future. RVs aren’t made out of steel like cars and trucks; typically, they are made out of fiberglass and/or aluminum, which can’t take the same beating your typical car and truck can withstand over time. That’s why we always recommend the installation of a carport to protect your RV.

Let Bargain Barns Help

Now that we have covered everything from single carports to carports for your RV, our team at Bargain Barns USA hopes you leave here with more answers than questions. If you do have more questions or want to get a free quote then please give us a call at (888) 607-4060 ! We are a national dealer servicing 46 of the 50 US States. We’d love to meet with you and discuss your needs.

How to Hang Shelves and Other Items in Metal Buildings

Sat, 16 Jun 2018 01:18:00 GMT

Many people use their metal buildings as garages , workshops, and storage spaces. However, if you don’t have any room to actually store or work on anything, you won’t get much use out of your building. Luckily it’s actually very easy to install shelves and other storage solutions in a steel-frame building – you just need the right tools and a little bit of patience.

Before trying to install shelves or other storage systems in a metal building, it’s important to plan out exactly what you want to do and how your space will work with the shelving installed. Many metal building owners forget how much space shelves take up when they’re installed and end up dissatisfied with the amount of open space they have left. It’s always a good idea to draw up accurate plans, either on paper or using a design tool like SketchUp.

You’ll also need to decide how you want to add shelves to your metal building. Unlike wood-framed buildings or buildings made of stone or brick, the walls on metal buildings are thin and light. While this makes them great for saving on weight and making assembly easier, it’s not ideal for drilling holes into. Instead, you’ll have to choose from some other options.

The most common ways to add shelving to a metal building are:

Fastening wooden beams to the walls of the shed.
Attaching shelves directly to the shed’s frame.
Using floating or free-standing shelving units.

Each of these methods has advantages and disadvantages you should consider before installing your shelving units.

The first method, fastening wooden beams to the shed walls, is the easiest and most straightforward. To install shelves this way, you drill holes through the outer wall of the shed and into a wooden board or beam (often a 1×4 or 2×4) on the other side of the wall. Then you fasten the board to the wall using wood screws and washers, and seal the holes with silicone caulk to prevent water leakage and corrosion. Finally, you add your shelving brackets or frame to the inside of the boards using shorter wood screws.

The benefit of this method is its ease – a single person or a team of two can install shelves in a metal shed this way in just a few minutes. However, it has the negative of requiring holes drilled through the outside of the shed. Even with silicone caulk, these holes make a path for water damage, corrosion, and other problems. You’ll almost certainly see wear and tear around these shelving holes before you see it in the rest of the shed.

A better, though more complex, method is to add shelving directly to the framing on the inside of your shed. You can do this by using toggle bolts – bolts with a flanged, winglike attachment on one end that expands when pushed through a hole. Medium- or heavy-duty toggle bolts are capable of handling a good deal of weight, and they won’t run into the problem of outdoor exposure. This method avoids drilling any holes into the walls of the shed directly, making sure it stays watertight.

The drawback of drilling into the frame is that it leaves a gap behind the shelves where the frame stands out from the wall. Some shed owners want shelves that are flush with the wall, and though they can achieve that goal with some careful work – such as cutting channels in their shelves for the frame members – it’s definitely more labor-intensive.

Finally, some shed owners opt to use freestanding or floating shelves in their sheds. If you have a larger building like a metal garage or work shed, this can be a great option since it avoids any drilling altogether and allows you to make a modular, adjustable storage system in your space. However, freestanding shelving can be expensive, and if you have a smaller shed it might not fit well into your space.

No matter which option you choose, your metal building will offer you years of service and protection. If you want to learn more about how a metal storage building can make your life easier, contact us today (405-872-0338) at Bargain Barns USA, or follow us on Facebook and Google+.

Customize Your New Carport at Bargain Barns

Sat, 16 Jun 2018 01:18:00 GMT

Metal carports and buildings have many advantages over other types of car shelter, including better durability, less construction time, and lower costs. However, one of the best things about steel carports is their potential for customization. With the huge range of options we offer on our metal carports and buildings, you can get exactly the product you want at an affordable price.

Customization of your new carport starts when you choose the size and style you want. We have a wide variety of different carport styles to choose from in virtually any size. If you want a carport to shelter a single car , motorcycle, or lawn tractor, we can make carports as small as eight feet wide. If you’re a rancher or farm owner and need a shelter for your tractors and equipment , we’ve produced single-opening carports as large as 30 feet wide.

We also have several different roof styles available on all of our metal carports. This is mostly an aesthetic choice – some people like the look of a traditional peaked or gabled roof, while others may appreciate the arched roof that flows seamlessly into the walls. The choice is yours.

Once you’ve decided on the size and style of carport you want, it’s time to customize it with the exact options you prefer. At Bargain Barns, our carports can be customized with a huge range of add-ons including partial or full side and end walls, garage and walk-through doors, gabled ends, and even utility buildings. This makes our carports perfect for much more than cars. You can use them to store boats and seasonal vehicles, RVs, lawn equipment, tools, or you can even use them as shelters for picnics and outdoor activities.

If you’re looking for a custom steel carport or shelter to protect your car, truck, RV, boat, or anything else that needs protection, look no farther than Bargain Barns. We can build your carport exactly to order, and it’s guaranteed to be strong, beautiful, and low-maintenance. Contact us today to get a free quote on the metal building and options of your choice, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter to get news, updates, and special offers!

How Big Should My Steel Shed Be?

Sat, 16 Jun 2018 01:18:00 GMT

Determining What Size Shed You Need

If you’re browsing sheds or garages online or looking at pictures, it can be tough to estimate how much space you actually need in your shed and how much room different models will give you. However, there are a few ways to get a better idea of how much space you need beforehand.

Consider What You’ll Use It For

One of the first things you’ll have to do when choosing a shed size is deciding what you’ll use the shed for. The size of a storage shed, for instance, only depends on the things you’ll store inside it. However, a shed used as a workshop, office space, or garage will also need extra room so you can move around comfortably.

Also, keep in mind that storage sheds and tool sheds can be taller and narrower to maximize space while minimizing footprint. If you have a lot of things to store but not much room, this can be a great way to use your available space efficiently.

Do a “Test Fit”

While considering purpose is important, sometimes the only way to see how much space you need is to see it in person. The best way to do this is to gather everything you want to put in your shed in one place and measure how big it all is.

For storage sheds, this can be as simple as putting all your stuff together in your garage, driveway, or yard and measuring approximately how much space it takes up. If you do this, however, remember to stack items to simulate taking advantage of shelving or vertical storage options.

For workspaces, test fitting can be more difficult. If you have any of the furniture or items you’ll place in the shed handy, you can lay them out in a way that is comfortable and then measure the perimeter to get an idea of how much space you’ll want. Remember to give yourself adequate room to move around, too.

Consider Your Limits

Along with considering how much you have to store or put inside the shed, you’ll also need to think about where the shed itself will go. It’s just as easy to go too big as too small, but getting a shed that’s too big for your yard can be inconvenient or even dangerous.

A good way to estimate your shed’s maximum dimensions can be to lay out its footprint ahead of time in your yard. Use a measuring tape or – preferably – posts and string to measure out your shed and see how much space you can devote to it. This is a good way to test different dimensions and see how much space you’re comfortable using in your yard. Also, if you’re placing your shed near trees or close to your house, make sure to measure vertical distances so you don’t hit anything down the line.

Tips for Choosing the Right Size

Estimate Bigger than You Need Now

Along with making sure you have room to store all your things now, it’s also a good idea to get a shed big enough to store more items in the future as well. People tend to accumulate things over time, and it’s very possible some of your items could make their way to your shed in the future. Give yourself adequate storage space so you can put more things in the shed down the line.

Don’t Forget the Doors

If you’re planning to move large items like lawn equipment, tool chests, or furniture into your shed, you also need to consider the doors to your shed. Small doors, or doors that are placed incorrectly, can prevent you from using your shed the way you want.

When choosing your shed and the site it will occupy, make sure the doors are placed in an accessible location and where they can open completely without hitting any other objects. You should also make sure the shed’s doors give you enough clearance to fit large objects inside (unless you don’t plan on placing anything big in the shed). If space is limited you can also choose from different door styles to make opening the shed easier and more convenient.

Add Vertical Storage

Along with your shed’s footprint, you can also maximize its storage capacity by using vertical storage solutions . Shelving units, lofted storage bays, and hanging hooks can be great ways to store tools and oversized items without clogging up the whole shed.

If you plan on storing lots of things in your shed or if you need to move around inside it regularly, vertical storage options are a must. Consider a shed with built-in storage solutions or build your own after you get your shed.

Buy a Quality Shed Today

Still not sure what kind of shed is right for you? Call us today at Bargain Barns USA . We can help you choose the right shed for your needs and your property. Give us a call today at 405-872-0338 or subscribe to our Facebook page for more tips and ideas!

The Advantages of Freestanding Steel Carports

Sat, 16 Jun 2018 01:18:00 GMT

In the world of carports, there are two popular styles that most buyers choose between. There are “lean-to” carports, which generally look like one large, sloping roof. They are held up by supports built onto the side of a house and cannot stand on their own. Then, there are “freestanding” or “standalone” carports. These look like small buildings that stand away from other structures.

Both lean-to and freestanding carports have their uses and advantages. But we believe for most buyers freestanding steel carports are a more versatile, cost-effective option. Here are a few reasons why:

Freestanding Carports are Less Expensive

For many buyers, the biggest factor in their decision to build a carport instead of a garage is price. In that vein, freestanding carports are often more cost-effective than their lean-to cousins. Almost all lean-to carports generally must be custom-built and installed.

In contrast, contractors can fabricate freestanding carports ahead of time and install them quickly. This allows them to be made and sold at a lower price point than lean-to carports. Yet, they are just as effective and long-lived. In other words, a standalone carport will offer the same performance and protection for a lower price. You can view all of our freestanding carport prices online and easily see how much more value you get from ours.

It’s Easier to Repair and Replace Freestanding Carports

Lean-to carports are custom-built and attached directly to your home. That means repairs and replacement often involve as much work as the original installation.

The same is not true for a freestanding carport. Most freestanding carports are designed to be modular and easy to repair. The parts are all standardized and can be changed out quickly. Any repairs ever needed will take little time and involve less cost and less waste.

Freestanding Carports are Better for Large and Seasonal Vehicles

A lean-to carport must, by necessity, blend in with the look of your house. That means they can only be so tall and so wide before they look comical or out of place. Also, anything under your carport is also right next to your house. If you have a boat, RV, or ATV, it might be in the way when you aren’t using it.

In contrast, a freestanding carport can be built as tall and as wide as you need it. This makes them ideal for storing RVs , boats , ATVs, and other vehicles that might not fit under a lean-to. Plus, you can build freestanding carports away from your home. This lets you keep your seasonal vehicles out back or out of the way while still protecting them.

Freestanding Carports are Simpler to Install

Like we mentioned above, a lean-to carport is generally built as an addition to your home. Depending on your goals and your house, that can make them complex structures. You’ll need a skilled contractor with special tools to attach the carport to your house. They will also need to measure the slope, work around roof lines and edges, and weld custom steel cuts together.

In contrast, almost any capable do-it-yourself-er can build a freestanding carport. You might need some help from a few friends or family members to get the structure standing, but there’s no reason to think you can’t handle your own construction in most cases.

It’s Easier to Get a Permit for a Freestanding Carport

Permits depend on your township’s rules and regulations. Many times building a lean-to carport requires getting a permit for an addition to your home. These permits are often expensive. They can also require an inspector to come out to your property to make sure the work is to code.

In contrast, freestanding carports usually don’t need anything but a simple outbuilding permit . They don’t need to follow home building codes and rarely need inspections. This makes them easier and quicker to construct.

Freestanding Carports Don’t Damage Your Home

One of the biggest advantages of lean-to carports is the fact they attach directly to your house. But this can also be a big disadvantage if your carport isn’t installed correctly. A lean-to carport can damage your house if it collapses or needs repairs. It can also cause leaks in your walls and give pests access to your home’s interior.

In contrast, a freestanding carport cannot cause damage to your home. Since they don’t attach to your house, they don’t cause leaks or let pests in. And it’s also easy for new owners to take down or replace the carport if you ever sell your house.

Contact us today at Bargain Barns USA if you’re interested in getting a freestanding carport for your home or business. We’re the top provider of quality steel carports, garages, and sheds in Oklahoma and beyond. Call 405-872-0338 today to learn more about our carports and other steel structures. You can also visit our Facebook or Google+ to read reviews of our products and get other helpful advice.

Common Questions About Steel Buildings and Carports

Sat, 16 Jun 2018 01:18:00 GMT

We know that our steel buildings are high-quality, dependable, and tough. However, many first-time customers looking at steel sheds, carports, or storage buildings don’t know much about these structures and how they outperform wooden buildings and other metals. To help all of our customers see what’s so great about steel buildings, we’re answering a few of the most common questions we get about our products.

Why would I choose steel for my new carport or shed? What makes it so much better than wood?

We’re firm believers in the benefits of steel construction, and we know how great a material steel is to work with and build out of. But what exactly makes it so great? There are a few different answers to that question:

Steel is strong – Pound for pound, steel is one of the strongest building materials you can use. It outperforms wood and aluminum in tests of load capacity and flexibility, and it’s also more resistant to rot and corrosion.

Steel is easy to work with – Unlike wood, steel buildings are fast to assemble and easy to customize. You can also construct them in different ways, including using both bolt-up and weld-up construction.

Steel is green – Nearly 80% of all the steel in the United States each year is recycled and put back into service. This makes it one of the best options for reducing waste and lowering consumption of fuel and materials.

Should I get a carport or a garage?

The choice between a carport and a garage isn’t always easy to make. You need to think about what your needs are and what you’ll use your steel building for the most.

If you simply need a place to store your cars, a carport is an excellent investment. They keep vehicles safe from rain, sun, ice, snow, and hail, and they’re easy to maintain and install. Our carports can be built on virtually any surface, and we can build them to virtually any size so you can shelter multiple cars or even RVs and farm equipment.

However, if you’re looking for a more versatile, all-around storage solution, a garage is a better option. The four walls and closing door of a garage make it better for protecting cars, lawn and garden equipment, tools, and other items you want to store. Large garages can even be used for workshops or dedicated outbuildings, complete with power and insulated walls.

It rains a lot where I live. Won’t I have to worry about rust?

In general, no. Steel buildings, despite being made of steel, don’t see many problems with rust. That’s because the steel we use in our steel buildings is coated with a special rust-preventing coating that resists moisture and corrosion. In fact, the heavy 12-gauge steel we use in many of our carports and steel buildings carries a 20-year limited warranty on rust through the frame.

That said, steel buildings do require some regular maintenance to avoid rust and corrosion. However, this maintenance is very simple – hosing the building off a few times a year to remove any build-up of dirt or grime is often enough. Older buildings may require a little bit more maintenance, but even then it’s negligible compared to the regular re-sealing, staining, and painting that wood buildings require.

Do I have to build my carport or shed myself?

When you buy a steel building from Bargain Barns USA, the cost of delivery and installation are included in the cost of the building. That means we’ll bring your building to your site and set it up for no extra money.

What do I need to do to prepare the site of my new carport or shed?

All we ask of you, the buyer, is to have a level site ready for us to install your carport upon. The site can be of virtually any material, including concrete, gravel, asphalt, or plain grass. Our build teams are flexible and willing to work with you on installing the building exactly where and how you want.

Can I design a custom metal building?

Absolutely! At Bargain Barns USA, our top concern is your satisfaction. If you can’t find a shed, carport, or building on our website that fits your needs or use, we’ll work with you to design a building that does. That includes choosing the roof style, side panels, color, doors, gables, and any other features on the building. If you do order a custom building from us, we can guarantee it will be priced competitively and will fit your needs exactly.

Do I need a permit for my steel building?

While we can’t comment on every situation, in almost every case a new building or shed requires a permit. If you don’t know whether or not a permit is required for your specific city or town, you should contact your local city planning office. Don’t try to construct your metal building without a permit unless you know one isn’t required – doing so could result in a fine or other problems.

f you have any other questions or need more information than you see here, feel free to contact us directly at bargain Barns USA 405-872-0338 . We’d love to talk with you about our products and services!

Should You Repair Your Garden Shed or Replace It?

Sat, 16 Jun 2018 01:18:00 GMT

Sheds are like any other building: they need regular maintenance, upkeep, and repairs in order to stay functional and strong over time. If you have an old outdoor shed in your backyard, you might be wondering whether it’s more cost effective to repair it or replace it with a new shed.

Of course, the answer to this question is more complicated than it first looks. If you’re debating whether to repair or replace an old shed, you’ll first need to know exactly what’s wrong with it so you can estimate how much it would take to fix it.

Common Shed Problems

Many things can go wrong with an outdoor shed. Depending on the material and the quality of construction, you might see rot, rust, pest infestations, warping due to heat or cold, wind damage, leaks, structural instability, and even more. Any one of these problems on its own is easy to fix, but often one problem can cause another and make the whole project more difficult.

Here are a few tips to help you find potential problems with your shed:

Check the foundation for rot and moisture. Depending on the type of shed you have, you may need to pull away skirting from the base to look beneath it or even lift it up off the ground using a jack.
Examine the roof for missing shingles or panels.
Check the interior walls and ceiling for signs of water, including moisture, swelling, or warping.
If your shed is metal, look for rust in the corners and at the seams between panels.
Wooden sheds are often targeted by ants and termites – look closely for signs of insects.
Sheds are also common homes for rodents like mice and rats – check in and behind old boxes or unused items for signs of infestation.
Push or lean against the shed from different angles to see if it moves, shakes, or leans

Repairing a Damaged Shed

The types of repairs you do will depend on the exact problems you find with your shed. Keep in mind that one type of problem can cause another, and that often fixing one problem can make another one more obvious.

The most common problem with wooden sheds is rot and water damage. Unfortunately the only real way to fix these issues is to replace the damaged wood with new, treated wood. If you only have a slight amount of damage, such as rotten floorboards or ceiling panels, consider yourself lucky. However, if your frame or foundation is rotten, or if the structure has extensive water damage, you’ll almost certainly be better off replacing it.

If you have a steel shed, you may occasionally encounter some rust. The best solution for small rust patches is to file or sand the rust away and then seal the area with a rust sealant such as outdoor-quality metal paint or clear silicone or resin. For larger or more extensive rust, you can often get replacement panels or frame members to replace the damaged ones. A full shed replacement is very rare for steel sheds – most of the time, steel buildings are simple and cost-effective to repair.

Pest problems commonly afflict wooden sheds, though mice and other rodents can move into plastic or steel sheds as well. Depending on the pest, they may have damaged the structure of your shed or left behind potentially toxic waste. Termites and ants can cause extensive damage to wooden sheds, almost always necessitating a replacement. Mice and rats carry dangerous viruses in their droppings, meaning you must take special precautions when cleaning up after them and repairing your shed to keep them out.

If the damage to your shed is extensive, the bill for all these repairs could easily come to thousands of dollars. In that case, you would be smarter to simply tear down the shed entirely and rebuild. Many brand-new buildings can be had for a lower cost than a major repair, and they’ll last longer than a rebuilt shed in most cases as well.

Steel buildings and sheds offer some of the best value for cost of any outdoor storage building you can buy. Whether you’re looking for a small garden shed or a full-sized garage , there’s a steel building that can fit your needs. Contact us today at Bargain Barns USA for more information. Call 405-872-0338 to learn about our available steel buildings and find the perfect storage solution for your home. You can also visit our Facebook or Google+ pages to get more helpful tips and advice!

What To Do if Your Metal Building Needs Repairs

Sat, 16 Jun 2018 01:18:00 GMT

Severe weather is a fact of life here in Oklahoma. Between high winds, hail, tornados, rain, and the occasional earthquake, we have no shortage of potentially damaging natural occurrences. But if you have a damaged steel building , either from the weather or any other cause, you want to make sure it’s repaired properly. After all, a metal building in Oklahoma that can’t protect against the weather isn’t much use at all.

That’s why we put together this simple guide on what to do if your metal building has been damaged and needs repairs. Follow these steps and your steel structure will be back to pristine condition in no time.

Evaluate the Damage: The first step in finding out what repairs you need to make is to see how extensive the damage to your metal building is. In most cases, severe weather or flying debris will only cause dents or scrapes, but very strong winds or impacts could cause more damage. Make sure you thoroughly check the whole structure, inside and out, for any signs of damage.

Take Photos: It’s always a good idea to keep a record of any damage done to your property. You may need it for proof for your insurance company, a contractor, or your building’s manufacturer. Sometimes pictures can also be used to determine the extend of the damage done.

Check Your Insurance Policy: Many (but not all!) homeowners insurance policies cover damages to exterior buildings and structures such as metal storage buildings or carports. Check your policy carefully and determine whether your insurance might cover the damages. If they do, it could be worthwhile to file a claim.

Get a Quote: Even if your insurance policy doesn’t cover your steel building, it’s a good idea to get a quote from a contractor or metal building supplier before signing off on repairs. Make sure you take a look at their estimate, too; most metal buildings have interchangeable parts (which makes them extremely easy and inexpensive to repair compared to other materials), so you should see which ones the contractor thinks need to be replaced.

Fix Your Structure: Repairs to your steel building should be quick and painless, especially if you go through the same contractor that you ordered the building through originally (since you can then guarantee the parts and workmanship are the same).

And that’s it! Once your building is repaired, it should be ready to face many more years of adverse weather and other hazards while protecting your valuable property.

To learn more about Bargain Barns’ metal buildings and structures, visit our homepage and browse through our inventory of customizable carports, sheds, barns, and buildings. Or, follow us on Facebook and Google+ to get the latest updates on our products and services as well as special offers!

How to Help Your Metal Carport Handle Winter

Sat, 16 Jun 2018 01:17:00 GMT

Carports are one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep ice and snow from piling up on your car during the winter months. They give you a clean and secure way to get in and out of your car, allow you to get going faster in the morning, and keep your vehicles looking cleaner for longer.

That said, carports can suffer from winter weather as well. To make sure your steel carport handles the stresses and strains of cold weather with ease, take a few moments to perform these simple checks and maintenance tasks.

Winter Maintenance Checklist for Carports

Check for Damage and Corrosion

Steel carports can last for many years with very little maintenance and upkeep. However, over time moisture can penetrate the protective layers of the metal and cause rust or corrosion. This, in turn, can weaken the structure of your carport and lead to failure.

The best way to prevent this is to check over your entire carport a few times a year and see if you find any rust or corroded areas. Catching rust early is the best way to prevent it from being a problem. It’s very easy to replace a single support or roof panel, and this ensures your carport doesn’t suffer any additional damage.

Check Your Foundations

No matter how durable your carport is, it still depends on the ground below for strength and stability. If your carport is installed over dirt, gravel, or grass you should periodically check for erosion or shifting around your carport. If the ground shifts too much it could cause your carport to warp or lean, which would compromise its strength.

Installing your carport over concrete or asphalt helps prevent problems with shifting ground and erosion. However, you should watch for cracks forming where your carport is bolted down. Over time these cracks can widen, which could allow the bolts holding your carport down to become loose.

Clean Your Gutters

If your carport has gutters installed, you should take time to periodically check and clean them. Allowing leaves and debris to build up in your gutters is asking for trouble. First, it prevents rain water and ice melt from flowing off the roof. Second, if water does pool in your gutters it could then freeze, causing an ice dam that could weigh down your gutters and cause them to sag or even fall off.

The easiest way to prevent this is to get up on a ladder and simply remove debris by hand. You can also buy gutter cleaning accessories or shields to prevent debris from entering, but the best prevention is simply regular maintenance.

Remove Snow and Ice Buildup

If you live somewhere where you get lots of snow or ice at once, it’s important to keep it from building up on your carport roof. Snow and ice weigh a lot – it’s estimated that a quarter of an inch of ice adds about 1.5 pounds of weight per square foot. That might not sound like much, but it can add up to a few hundred pounds. Snow can weigh even more: 10 pounds or more per square foot.

This weight puts a lot of extra stress on your carport, and if left unchecked it could cause leaning, sagging, or buckling. The best way to deal with it is to get a snow rake and remove as much snow and ice as possible from your roof. You can also think ahead and order a carport with a vertical roof, which helps prevent snow and ice buildup from forming.

Learn More from Bargain Barns USA

If you want to learn more about carport maintenance and upkeep or you’re interested in getting a carport to protect your vehicles this winter, call Bargain Barns USA today. We can help you get the best carport for your needs and make sure it lasts. Call 405-872-0338 or 888-607-4060 today to learn more, or visit us on Facebook to see pictures, reviews and more helpful info.

Enclosed Storage Building for Lawn Equipment

Fri, 15 Jun 2018 20:18:00 GMT

Enclosed Storage Building

We manufacture small, economical enclosed garages that are used for storage of lawn equipment. These small steel garages are ideal for storing tractors, lawn mowers, garden tillers, and other lawn tools and equipment. Because many of us need our lawn equipment in our back yard, access can be an issue.

Access Issues

As a result of industry demand, we can custom build enclosed storage buildings in your back yard. It is no hindrance to our builders if the area is gated or has a narrow access.

Got Any Questions?

If you have any questions at all our team is always here and happy to answer any of your questions! Call today to get a free quote!

What Are Mobile Home Anchors?

Fri, 15 Jun 2018 20:18:00 GMT

Mobile Home Anchors are used to anchor the base-rail of your metal carport, steel garage, barn, or workshop. This is the preferred method when buildings are installed on the ground. Our mobile home anchors are 30″ long and have two helical disks near the bottom of the anchor.

How it is installed

The subcontractor uses an anchor machine to auger the mobile home anchors into the ground (see photo below).

How it is Attached

Once the anchor is in the ground, a bolt is placed through the side of the base-rail. The bolt goes through the eye of the anchor, a washer and a nut are placed on the end. The bolt is tightened until it is securely attached to the base-rail.

How to get Mobile Home Anchors

Mobile home anchors are used on all certified ground installations and can be purchased for use on non-certified ground installations.

Bargain Barns USA

What Size RV Cover Do I Need?

RV Covers: What Size Do I Need? (Simple Guide + Most Common Size & Cost)

Start With the Legal Road Limits (Width + Height)

What About Slide-Outs? (The Stationary “Real Life” Width)

Why 18' Wide Is the Sweet Spot

How Tall Should My RV Cover Be?

Length: Don’t Forget Your “Extras”

The Most Common RV Cover Size (and Typical Cost)

Popular Upgrades & Options to Consider

Quick Size Checklist Before You Order

Bottom Line

The Best Metal RV Covers for Winter

Metal RV Covers for Winter

Metal RV Covers Pricing

Safety Benefits of Steel Buildings

About Steel Buildings

Less Maintenance = More Safety

Protection against the Elements

Wind

Water

Earthquakes

Lightning

Fire Resistant Steel

Safety from the Start

Safety in Sustainability

Safety for Your Bottom Line

Conclusion

Comparing Wood-Frame and Steel Garages

The Cost

Time Is Money

Maintenance and the Elements

Steel Is a Sustainable Product

Simple and Flexible

And Finally

Conclusion

Tiny Homes – Why Steel May Be Your Best Choice

Choosing the Right Tiny Home

The Steel Advantage

How Much Does A Steel Tiny House Cost?

Designing Your Tiny Home

Building Your Tiny Home

Income Potential

Summary

How to Maintain Your Steel Structure

In the Beginning

Start With the Basics

Protect the Surface

Water Management ﻿

Ongoing Maintenance

Perform Bi-Annual Inspections

Give It a Scrub

Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear

And Finally

Barn Design Concepts for Any Wedding | Barn Wedding Venue

Location

Group Accommodation

Restrooms

Speaking of Ordinances

Food Service

Insurance

Installing Barn Tents

Ideal Wedding Barn Facilities

Time To Start Planning!

Constructing Your Carport While Solving the Metal Vs. Wood Dilemma

MATERIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Engineered Wood & Solid Wood

Group Accommodation

Metal Buildings

What is Galvanization?

Durability

Installation

Environmental Smart Choice

Damage & Maintenance

Costs

Summary

Choosing Your Dream Barn Loft

The Charm of Barn Structures Made Practical

Borrowing Décor From History, with Modern Comforts: “Barndominiums” and More

Budget-Friendly Tricks for Dazzling Barn Lofts

Water Management