If you’re involved in the planning and eventual construction of a given steel structure, there will be several key elements that need to be considered during these processes. One of the most important, typically near the start of the planning stage, is determining the proper size for the structure that’s being constructed.

At Wasatch Steel, we’re happy to offer a wide range of steel sheet, steel pipe, steel bar and other steel products for steel structures around Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah. Here are some of the most important considerations to be keeping in mind as you select the ideal size for a given steel structure, be it a full-on building, a smaller item like a shed, or anything else.

Purpose of the Structure

One of the first considerations you’ll need to keep in mind is the intended purpose of the structure. Is it a building for human habitation? An industrial storage facility? A bridge or other transportation-related item? The type and size of the structure should be tailored to its function.

For instance, if the structure will be a residential building, it needs to accommodate the number of occupants and its dimensions will need to take into account local building codes and other regulations. On the flip side, if it’s an industrial storage facility, the size will need to be much greater in order to accommodate whatever materials or goods are being stored.

Local Regulations and Requirements

Another key consideration when selecting the ideal size for a steel structure is local regulations and requirements. Different countries, states, and even cities may have different standards that must be met with regards to building sizes.

Some may require a certain number of square footage or other measurements be met in order for a given structure to be accepted. It’s important to research these regulations and requirements beforehand in order to make sure the structure you build will meet all necessary criteria.

Property Size and Surroundings

As you’re thinking about the ideal size for a given steel structure, it’s important to consider its property size and surroundings. If it’s a residential or commercial building, there may be certain restrictions in terms of how much space you have to work with.

Additionally, if it’s going to be located close to other structures (such as neighboring buildings), you’ll need to bear in mind their size and proximity. The structure you build needs to be able to fit in with the existing environment without creating issues or safety hazards due to overcrowding.

Budget Restrictions

As is always the case when planning any kind of structure, your budget will play a major role in determining its size. Depending on how much you have to spend, you’ll need to scale your steel structure accordingly.

If your budget is limited, you may need to look for ways of optimizing and streamlining the design process in order to get the most out of your funds. On the other hand, if cost isn’t a major concern, you can afford to be more creative with regards to size and scope.

Possible Future Expansion Needs

It’s also important to keep an eye to the future when planning the size of a steel structure. If you anticipate needing to expand it in the future, make sure to factor that into your design plans and adjust the size accordingly.

This will allow for easier expansion when the time comes without having to go through an exacting and potentially costly process of restructuring or renovation.

Related Maintenance Costs

Naturally, the larger a given structure, the more it will cost to maintain once it’s been erected. Whether we’re talking about a residential building, an industrial facility, or something else entirely, the larger it is, the more resources and time will need to be devoted to its upkeep.

Keep this in mind when selecting size for your steel structure – opting for too large of a size could result in much higher maintenance costs down the line.

In summary, there are several key factors to consider when determining the proper size for a steel structure such as its intended purpose, local regulations and requirements, property size and surroundings, budget restrictions, possible future expansion needs, and related maintenance costs. Taking all of these into account will help you get the right size for your steel structure the first time around.

At Wasatch Steel, our experienced staff can help guide you through this process and ensure that your steel structure is of the perfect size for any given situation. Contact us today to get started with this or any other project around SLC or nearby parts of Utah.