The types of tools and equipment required in order to assemble and erect the building depends on the size and complexity of the building purchased. The following is a very comprehensive list that may be of value to you if you have never assembled a metal building before. Bear in mind, that you may not need everything on this list to erect your building: spud wrench, hammer, centering punch, square, complete set of wrenches (open-end, socket, box-end), pry bar, pipe wrench, pliers, vise grip pliers, drill bits, power drill or combination power/hammer drill, screw gun, power wrench (impact wrench), nibbler (electric sheet metal cutter), level (three foot minimum), hacksaw, broom, wire brush, caulking gun (open barrel), chalk line (100’ long), channel locks, extension cord (#10-3, 2/4 way box, 250’ long), fire extinguisher (#10), load binders, plumb bob, sheet metal snips, tape measure (12’ to 25’ long, 100’ long for foundation measurements), ladder, chain, rope, hoist or forklift (should be all-terrain), come-along (power pull), saw horses, tarps, first aid kit, safety equipment (goggles, hard hat, gloves, work boots, etc.) Additional tools may be required depending on the specific requirements of the building.
If you are working with a reputable and qualified steel and metal building manufacturer, this should be no problem. If you experience any resistance at all from your manufacturer, you will probably want to go back to the drawing board and research other companies. If they are unable to provide the plans, that is a serious red flag for you and/or your company. In fact, most experienced steel building manufacturers are more familiar than their clients with what buildings are and are not allowed in certain areas. You may have already been told you couldn't buy a particular building for this exact reason. Also, keep in mind that permit requirements vary from state to state and from county to county. There are several things you can do to facilitate the permitting process for your upcoming metal building project.
- Understand the zoning. Make sure you understand the zoning limitations of the site in question. Is it zoned commercial or residential? What are the requirements for each of these areas? Are they dependent on building height, square footage, facade, etc.? All of these questions can be answered by officials at the local building department. Don't worry if you find your residential metal building is intended for a commercially zoned lot or vice versa. In almost all cases, special permits can be applied for granting permission for exceptions to current zoning regulations. That being said, the application, review and acceptance (or denial) process will take longer than normal so you will want to account for that in your project's timeline. Also, there are a myriad of metal building options. If the building you originally planned for won't work with current zoning or building requirements, there are numerous ways to make modifications and find a building style that will work with your overall goals.
- Leave yourself enough time. The permit application process takes time. A conversation with local building officials will prepare you for the average wait time for various permit requirements, which will help you create a more accurate construction calendar. And, of course, you will want to factor in extra time if any special permits or variances need to be made for your project.
If the design changes mid-stream, or modifications have to be made, it is your responsibility to check in with the building department, submit official, certified copies of the new plans and - if necessary - apply for new permits. Failure to do so can seriously impede your construction process and may result in hefty fines.
