Clear span buildings are widely utilized across industries due to their open interior spaces, versatility, and structural efficiency. Whether used for warehouses, garages, hangars, or commercial spaces, these structures require precise installation techniques to ensure durability and functionality. This article provides a detailed overview of clear span installation methods, emphasizing practical steps, design considerations, and insights from leading manufacturers and construction services.
Installation Services and Options
Several manufacturers and construction companies offer installation services to assist with the assembly of clear span buildings. These services vary in scope, depending on the client’s experience and project complexity.
ClearSpan, for example, provides in-house installation services where a team of experienced professionals can erect the structure efficiently. For clients with their own crews, ClearSpan can assign a project manager to oversee the construction process or allow the customer to complete the build independently with technical support. This flexibility ensures that installation can be tailored to project timelines and labor availability.
Installation crews are particularly valuable for custom building projects, where elements such as end walls, flooring, and lighting must be integrated during construction. Additionally, ClearSpan crews assist in foundation preparation, ensuring that structures are built on a stable base. Options include traditional poured concrete or piers, as well as the company’s proprietary Helical Anchoring System, which provides secure ground-level support without the need for extensive excavation.
For those interested in DIY installation, ClearSpan also provides fabric recovers—durable covers with industry-leading warranties that extend the life of the structure. These recovers are available for any fabric-covered building, regardless of brand, and can be installed with minimal assistance from ClearSpan technicians.
American Steel Span offers a four-step installation process that is designed for ease of assembly. The process begins with pouring a simple floating foundation, typically using materials available at local building supply stores. Next, the steel arches are bolted together on the ground, ensuring accuracy and stability. Once assembled, the arches are raised into place, often without the need for heavy equipment. Finally, endwalls and doors are installed, with pre-cut and pre-drilled components designed for a secure, long-lasting fit.
This method emphasizes cost-effectiveness and time efficiency, making it ideal for DIY builders who are looking to minimize labor and equipment costs.
Self-Erection and Technical Support
Hansen Pole Buildings also offers clear span structures that are designed for self-erection. The company notes that many of its clients successfully construct the buildings on their own, often saving significant amounts in labor costs. This is made possible through detailed structural blueprints, illustrated installation manuals, and unlimited technical support from professionals with hands-on experience in post-frame construction.
The company recommends that clients consider self-erection, especially given the current national shortage of building erectors, which has led to long wait times for professional crews. This trend underscores the importance of DIY readiness, with instructions that are accessible to individuals with varying levels of experience.
For example, the company highlights that elderly individuals and families with teenagers have successfully erected buildings, demonstrating that the process is not limited to professional contractors. The use of 24" x 36" blueprints provides a detailed guide for each component, while the step-by-step manual ensures that assembly is both accurate and efficient.
Additionally, the company’s limited lifetime structural warranty reinforces the reliability of the structure, giving clients peace of mind that their investment is protected.
Design and Structural Advantages
Clear span buildings are engineered to provide unobstructed interior spaces, eliminating the need for interior support columns. This design allows for greater flexibility in layout and use, as tenants can reconfigure the space without structural constraints. For instance, a building originally used for manufacturing can be repurposed for retail or office space with minimal modifications.
This versatility is a major advantage, particularly in industries where space requirements frequently change. The absence of interior columns also improves space utilization, creating direct pathways for movement and workflow, which is especially beneficial in production environments.
From a cost perspective, clear span buildings are often more efficient to construct compared to traditional methods. Since steel components are pre-engineered and delivered as kits, on-site assembly is faster and requires fewer concrete footings. This not only reduces labor costs but also shortens the overall construction timeline.
Additionally, cold-formed steel (CFS) is another popular option for clear span construction. CFS buildings are lightweight yet durable, offering high resistance to pests, rot, and fire. The material is also eco-friendly, being fully recyclable and supporting sustainable construction practices. CFS structures are commonly used for warehouses, garages, and commercial facilities, providing a cost-effective alternative to wood or traditional steel framing.
One of the key benefits of CFS is its high strength-to-weight ratio, which simplifies transportation and on-site handling. This makes it a practical choice for projects where logistics and material transport are concerns.
Energy Efficiency and Environmental Protection
Clear span buildings also offer energy-saving benefits, especially when equipped with translucent fabric covers. For example, Big Top’s clear span structures use a fabric cover that allows natural light to enter the interior, significantly reducing the need for artificial lighting. The cover is also designed to repel 99.95% of UV radiation, helping to maintain a stable internal temperature.
During warm months, the interior of the structure is typically 15 degrees cooler than the outside, while in cooler months, the interior remains 15 degrees warmer. This natural temperature regulation can reduce the load on HVAC systems, resulting in long-term energy savings and a more comfortable working environment.
In addition to energy efficiency, clear span buildings provide protection from the elements, including rain, snow, and wind. This makes them suitable for a wide range of applications, including warehouse storage, maintenance shelters, military hangars, and sunshades.
Challenges and Limitations
Despite their advantages, clear span buildings come with certain challenges and limitations, particularly in terms of initial costs. Since these structures are custom-engineered for specific job site conditions, the design and fabrication process tends to be more expensive than standard construction methods. Additionally, steel is generally more costly than wood or other framing materials, which can increase upfront expenses.
Another limitation is the requirement for precise planning and execution during installation. While many clear span buildings are designed for self-erection, the process still demands a basic level of technical knowledge and coordination, especially when assembling large or complex structures. This can be a barrier for individuals or teams without prior construction experience.
However, these limitations are often offset by the long-term benefits of clear span buildings, including lower maintenance costs, energy savings, and adaptability to changing needs.
Conclusion
Clear span buildings are a versatile and efficient solution for a wide range of applications, from industrial warehouses to commercial storage and event spaces. Their unobstructed interiors, customizable layouts, and cost-effective construction methods make them an attractive option for businesses and individuals seeking a reliable and adaptable building solution.
Installation options vary depending on the client’s experience and project requirements, with many manufacturers offering in-house crews, project management, and DIY-friendly kits. These services ensure that the construction process is accurate, efficient, and tailored to the specific needs of the project.
From foundation preparation to final assembly, clear span installation involves a series of well-defined steps that are supported by detailed blueprints, technical manuals, and professional guidance. Whether built by a professional team or a self-erecting crew, these structures are designed to provide long-term durability, energy efficiency, and adaptability.
For those considering clear span buildings, understanding the installation process, design considerations, and available support options is essential for making an informed decision. With the right planning and resources, clear span construction can deliver a functional, cost-effective, and sustainable building solution that meets the evolving needs of modern industries.