Fantastic Ways to Customize your Carport

Your carport isn’t only a place to protect your vehicles, It’s also an extension of yourself, and what better way to express yourself than some unique and stylish customization options. At Keen’s Buildings, we aim to please. Here are a few unique ideas to make your carport your very own or to add functionality to a seemingly single functional structure.

Mimic the look of another building

Just because your metal structure is a carport doesn’t mean it has to look like one. You can create an entirely different look and feel to this seemingly simple structure by designing it to look like another building. Carports that resemble barns are very popular and can create a rustic look and feel to your property regardless of where you live. That paired with a few matching accessories on your property and you can create a reasonably homely environment.

Enclose the sides for added style and protection

Enclosing the sides of your carport is not a novel Idea. It creates a cozy confined space, which facilitates a sense of privacy. Having a wall can add much functionality to your carport in general. Whether you decide to hang tools up or display awards, this wall can be used for many things, plus it provides added protection against the elements.

Add a space for storage

Simply because you’ve opted for a carport as opposed to a garage doesn’t mean you have to go without storage space. You can easily add a room to your carport. What you use the room for is entirely up to you. You can use it for extra storage space, create a mini-workshop, or even a mudroom to kick off your shoes to keep your abode from getting dirty.

Here at Keens Buildings, we like to facilitate dreams.  All of our structures are entirely customizable, and you can always add to it later. Contact us today for more information.

Creating your Metal Workshop with Keen’s Buildings

When compared to its wooden counterparts’ steel buildings are far more durable and cost-effective. Metal structures are also resident to fires, mildew and even rust, making it the perfect material from which to construct your metal workshop!

Power and water

When constructing a metal building there is much to consider. If you are building a workshop, chances are you’ll want to have water and electricity. Call your utility company before you start building to find out any relevant information regarding the connection. Additionally, you’ll want to determine exactly where you want to place your breaker panel within your workshop. The majority of companies will often want your breaker panel as close to the meter as possible.

Lighting is also important, allowing areas for natural light to enter your workshop can help save on the lighting bill. If you plan on utilizing skylights be sure that they are placed correctly to allow for optimal lighting within your workshop.

When should I start construction on my workshop?

Late spring is often the best time to begin construction as the ground will be dry. Additionally, you’ll have ample time to complete your structure prior to winter (as well as getting any necessary paperwork and documentation in order). Metal buildings don’t take nearly as long to construct as buildings made out of other materials. If you are planning on utilizing your workshop year round, then insulation is a must. Insulation is good because it will protect your building and help keep condensation to a minimum. Although steel buildings are resistant to rues thanks to their zinc and aluminum alloy coating, excessive exposure to water can still cause damage, decreasing the lifespan of your building.

Roofing

The roof of your building will be exposed to much stress such as the sun and rain. For that reason, Keen’s Buildings ensure that the roofs we create are strong, durable, and require as little maintenance as possible.

Here at Keen’s Buildings, we put the customer first. We make sure all of our buildings are structurally sound and able to washstand incredibly harsh conditions. Contact us today to receive your free quote!

Keen’s Buildings: Building your Dream Garage

A metal garage is a fantastic way to protect your vehicles from the elements; however, there is so much more to it than that. A quality metal garage can increase your house resale value, making the investment well worth it! When it comes to building a garage, it’s never a bad idea to err on the side of more than less. Life often has unexpected turns, and you may have to upgrade to a larger vehicle. Investing in a large metal garage up front will save you the work of having to increase the size later, should you ever need to.

Benefits of a Metal Garage

Metal structures do not require support beams; this means when it comes to space you’ll get more bang for your buck! In addition to that, metal is fire resistant and not susceptible to rot, termite infestations, or warping. A metal building can also be constructed in a significantly shorter time frame than their wooden counterparts.

Metal is also eco-friendly. The vast majority of metal buildings are created from recycled materials. The best part is that if you ever don’t need your metal building anymore, it can be recycled or easily moved.

How much space Do I need?

Generally, the amount of space you’ll need is relevant to the size of the vehicle you are storing. Naturally, if you are planning on storing a larger vehicle, you’ll need a larger space. You’ll also need to take into account the necessary space you’ll need to move around in comfortably. If you are planning to use your garage as a workshop, as well then more space will be required. If you are adding a workshop add about ten extra feet to your structure layout, this will allow you to fit a workbench and a tool storage area comfortably.

Customization and other utility and styling choices

To capitalize on your investment, if you wish to resell your property, you’ll want to make the garage and your home match. Depending on the style of your house and property one important consideration is whether or not you want your garage attached or detached to your home.

Installing the same panels for your garage as the ones on your house will create a uniform look to your property. If you want utilities (such as lighting and water), you’ll need additional permits. Be sure also to follow local building codes. If building regulations are not abided by you may have to rebuild all or part of your building. You may also have difficulties selling your house.

Here at Keen’s Buildings, we take great pride in providing excellent customer service and quality products! If you have any questions or inquiries, contact us today! We would love to hear from you.

Keen’s Buildings: The Problem with Renting in Florida or Georgia

The True Cost of Renting

Renting seems like a good idea, particularly if you are living in Florida or certain parts of Georgia, where the cost of living is high. The unfortunate truth is that renting is really only okay for short periods of time. This is because after a certain point you’ll start to see diminished returns. In the long run, you will end up paying more for renting than you would have if you actually purchased the property.

Renting comes what a whole host of disadvantages, such as rules and restrictions when it comes to freedom of use and renovations to the property. Additionally, there is no guarantee that the lease will be renewed on the property. This will undoubtedly leave you in a stressful situation with you having to figure out relocation arrangements. Perhaps the biggest issue is that the chances of you ever recovering the money you spent renting the property is zero. Allow me to explain. When you buy property, it is costly up front but when it is paid off, not only will you have the freedom to make alterations. You’ll also be able to resell the property if you ever decide to relocate. This means that you can recover some of the money you spent on the property.

You can also make money off your purchased property even without selling it. For example, you can rent it out to others, and you can potentially save money in the long run through tax deductions. We understand that owning a metal building can be the cause of apprehension for some. After all, there is maintenance and upkeep, that you’ll have to worry about. However, the cost to maintain a metal building is actually pretty inexpensive.

Many people in Florida and Georgia choose Keens’ Buildings. Here is why:

  • Excellent financing options
  • $0 Down financing available
  • Free Setup
  • Free Delivery
  • Custom Designs Available
  • 5 Locations to serve you
  • Largest volume dealer in Florida.
  • Largest volume dealer in Georgia
  • Military and first responder discounts

If you need a metal building You’ve come to the right place. Keen’s Buildings has helped countless people in Georgia and Florida get the building they needed. Get your free quote today, or call us if you have any questions. We would love to hear from you!

Flex Space: The answer to your space-related issues

Flex Space

Traditionally, buildings are made with very solid and sturdy materials. Bricks, cement, and cinderblocks are quite common for building materials. The only trouble with building out of materials such as these is that they are incredibly difficult to make alterations to. This may be a problem because it is not uncommon for a building to not be necessary anymore (like when a business relocates). Luckily, buildings are often repurposed and used for things other than what they were originally built for. One example is converting what was once a residential area (such as an apartment building) into a business headquarter.

For a business owner deciding when to expand is an important decision. Expand too soon one will be left with too much space that is not utilized in the correct manner. Early expansion can also result a cost the business may not have been ready to make. Expand too late and the business could lose out on opportunities.

In some cases, a business will want to acquire the entire building. In other cases, a business will not want to commit to purchasing or using the entire space. That’s where flex space comes in. Flex space is an industrial space in which the space can be changed to meet the needs of whoever is using it. This means that for businesses doing things like adding or removing offices is fairly easy. Space is also significantly easier to repurpose to suit the needs of the business. Flex space is a flexible space that has the potential to become a different type of space or environment.

Can I utilize flex space with a prefabricated building?

Absolutely! In fact, flex space is perfect for buildings that have already been made. Flex space puts the control of your building layout in your hands. You can easily change the spaces and easily repurpose them. This is perfect for expanding into spaces that you haven’t wanted to incorporate and is perfect for business growth. Putting up walls (temporary or fixed) is incredibly easy.

There really isn’t a construction method that allows for easy expansion like flex space. If you’re looking to create a space for your building look no further. Keen’s Buildings will work with you every step of the way, from selecting materials, to customizing and installation. Contact us today for more information.

Live in Florida? Keep your RV in Top Shape for your Next Trip using This One Tip

Keeping your RV Safe for your Next Trip

An RV is the fun and easy way to travel and really enjoy the journey, not just the destinations. Plenty of people want or even have an RV, travel trailer, motor home, or camper. Traveling cross country with your friends and loved ones is a fantastic way to bond and grow closer, making an RV a great investment. Memories are priceless and being able to create those memories is truly a valuable experience.

With both a financial and experience-based investment made it’s only natural that you’ll want to keep it safe. Protecting your RV safe is crucial to ensure that it will last for years to come.  The weather, neighbors’ kids, or, if you live in Florida, the ocean air, can all damage your RV.

How Florida conditions can damage your vehicle:

There are plenty of perks when it comes to living near the ocean. The cool ocean breeze, the sun, and beautiful views are just a few of the many things that attract people to the state of Florida. Unfortunately, that nice ocean air and the intense sun can reap havoc on your vehicle’s paint job. This happens because the sun opens pores in the paint. The open pores increase the absorption if the salty moisture. This causes corrosion. Paint is not the only thing that Florida’s unique conditions will damage, brake calipers, nuts, and bolts can also corrode as well.

You may feel that during the winter with the humidity decreasing your vehicle is safer, but this is simply not the case. Because dew accumulates far more during the winter than the summer the chances of corrosion skyrockets during the cooler months. The longer a vehicle is exposed to these conditions the greater the resulting damage will be.

How to Keep your RV safe:

There is a period of about five to seven years where you won’t see much damage. However, constant exposure to the Florida elements without protection will damage your vehicle. Accumulation of rust can spell costly repairs so it’s a good idea to take preemptive measures to prevent this from happening. In addition to taking the normal care measures to keep your vehicle safe (i.e. washing and waxing) it’s also a good idea to store your RV in a safe place, such as a prefab metal building.

Unlike other vehicles, an RV is not easily stored in a typical garage, so unless you already have accommodations, you’ll have to prepare a special storage unit to keep your RV safe from the elements. Keen’s buildings will work with you to ensure that you have the proper storage for your RV. Our team of experts can also advise you on which materials will be useful, so you don’t have to take a college course on building materials, and can instead focus on other things, like where you want to go next.

Life is an adventure, and we at Keen’s Buildings want to make sure that all the elements you need to carry out that adventure is as safe as possible. Trust professionals, trust Keen’s Buildings. Contact us to learn more about what we can do for you!

Why Metal Storage Sheds Are Superior to Wooden Sheds

When it comes to storage, one of the most popular avenues is a metal storage shed. People all over America prefer to have metal storage sheds instead of the traditional wooden ones. There are a lot of ways metal storage sheds are superior to the wooden ones. A metal storage shed is more environmentally friendly, energy-efficient, durable, and long-lasting.

There are several ways you can use your metal shed. For instance, you can use it as a workshop, home office, tool shop, or for storage purposes.

Advantages of Choosing Metal Storage Garages

You may be reluctant to choose a metal storage shed over a wooden shed because of the cost, but it is actually superior in the long run. Getting a metal storage shed is an investment that will stay with you for years to come. Additionally, their maintenance is also easier.

Following are some of the advantages of metal storage sheds. After reading these amazing benefits, you will definitely see how the metal storage sheds are far better than wooden sheds.

Less Maintenance

Like we mentioned before, wooden sheds are harder to maintain as compared to metal storage sheds. Wooden sheds are more likely to suffer from structural damage than steel ones. A few things that can cause damage to the wooden sheds are fires, floods, and storms. And let’s not forget the deadliest disaster – termites. Yes, termites can eat away the wooden foundations of your shed, leaving you with a skeleton. Getting rid of termites will cost you an arm and a leg, figuratively, of course.

All these issues will go away when you have a metal storage shed. You will not have to worry about termites, damp conditions, or fire hazards when you have a metal storage shed.

Much More Secure

Have you ever heard that a burglar cut through a metal storage shed and stole things? We are sure that your answer is no. It is much easier to penetrate through a wooden shed. Metal storage sheds will ensure that your stored items remain secure from the clutches of burglars and thieves.

No Need for Foundation

Yes, you read that right. In most cases, you will not require a foundation for your metal storage shed. This will help you cut down on the installation cost significantly. All you need for the installation of your new metal storage shed is a flat surface, and you are good to go.

Modern Designs

If you are picturing your metal storage shed as a tin box, then you are wrong. It is much more modern than that. You can renovate and paint it just the way you like to add a modern touch. Additionally, your metal storage shed can be custom-designed to suit your needs.

Are you looking for reliable vendors who will solve all your storage problems? Look no further, because you just found the best one. Keen’s Building will help you get your dream metal storage shed. Contact us today and get your storage shed delivered.

What You Need to Know About Steel Building Insulation

When it comes to residential and commercial structures, most people lean toward steel buildings. Metal structures are not only durable but also long-lasting. However, there is one key thing to keep in mind keep in mind before installing a metal building and that is insulation.

Metal is a good conductor of both cold and heat. The roof and the side of the metal buildings consist of metal sheeting. The temperature in and around the steel building will impact the metal sheet because the temperature is easily transferred. Therefore, if the temperature shifts significantly inside or outside the metal building, water condensation can form on the metal sheets.

Among other things, insulation helps prevent water condensation damage. Because of its unique properties insulation works as a barrier between the heat transfer from the outside to the inside and vice-versa. Additionally, insulation helps reduce the temperature of the metal and reduces water condensation.

What Is R-Value?

Different insulation is graded by R-values. R-value measures the effectiveness of the insulation. The higher the R-value of the insulation, the greater the resistance to temperature it can provide your steel building.

Different Types of Insulation

There are several different types of insulations that you can use on your steel building. A few things to keep in mind when you are choosing insulation are your budget and your unique project needs.

Different materials used for insulation and their benefits:

Loose Fill Insulation

Loose fill insulation is perfect for buildings that have irregular space because it can fill up the places that are hard to access. While primarily used in pre-constructed metal buildings, loose fill insulation is used in new constructions.

Loose fill insulation is dispersed by being blown into small holes in the walls. It is one of the most eco-friendly insulation options and also helps you save money on utility expenses.

Blanket Insulation

This type of insulation is perfect for newly constructed buildings. Blanket insulation comes in large sheets or rolls. Because of this blanket insulation is often used to fill the pre-determined gaps in buildings. It is important that blanket insulation is installed correctly to gain the full advantage of the insulation.

Rigid Board Insulation

This insulation has a high R-value that helps improve the transfer of heat and cold. The rigid board insulation works as a barricade. This barricade prevents excess water condensation. For this reason, this method is often used to cover larger areas.

A lot of people combine rigid board insulation with other types of insulation to make it more effective.

Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation is a popular choice because it provides heat and cold barrier in irregular spaces, like around ventilation ducts and pipes. This insulation expands and provides a cushion of protection to the specialized areas.

These are some of the options that you can choose from. We’re experts in metal building insulation. Here at Keen’s Buildings, the job is always done right! Our representatives will give you excellent advice on what material to choose.

Tips to Maintain Your Metal Garage

Maintaining Your Metal Garage – Some Helpful Tips


Most people favor a metal garage over a wooden one as it is easier to maintain. With a wooden garage, you have to put a lot of effort to keep it presentable. You don’t need to spend that much time or money on the maintenance of a metal garage.

However, this does not mean that you don’t pay proper attention to your metal garage. Your metal garage is an investment. And to make sure that it remains in good condition, you need to keep it properly maintained.

Luckily, we have some tips that will help you keep your steel garage in top shape.

Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance of your metal garage will ensure that it lasts longer. If you ignore the maintenance, you might end up paying a heftier amount in repairs than you would have if you were aware of the problem beforehand. Following tips can help extend the life of your metal garage:

•        Regular Checks

Regular checkups of your steel garage can help you detect problems before they exaggerate. When left undetected, the minor problems can grow into bigger ones that can bring trouble in the future. For instance, if there is a rust problem and you don’t detect it, the structure of your metal garage can be compromised.

•        Take Action Quickly

Anything from weather to unwanted guests like squirrels can damage the structure of your metal garage. Steel garages are sturdier than those made from other materials, but with time, they can get damaged. Any minor problem should be dealt with immediately before to the deterioration progresses. Taking action promptly will save your time as well as your money.

•        Keeping Pests Away

Pests are a problem no one can escape from. These tiny little creatures have the ability to cause havoc in your steel garage. Are the bugs bugging you? Do you see critters, rodents, and bugs crawling around the structure? Well, you need to take care of them immediately or they can ruin your belongings stored in the metal garage. Don’t let the cuteness of the raccoon fool you. It needs to go.

•        Let it Snow

If you live in a cold area, then there is another thing that can threaten the life of your steel garage – snow. The buildup of snow and rain can cause damage to your steel garage. As time passes, the snow can have an impact on the roof of your metal garage. Make sure that you remove as much snow as you can reach. Adding gutters in the structure can help drain the excess water from rain as well.

•        Cleanliness is Necessary

Cleanliness of your steel garage is necessary. A dirty garage is an invitation for pests and animals to set up camp. Regular cleaning will ensure that nothing harms the things stored inside the garage.

You also have to clean the outside of your metal garage. Leaves, twigs, and grime can coat on the upper later of your garage. It can block the gutters which will prevent the water from draining, compromising the structural integrity of your steel garage.

These tips will surely help increase the life of your metal garage.

Do you want to get a metal garage made? Then, you have come to the right place as Keen’s Buildings are experts when it comes to building metal garages. We can build any size of steel garage you want. Our skilled contractors will make sure that your garage is built with care and excellence. Get in touch now.

Metal Garage Workshop – Things You Need to Set It up

Are you planning to get a garage workshop? Conflicted about which one you ought to choose – metal or wooden? Well, don’t worry because we are here to help you make a decision. And not just that, we will also tell you what things you need to set it up.

What Material to Choose

Now, this is one of the most common debates that we hear – which garage workshop is better: wooden or metal. The answer is simple – metal.

The reason why we prefer metal garage workshop over a wooden one is durability and maintenance. Wooden sheds need more care and maintenance, whereas metal garage workshop doesn’t require that close monitoring. The other reason why a metal garage workshop is superior to a wooden one is due to its durability.

Come snow or rain, a metal garage workshop will keep your tools safe. On the other hand, the wooden garage will have a hard time doing that as the wood can get damp and attract insects like termites and carpenter ants.

Things You Need to Set up

Now that you have chosen the metal garage workshop, you need to start focusing on things you need to set up. Use the following guide to set up the ultimate garage workshop:

Storage

The first thing you need to work on is storage. You need plenty of storage to make space work. Make sure that you make the most of every surface. While storing your tools, make sure you remember the place of each one.

Organizing Your Metal Garage Workshop

Keeping your workplace organized is essential. If your metal garage workshop is not organized, you will end up doubling your work. Make sure every tool has a place. Once you are done working with it, you store it in its correct place.

Also, keep an eye on the inventory. You don’t want to run out of nails in the middle of the workday.

Electrical Outlets

You will need electrical outlets to operate your power tools. Most people don’t judge the distance from the electric outlets and the worktable. Make sure that you install the outlet close to your workplace. It will surely be a nightmare if you realize you can’t reach the electrical outlet after you are done designing your metal garage workshop.

Tools

Apart from the power tools, the following tools are a must-have in every metal garage workshop:

  • Drill press
  • Table saw
  • Band saw
  • Compound miter saw
  • Belt sander
  • Anvil/vise
  • Grinder

Are you ready to slap on your work gloves and head to your own metal garage workshop? We know the perfect place where you can get an excellent one. Keen’s Buildings will provide you with the best metal garage workshop.