By Carports • Construction • Design • Metal Carports • Steel Carports 0 Comments

Keen’s Buildings: What to look for in a Carport

On the surface, it may seem like all carports are the same. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when you are selecting the perfect carport to keep your vehicle safe. You’ll want a carport that can withstand unfavorable weather and last for years to come. If you are living in Flordia or Georgia, you’ve come to the right place! Here at Keen’s Buildings, we specialize in steel constructions, such as carports. We have a wide array of customizability options so you can build your carport to suit you!

Gauge for strength

When you have a carport built, it’s probably safe to say that you want something that will last. A sturdy carport that can not only stand against the test of time but the weather is ideal. That’s why gauge is important. The gauge of steel os the thickness of the steel. The lower the gauge, the thicker the steel. We use 14 gauge steel, which is able to withstand the harsh environmental climates of Georgia and Florida.

Roofs

Your roof is an important aspect of our carport, so it will take the brunt of the weather. You need a sturdy roof that is not susceptible to being ripped off in the event of strong winds. In general, roofs can be placed into one of two categories a vertical roof and a horizontal roof. The vertical roof has the panels running vertically along the roof’s slope, with the horizontal roof having the panels run horizontally up the slope. A horizontal roof may make it more difficult for rain and snow to fall off the occur roof, while a vertical roof tends to cost more. In a state like Florida, where heavy rains occur, it may be best to opt for a vertical roof.

Customize your carport

All of our constructions are completely customizable! If you want to add doors, change the size, design, and capacity of your carport, we will gladly accommodate you.

All of our carports are carefully installed by our installation experts. With us, everything you need to bring your ideal carport into reality will be carefully constructed from initial planning to final installation! If you are living in Flordia or Georgia an in need of quality steel structures, then look no further than Keen’s Buildings.

By Construction • Metal Buildings • Metal Garages • Metal Sheds • Metal Storage Buildings • Steel Buildings • Steel Garage 0 Comments

Keen’s Buildings: Why you should choose steel for your garage

Steel is the material of choice when it comes to commercial buildings, and for very good reason. Many of the same reasons why steel is such a desired material for commercial buildings can also be applied to a steel garage.

Low maintenance

When housing your investments, like your tools or a vehicle, you don’t want to worry about the protectant being subject to damage. Steel is resistant to many things that can lead a wooden building to ruin, like fire, water damage, termites. With a protective layer of paint, steel is also resistant to water damage, unlike wood which can swell and rot. If this happened, the cost of repairs for a wooden structure can take a long time to repair and will cost you greatly.

Quick to construct

A steel building is constructed significantly quicker than wooden buildings. Depending on the type you can have your steel garage constructed and ready for use in a matter of weeks (as opposed the several months, as is common with most wooden buildings).

Cost-effective

Steel is not only durable and long-lasting, but it’s also cost-effective. With proper cleaning and maintenance, when required, your steel garage can last for an incredibly long time. Steel buildings have been known to last for upwards of 80 years! And even when they have outlived their use, the material can easily be moved and recycled.

Eco-friendly

Steel is significantly easier on the environment than wood. Wood takes years to grow and with the water, and minerals needed to produce a healthy tree a lot of resources are used. Steel, on the other hand, can be recycled and used without adding further damage to the environment.

Reduced insurance cost

Because steel is so durable, many insurance companies will reduce your insurance rates for steel constructions. Additionally, you’ll increase the value of your property if you ever decide to sell it.

Steel is a fantastic material to construct garages from. If you need help selecting a style for your garage, or just want to know your options, Contact us today!

 

By Construction • Design • Do It Yourself • Sheds 0 Comments

Keen’s Buildings: How to Convert your Old Shed into a Hideaway

Clubhouses and hideaways are appealing. Having your own unique space can be a truly comforting thing, and in a relatively crowded and popular location, such as Florida, it’s certainly appealing. If you have a shed in your backyard, you can easily convert it into a hideaway using these tips.

A fresh coat of paint

The first step is to give your old shed a paint job, inside and out. Because sheds are often small, this should be a relatively quick and painless endeavor. You can paint your shed to match your house or blend it with the surrounding area.

Repair

If your shed has any cracks or damages have them repaired. Sealing any cracks will prevent unwelcome intruders, like bugs, from entering through the cracks. You can use caulk and weather stripping to create an airtight space for your soon to be hideaway. If your shed is very old, you may need to replace entire walls or larger sections of the shed.

Install some windows

To add some natural light into your new hideaway, consider installing some skylight windows. In the moonlight, a window pointing towards the sky can create a memorizing effect. If you choose to you can have a skylight window that opens to allow some fresh air in, in this way you can enjoy some of the wonderful benefits of the outdoors in privacy.

Insulation

Insulation is excellent for energy conservation and condensation management. With proper insulation, your hideaway can be comfortable inside regardless of the season.

Add air conditioning or heating

In addition to insulation air conditioning and heating means you can control the temperature with ease. In Florida, air conditioning can be a saving grace. Just make sure that you allocate the space necessary for the installation.

Lighting

Many sheds only have one lightbulb, and for a small storage shed, that’s enough. However, when repurposing, you shed, you may want to add more lighting. Overhead lights and lamps are perfect to have if you plan to read or study. You can also install lights outside of your shed if you plan to use your hideaway in the evening.

Extra space

You can always add additional rooms and space to your shed. Many storage sheds are built with shelves and hooks. This is fantastic, as you’ll already have an area to store things. Think twice before tearing down shelve and hooks; they may be useful!

Repurpose old furniture

If you have any old furniture or benches, they can become useful assets for your newly refurbished building. If your furniture is a little rough, you can repair it. Sanding rough surfaces and adding a fresh coat of paint can go a long way when it comes to salvaging old furniture.

Replacing the door

The type of door you use can say a lot about the type of building you have. A simple door design can create a very welcoming atmosphere. You can add a screen door, patio, or porch to create a homely, welcoming feel.

The possibilities for your hideaway are endless. From purpose to ascetics, you can create a secondary space to be used however you want.

 

By Carports • Construction • Metal Carports • Steel Carports 0 Comments

Keen’s Buildings: Selecting the Best Carport for You

If you have a recreational vehicle, a carport can offer protection for your RV between trips. There are many different carports to choose from, so it can be difficult selecting the right one. To help you choose the ideal carport for you here are a few things to take into consideration.

Your carport’s primary purpose

The purpose of your carport will help you make crucial decisions about your construction. The size of your RV, the amount of protection you want to provide your vehicle, and your future plans (like if you want to buy another recreational vehicle) can all impact the size, function, and look of your carport.

Where will you choose to install your carport

Firstly, you’ll want to select an area that has enough space for the installation, ideally on level ground. If the ground is not level, you may have to level the area. Which foundation you want is another thing to consider.

Building codes

Your geographic location will also determine some aspects of your building. Additionally, certain areas will require certification for your structure. It’s essential for buildings to withstand high winds in areas prone to thunderstorms (like Florida) or weight from the snow.

Whether

Knowing the typical weather for your region will help you make design choices that best protect your carport. If you live in Florida, you’ll want a carport that is able to sustain high winds, while also offering optimal protection from the sun.

Preferences

Lastly, there are your personal preferences to consider. What do you want your carport to look like? Are there additional elements you want for your steel construction? How tall and wide would you like your carport to be? Here at Keen’s Buildings, we offer many customizability options for all of our buildings and constructions. To learn more about the many different options, you have, contact us today.

By Construction • Metal Buildings • Steel Buildings 0 Comments

Selecting a Foundation: Things you need to know before an Installation

It can be exciting getting a custom building constructed; however, there are a few things you can do to make the entire process go smoother.

Check out building codes, with local authorities and your home owner’s association to see if there are any permits required, social rules, or regulations you need to abide by. In the case of permits, you can find some relevant information online. Fill out any required paperwork before having your metal building installed. If your building requires water or electricity you can have a plumber or electrician visit the site. In many cases, it is easier to have electrical lines and pipes ready and installed before the construction process of your metal building.

Determining your foundation

Deciding whether you want to have your building installed on a soil foundation or a concrete foundation is important because it plays a role in the flooring of your building. Keep in mind is that there may be some work involved when it comes to having your foundation installed.

Soil

If you want a soil foundation, here are three steps you can take to make the process easier.

–    Firstly, you’ll want to remove any vegetation from around the installation site. Having vegetation present will weaken the soil potentially compromising the anchoring of your structure.

–    Select a level area. You can create a level area by compacting the dirt in and around the site.

–    Clear any debris from the installation site.

Depending on the construction

Concrete

Like with a soil foundation, you’ll first want to start with removing any vegetation from the site.  Here are a few more things you need to do if you want a concrete foundation.

–    Determine your boundaries and level the area where the concrete needs to be poured. The state you are living in and the construction you are building will determine some aspects of your boundaries and the amount of concrete you need.

–    If you are certifying your building take note of any required regulations before the concrete is poured to ensure that it meets building codes.

–    Because concrete needs to set, typically for no less than 72 hours; you’ll need to prepare the installation of your building to provide ample time for the concrete to cure.

Selecting the proper foundation for your project is the first step in creating your dream, metal building. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

 

 

By Construction • Do It Yourself • Metal Buildings • Steel Buildings • Tips and Tricks 0 Comments

Things You Need to Know Before You Start Constructing Your Metal Building

The decision to construct a metal building is a great one. There are many factors to your metal building that you have likely considered. The type, function, and aesthetics of what will be your new property are all things that have probably crossed your mind. However, there are also other factors you should consider. These considerations aren’t about the construction, but about the company itself and the quality of the products and services they provide.

Whom you decide to have constructed your metal building can be just as important as the materials, and other decisions regarding the building itself. This is because different companies may use materials of different quality, that means if you have two different companies build the same building type there will be variations between the buildings. For that reason, it’s always wise to research the company you have building for you. Look at customer reviews and complaints made to the Better Business Bureau. Thoroughly examine the company and their history to see if they are reputable. Be sure to ask about the manufacturer qualifications and process to obtain more information regarding building materials.

Low Price Doesn’t Equal Good Quality

Low price doesn’t always mean you’re getting good quality. Sometimes a higher rate may be worth it considering the cost of quality materials. Having a flimsy metal building negates its purpose. Be sure that a discount price doesn’t also mean that the quality of your construction is discounted as well.

In today’s time, there are a plethora of scammers who only want to take your money and leave you without anything. Be sure that those whom you have constructing your building are a real entity. A metal building dealer won’t have any problems verifying this for you as they will have a central location (or locations) to verify the authenticity of their existence. If you have any doubts, it’s okay to ask if they have a real office.

Do your research

Check to see if the company you have constructing your building serves your area. Far too often companies claim to be nationwide, but only serving people in specific regions. This can be an incredibly frustrating situation to deal with and certainly something you don’t want to find out after you’ve spent time (or even money) trying to put a building together.

Ask About Customizability Options

Each metal building company has a specific process when it comes to constructing buildings; however, see if they also allow for custom buildings. While having a metal building is excellent, it can be even better if the building fits the specifications you desire. Don’t let a pushy salesperson or anyone bully you into making a purchase you aren’t comfortable with. You want a company that strives to understand what you need from your metal building and truly listen, understand, and strive to meet those needs.

The Understand the Buying Process

Finally, understand the buying process. Also, any fees you may incur before, during, and after the construction phase. A good company will walk you through it and be upfront about what you can expect. Additionally, they will let you know if anything could change during the process.

At Keen’s Buildings, you’re not just another sale or a person for us to turn a profit. We value each one of our customers and strive to meet the unique needs of their project. Contact us today if you have any questions, we would love to hear from you.

By Construction • Metal Buildings • Steel Buildings 0 Comments

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!

By Construction • Design • Keen's Buildings • Specialty 0 Comments

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.

By Construction • Metal Buildings 0 Comments

How Technology Has Revolutionized the Construction Business

 

The breakneck pace with which technology has advanced in the past decade has impacted every single industry, and the construction industry is no different. Construction projects that once used to be time-consuming and expensive, are now completed quickly and for a fraction of the price, all thanks to the advancement of technology. The construction industry has historically resisted technological upgrades, but technology has enveloped human lives so completely that it was bound to happen.

One could say that technology has revolutionized the construction business, as information and data are now readily accessible to everyone in the construction project. Important documentation and blueprints can be shared from remote locations, to add greater convenience into the lives of all involved. This has meant fewer delays and mistakes made during a construction project. In 2018, there have been several tools that have automated work processes with robot machines and new applications changing the way buildings are designed and constructed.

Construction companies that want to be successful must take full advantage of the different technologies impacting the construction industries. Apart from that, they will also require employees who are technologically competent to keep pace with these innovations. Our focus right now is going to be on how technology has revolutionized the construction business, and what technologies have made an impact.

1.    Project Management Software

Online collaboration has become easier with several applications that offer real-time project management solutions. It has made life easier for companies managing multiple projects, as you can keep everything organized, and ensure that common problems like time tracking and generating reports and deadlines are easily dealt with and without any delays or mistakes.

2.    Robots

Automated earth-moving machines have made construction faster, safer, and more cost-effective as robots can do tasks faster than humans. This means a faster pace of production with less errors, and lower health and safety concerns. Robotic excavators also reshape construction sites with detailed specifications, to make things easier for all involved.

3.    VR-AR

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies allow you to visualize a space before its constructed with impeccable details. You can get accurate measurements, virtual walk-throughs and check the material details before work starts on the project. These technologies have reduced safety risks, resolved time issues, lowered labor costs, and allowed companies to meet deadlines easily.

4.    Green Construction

The year 2018 has seen an increase of nearly 70% in demand for green homes and buildings. These are meant to provide greater cost-savings, and be highly efficient. Contractors are now working to acquire certifications to ensure they meet new requirements and build more sustainable structures.

5.    Drones

Construction projects have started drones for capturing information about the site that would take hours to accumulate. They are used for mapping job sites, updating clients with latest details, and even for reporting project changes. Drones can also reach locations that are hard for humans, thereby offering greater efficiency in projects, with higher safety standards.