Author Archive

Cost Efficiency of Steel Buildings

When it comes to new buildings it’s important to be mindful of your company’s budget, and building with steel specifically is one of the most cost-efficient ways to build. The price of buildings is more than just materials, it’s also time for planning, welding, and assembly, not to mention any unexpected costs that can come up. Steel is the number one choice for most offices, hangars, gymnasiums, and more. We’ll explain why steel buildings are better for your wallet in the long term. 

 

Metal buildings can be assembled in a factory, which ensures accuracy and saves on labor. With fabricated steel, there is less waste which means no wasted expense because it’s made according to the architectural plans. Erecting a steel building also saves time (and time is money), which means a faster and higher return on investment.

 

The maintenance cost of metal buildings is lower. These buildings can last up to 50 years or more with powder-coated paint finishes. They are also easy to clean and not prone to rusting, saving on exterior costs. Building with steel allows you to work within a controlled environment, meaning less room for error. There are no hidden costs when working with steel.

 

You also save in the long run because the structural integrity of steel buildings is greater than that of wood buildings. Wood tends to warp and bend, especially with inclement weather. Termites can also damage wood but not steel. Metal structures also reflect heat which keeps the building cooler by keeping solar heat out. The average cost of building with wood has gone up over the years, but metal has stayed steady.

 

Resale value for metal structures is also higher, meaning even after your company is done with the building you can sell for top dollar. The building’s steel could also be recycled, which provides an environmentally cautious option.

 

Using steel ultimately saves you money, while providing a sturdy structure. Hiring the right company is very important for your welding needs. If you have any questions about welding Bozeman MT, welding Billings MT, or steel building installers near me Billings MT, contact Iron Works Construction today!

How to Choose Steel Building Installers Billings MT

Steel buildings are a great option when looking to build on your commercial or residential property! While there are some people who have the tools and time to install their own steel building, that is not always the case for the majority of people. Many people would rather hire steel building installers Billings MT in order to get the job done right the first time because if the installation is not done properly, it can compromise the entire integrity of the building which could be a serious hazard.

While hiring someone to take care of this installation seems like a simple task, that is not always the case. You need to make sure you are hiring the right company to install your steel building for you. We have broken down the best way to find the right company for the job into three easy steps that will ensure you are hiring the right company for the job!

1. Experience

When you are looking for a company to install your steel building, there are a few different things that you should be looking for. While it is very important to make sure the company you are looking into hiring is licensed to build, their experience is just as important. A company that has been in business for many years and has completed numerous projects would be more qualified to handle the job and make sure it is done correctly. This is important because when dealing with installing steel buildings or welding Billings MT, you want someone who knows all the tips and tricks to do the job right and in a timely manner. There are many things that are learned on the job and a company with experience will know how to do it best! 

2. Reviews

Reviews, ratings, and references are one of the best ways to tell how a company performs. This is also another way of checking how much experience the company has and how well they did their job. You don’t want to hire someone who has done a lot of work but takes shortcuts in the process that can jeopardize your building. You can ask any installer for their list of references that you can contact in order to ensure that they have done quality work in the past. 

3. Bids and Contracts

Like you would do with anything you are spending money on, you want to make sure that you shop around when it comes to finding a steel building installer or for welding Bozeman MT. You want to compare the different bids with the different contracts being offered. While one company may offer it cheaper, they may also be leaving out some services that the other companies are including in their contract. This is why it is important to compare not only the price but the service that is being provided as well.

We hope this helps in your search for finding a steel building installer. If you have any questions about welding Billings MT, welding Bozeman MT, or steel building installers Billings MT, contact Iron Works Construction today!

The 4 Types of Welding Bozeman MT

When it comes to welding Bozeman MT, the different processes can be separated into four main categories. We want to share with you today these different processes in order to show how diverse welding can be!

Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG)

Gas Metal Arc Welding is also known as Metal Inert Gas or MIG welding. This process is one of the most popular in the construction and the automotive industry and is great for beginners who are just starting off. This type of welding is used on metals like copper aluminum, nickel, and stainless steel.

This welding process uses a thin, continuous wire as an electrode. As this wire is fed through the welding tool, it heats up and melts in order to form the weld bead. In this process, an electric arc is formed between the wire electrode and the metal you are welding.

Gas bottles must also be used in order to provide shielding gas while welding. This shielding gas is inert gas or gas mixture that protects against contamination.

Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG)

Similar to GMAW, Gas Tungsten Arc Welding uses an electric arc for welding as well as a shielding gas from an external gas supply. The key difference is that for GMAW the wire you are using as an electrode should be the same material as the metal you are welding and for GTAW, the electrode is made of tungsten.

This welding is used for automotive and also aerospace because tungsten is one of the toughest metals and it provides the highest-quality welds. However, this type of welding is more complex because the welder must use two hands, one to hold the torch and the other to feed the rod, and have extreme precision and skill.

Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)

Shielded Metal Arc Welding, also known as Stick welding, is often used for maintenance and repair, underwater pipelines, and construction because it is portable! The reason that this welding process got its name is that the consumable electrode covered in flux comes in the form of a “stick.”

As this stick begins to melt, it combines the metals by heating with an arc. The cover of the stick also melts and is able to shield the weld area from oxygen and other gases so that an external gas supply is not necessary.

While this process is portable, convenient, and simple to learn, it doesn’t produce the highest quality weld. Stick welds are typically less durable than other welds and are prone to cracks.

Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)

Flux-Cored Arc Welding is similar to Gas Metal Arc Welding in that it is simple to learn and it involves a continuous wire to be fed through. However, it is similar to the Shielded Metal Arc Welding because the flux covering provides a shield so that an external gas supply is not required. This process is mainly used in machining industries or by steel building installers Billings MT where thicker metals need to be welded.

We hoped you enjoyed learning the top welding processes. If you have any questions about welding Bozeman MT, welding Billings MT, or steel building installers Billings MT, contact Iron Works Construction today!

Top 5 Benefits of Steel Buildings

If you’re looking into constructing a new building, steel or metal buildings are the best way to go! Steel is usually around the same price point (if not cheaper) than wood and it is a great investment, especially if you live in a place like Bozeman, MT where the climate can be harsh.

Here are the top 5 benefits for using steel over wood and brick:

1. Durability
The great thing about steel is that it is extremely durable. It can withstand harsh weather conditions such as strong winds, heavy rain, and snow. In wet and humid conditions you don’t have to worry about wood rot or nail-pops. Also, when you hire professional steel building installers, they can apply a treatment that makes the metal anti-corrosive and rust-proof.

2. Low Maintenance
Another great thing about metal buildings is that they are very easy to maintain and clean. The welding company can infuse the metal with paint which won’t fade in the sun the way that normal paint does. Because steel is not prone to mold you don’t have to worry about damp-proofing either. You also avoid the expensive costs that are associated with dealing with termites and other pests that can live in wood.

3. Less Expensive
On average, people save about 30% when they build a metal building compared to a conventional one. Steel building installers can quickly construct your building which can save you on labor costs during construction. Due to its durability against natural disasters, insurance for the building is typically 40% cheaper as well! You can also save money on your energy bill due to the metal better insulating the building which allows you to use less heat and air conditioning. In mild climate areas, you may not even need a heater or air conditioner.

4. Customizable
Because the metal building doesn’t need support columns the way that wood buildings do, you are able to maximize and make the most out of the space that you have. You can also work with the welding company in order to make the building exactly the way that you want it. Once you have all of the pieces, steel building installers can quickly and easily put them together for you or you can put them together yourself using a forklift.

5. Longevity
The reason why metal building installation is the best way to go for constructing a new building is because of how long they last. Unlike wood, they are not affected by the elements such as sun, water, and debris. Another huge plus side is that they are non-combustible meaning they are not susceptible to fire hazards.

If you are looking for a new house, garage, warehouse, man-cave, she-shed, etc. make sure you consider a steel building first! It can save you a ton of money and a ton of hassle. Make sure to hire professional steel building installers such as Iron Works in Bozeman, MT.

If you have any questions about welding bozeman mt, metal building installation bozeman mt, or steel building installers bozeman mt contact Iron Works Construction today!

Preventing Welding Hazards

The act of welding Bozeman MT can bring hazardous situations. Learning to recognize these potential dangers is the best way to have a safe welding environment. Prior to starting any welding job, look out for these hazards to protect yourself!

Fire and Burn Hazards

When welding, you are exposing yourself to great amounts of heat and flames. Being aware of this and wearing the correct protective gear beforehand will help prevent any heat or flame related injury. The proper gloves, glothing, helmet and face protection will help prevent injury. Also, ensuring your clothing does not have any holes or damages prior to every use is very important. 

Electric Shock 

Welding puts you at risk of electric shock which can result in dangerous, life threatening injuries. Make sure not to weld in damp environments, wearing damp clothing or on metal flooring (highspeedtraining.co.uk). Making sure to check your welding leads or electric cables for damage is another great way to prevent injury from electric shock.

Noise Hazards

Welding exposes you to loud noises that can be damaging to your ears. Overexposure to this type of noise can cause permanent damage to your ears and hearing loss. Investing in the right type of earplugs or headgear can help prevent this.

Fumes and Gases

Overexposure to the fumes and gases that come with welding can also be damaging to one’s health. Exposure to these fumes and gases can cause lung cancer and issues with the respiratory system. Keeping your head away from the fumes and using a form of ventilation is the best way to combat this, (lincolnelectric.com). An exhaust system will remove fumes and gases from the area which you are working and prevent damages to your health.

Contact Iron Works Construction today to learn more about welding Bozeman MT, metal building installation Bozeman MT and steel building installers Bozeman MT.

Must-Have Welding Tools & Equipment

If you are just getting started with welding Bozeman MT, here are some essential items to get the job done safely and efficiently. 

The proper welding helmet

The welding helmet you must use is an auto-darkening welding helmet (makemoneywelding.com). These types of welding helmets allow you to easily see what you are welding while staying safe. This will also help to prevent welding errors or frustration that could arise when you first begin to weld.

The right clothing

For your own well being and safety, certain clothing must be worn when welding. This includes a jacket and pants made of flame-resistant material. It is also advised to make sure you are wearing something that covers your head such as a hat to protect yourself. Welding gloves are also absolutely necessary to protect your hands when welding. Thicker gloves will give you more protection while thinner gloves can give you better precision at times. 

Welding Clamps

You will need several welding clamps for any welding project. This is what will cause your welding to be secure, aligned and accurate!

Speed Square

A speed square is another necessary tool for any welding project. This tool helps with measuring your materials and ensuring you are working with the right angles or lines.

Fire extinguisher

Having a fire extinguisher handy when welding is very important for safety reasons. You are working with flames so it is a good idea to have an easy way to put out a fire if necessary. When welding there are lots of sparks and heat, which creates an environment where a fire could easily start. The best types of fire extinguishers for welding are usually combination extinguishers.

Contact Iron Works Construction today to talk to a professional or learn more about welding Bozeman MT, metal building installation Bozeman MT and steel building installers Bozeman MT.

Welding in Cold Weather

Welding Bozeman MT during the colder months can be a little more difficult than when it is warm out. Here are a few tips to find success when welding during the winter months. 

Fix Comfort Issues

The cold winter weather has a great affect on our comfort levels and can make certain tasks more difficult. The task of welding takes a lot of concentration and the quality of your weld can be affected by how comfortable you are when welding. Welding is no easy activity and takes a great amount of focus and skill. During these months make your comfort a priority when welding to avoid injuries and create the best quality weld to your ability

Understand the Difficulties

Educating yourself on what difficulties could arise when welding in the colder months is very important. This will ultimately prevent any issues that may arise. For example, metal is more likely to warp in the colder months and welding can easily crack. This can cause bitterness and take up your time. A way of preventing this would be to preheat your metal before welding with your torch. This will reduce stress and warping on the weld.

The Best Projects

Before starting any welding project during the winter time, it could be beneficial to know which ones are best to complete. It is best to choose a job that does not take too many steps that the weather could affect (theengineblock.com). High speed cooling can lead to cracks and damages. You should also try to remove any condensation or moisture from your metals before welding. Body work and patch panels are some examples which should be done during warmer seasons. 

To learn more about welding Bozeman MT, metal building installation Bozeman MT and steel building installers Bozeman MT, visit Iron Works Construction today!

The Importance of Welding Safety

Welding Bozeman MT  can be very dangerous if not done so properly and by a trailed professional. There are many things that could go wrong and health risks associated with any welding project. The following are reasons why professional welding is important.

Wearing the right clothing and gear

Any welding job should be done wearing the right clothing to protect oneself from injury or health risks. A helmet, goggles and gloves must be worn. Any exposed skin is not safe when welding which is why it is important to always wear protective and secure clothing.

Understand the equipment used

When welding, you should be educated on the tools and equipment that you are using. This will help prevent injury or any accidents. It will also help you identify problems that arise so you can fix them as soon as possible. There are more injuries that could be associated with welding than some may be aware of so being educated on the equipment you are using is crucial. 

Know the dangers to watch for

Prior to welding anything it is crucial that you know the dangers that could come with it. The right electrical and fire safety measures should be taken into account before welding. It is also important to take the right oxygen precautions to protect your respiratory system when welding. Chemical and cylinder safety should also be taken into account to prevent injury, ishn.com.

Noise Hazards

One danger that may not be the first to come to mind when welding is noise hazards. When welding you will most likely encounter very loud noises. This can be damaging to the ears and cause long term effects. There are also many side effects such as vertigo and increased blood pressure that are associated with noise-induced hearing loss, highspeedtraining.co.uk.

For more information regarding welding Bozeman MT, metal building installation Bozeman MT and steel building installers Bozeman MT visit Iron Works Construction!

Welding Tips

For tips and tricks on welding Bozeman MT. Before you start welding practice holding the gun without actually using it. This will allow you to be comfortable prior to use. You can also change your positioning and welder settings to prepare for the welding. It is very important to do your research prior to setting up any equipment in order to prevent injury of mistakes when welding. If the welding process is done incorrectly, there could be errors such as pinholes. It is also important to become educated on the different methods of welding since no single method is the best for all applications. Make sure you are wearing the right equipment to protect yourself while welding. One should never look straight at a welding arc without a welding helmet and always handle equipment with heavy-duty welding gloves.

Once comfortable, prepare the piece of metal which you are welding by marking on it and degreasing it. You may also take this time to perfectly fit the metal pieces together at a 90 degree angle. Clamps are then used to ensure the metal pieces do not move from the desired position. When securing the metal pieces always check for edges that may be sticking out to ensure a smooth weld.

When it is time to finally weld your desired pieces make sure you do not over weld. The more metal that is deposited, the longer it will take to smooth off. In order to the the smoothest and flattest surface when welding, move your grinder along the weld, never across it. This will remove any extra marks. To finish your weld make sure to prime and paint the steel. At this point you may also smooth some clear wax over it or spray clear acrylic. The sooner you finish your weld the better. This will prevent any rust from forming. 

Iron Works Construction specializes in metal building installation Bozeman MT and steel building installers Bozeman MT.  Welding Bozeman MT measure to ensure that the job be done in a prompt, timely manner, and to every specification given within our assignment.

For more information regarding welding or iron works, contact Iron Works Construction.

How to Properly Erect a Metal Building

Erecting a metal building requires meticulous supply chain and logistics planning to ensure materials, people, and equipment are received on-time and staying on schedule. From welding Billings MT, to framing, to finishing touches, it is important to lay out the process from beginning to end and remain organized.

Step 1: Prepare the Building Site

Not preparing a building site properly can result in problems arising down the line in the project. 

You need to clear the direct area that you will be building on, along with the area around it so that machines, tools, and supplies can access the site. You also have to ensure that the concrete foundation is fully cured before proceeding with the next step. Lastly, you need to make sure the roads leading up to the site are cleared and ready for large equipment, cars, and machines to make their way up and down safely.

 

Step 2: Begin the Framing Process

The framing process begins with the I-beams and H-beams. These are columns and rafters that run horizontally (I) and vertically (H). This is usually the heaviest part of the building process as these metal beams are pre-constructed and assembled on-site.

 

Step 3: Apply the Girts, Purlins, and Framed Openings

Girts, purlins, and framed openings give support to the rest of the site, as a secondary frame. Girts provide lateral support to the structure.

 

Step 4: Set Up the Roof and Walls

At this stage, the framing should be completed. The next steps are insulating, putting up sheeting, etc. 

 

Step 5: Finish the Visual Design

The final part of the process is the visual design or aesthetic of the construction. Whatever visual elements were added to the order of this project, will get added in this step. Some examples are trims, accessories, doors, windows, and vents, to name a few.

Depending on the project, these steps may require some adjustments as each project has different needs. For more information on iron works Billings MT and metal buildings erector Billings MT, contact Iron Works Construction to speak with a specialist.