Friday, April 10, 2009

Steel Building Pricing

Steel continues to drop, it is at it's lowest in 4 years and for a steel building contractor this is good news. As the economy attempts to recover Owners now have a great opportunity to build for less. Competition for steel erection has also forced labor prices down as well, which can be great for an owner as long as the contractors bid is responsible. Buyer beware of change order artist in this market, some dishonest companies will bid too low just to get the job and once the Contract is signed will find ways to change order the project to make up the money needed to get the job done. If a contractor is willing to stoop to this level, what other tricks will they pull? Cutting corners, shotty workmanship and uninsured or unsafe work can be expected, and a once good deal could end up costing a lot of money.
Good steel building erectors are out there, as with everything a lot of questions should be asked to truly get the best value from your contractor.

Monday, April 6, 2009

Equestrian Riding Arena

Pre-engineered steel buildings are ideal for horse riding arenas because of the ability to have a free span. It is easy for a steel building to span 80 feet, which is a good sized space for indoor riding. Double P Construction completed a riding arena for a private Owner in Park City, Utah that measured 120 feet x 80 feet. The client is happy with the size and for most users this is an excellent size. Steel buildings can span larger spaces, even with the high snow loads in Summit County. We have also built arenas for commercial clients that are larger.

Steel buildings can also be outfitted with different exteriors depending on the look needed. A standard steel sheeting is the most economical, however the exterior can be any material. Following are a couple of photos, first a riding arena with steel sheeting, then a building with natural stone, and wood.
















Both buildings are very nice but you can see the difference in what the outside of the building can look like.

There are good options to include stall barns attached to the arena that can be incorporated into the steel building package, or can be built out of conventional wood framing. Existing building can be married to a new arena with careful planning and engineering with no problem.

If you want to ride year around consider an indoor riding arena, the value of a steel building can not be beat for value, strength, and looks. Give us a call today to talk about your riding arena.