Prefabricated metal buildings are known for their low-maintenance requirements, making them an excellent choice for various applications. However, to ensure the health, safety, and longevity of your structure, there are several preventative maintenance tasks for prefab metal buildings you should perform throughout the year.
At Premier Building Systems, we encourage owners to mark their calendars for comprehensive building inspections at least twice a year. Typically, spring (after the last freeze or snow) and fall (before winter weather sets in) are ideal times to conduct thorough examinations of your metal building, both inside and out.
This comprehensive guide from Premier Building Systems, the Southeast’s premier option for metal building systems, will walk you through the essential tasks to keep your metal building in tip-top condition every season!
Why Preventative Maintenance is Crucial for Prefab Metal Buildings
A prefabricated metal building, like any structure, requires proper care to maintain its integrity and functionality over time. Preventative maintenance is not just a recommended practice; it is a crucial aspect of owning and operating a prefab metal building. As Benjamin Franklin said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
Here are just a few reasons why proper maintenance matters:
- Extends Building Lifespan: By addressing small issues before they become major problems, you can prevent structural damage and extend the useful life of the building.
- Reduces Repair Costs: Catching and fixing minor issues early through routine inspections and maintenance is much more cost-effective than waiting until major problems to develop.
- Maintains Appearance and Value: Regular washing and upkeep prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and corrosion that can detract from the building’s appearance.
- Ensures Safety and Functionality: Checking for loose fasteners, damaged insulation, leaks, and other issues helps ensure the structure remains secure and performs as intended.
- Prevents Moisture Damage: Moisture is one of the biggest threats to metal buildings. Regular maintenance like cleaning gutters, sealing gaps, and checking insulation helps prevent water infiltration that can lead to rust, mold, and structural damage.
- Optimizes Energy Efficiency: Well-maintained buildings with proper insulation and sealing are more energy efficient. This leads to lower heating and cooling costs over time.
Seasonal Maintenance Checklist
As the seasons change, so do the maintenance needs of your prefab metal building. Each time of year presents unique challenges and opportunities for upkeep, making it essential to adapt your maintenance strategy accordingly.
A seasonal checklist will help you stay organized and help keep your building in optimal condition all year long.
Spring
- Conduct a thorough exterior inspection for winter damage
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Check for air or water leaks around windows and doors
- Confirm water drains away from the building
- Clean the exterior with a power washer
- Check and clean HVAC air ducts
- Inspect insulation for damage or moisture
- Caulk small gaps around doors and windows
Summer
- Monitor cooling efficiency
- Clean A/C condenser coils
- Check for sun damage to paint or coatings
- Inspect for warping or buckling of panels due to heat
- Trim vegetation away from the building
- Check plumbing fixtures for drips and leaks
- Clean drinking fountains (if applicable)
- Lubricate door hinges and moving parts
Fall
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Inspect heating system and service if necessary
- Drain outdoor faucets and hoses
- Repair any broken or cracked glass
- Check for pests and their entry points
- Replace HVAC filters
- Caulk small gaps around doors and windows
Winter
- Check for icicles and ice buildup in high-traffic areas
- Remove snow from the roof as soon as possible
- Lubricate door closers and hinges to prevent freezing
- Wrap water lines in heat tape to prevent freezing
Need to keep that info in your back pocket?
Download Our Printable Prefab Metal Building Maintenance Guide/Checklist Here
Common Issues to Watch Out for Throughout the Year
While regularly scheduled maintenance is suggested, it’s crucial that building owners take care of issues as they arise.
Year-round/As Needed
- Change HVAC filters as-needed
- Inspect and tighten any loose screws or fasteners
- Check for scratches or gouges in walls and repair as needed
- Oil door hinges, especially for overhead doors
- Inspect window and door seals regularly
- Keep a detailed maintenance log
Quarterly Safety Checks
- Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms
- Inspect fire extinguishers and ensure accessibility
- Review and update emergency plans
Tools and Products for Effective Metal Building Maintenance
Having the proper equipment at your disposal can make the difference between a quick, efficient maintenance routine and a frustrating, time-consuming ordeal. From cleaning supplies to safety gear, each item plays an important role in keeping your metal building in top condition.
Here’s what we suggest:
Essential Tools
- High pressure hose — For cleaning exterior surfaces
- Soft-bristled brushes — For scrubbing without damaging paint
- Ladder or lift — To safely access roof and high areas
- Caulking gun — For sealing gaps and cracks
- Drill/driver — For tightening loose fasteners
- Socket set — For working with nuts and bolts
- Flashlight — For inspecting dark areas
Cleaning Products
- Mild detergent — For general cleaning
- Bleach — For tougher dirt and stains
- Mold/mildew remover — For problem areas
- Soft cloths/sponges — For applying cleaners
Tip: Before washing your building, always test your cleaning solution for compatibility with the building’s surface materials; select test sites that are normally concealed.
Maintenance Products
- Touch-up paint — To cover scratches and chips
- Weatherstripping — To seal doors and windows
- Silicone caulk — For sealing gaps and cracks
Documentation: Keeping Year-Round Records
By keeping detailed records of maintenance activities—including dates, descriptions of work performed, and associated costs—you can improve asset management, reduce repair costs, enhance safety, ensure compliance with regulations, and facilitate efficient maintenance planning.
This proactive approach not only helps identify recurring issues but also protects against liability and supports informed decision-making regarding future repairs or replacements, ultimately extending the life and integrity of your building.
Maintenance Log
- Keep a detailed log of all inspections, repairs, and replacements
- Update records after each seasonal maintenance round
- Review annually to identify recurring issues or maintenance patterns
Annual Review and Planning
- Evaluate the past year’s maintenance efforts and costs
- Plan for upcoming major repairs or replacements
- Adjust maintenance schedule based on building performance and local climate trends
Note: To help you stay on track, we’ve created a sample maintenance log to cover the essentials of your prefab metal building preventative maintenance. Download it here.
A Word on Professional vs. DIY Maintenance
Remember, while many maintenance tasks can be performed by building owners or staff, don’t hesitate to consult with professionals for more complex issues or if you’re unsure about any aspect of the maintenance process. Your metal building is a significant investment, and proper care will ensure it continues to serve your needs for many decades to come!
By applying seasonally-appropriate maintenance routines, you’ll be well-prepared to face whatever challenges each part of the year may bring. Stay vigilant, address issues promptly, and your metal building will remain a durable, efficient, and valuable asset year after year.