Certification Requirement

What is a Certified Metal Building?

A certified metal building is a structure that’s engineered to meet or exceed the average wind, snow, and seismic forces in your region. This rigorous testing guarantees that your building can handle the job it’s built for and survive the environment around it.

Choosing a certified metal building can also significantly reduce the time it takes to secure permitting, and can be lucrative should you ever decide to sell your property.

Below, we’ll explore the certification system for metal buildings and provide you with information that can streamline your next building purchase.

What Are the Differences Between a Certified and a Non-Certified Metal Building?

Certified metal buildings are engineered to meet the average wind, snow, and seismic loads in a given state or region. But what are the differences between a certified and a non-certified metal building?

In most cases, non-certified metal buildings are smaller structures like garden sheds, tool sheds, outbuildings, and non-habitable structures. For jobs in areas with a moderate climate, non-certified options might be a great option that can save you money in the short term.

However, if you expect your building to last, and to hold up to the environment where you call home, you’ll want to choose a certified building.

Comparing Certified Vs. Non-Certified Options

Let’s go a step further and break down some of the fundamental differences between certified and non-certified metal buildings:

Factors	Certified Metal Buildings	Non-Certified Metal Buildings
Framing Thickness	14 or 12-gauge Options	14 or 12-gauge Options
Minimum Wind Rating	80 mph	Not Rated
Maximum Wind Rating	150-180 mph	Not Rated
Minimum Snow Load	30 lbs psf	Not Rated
Maximum Snow Load	90 lbs psf	Not Rated
Engineering Drawings Available	Yes, for an Additional Fee	No
Stamped/ Raised Seal Plans Available	Yes (Extra Charge)	No
Greater Durability	Yes	No
Better Endurance in Extreme Weather	Yes	No
Better Overall Protection	Yes	No

Certified Metal Building Standards

In theory, there is no single system for certifying metal buildings. However, most providers test their structures against a region’s average wind speed, snow loads, and seismic forces. This guarantees your building can withstand the weather in your area and is up to the job.

But that also means that a structure in one area may need more reinforcements than one in another. As such, it’s important to work closely with your metal building provider to determine your location’s standards.

Engineering Plans

Engineering plans are a critical part of certified metal buildings. These detailed blueprints are created by professional engineers to guarantee your building adheres to all local codes and structural requirements.

The plans include specifications for the materials, dimensions, and construction methods used to achieve compliance. You’ll be able to obtain engineering plans with a certified metal building for a small fee.

AA Metal Buildings is Here for Your Metal Building Needs

Choosing a certified metal building from AA Metal Buildings guarantees a structure built to the highest safety and durability standards. Our buildings are constructed with high-quality materials that endure and engineering that goes the extra mile.

We back them with industry-leading warranties and offer flexible financing options to make ownership easy for both you and your wallet.

Call AA Metal Buildings today at +1 (877) 244-4470 and kick off your metal building project with the right folks by your side.