Cold Formed vs Red Iron Buildings
There are two common types of pre-engineered bolt up buildings: cold formed and red iron (hot rolled). A brief description and comparison of the two building types is provided below.
Cold Formed Buildings
These buildings get their name from the fact that the columns and rafters are made from cold formed sections (cees and zees). Brackets are then made to bolt the cold formed sections together. This is a cost effective way to build smaller buildings.
Cold Formed Buildings
More affordable because they use less steel
Galvanized finish significantly reduces rust
Lightweight design means they are less costly to transport and assemble
Cost savings for concrete of up to 25% because of weight savings
Limited bay heights, widths, and lengths because of limitations in Cee/Zee sizes
Ideal for workshops and storage buildings where the structure is not asked to perform any other function (like crane support)
Red Iron Buildings
These buildings get their name from the red iron primer that is applied to the bare steel to reduce rust formation. Their columns and rafters are made of hot rolled structural steel or fabricated tapered beams.
Red Iron Buildings
More costly because they use more steel
Available in red iron (most common), galvanized, or painted finishes
Typically require more extensive dirt work and concrete foundations because of the hight load at each column
Bay heights of 20+ ft, widths of 100+ ft, and lengths of 50+ ft are achievable
Ideal for industrial buildings, manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and structures where the building supports additional features like cranes
