huangyhg

help designing new childcare center building
i am helping a non-profit childcare center to design a new building. i was intending to use a metal building. the play center will need to be 50' x 60' with several classrooms, a kitchen, and restrooms on the first floor and office space on the second floor overlooking the main play area. i am trying to determine what size beam and the proper spacing. my colleague suggested contacting
where are you located? a pre-engineered metal building may be a great cost effective solution.
the engineered metal building could be a way to go, as would a conventional wood framed building with long span engineered wood roof trusses. most metal building manufacturers do not design (or properly design) the foundation, so a structural engineer is needed. i recommend that the childcare center hire an architect, structural and mep consultants to make sure they meet applicable building code requirements.
in most jurisdictions, the building design should be done by an architect/engineer who will prepare the design drawings indicating required architectural elements, foundation, mechanical and electrical. the structural engineer of record should include design requirements for the manufactered building company to use in preparing their part of the work.
the building manufacturer is not the structural engineer of the overall building. in fact, most of the building manufacturers will emphasise that they are only providing a component to the total building and are not the eor.
butler, varco pruden, chief buildings, star buildings, etc. are all companies that i'm aware of that are all good. do an internet search to find specific info and local reps for each.
are you bidding the project?
also, for a child care facility, do check with your local code people (city/county?) about requirements for storm shelters as these buildings are the first to go in storms.

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