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When you invest in a metal building, you need to do everything you can to protect it from the elements. Metal buildings are naturally strong and resistant to water, wind, and fluctuating temperatures. However, it is important to take steps to keep your building sturdy for decades to come.

Installing downspouts and gutters on your metal building can add a critical layer of protection to your structure. It is a simple step that provides significant protection from common problems.

This article will explore some of the reasons you should consider installing metal building downspouts. Reach out to the team of experts at Titan Steel Structures to learn more about steel building gutters and downspouts. We are happy to answer your questions or provide guidance at any stage of construction.

Contact us to explore our selection of prefabricated steel building kits or to get a customized quote for your project.

Do I Need Downspouts on a Metal Building?

Steel buildings are an ideal choice for a wide range of industrial, commercial, and personal needs. Whether you need an industrial building, a new home, storage space, or an agricultural facility, a steel building can fit the bill.

If you are constructing a steel building, there are several steps you can take to maximize your building’s functionality and strength. Installing gutters and downspouts is a critical step that can help to prevent water damage and retain structural integrity.

Here are some of the ways metal building downspouts can help to protect your metal building.

Foundation protection

Without gutters and downspouts to divert water away from the building, rainwater and snowmelt will fall directly onto your building’s foundation. Pounding and pouring water can quickly inflict costly damage on concrete foundations. Dripping water can slowly erode cracks and imperfections.

Water that runs off the roof can collect at the base of your building. It can become trapped in depressed areas and cracks, allowing water to run underneath a slab foundation. In time, seepage can erode soil under the foundation. This can result in cracks in the concrete slab, as well as sinking, settling, and shifting.

If your steel building stands on clay-rich soil, the problem could be even greater. This type of soil swells when soaked with water, creating additional pressure under concrete foundations.

Pooling water poses a significant risk for buildings with a basement. When water collects at the base of a building, it can seep into the basement, causing costly, hazardous damage.

Gutters and downspouts are a relatively inexpensive way to send water away from your building. Many steel building manufacturers offer gutter and downspout packages.

Leak protection

Downspouts divert water away from the building, keeping it from cascading down its walls. Without gutters and downspouts, water can flow over vertical surfaces and into tiny cracks or gaps along the roof of connection points.

Water that finds its way underneath seals can freeze and expand, causing breakage. This can cause even more significant leaks–and more costly problems.

Landscaping protection

Heavy rainfall or quick snowmelt can send sheets of water off your building’s roof. Downspouts send water out and away from your landscaping. Without downspouts, this water can fall onto delicate flowers, shrubs, or grass. Over time, this can ruin landscaping and prevent new growth from taking root.

Financial protection

Water damage can be one of the most destructive and costly problems in any building. Mold, rot, rust, and corrosion can lead to expensive, time-consuming fixes. And the worst part? Insurance policies rarely cover flood damage.

You can protect your financial investment and save money in the long run by installing downspouts and gutters. Downspouts send rain and melted snow away from your building, preventing leaks and protecting your foundation. Installing downspouts can save you money in the long run and ensure you can use your building for many years down the road.

Aesthetics

Downspouts protect the structural integrity of your building and foundation. They can also keep your building looking fresh and clean. Downspouts prevent messy, unsightly splashing after a rainstorm. Instead of wilting, destroyed landscaping and muddy splatters on the walls, downspouts will keep water where it should be–away from your building.

There are many reasons to consider installing downspouts on your metal building. A simple, cost-effective addition now can save you time, money, and headaches down the road. Contact the team at Titan Steel Structures to learn more about the benefits of gutters and downspouts.

Get a Quote Now

When you invest in constructing a metal building, you want to use it for decades. Simply installing downspouts and gutters can prevent most common sources of water damage.

Contact the steel building experts at Titan Steel Structures to explore our selection of pre-engineered steel buildings. You can also get a customized quote for any steel building project.