Metal Buildings Guide

Commercial Buildings

Retail, office, and flex steel buildings with architectural panels and storefront glass. Engineer spans, openings, and energy packages around your tenant program and local code.

Architecture & Storefront

Combine metal wall systems with glass storefronts, parapets, and canopies. Coordinate thermal breaks and flashing transitions.

StorefrontParapetsCanopies

Frames & Spans

Red iron frames suit wide bays and tall entries. Cold-formed can work for smaller shells or satellite suites.

Red IronWide BaysCold-Formed

MEP & Energy

Insulation and air-sealing improve comfort and utility costs. Coordinate RTU/duct openings, lighting, and energy-code compliance.

InsulationRTUsEnergy Code

Fit-Out & Flex

Plan demising walls, corridor access, and shell utilities for future tenants. Leave framed openings for roll-ups or storefront expansion.

DemisingShell UtilitiesFramed Openings
Popular Sizes

Footprints that Work

60×100 • 80×140 • 100×200. Extend in 20–25′ bays; align bays with tenant modules for clean demising.

Heights & Doors

Clearances

Eave height 18–28′. Storefronts 12–18′, service doors 12×14+. Verify canopy loads and vestibule details.

Codes & Loads

Engineer It Right

Wind/snow/seismic design, energy code, egress, and fire/life-safety must match local requirements. Confirm parking/apron geometry.

Next Steps

  1. 1. Run CodeSmart™ to note wind, snow, and seismic for your site.
  2. 2. Select frame type and bay spacing around storefront/tenant needs.
  3. 3. Coordinate MEP openings, parapets/canopies, and demising strategy.
  4. 4. Specify insulation, air-sealing, and slab details (vapor barrier, joints).
  5. 5. Verify with your local building department, then request a quote from the supplier recommended by CodeSmart™.

Confirm energy code, egress, and fire protection with the authority having jurisdiction. Storefront wind ratings and canopy loads vary by region.