How To Choose The Right Metal Gauge For Your Custom Metal Garage?

When buying a metal parking garage, you are given a choice between various gauge steel frames and panels. But how do you pick the right gauge without going over budget? Let’s check it out.

What Is Metal Gauge?

It is a standard measurement unit that represents the thickness of a steel sheet, coil, tube, or wire. Note that a lower gauge means thicker steel. It is represented using “gauge” or “ga.”

Is Higher Steel Gauge Better?

It is quite the opposite. The lower the gauge no. of steel is, the thicker & stronger it is.

Steel Frame Gauge For Custom Metal Garage

We provide 14 and 12 gauge steel buildings that suit versatile purposes and needs without compromising on structural strength. Here are the pros and cons of each:

12 Gauge Steel

• Pros: superior strength, durability against harsh weather, can bear more load, thicker & robust, comes with 20-year rust warranty, recommended for large buildings, RV covers, & areas with heavy snowfall
• Cons: higher cost than 14ga.

14 Gauge Steel

• Pros: affordable, good for mild climate & small to medium size metal structures.
• Cons: less durable against severe weather, not suitable for larger RV garages & steel barns.

You can choose either of them or design your own metal parking garage with our 3D design tool. It is free & easy to use. Enter your zip code and choose your basic building structure from the right panel to get started.

Metal Panel Gauge For Custom Metal Buildings

We provide both 26 and 29 gauge metal panels to choose from. 26 gauge is ideal for metal buildings located in extreme weather climates or areas with stricter rules. For a 29 gauge roof panel, purlin spacing must be about 2 ft., while for a 26 gauge metal roof, purlin spacing must be 4 to 5 ft.

Importance Of Metal Gauge In Construction & Durability Of Metal Garages

Structural Integrity

Thicker metal [with lower gauge no.] can withstand heavy load, suits large buildings, and can resist bending & warping. So, if you are planning for large metal barns or garages, choose 12ga steel tubing.

Longevity

The thicker the metal, the more resistant it is to everyday wear & tear. This reduces the chances of dents, scratches, and damages with time, making your custom metal parking garage last long with little repairs & maintenance.

Design Flexibility

A thicker gauge steel lets you choose design for larger and more complex structures such as multi-purpose barns, 3 car garages, or commercial steel structures.

Long-Term Savings

The initial cost of a thicker gauge steel frame & metal panels can be higher, but the overall cost will be low. For instance, it will need less replacement due to dents or after storms and remain functional for years.

Sustainability

A 100% galvanized steel frame, be it 12ga or 14ga, can be recycled endlessly to make new buildings without losing strength and durability. Thus, it is good for the environment as less material will end up in landfills, and less steel needs to be produced.

Factors Influencing Metal Buildings’ Gauge Selection

Durability: If you are looking for high durability against strong winds, hail storms, and heavy snow loads, 12ga would be a more suitable options. However, a 14ga is industry standard for most residential units unless it has human occupants.

Budget: Budget-conscious people might like to choose 14ga steel as it is more economical and suits most residential buildings, such as an outdoor shed, a parking garage, or a metal carport.

Size Of Custom Metal Garage: When designing your custom garage, always look for standard garage sizes and dimensions to get an idea of what size will be best for your needs. You will be given the option to choose between 12ga & 14ga tubing frames and 26ga & 29ga metal panels for the roof and side walls.

For a larger size parking shed, 12ga with 29ga is recommended, but if you live in an area with regular snow or hail storms, consider upgrading to 26ga panels.

Intent Of Use: A 12 gauge steel structure is suitable for large buildings that need to support heavy loads, clear span designs, and for keeping large vehicles or machinery. A 14 gauge steel farming is ideal for a one car garage, outdoor garden shed, or general-purpose garage.

Local Climate: A 12ga steel is suitable for climatic zones with severe weather conditions like heavy snow, high-speed winds, and hails, whereas a 14ga steel is ideal for mild to moderate weather and up to medium-sized metal structures.

Local Building Codes & Zoning Laws: Some local building and zoning laws may be stricter than others. Thus, they may require you to install 12ga steel frames only. It is always best to check in with the local municipality before designing and starting any construction.

Consult With Our Metal Building Experts For Steel Garages

If you are looking to buy a 12ga steel garage for your home, farm, or business, invest in our steel garages and commercial buildings. We also provide certification against strong winds and storms. Call 877-801-3263 today and get your free quote on the custom metal parking garage.