POST-FRAME CONSTRUCTION
We employ the best building methods
Post-frame buildings are pre-engineered wood-frame construction systems. The walls feature laminated columns, also called posts, instead of wood studs, steel framing or concrete masonry. Post-frame buildings have evolved greatly from the early days when agricultural buyers built “pole barns” and “pole sheds.”
Post-frame structures are more quickly erected than other kinds of buildings. Because the larger posts and the interlocking frame can handle greater loads than stud-wall construction, fewer structural materials are needed – which saves on material and installation costs. Post-frame buildings transfer loads to the ground through the posts, which are typically embedded in the ground or surface-mounted to a concrete pier or masonry foundation.
Also, because posts are spaced farther apart than studs, there are fewer interruptions in insulating materials. Post-frame buildings feature an exceptionally large wall cavity for ample insulation, which allows for lowered heating and cooling costs throughout the year.
With its roots in the agricultural market, post-frame is now the construction method of choice for any number of commercial, retail, industrial, residential, religious and public building needs. Due to the nature of its design and many external façade options, post frame may be customized to provide virtually any look.
In addition to new construction, post-frame is also an effective and versatile choice for building additions and remodeling projects.
THE WICK DIFFERENCE
Steel hardness matters
A common measure of steel strength is hardness. It’s like the difference between a hard candy and licorice of the about the same size…both are made primarily of sugar but one is much harder than the other and more apt to break your tooth!
In post-frame construction there are several different types of steel available for exterior roof and sidewall steel. Some builders use a softer (30,000 PSI tensile strength) but slightly thicker 26-gauge steel – more akin to the licorice mentioned above. And some builders use slightly thinner 29-gauge full-hard steel (80,000 PSI hardness) which is more like the hard candy mentioned above.
What’s critical to understand is that the full-hard steel is twice as impact resistant as 30,000 PSI commercial-grade steel. You'll appreciate that when hail falls on the roof or the mower throws stones at the wall - fewer dents! Wick uses only full-hard steel, 82,000 PSI hardness or better for exterior wall and roof panels.
