The Tools You Need to Build a PEMB
Erecting a metal building kit is simple and logical. With the right tools—and strict attention to safety measures—erecting a pre-engineered metal building (PEMB) can be a fun do-it-yourself project for people with construction experience.
Safety is Job One When Erecting a Metal Building
Job site safety cannot be overstressed: SAFETY must come FIRST!
Follow all the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) construction safety recommendations for your own safety—and to avoid costly OSHA fines. Additional safety precautions are included in the construction manual provided by your steel building provider.
Insist all workers use safety equipment in compliance with OSHA standards. Caution crewmembers to stay alert at all times. Distractions on the construction site can lead to accidents.
Basic Tools
Most of the hand tools required for erecting a metal building may already be in the average do-it-yourselfer’s toolbox:
- Caulking guns
- Chalk lines
- Channel locks
- Cordless drill and bits
- Crescent and socket wrenches
- Hacksaws
- Large screwdrivers
- Pipe wrenches
- Pliers
- Plumb bobs
- Tape measures
- Tin snips and bulldog snips
- Utility knives
- Vice-grips
- Wire brushes
Larger common tools needed include:
- Chains and ropes
- Electric nibbler metal cutters
- Levels (3’ or longer)
- Power pulls
- Power wrenches
- Push brooms
- Saw horses
- Sturdy ladders
- Tarps
Steel Building Specific Tools
Erecting a metal building requires power screw guns to properly install self-drilling screws. It is important that the screws guns have an adjustable clutch to disengage the driver—otherwise, the neoprene washers will strip out as the screws tighten. You should be able to find Dewalt or Black and Decker power screw guns with adjustable clutches for around $130.
You may also find these useful on a steel building job site:
• Bull pins
• Load binders
• Rotary hammers
Industrial Lifts and Equipment
Unloading the PEMB materials calls for equipment able to lift a minimum of 3,000 pounds.
Forklifts with qualified operators can be rented. Two forklifts with operators are necessary if panels or other framing materials exceed 25’ in length.
A PEMB kit also calls for construction-strength nylon slings to aid the forklift operator in offloading the steel building materials. Large-scale structures require a crane with a spreader bar for moving super-sized building materials.
Handling steel building columns and rafters made from heavy commercial grade steel requires adequate lifting equipment. For example, a 16′ tall column for an average agricultural building weighs 200-250 pounds. The rafters weigh-in at 500-700 pounds for a 60′-wide structure.
A rented forklift, track loader, or front-end loader will do the job of lifting if the equipment reaches the height required for the structure. Larger or taller structures demand bigger equipment, such as a scissor lift or crane lift.
Safety Equipment
All construction crewmembers must be properly outfitted for the job site. Heavy-duty work gloves, hard hats, and sturdy work boots are basic requirements. Safety goggles are needed when installing insulation. Safety harnesses should be employed when working above the ground.
Keep working fire extinguishers and a well-stocked first-aid kit on hand at the construction site. Check the first aid kit daily and restock as needed.
Get Hooked on RHINO
For durability, flexibility, and construction ease, nothing beats a RHINO steel building. RHINO strives to supply the finest PEMBs the industry. Every RHINO building is guaranteed to meet or exceed all current building codes for the lifetime of the structure.
We also pride ourselves on providing first class service before, during, and after the sale. RHINO’s staff is driven to exceed all expectations. Our customers agree— in the past 12 months, returning RHINO customers (and those referred to us by satisfied RHINO clients) have generated 39.1% of our sales.
Call RHINO now to find out more about our practical, innovative, versatile pre-fabricated steel buildings. Please call today at 940.383.9566 for information on the tools & equipment needed for erecting a steel frame building.