The construction industry is divided into three main sectors: infrastructure, commercial, and residential. Although everything may be simple, each category requires different planning and regulations.
The commercial segment comprises four significant types: industrial, office, retail, and multi-family.
This article focuses on what are industrial buildings and today’s complex and constantly changing scenario of industrial facilities to help you with informed decisions that will result in a perfect project.
Overview
What are industrial buildings? An industrial building is a significant property employed for business objectives. They are large factories or premises used primarily to manufacture goods and services and store them.
American industrial buildings dating back to 1790 when Samuel Slater opened his first American textile mill. This is often considered the beginning of the American Industrial Revolution. Slater eventually explained the financial advantages of such structures to boost the goods’ production significantly. As a result, industrial buildings have completely transformed American life, with a market value of around $32 billion.
The term “industrial building” can be used in various ways. Take a look at its different types.
Warehouse and Distribution
The typical one-story building can store and transport goods up to 5,000 feet. Ceilings typically reach 60 feet in height due to their roof storage and racking systems. Other distinguishing features include doors of large trucks and loading docks. Parking lots are also available to store semi-trailers employed for distribution.
Manufacturing
These manufacturing facilities are also called heavy buildings. They contain capital-intensive tools that are required to produce goods or materials. These include the shipbuilding, oil, and mining industries. The three-phase electrical power supply provides sufficient voltage to operate the large machinery within these buildings. They often have weighty ductwork combined with high-capacity exhaust and ventilation systems to remove deadly chemicals from the building and create clean air. They often include pressurized water or airlines to ensure that machinery functions correctly and practical aspects like floor drains, storage tanks, etc.
Light Manufacturing
Light manufacturing is more capital-intensive than heavy industrial buildings. Light industries possess, for example, textiles and home electronics. On the other hand, light manufacturing facilities are more efficient because they require less space, power, and materials.
Research and Development Facility
Research and development can also be done in industrial properties. They are dedicated to specific industries, such as aerospace, electronics, and pharmaceuticals. Many of these facilities have offices for administrative and support functions as well as laboratory and production space. The buildings must have special equipment, fire suppression, and security systems.
Truck Terminals
Truck terminals can be described as industrial buildings that store and service trucks. These buildings often include parking areas for trucks, fueling stations, and service bays for repairs and maintenance. Specific terminals also offer office space and cargo loading and unloading space. They are often close to major highways and other transportation routes.
Showrooms
Showrooms can be described as industrial buildings used to display products. These buildings often include storage areas, display cases, and office space. A lot of showrooms are located near major transport routes or shopping malls. In addition, some showrooms can be found in industrial parks and other types of business parks.
Prefab Steel Structures
Prefab steel buildings, as the name suggests, are made from pre-engineered steel. Fabrication takes place in a controlled environment within the factory before being sent to the client for assembly. Prefab is a different construction type that involves the contractor designing the building. Prefabricated construction is fast, efficient, and well-suited for commercial and industrial needs. Prefabricated construction, unlike traditional structures, isn’t affected by the weather. It is becoming popular due to its efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Conclusion
Hopefully, your question about what industrial buildings are is sorted now. There are many types of industrial facilities. Each class offers its benefits and features. Therefore, it is essential to consider your needs when choosing an industrial building. Many industrial buildings are famous: for warehouse/office combinations and showroom/warehouse combinations: research and development facilities, cold storage buildings, and showrooms.
