Quonset Hut History – Origins
In the early stages of World War II, when the United States Navy found itself in need of versatile, easily transportable buildings that could be swiftly assembled without specialized labor, the iconic Quonset hut emerged as the solution. These structures, characterized by their distinctive arch format, offered lightweight portability crucial for military deployment. Little did they know that this practicality and convenience would extend far beyond the battlefield.
The practicality and convenience inherent in these buildings came into play in the early days of Future Buildings as the owner recognized that this same arch format Quonset design would transport well across Canada to service the First Nations reserves, loggers, fishers and farmers with steel buildings.
Quonset Hut History – What Is a Quonset Building Made Of?
A Quonset hut is made of curved pieces of steel. These are assembled into arches, and then each arches are bolted together to form the structure. The most traditional Quonset style of building offered by Future Buildings is our “Q” style, which is a half-cylinder shape like those in the picture above.
Quonset Hut History – Structural Benefits
What makes a Quonset hut such a structurally sound and efficient building choice?
- Very cost effective! Quonset huts are typically the cheapest of all steel structures
- Easiest to assemble as they come pre-punched and easily bolt together
- Heavy equipment and construction know-how is not required
- The absence of support beams or rafters inside allows for maximum use of internal space, often referred to as ‘clear-span’
- Can be designed with open ends or customized end walls to match existing property structures
- Easy to expand lengthwise to accommodate growth
Quonset Hut History – How Long Will a Quonset Hut Last?
Since a Quonset hut is built using steel, it will last for an extended period of time. On average, a well cared for Quonset hut can last for close to 100 years. Each steel building produced by Future Buildings is made from GalvalumeTM Plus Steel and come with a 50-year rust perforation warranty.
All our steel is purchased directly from ArcelorMittal Dofasco to ensure consistency of quality grade steel and optimal pricing. Learn more about GalvalumeTM Plus Steel from their website here.
Quonset Hut History – Uses and Applications
As Quonset huts originated out of necessity for the US Navy, they had numerous military uses. Quonset huts have been used as barracks, latrines and even postwar housing.
Aside from military uses, Quonset huts have also been used both for residential, recreational, agricultural, industrial and commercial buildings.
Quonset Hut History – How to Insulate a Quonset Hut?
At Future Buildings, we offer several varieties of insulation to suit your needs. If you choose to add insulation to your Quonset hut, the appropriate amount will be shipped along with your building kit. It can then be installed quickly with our unique Pin & Cap technology.
Insulating your Quonset hut helps you to lower your energy bills, keep the structure warmer in winter and cooler in summer. It also keeps the building quieter by absorbing sound and reducing excess noise.
Quonset Hut History – Optimizing the Quonset Hut Design
If a straight wall style is your preference, you can also visit our sister company, Toro Steel Buildings.
Maurice Meister
I WENT TO HIGH SCHOOL IN 1955 IN A QUONSET HUT