Your Future Building Has Arrived—Now What? A Practical Steel Building Maintenance Guide

So, your steel building kit has arrived—or maybe it’s already up. Either way, congratulations! Let’s walk through what comes next in this practical steel building maintenance guide.

Before you officially consider the job done, there are a few simple but critical steps you should take to make sure you’re getting the long-lasting performance and protection your arch-style building is designed to deliver.

This post-delivery/construction guide covers what to do right after delivery, how to prevent leaks, ongoing maintenance tips, and how to stay covered under warranty. It also explains why Future’s 60-day support policy gives you a clear advantage over other suppliers—and how to make the most of it.

When your building kit arrives, you may be tempted to set it aside until you’re ready to build. But don’t skip this step: a quick inspection now can save major headaches later.

✅ What You Should Do:

• Cross-check the shipment against your packing list and Bill of Lading
• Inspect bundles for visible damage or missing components
• Note any issues directly on the carrier’s paperwork before signing
• Store materials off the ground, under cover, and with airflow if construction is delayed –See your Building Guide form more details
• Keep hardware kits and small parts stored securely
• Write your order number on the front of your building guide—this helps anyone (including your builder or contractor) report concerns quickly if needed

Many companies give you just 30 days to report missing or damaged components. At Future Buildings, we do better. Our 60-Day Warranty Against Shortages and Defects gives you double the time to catch and report any issue.

Let’s be clear: your Future Steel building is designed not to leak.

Leaks, when they do occur, are nearly always the result of installation errors. And per our Building Guide, preventing leaks is the sole responsibility of the installer. Leaks are not covered by warranty.

As part of your steel building maintenance guide, here’s how to avoid them:

🧰 Leak Prevention Checklist:

• ✔ Inspect your panels before installation—do not use any that are bent or damaged
• ✔ Avoid elongating or tearing bolt holes, which prevents a proper seal
• ✔ Panels must be fully drawn together before bolts are tightened
• ✔ Do not over-tighten bolts—this can damage sealing washers
• ✔ Install bolts straight and level, not at angles
• ✔ Overlap panels correctly, as outlined in your guide
• ✔ Position arches so overlaps face away from prevailing winds and rain
• ✔ Use butyl caulking and weatherproof sealant around:
  • Base plates and connectors
  • Door and window frames
  • Curve angles, vent adapters, and skylights

Leaks are almost always avoidable—and catching installation issues early is far easier than repairing later.

Before removing any bracing or declaring the job complete, go through this list as the final step in your steel building maintenance guide:

• Foundation matches plans and all anchoring is done (tie-downs, grout, bolts)
• Arches are shaped to spec and bolted correctly
• Panels are installed in correct locations and gauges
• All fasteners are in place and properly tightened
• Accessories (windows, doors, vents) are installed and sealed
• End walls, curve angles, and wind bracing/stiffeners are in place

A properly built and well-maintained steel building will last for decades. Here’s how to keep it that way.

🧾 Protect Your Warranty:

We offer two key long-term warranties for your peace of mind—both of which depend on proper steel building maintenance and construction practices:

• 50-Year Limited Warranty Against Perforation from Oxidation
  Galvalume Plus® steel panels are warrantied against rust-through from atmospheric corrosion.
  • Avoid:
    • Salt spray or animal waste
    • Damp insulation
    • Contact with copper, lead, or corrosive chemicals
    • Standing water or blocked drainage

• 30-Year Limited Warranty for Snow and Wind Damage
  This applies to buildings that are properly constructed and anchored as per blueprint specs. Be sure your foundation and fasteners meet the exact requirements noted in your certified drawings.

🧰 Seasonal Steel Building Maintenance Checklist:

• Remove snow buildup promptly—don’t exceed design load
• Inspect caulking/sealants annually, especially after winter
• Keep gutters and base plates clear of debris
• Clean surface grime with mild dish soap and lukewarm water
• Look for rust, scratches, or wet storage stains—treat with aluminum paint if needed
• Do not attach additional loads (mezzanines, signage, heavy fixtures) unless specifically engineered
• Do not relocate or rebuild your structure without first confirming site compatibility with Future’s team