How to Make a Metal Building Look Better: Practical Improvements Guide

Discover innovative ways to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your metal building without compromising its structural integrity.

Enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a metal building can be achieved through a variety of methods, ranging from straightforward paint jobs to more complex landscaping techniques. Whether it’s to blend in with its surroundings or to stand out as a unique structure, the exterior of a metal building can be transformed with a touch of creativity and planning.

This article will guide you through the process of improving your metal building’s appearance, covering everything from color selection and surface treatment to architectural details and surrounding landscaping. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of how to make your metal building not just functional, but also visually appealing.

Choose an Appealing Color for Your Metal Building

Experimenting with a diverse palette, from softer hues to vibrant ones, could be an excellent way to raise your structure’s aesthetic potential. Complementing the surroundings is essential. For instance, in a lush, green setting, an earthy brown could blend nicely.

If your setting is more industrial, a slate gray or royal blue might be more suitable. Powder-coating provides a durable finish and allows you to choose from an array of colors.

While function should be priority, don’t ignore the power of color to transform the ordinary into extraordinary.

Upgrade to Heavier Grade Steel Panels for A Robust Appearance

Upgrading the thickness of your building’s structural steel panels plays a vital role in its robust appearance. Opting for a heavier grade can vastly improve the overall look, as it adds depth and dimension.

• Heftier steel panels offer a superior finish and are visually more striking, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing structure.
• A heavier grade means added longevity, which, over time, helps maintain the building’s attractive appearance.
• This upgrade provides an industrial chic-look, popular in modern design.
• The enhanced structural integrity also increases resistance to dents and scratches, maintaining a polished look.

Add Doors, Windows, and Custom Shutters

Integrating various types of doors can serve dual purposes – functionality and aesthetics. Roll-up doors, for instance, can offer easy access for larger items, while walk doors are perfect for everyday use.

Windows too play a pivotal role. They not only allow natural light to flood your space, but also offer an illuminated and warm ambiance. The types and placement of windows can be chosen based on your specific needs and design preferences.

A noteworthy mention is custom shutters. These add a quaint charm and can completely transform your metal building’s appearance. Available in a host of styles and finishes, you can tailor them further to match your building’s color scheme and overall style. Remember, shutters aren’t merely decorative, they also offer storm protection.

Thus, door, window, and shutter additions can transform the aesthetic appeal of your metal building while enhancing its practicality.

Install New Lighting to Enhance the Building

Thoughtfully selecting and placing lighting solutions can play a significant role in enhancing the aesthetics of a metal building. The strategic use of exterior lights can accentuate architectural details and also contribute to the building’s safety.

Wall sconces: Wall lights or sconces mounted on the exterior walls can enhance the building’s architectural elements or serve as guide lights in the case of poor visibility.

Landscape lighting: Light up the building’s surrounding area to draw attention and create a warm, welcoming effect. Lights can be used to illuminate walkways and plants, accent items, or features in the yard.

Security lights: Bright security lights with motion detectors are practical for both safety and utility, illuminating sections of the building while deterring potential intruders.

Antiques or unconventional light fixtures: These add a unique charm to your building, making it stand out from the regular metal structures.

Remember, the choice of lighting should align with the building’s purpose and design for an overall appealing look.

Choose an Attractive Roof to Complement Your Building

Opting for a roof style that suits your metal building not only enhances aesthetic appeal, but also caters to functional needs. The selection of roof design often hinges on the building’s purpose, local weather conditions, and personal preferences.

Investing in a gabled roof, for instance, offers an appealing traditional look and efficient water runoff capabilities. Meanwhile, choosing a skillion roof might suit those aiming for a sleek, modern aesthetic and it works well in regions with heavy snowfall due to its steep slopes.

Another noteworthy option is the gambrel roof, which provides an eye-catching, barn-like aesthetic and ample space, perhaps for a loft or additional storage. Whichever your choice, consider coordinating the roof color with the building’s exterior to create a harmonious look. Remember, functionality needn’t compromise style when selecting an attractive roof to complement your metal building.

Incorporate Solar Panels for a Sustainable Look

Harnessing the sun’s energy through solar panels not only offers a sustainable power solution but also drastically improves the aesthetics of your metal structure, giving it a contemporary touch.

Here’s how to incorporate solar panels:

• Roof Placement: If the angle and direction of your roof allow, placing solar panels on the roof makes for efficient energy harvest and a streamlined look.
• Ground Installation: For roofs that aren’t suitable, dedicated ground mounts in surrounding spaces can be equally compelling visually while optimizing sunlight exposure.
• Solar Canopies: Add functionality and form by considering solar canopies or patio covers.
• Professional Design and Installation: Engage certified professionals who could integrate solar panels seamlessly into your design while ensuring they operate at maximum efficiency.

Remember, the improved aesthetics is a bonus alongside the significant reduction in the energy footprint of your building.

Install Wood or Stone Siding for a Natural Appeal

Strikingly, a fusion of modernity and traditionalism can be achieved by incorporating facades of wood or stone into your metal building design. It’s a simple, yet effective way of enhancing the exterior without compromising the structural benefits of metal.

When considering wood siding, options like cedar or redwood can provide a calming, rustic appeal. These natural materials harmoniously merge with the surrounding landscape, particularly in rural areas or near woodland.

Stone siding, on the other hand, adds a level of majesty and timeless elegance. Opting for this choice builds upon the metal building’s innate strength with an extra layer of durability and insulation – a perfect blend of practicality and style.

For both options, efficient installation techniques minimize the negative impacts of moisture, thus prolonging the facades’ lifespan. By using these methods, your metal building can sport a natural charm that is both visually pleasing and sustainable.

Add Gutters to Improve Your Metal Building’s Look

Adding gutters enhances the appearance of your structure while providing practical benefits. A well-placed gutter system redirects rainwater, preventing it from damaging the building or eroding the ground around it. There are various options available to match your building style, from traditional half-round gutters to more modern box-style.

For a seamless transition, color match your gutters with the trim or roof of the building. Copper or zinc gutters can also be considered for a high-end profile. Remember, gutters see both functionality and form in unison, becoming integral elements of your building’s facade.

It’s also important to maintain your gutters regularly. Clogged or broken gutters can distort the streamlined look achieved. Regular cleaning and maintenance ensure your gutters remain appealing, contributing positively to your metal building’s aesthetics.

Improve Aesthetics With Landscaping Around Your Metal Building

Investing in landscaping provides an excellent way to enhance the appearance of a metal building. Firstly, strategic placement of trees, shrubbery, and flowers can soften the industrial feel of the structure. Leafy trees or tall plants can add a vertical element, balancing out the horizontal lines of the building.

Second, you can create a welcoming pathway leading up to the entrance of your building using pebbles, bricks, or even a wooden trail. This not only improves aesthetics but also facilitates ease of access.

Another crucial aspect is selecting the right mix of perennial and seasonal plants. While perennial plants ensure year-round greenery, seasonal ones can add a dash of color and vibrancy at various times of the year.

Lastly, consider hardscaping elements like benches, fountains, or sculptures. These items can serve as eye-catching focal points and contribute to the overall beauty of the building setup. Remember, a well-kept landscape speaks volumes about the attention to detail inside the building too, hence worth considering.

FAQ

How do you make a metal building look rustic?

To give a metal building a rustic look, consider using lighter or darker gray tones and opt for matte finishes on metal panels instead of glossy or shiny ones.

Can you change the color of a metal building?

Yes, the color of a metal building can be changed by painting for both functional and aesthetic purposes.

Can you add to a metal building?

Yes, it is possible to expand almost any steel building, facilitating increased space for business enlargement, sports complex extension, and distribution center development.

What are the suitable materials for cladding a metal building?

Steel, aluminium, copper, zinc and titanium are suitable materials for cladding a metal building.

How can landscaping enhance the aesthetic of a metal building?

Landscaping can enhance the aesthetic of a metal building by adding color, texture, and natural elements that soften the industrial look and blend the structure into its surroundings.

What types of metal building facades can contribute to a modern design aesthetic?

Steel panels, aluminum cladding, copper detailing, and corten steel modules can contribute to a modern aesthetic when used in metal building facades.

Recap