Choosing the right arch style building for your needs can feel overwhelming. Both S-Series and G-Series buildings feature the distinctive arch style design that has become synonymous with durability and efficiency in steel construction. With multiple options available in arch style buildings, how do you know which series will work best for your project? This guide will help you understand the key differences between S-Series and G-Series arch buildings, so you can make the best choice for your situation.
Understanding the Basics
Think of S-Series and G-Series arch style buildings as cousins in the same family. They share the fundamental arch design that makes them incredibly strong and efficient, but each has its own special qualities that make it perfect for different jobs. The curved arch style of both series eliminates the need for interior supports, maximizing usable space. While both types are made from strong steel and can stand up to tough weather, their specific capabilities differ significantly.
S-Series: The Streamlined Arch Solution
S-Series arch buildings are like the sports cars of the steel building world. They’re designed to be quick to put up and easy on your wallet, while maintaining the superior strength of arch style construction. These buildings use a straightforward arch design that makes them perfect for simpler projects. The S-Series buildings typically range from 20 to 40 feet wide, making them great for smaller spaces. They can handle snow loads up to 30 pounds per square foot and wind speeds up to 90 miles per hour. This means they’re tough enough for most weather conditions while still being cost-effective.
G-Series: The Heavy-Duty Arch Champion
G-Series arch buildings are more like heavy-duty trucks. They’re built for bigger jobs and can handle more weight and wider spaces, taking full advantage of the arch style’s inherent strength. These buildings use a more complex arch design that gives them extra strength and flexibility. G-Series buildings can span from 30 to 120 feet wide, making them ideal for large operations. They can support snow loads up to 50 pounds per square foot and wind speeds up to 120 miles per hour. This extra strength means they can handle tougher weather and bigger loads.
Making the Right Choice: Size Matters
When picking between S-Series and G-Series arch buildings, size should be your first consideration. S-Series buildings excel in situations where space requirements are modest, such as personal workshops, small equipment storage, or basic automotive needs. Their arch design ensures maximum interior clearance even in smaller footprints.
G-Series arch buildings are designed for those who need substantial space. The arch style construction allows them to span impressive widths without interior supports, making them ideal for large agricultural operations, commercial warehouses, indoor sports facilities, and manufacturing spaces. The size difference becomes apparent when you compare them directly: an S-Series building with a 30-foot width and length provides about 900 square feet of clear-span space, while a G-Series building of the same length but 80 feet wide offers 2,400 square feet – nearly triple the area.
Load Capacity: Understanding the Strength
Load capacity is crucial when choosing between these arch building types. The arch design itself provides excellent strength in both series, but each is engineered for different capacities. S-Series buildings offer robust support for standard needs, easily accommodating basic lighting and electrical systems, standard climate control equipment, and typical doors and windows. Their arch design provides ample strength for everyday use while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
G-Series arch buildings take strength to another level. Their enhanced arch design allows them to support heavy crane systems, industrial-grade ventilation units, and multiple storage levels. The structural integrity of G-Series buildings makes them suitable for complex installations including extensive lighting systems and heavy equipment mounting. This additional strength comes from their advanced engineering and reinforced arch design elements.
Real-World Applications
The versatility of these arch building series becomes clear when examining their practical applications. S-Series buildings serve perfectly as automotive repair shops, small equipment storage facilities, and personal workshops. Their efficient arch design and manageable size make them ideal for small businesses and individual users who need reliable, cost-effective space solutions.
G-Series arch buildings shine in more demanding environments such as large-scale agricultural operations, manufacturing facilities, and warehouse applications. Their robust arch construction and spacious interiors provide the perfect environment for heavy machinery, extensive storage needs, and complex industrial processes. The additional height and width options allow for maximum space utilization in commercial and industrial settings.
Cost Considerations
The financial aspect of choosing between S-Series and G-Series arch buildings involves more than just the initial price tag. S-Series buildings typically cost less overall because they employ simpler arch designs and require less material. Their streamlined construction process needs fewer workers and takes less time, resulting in lower labor costs. These factors make S-Series buildings an economical choice for straightforward applications.
G-Series arch buildings represent a larger investment due to their more complex design and construction requirements. They need more materials and skilled assembly teams, and the construction timeline is longer. However, the additional cost often proves worthwhile when the enhanced features and strength are necessary for the intended use. Many operations find that the extra investment in a G-Series building pays off through increased capability and longevity.
Weather Resistance
Environmental conditions play a crucial role in building selection. The arch design of both series naturally excels at shedding snow and resisting wind loads. S-Series buildings perform admirably in areas with moderate weather patterns, handling typical snow loads, standard wind conditions, and regular rainfall with ease. Their design provides excellent protection for most climate conditions while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
G-Series arch buildings offer enhanced weather resistance for more challenging environments. Their robust construction makes them ideal for regions that experience heavy snowfall, high winds, or extreme temperature fluctuations. The additional structural strength of G-Series buildings provides peace of mind in areas prone to severe weather events.
Installation and Assembly
The assembly process varies significantly between these arch building types. S-Series buildings typically come together more quickly, often requiring only a small team with basic construction knowledge. Most installations take three to seven days for a standard-sized S-Series building, making them ideal for projects with tight timelines.
G-Series arch buildings demand more expertise during installation. Professional teams typically spend one to three weeks completing a G-Series building, depending on its size and complexity. The longer installation time reflects the more intricate design and additional features these buildings offer.
Maintenance Requirements
Proper maintenance ensures long-term performance for both arch building types. S-Series buildings benefit from straightforward maintenance routines including annual roof inspections, regular door and window checks, and basic structural reviews. Their simpler design makes maintenance tasks more manageable for owners.
G-Series arch buildings require more comprehensive maintenance due to their complexity. Twice-yearly thorough inspections help maintain their advanced features and structural integrity. Professional assessments ensure all systems continue functioning properly, particularly in buildings with complex installations or heavy-use applications.
Planning for the Future
Forward thinking plays a vital role in building selection. Many businesses find their space needs grow over time, potentially making an S-Series arch building inadequate as operations expand. Starting with a G-Series building might cost more initially but could prevent the need for replacement or expansion later. Consider your growth projections carefully when making your choice.
Making Your Decision
Your specific circumstances should guide your choice between S-Series and G-Series arch buildings. Consider your available space, current budget, local weather patterns, intended use, and future growth plans. Each factor contributes to determining which building series will serve you best in the long run.
Take Action Today
Your perfect arch style building solution awaits at Duro Span. Our expert team stands ready to guide you through the selection process, ensuring you choose the ideal building for your needs. Whether an S-Series or G-Series arch building better suits your requirements, we’ll help you create the perfect space for your application. Contact Duro Span today at 888-848-2011 or visit www.durospan.com to request a free consultation. Don’t wait to start your project – reach out now and take the first step toward your ideal building solution.
