Author: clickgiant

#FlashBackFriday Labor Weekend Events

Posted on September 12, 2018 by - ACI, Blog, News/Press, Product Reviews, Questions, Videos

During Labor weekend, American Steel Carports was part of two carnivals, from two different states.

 

The Hog Days carnival is a wonderful event for families to enjoy on Labor Day weekend. The carnival traditionally hosts an annual “ Hog Day Parade,” consisting of a “one-mile march of bands, floats, and everything red, white and blue to celebrate [their] roots in agriculture.” Team members from our Illinois shop were part of the carnival and the parade this year, proudly representing our company.

 

We decided to have a carport on a trailer with a hunting blind, as you can see on the following pictures:

 

 

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We were told that it was a bad idea, but we took up the challenge, and the event was a success.

 

 

Continuing with our experiences of the holiday, we took part in the Fulton County Fair in Ohio. This was a really nice fair, with big events and attractions, as you can see in the following pictures:

 

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The members from our Ohio shop had a really good time, and we were well represented.

 

 

 

 

As a company, we known that our buildings are a big investment. That’s why we want to offer our customers the most durable, engineer-certified metal buildings available, at the most affordable prices. Do you have any questions about our buildings? Give us a call, one of our representatives will be happy to assist you. Don’t forget to check our products for more ideas.

 

 

Simple Designs, Great Quality

Posted on September 12, 2018 by - Blog

American Carports offers simple, strong, and resistant metal buildings to house and protect your RV or vehicles. Our engineer-certified metal buildings are ensured to last for a really long time, and it will protect your valuable belongings from the inclement weather.

 

Take a look at this 30x41x12 metal building perfect to fit an RV, your tractor or even to protect your heavy machinery equipment:

 

• 30’W x 41’L x 12’H

• A-Frame Vertical Roof

• 12-Gauge Galvanize Tubing

• Horizontal Sides

 

 

 

Simple design, a vertical roof with horizontal sides in 12-gauge galvanized tubing, which comes with a 20-year warranty on framing rust-through assuming normal care and maintenance. It also comes with a 90 MPH wind warranty when you purchase all anchors needed.

Keep in mind that we can install your unit anywhere you want as long as your land is leveled. It is the customer’s responsibility to let us know where the unit is going to be installed and which direction it will face.

 

Do you have questions about our buildings? Give us call! One of our representatives will be happy to assist you. Are you looking for something similar to what we’ve already built? Click here to check out our selection of RV Metal Carports.

 

Installer Crews: Reasons behind installer shortages…

Posted on September 11, 2018 by - ACI, Blog, News, Product Reviews, Promotions

Do you need a hands-on job with great pay? American Carports, Inc. is always looking for subcontractors who are skilled in the installation of metal carports and buildings. We refer to our installation crews simply as “Installers” and immediately consider them to be part of the AC family!

Although our Installers receive great pay, experience, travel, and a secure job, there are several reasons why we have a shortage of knowledgeable and capable crews. Carport and metal building installation requires individuals who are able to work in extreme weather conditions and are also willing to travel and work away from home for long periods of time. As a subcontractor, you would have to provide your own vehicles, tools, and lodging and work on a commission basis. This field of work requires crews of at least 2-3 individuals and is considered dangerous due to sharp objects, high altitudes, etc. This work environment is fast-paced and requires a high and meticulous level of skill as well as excellent time management abilities. You must be able to pay attention to detail and solve problems on site. Additionally, you are the face of our company, so we expect great on-site customer service and communication skills. You must be able to deal with not only our satisfied customers, but also the unhappy ones. With this job comes great responsibility. You are the one in charge of making sure that you, your crew, and the company look their best! Customers tend to remember installer crews, often calling us to commend the great job they did.

Many have tried, but not many succeed. Remember, there is work, just not enough people willing to take the initiative. Not just anyone is cut out for this job, which is why we HIGHLY value the crews we currently have.

If you are interested and think you and your crew have the necessary set of skills, give us a call today  or visit us in person to apply!

 

Add Value to Your Property with this Workshop!

Posted on September 10, 2018 by - ACI, Blog, Customer Builds, Steel Structures

Need a new addition on your property? Want a better and bigger workshop?

Have you ever thought about having your own “man cave”? Or perhaps a workshop to work on your vehicles? If your answer to both questions is yes, it’s likely that your main concern about getting a workshop is the price. Metal buildings can range in price depending on the size and number of features added to the unit. Remember that we’re working to meet your expectations. If you’re on a budget, our experts will work with you until we design your perfect building.

So, what if you don’t have a concrete slab? Is your building going to be gone with the wind?

Our buildings don’t necessarily have to be installed on concrete slabs. Leveled surfaces like asphalt and regular ground are typically flat enough to install metal buildings. Additionally, our company offers mobile home and asphalt anchors to secure your metal building, so if you want to get our 90-mph wind warranty, we can still give it to you as long as your purchase all of the necessary anchors. However, keep in mind that any building that exceeds 30’ in width will be required to have a concrete slab.

Take a look at this beautiful metal workshop:

  • 30’W x 51’L x 12’H
  • A-Frame Vertical Roof
  • Horizontal Sides & Ends
  • 12’x12′ Roll-Up Door (front end)
  • 8’x7′ Roll-Up Door (front end)
  • 2 – Windows (one on each side)
  • 36″x72″ Walk-In Door (on the side)
  • Additional Trussing
  • Additional Hat Channels
  • Mobile Home Anchors

Disclaimer: Interior designs may vary by state or region. This metal workshop was installed in Colorado. Therefore, it was necessary to add extra trusses in order to meet local codes.

 

We’re here to help if you’re interested in the same style as the building described above, but if you want to change its dimensions, please give us a call. Let one of our experts help you customize the building of your dreams.

*Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change at any time without notice. Please contact our sales department for our latest prices.*

What is Galvanized Steel?

Posted on September 6, 2018 by - Blog, News/Press, Product Reviews

Steel is known for its strength, formability, and versatility. Perhaps that’s why the largest consumer of steel, housing and construction, puts it the most to use everyday .  Perhaps it’s due to the fact that galvanized steel is the most durable coating there is.

 

What exactly is galvanized steel?

 

Steel is considered galvanized after it goes through the galvanization process. Steel is submerged into liquid zinc whereafter produces a tough, fortifying cover of zinc-iron alloy and zinc metal. This glaze fights moisture, making steel last for 50 years. Maybe that’s why it’s been used since 1742.

 

The first step of the galvanization process is the most important: surface preparation. Steel must be free of oils, dirt, and grease. Thus, it’s submerged in caustic acid and then rinsed with water. The next stage is called pickling, which is a process that aims to remove oxidation from the steel with hydrochloric acid. Fluxing, or diffusion soldering, is a technique that targets impurities and reduces it. If this process is not done correctly, the steel would not be coated when dipped into the zinc.

 

After the cleansing, the big step finally comes. The steel is dipped into a 850 F kettle containing 98% of pure molten zinc. How does one know the liquid is correctly proportioned? The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) has to approve its adequacy first. Then after 10 minutes or less, the steel is carefully removed from the bath. The coating occurs due to a chemical reaction between the zinc, iron, and other metals that mix in order to enhance the quality of the coat. The steel is then let to cool off by air itself or with water.

 

A process called quenching is performed to further enhance the coat. A mixture of water and other chemicals are poured into a tank, whereafter is layered onto the steel to protect during transportation and storage. This additional step is not necessary, but in some factories, the process is taken.

 

This next step consists of  inspecting the quality of the coating. At this point, it’s cooled off and dry. Multiple tests, physically and laboratory, are run in order to examine the thickness, appearance, and adherence of the coat. Ultimately, what is created is a coating so strong that combats natural factors from deteriorating it.

 

But if steel is said to be resistant to a handful of elements, why is galvanization performed?

 

Galvanizing simply further enhances the quality of steel even more, making it last for more than 50 years. The advantages are countless.

For example:

 

    • It’s tough. In fact, it’s the toughest protective cover for steel. Apart from the organic strength of steel itself, galvanizing the material makes it withstand damage from natural elements.

 

    • In addition to its guaranteed 50 year + lifespan, the touch-ups are minimal. When you purchase galvanized steel, maintaining your carport won’t be difficult. The protection it offers makes steel less prone to the damaging effects of environmental factors.

 

    • Cost efficiency is another advantage of galvanized steel. Because its durability is long, you won’t spend money on replacing or repairing.

 

    • Moisture and oxygen reacts well with the coating, reducing rust expansion from a minimal to nothing at all. The rusting that may occur, however, develops after the 50 years. Plus, the zinc covering corrodes before the steel underneath.

 

    • Unlike many protective covers, galvanized steel is scratch-resistant.

 

  • The coat also helps with the appearance of steel, leaving it with a glossy finish.

Because of its good reputation, galvanized steel is used in many other products. Those who live in steel-based homes may have galvanized roofs, and vehicles contain many parts that are steel galvanized as well.

 

Steel is one of the most beneficial and effective materials in the world. But when it surpasses the galvanizing process, it becomes even better. That’s why we only use galvanized steel. Our customers are our top priority and we want to sell the best to the best.

 

Need a quote? Contact us today; we will be happy to assist you.

An Option for Your Big Toys

Posted on September 5, 2018 by - ACI, Blog, Customer Builds, Steel Structures

Triple-wide buildings range from 26’ to 30’ in width, offering the capacity to store and protect heavy machinery or multiple vehicles (perhaps multiple trucks) or be a big workshop for your big toys. Whichever scenario best describes your situation, American Steel Carports will find the perfect metal building for you!

Your metal building doesn’t have to be highly customized—we have plenty of options that will let you stay in your budget. If you know what you want and the dimensions you’re looking for, then the process will be smooth and fast!

Take a look at this Standard 30’W x 51’L x 12’H triple-wide unit:

 

The design might be simple, but this building is strong enough that it will last for many years! This triple-wide unit comes with a 10’ x 10’ roll-up door, two 36” x 80” walk-in doors, two windows, and concrete anchors.

Contact us today! Let one of our friendly representatives assist you with any questions or concerns you might have about getting a metal building. We will provide you with a free quote! Remember that all of our metal buildings are custom-made. Give us a call today and ask for our financing options!

Ordering Steps

Posted on August 29, 2018 by - ACI, Blog, News, Questions

Need a metal building, but don’t know where to start? Here’s a quick overview…

Steps BEFORE purchasing a metal building:

  1. Call American Steel Carports to make sure we service your area at (866) 730-9865.
  2. Contact your city regarding permitting, codes, and what is and isn’t allowed.
  3. Measure or hire someone to measure the exact size of the unit you need. (Although we are highly skilled, we cannot guess the size of your vehicles and how much EXTRA room you will need for storage or other purposes.)
  4. After checking on permitting requirements and measuring, visit a local American Steel Carports dealer in your area. Call (866) 730-9865 to get info on local dealers.
  5. Choose your style of carport, RV cover, garage, lean-to, mini-storage, etc.
  6. Ask for the lead-time of installation for your area. (Make sure it works for you.)
  7. Place your order with a 10% deposit. IF needed, request and pay for plans.
  8. Pull Permit once plans are received.

Steps AFTER purchasing a metal building:

  1. Prep the site. Make sure the site is level.
  2. Mark all utility lines. (We are not liable for damage to unmarked lines.) Call #811 before you dig.
  3. Pour concrete if needed or required. Make sure to contact your dealer or ASC so that you can make sure you meet our concrete requirements.
  4. Clear the installation site of debris. (We can install over items at an additional cost and after it is cleared through management. Pictures and measurements of what we are installing over are required.)
  5. Wait for the arrival of your American Steel Carports building! (We are sure that you will be 100% satisfied with our product!)

 

If you need to make changes to your order, they cannot be done on-site. To make changes to your order, contact your local dealer or call (866) 730-9865 to speak to the representative for your state BEFORE your installation date. Changes could affect installation dates.

Steel Protection for Your RV

Posted on August 29, 2018 by - ACI, Blog, Customer Builds, Steel Structures

Metal carports as RV covers are light and portable structures that are ideal for protecting your cars, trucks, and RVs. However, just because these structures are light and portable doesn’t mean that they are weak and cheap. In fact, we provide the exact opposite! Our metal carports are designed and engineered with strength and durability in mind.

When you’re dealing with our metal buildings, you have the option to customize your building according to your needs and liking. Whether you want to change the color, the size, or add extra features, we will work with your ideas to transform them into a reality. Even the simplest standard carport can be customized to look like a premium version. Take a look at this 22’W x 41’L x 12’H RV cover:

If you’d like to know more information regarding this RV cover, feel free to give us a call and let our experts help you customize your metal building according to your needs. We can also provide you with a free sketch to help you envision what you’re looking for. And don’t forget to ask about our financing options!

Live in the north? You’d better watch out for the snow!

Posted on August 27, 2018 by - ACI, Customer Builds, Steel Structures

Vertical siding buildings are the most recommended when it comes to states that get a lot of snow. The vertical roof allows natural elements like snow, water, dirt, leaves, and dust to slide off easily without the need for constant maintenance, unlike other roof styles. And if the vertical roof can give you all that, imagine having vertical sides! It would definitely make your metal garage maintenance-free!

Another cool feature that we offer is our overhead doors. These doors create more of a residential look, and they can actually be connected to a garage opener. Please keep in mind that American Carports does not offer that type of service: we would only provide the installation of your metal building and the overhead door.

This 18’W x 26’L x 10’H metal garage is a perfect example of a fully vertical (a.k.a., maintenance-free) building:

 

 

There are many ways to customize your metal garage! Before making a purchase, though, it’s recommended that all of our customers talk with their local building departments to get the necessary permits. Remember that not all states and counties are the same: some might require additional plans or calculations, while others would take the generic plans. Also, know that our generic plans come free when you place your order with us.

Give us a call and let one of our experts help you build that garage of your dreams! Does your area have a higher snow load? Let our experts know, and we’ll work with your requirements until we meet them. Want to see our buildings in person? Call us and ask for your local dealer! And don’t forget to ask about our financing options.