Anchors
Different Styles and When to Use Them
Anchors are critical components used in steel building construction to secure the structure to its foundation or to resist external forces like wind, seismic activity, or other lateral loads. The choice of anchors and their styles depends on various factors, such as building design, location, local building codes, and the expected loads on the structure, environmental conditions, and the specific requirements of the project. Below are some common anchor styles used in steel buildings and when to use them:
Rebar Anchor
- Description: Rebar anchors are typically steel rods inserted into holes drilled into the concrete foundation. They are then secured in place with epoxy or grout to create a strong connection between the building and the foundation.
- When to Use: Rebar anchors are commonly used when the steel building is erected on a concrete foundation. They provide excellent resistance to vertical and lateral forces, making them suitable for various types of steel structures, including warehouses, industrial buildings, and commercial structures.
Mobile Home Anchor
- Description: Mobile home anchors, also known as auger anchors or earth anchors, are large corkscrew-like devices made of heavy-duty steel. They are screwed into the ground to provide anchorage for steel buildings, particularly mobile homes and small structures.
- When to Use: Mobile home anchors are ideal for steel buildings that are placed on relatively softer ground, such as clay or sandy soils. They are commonly used for small prefabricated structures and temporary buildings.
Concrete Anchor
- Description: Concrete anchors are expansion or wedge anchors designed to be embedded directly into cured concrete. They come in various styles, including mechanical and adhesive anchors, providing different levels of strength and holding capacity.
- When to Use: Concrete anchors are suitable for steel buildings erected on concrete slabs or foundations. They are commonly used in commercial and residential applications and provide reliable support for structural steel components.
Asphalt Anchor
- Description: Asphalt anchors are specially designed fasteners for securing steel buildings to asphalt or bitumen surfaces. They typically feature an expanding anchor body or an adhesive bond to the asphalt.
- When to Use: Asphalt anchors are used when a steel building is constructed on an asphalt surface, such as parking lots or roads. They offer a secure connection and prevent movement or shifting of the building under wind loads or other forces.
When choosing anchors for a steel building, consider the following factors:
Building design and load requirements: Identify the expected loads on the building, including vertical and lateral forces, and select anchors that can handle these loads.
Foundation material:
Consider the type of foundation material (concrete, masonry, etc.) and choose anchors compatible with that material.
Environmental conditions:
If the building is located in a corrosive environment, consider using anchors made from materials with corrosion-resistant properties.
Building codes:
Ensure that the selected anchors comply with local building codes and regulations.
Professional advice:
Consult with structural engineers or construction experts to determine the most suitable anchor types and configurations for your specific steel building project.
Overall, selecting the right anchor style is crucial to ensure the stability, safety, and long-term performance of a steel building. Properly installed and suitable anchors will contribute to the overall durability and integrity of the structure.