Simple Steel Building Maintenance: Keep Your Investment in Shape

You chose a steel kit building from Kit Buildings UK for all the right reasons: it’s great value, quick to put up, and incredibly tough. The best part? Modern steel structures are famously low-maintenance.

But even the toughest buildings benefit from a little TLC! Taking a small amount of time for regular checks ensures your investment stays looking great and working perfectly for decades to come.

Here are a few practical and simple steel building maintenance tips that are easy for anyone to follow.

1. Your Annual Walk-Around Check

We build our structures to be giants, but the weather can be a bit brutal. Why not set aside one afternoon a year (late summer is perfect) for a quick, simple steel building maintenance inspection?

• Check the Joints: Take a look at the main connections and bolts on the frame. It’s rare, but sometimes heavy winds can cause a tiny bit of loosening over many years. If you spot anything that looks loose, a quick tighten is all it takes.
• Inspect the Walls: Walk around the outside and look for any scuffs, scratches, or dents in the cladding. Pay special attention to the base where machinery might bump it.
• Look for Leaks: After a decent downpour, check the inside for any damp patches or drips. Most indoor damp issues trace back to blocked gutters or an easily fixed bit of sealant.

2. Keep Those Gutters Flowing Freely

Handling water correctly is vital for preventing rust and protecting your foundations. Our galvanised steel resists corrosion brilliantly, but you never want water standing around.

• Clear Out Debris: Make it a habit twice a year (spring and autumn) to clear leaves, twigs, and general debris from your gutters and downpipes. This is an essential part of simple steel building maintenance.
• Watch the Runoff: Make sure the water coming out of the downpipes is directed well away from the edge of the building so it doesn’t pool near the foundations.

3. Easy Cleaning for a Great Look

Our high-quality coated steel cladding is made to resist fading and rust. Cleaning is mostly about keeping your structure looking smart and professional.

• A Gentle Wash: All it takes for simple steel building maintenance is an annual wash with plain water and a very mild detergent (like the kind you use for washing your car). Use a soft brush or cloth and a regular hose. Please avoid high-pressure jet washers, as they can sometimes lift the coating or damage seals.
• Deal with Spills Fast: If your building is exposed to things like chemicals or industrial residue, clean those areas right away to protect the finish.

4. Look After the Moving Parts

Doors and windows keep your building functional and secure.

• Lubrication is Key: Keep the tracks, hinges, and moving parts of your rolling or sliding doors and windows clean and lightly lubricated (silicone spray is usually ideal). This ensures they open and close smoothly.
• Check the Seals: Have a quick check of the rubber seals around doors and windows. They can wear out over time, and replacing them is a cheap and simple fix that keeps heat in and drafts out.

When you choose Kit Buildings UK, you’re choosing fantastic materials that are designed to be low-stress.

By dedicating a little time to these four steps, you’re ensuring your investment remains effective and attractive for many years to come!