If you are thinking about buying a fabric building then get the answers to the questions below and we are here to help. Rubb offers no-cost consultations for new buildings, and complimentary in-house evaluations of your existing buildings and plans.
We are here to help.
Most of a building’s basic cost is in the structural frame, so a heavier building usually means it is stronger. Ask suppliers to certify their steel weight and compare it to the weight of a Rubb building. In our experience, Rubb buildings often weigh 2-3 times more than competitor products.
What’s your tolerance for cutting corners?
Hot-dip galvanizing to ASTM A123 specifications after welding provides the best long-term corrosion protection. Painting and in-line galvanizing give far less protection. Welding after fabrication leaves hidden areas unprotected and un-inspectable. If you are unclear about galvanizing or have further questions please contact us.
What’s your tolerance for hidden corrosion?
Some suppliers gamble that snow/ice will slide off the roof. Building codes don’t allow for that risk. Ask for documentation to confirm your structure will meet local code standards, then verify it independently. Rubb will gladly provide a second opinion.
What’s your tolerance for structural failure?
Proper structural engineering isn’t an art, it’s a science. Main structural elements like trusses and beams must be properly braced. Compare steel thickness and details at main force connection and diagonal bracing points. Details do matter.
What’s your tolerance for not sweating the details?
Rubb uses 28 oz per square yard PVC-coated polyester materials from reputable long-term suppliers. Many providers use low-cost 12-15 ounce polyethylene or laminate products. If someone tells you that 28 oz PVC is unnecessary, ask for examples of their oldest buildings. Make sure the material is fire safe to NFPA 701 standards, and ask for proof.
What’s your tolerance for frequent re-roofing?
If the building supplier states calculations are “unavailable” or “proprietary” or won’t provide them for an independent code review, that’s a major red flag. Rubb structural calculations stand up to independent peer review and meet code standards.
What’s your tolerance for code violations?
Read the fine print and be wary of unrealistic promises. Research the suppliers’ history and confirm they’ve been in operation long enough to have a proven record. Rubb has been in continuous operation in the US since 1983 and in Europe for over 50 years.
What’s your tolerance for cutting corners?
Rubb is a fully integrated company. We engineer, we fabricate, we install, and we maintain our products for the long term. Many suppliers are consolidators who don’t engineer, manufacture, or service; they simply subcontract different parts of a project to third parties. When problems occur and lines of responsibility are blurred, the customer suffers.
What’s your tolerance for finger pointing?
Ask if the building supplier will service and maintain the building and for how long. Rubb has an experienced and responsive service department. Over 75% of our business comes from existing satisfied customers, and we are in it for the long term.
What’s your tolerance for poor service?
You may hear, “We’re about the same as Rubb, only cheaper.” Don’t be fooled. When it comes to meeting building code, cutting corners to save cost can bring disaster. Rubb buildings are engineered right. Rubb’s total cost of ownership makes Rubb the best and safest investment for the long term.
What’s your tolerance for higher lifecycle costs?
The International Building Code (IBC) provides code guidance for fabric structures in Chapter 31-Special Construction. Issues regarding fabric structures are addressed separately from conventional buildings, which are covered in Chapter 6-Types of Construction. Noncombustible membrane structures, which include Rubb Buildings, are considered Type IIB construction, which allows for a lower level of fire-resistance than combustible Type I construction.
Please consider the following:
We provide long-term protection for your crews, cargo, and equipment.
Rubb buildings are rugged and reliable in all environments.
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