Product Knowledge

Steel specs, wind and snow ratings, upgrade options, and commercial buildings.

Standard steel specifications

Component	Standard	Upgrade
Frame	14-gauge (2×2 square tubing)	12-gauge
Panels	29-gauge	26-gauge
Wind rating	120 mph	140 mph
Snow rating (NC Steel default)	35 lbs/sq ft	—

Standard specs are sufficient for the vast majority of customers and locations.

How the framing works

The 14-gauge 2×2 square tubing runs along the frame of the building, down the sides, and up through the legs into the trusses. On larger buildings you may see double legs. The 29-gauge (or 26-gauge upgraded) metal sheets make up the exterior panels.

What are wind and snow ratings?

The wind rating is the maximum wind speed the building is certified to withstand when properly anchored and installed by the manufacturer. There are no wind warranties or guarantees on buildings that customers install themselves (DIY).

When installed by the manufacturer, they warranty the wind rating.

Standard: 14-gauge frame / 29-gauge panels → 120 mph
Upgrade: 12-gauge frame / 26-gauge panels → 140 mph

How to check local wind and snow requirements — ASCE Hazard Tool

Use the ASCE Hazard Tool, built by civil engineers, to look up local weather ratings by ZIP code.

How to use:

Google “ASCE hazard tool” — it’s typically the first result
Enter the customer’s ZIP code
Select Risk Category 1
Check Wind and Snow
Click View Results

How to interpret:

Local wind ≤ 120 mph → standard is fine
Local wind > 120 mph → recommend the 12-gauge upgrade