How do you build a 20' by 30' shop?

Answer 1

This is a very general question. It is however, a good one. First decide what it is that you want to build. A rough drawing is ok and scale is not important, as long as you have good general measurements. Next, find out what the local building codes are. This can be done with the help of your local building department. These are important as they will determine what the hazards are, based on OCCUPANCY (that's a building term that will get the attention of you building official and design professional latter). Occupancy will determine what type of building materials can be used fir the use, location and hazards. Do not get too caught up in the requirements just yet. Your architect or design professional will do that. If you are in an area that allows Owner Builder type construction then I would suggest buying a code book during the design phase. This is where it will do you the most good. Next find a good engineer, if required. An engineer first, as you have a better chance of finding a good engineer that can then refer you to a good architect than the other way around. That is just my humble opinion but it has worked best for me. Both of these are referred to as DESIGN PROFESSIONALS (another cool phrase). Your design professionals will help you to refine your design and bring it into compliance with local building codes. Now back to the beginning where I told you to get in touch with you building official. Here is where what you learned from the building official will help you to understand what the design professionals are trying to do. Your understanding of some basic code requirements will also gain you the respect of your design professionals in a hurry. Next find a competent contractor. This is best done by asking around and looking at some of their work in progress and finished stages. Your local building department should have a list of what the builder has done in the recent past. You may have to file a request for this information but it will be worth it in the end. If you are doing the construction then find experts in each field that you can go to in a pinch. Find these people in advance and make them your best friend. You will find that it is amazing how many people are more than willing to give you free advice. Be careful who you listen to though. The best advice that I can give is to get familiar with your building department. These are the people that can help or hurt you the most. I have found that when properly approached these people are more than willing to be of service. You pay taxes and taxes pay their wages. Its kind of like having them on your payroll. Hope this helps! Terry