Blog Steel Commander Corp
5 Maintenance Checks to Keep Your Steel Building Strong
Steel buildings are known for their durability, but like any long-term investment, they perform best with a little routine care. The good news? A simple maintenance check can extend your building’s lifespan, prevent expensive repairs, and keep everything looking and functioning like day one.
Below are five quick inspections you should do to keep your steel building in peak condition. Most of these actions take just a few minutes and they help ensure your structure stays weather-tight, worry-free, and ready for decades of performance.
1. Inspect & Tighten Fasteners + Re-Seal Joints
Over time, fasteners can loosen slightly due to wind movement, temperature changes, or natural settling. Sealants can also dry out and lose their flexibility.
What to check:
- Loose screws
- Missing or over-torqued fasteners
- Sealant gaps at seams, joints, or transitions
- Areas around windows, doors, and trim
Why it matters:
Staying on top of fastener and sealant integrity keeps your building watertight and secure and prevents leaks before they start.
2. Check for Corrosion, Panel Wear, or Damage
Steel buildings are designed to resist rust, but small scratches, dents, or chips in the coating can expose metal underneath.
What to look for:
- Surface rust
- Scratched or chipped paint
- Dented or damaged panels
- Areas where moisture collects
Why it matters:
Catching corrosion early means simple spot treatment instead of replacing panels later. Quick action = long-lasting protection.
3. Clear Gutters, Drains, and Roof Debris
Water is one of the biggest long-term threats to any building, and clogged gutters can cause backups that lead to corrosion or leaks.
What to clean:
- Leaves, pine needles, dirt, nests, or debris
- Downspouts blocked by mud or ice
- Low points on the roof where water pools
Why it matters:
Clean drainage prevents standing water and directs rain away from your building.
4. Repaint & Maintain Doors, Hinges, and Moving Parts
Roll-up doors, sliding barn doors, and personnel doors work hard year-round.
Your checklist:
- Lubricate hinges, rollers, and tracks
- Inspect all door weatherstripping
- Touch up paint or finish where needed
- Make sure seals close tightly
Why it matters:
A little maintenance keeps doors operating smoothly while protecting your steel from wear, rust, and unnecessary strain.
5. Inspect for Storm or Weather Damage
After a major storm, or at least once a year, walk the perimeter and look for signs of impact or movement.
Inspect for:
- Loose or lifted panels
- Bent trim or flashing
- Damage from falling branches or debris
- Signs of wind uplift
Why it matters:
Small issues caught early cost far less than structural repairs down the road.
The Bottom Line: 5 Minutes a Year = Decades of Performance
Steel buildings are low-maintenance by design. But with a simple routine, you protect your investment, reduce long-term costs, and keep your building as strong as the day it was installed.
For step-by-step guides, troubleshooting tips, and long-term care recommendations, visit the SCC Learning Center.
