When it comes to constructing workspaces for industries such as mining, construction and industrial, a question that is often raised is “What does clear span mean?”. Throughout this article, we will explore the clear span construction method and how it can benefit you and your business needs.
Clear span construction is a term often used in the building and construction industry, particularly when discussing wide open spaces and efficient structural design. Such structures can be used in various industries, including Waste Management, Mining, Construction, Aviation and Industrial. Fabric shelters are a type of clear span structure, offering a shelter with ample open space.
What Is Clear Span?
Clear span construction refers to buildings or structures that are designed without interior columns or support beams. This architectural term emphasises the creation of wide open spaces, which are free from obstructions that can hinder movement and usage. Clear span design is primarily achieved through robust and innovative engineering, often involving steel framing or other durable materials.
Having no interior supports is the most defining feature of clear span buildings, and with the absence of interior columns or support beams, these structures allow for uninterrupted space. This also contributes to the wide open spaces, with clear span buildings maximising the usable interior space, making them ideal for a variety of applications. Another key feature of them is their structural integrity. Despite the lack of internal supports, clear span buildings are engineered to be strong and durable, often using pre-engineered materials like steel or fabric.
Benefits of Clear Span Construction
Clear span buildings offer a range of advantages, making them a preferred choice in many industries. Some of the key benefits include:
- Maximising Usable Interior Space: Without support columns creating hurdles, the entire floor plan of the structure is available for use. This is one of the most significant advantages of clear span buildings, and is beneficial for warehouses where unhindered open space is essential for operations.
- Flexibility: Clear span buildings offer incredible flexibility in terms of interior layout and design. With no support beams to work around, these structures can be adapted to a variety of uses. Whether you need a wide-open space for machinery, a spacious area for staff meeting areas, or a customisable environment for bulk material storage, clear span designs can accommodate your needs.
- Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal and Functional Efficiency: The clean, unobstructed lines of clear span buildings provide a modern and aesthetically pleasing appearance. Additionally, the functional efficiency of these structures, combined with their versatile design possibilities, makes them an attractive option for both commercial and industrial purposes.
Types of Clear Span Buildings
Clear span construction can be achieved using various materials and methods depending on your needs. There are two main types of clear span structures which include:
Clear Span Steel Buildings
Steel buildings are well known and a popular choice for clear span construction due to their strength and durability. Steel framing allows for large spans without the need for internal supports, making them ideal for warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and large retail spaces.
Clear Span Fabric Structures
Fabric structures are another effective solution for clear span construction. Quality fabric container domes and shelters, such as those offered by Allshelter use tensioned fabric over a steel frame, all designed and engineered to your specific location to create wide open spaces. These structures are strong, versatile and durable, creating an alternative to steel clad buildings which can’t be dismantled and reinstalled easily and are costly to transport due to the size of materials. They are commonly used for on-site workshops, tyre change bays and bulk material storage.
Clear span structures can be used for varying applications including:
- Warehouses: For maximising warehouse storage space and ease of movement
- Workshops: Provide open plan areas which can be used for various activities.
- Tyre Change Bays or Heavy Vehicle Maintenance: When large machinery needs maintenance works, a structure needs to be large enough to hold the plant as well as the materials/tools and protect the workers. Unhindered space allows for these kinds of works to take place.
Clear Span vs. Traditional Construction
There are several key differences when comparing clear span construction to traditional building methods, with both construction types having their own advantages.
Traditional construction typically relies on support columns and beams within the interior space, which can limit the usability and flexibility of the floor plan. Office spaces, retail centres and houses can all benefit from the traditional construction methods, as separate areas are needed. In contrast, clear span structures eliminate these obstacles, providing a more open and versatile environment. Therefore, these structures are particularly advantageous in scenarios where wide open spaces are crucial. For example, in a warehouse, the absence of support columns allows for more efficient use of storage systems and easier movement of goods and equipment.
Choosing the Right Clear Span Solution
If you are in need of an open plan building, there are a number of factors that need to be considered to ensure your specific needs and requirements are met. Some factors to consider include:
- Size: Determine the appropriate size of the clear span structure based on its intended use and available space.
- Material: Choose the right material, such as steel or fabric, based on durability, cost, and environmental conditions.
- Budget: Consider your budget constraints and find a clear span solution that offers the best value without compromising on quality.
Once you have decided on the structure type best suited for your needs, it is important to conduct thorough research on potential contractors and suppliers. Look for companies with experience and a good reputation in clear span construction, as well as someone that provides fully engineered solutions. After you’ve found potential suppliers, have detailed consultations with your chosen contractor to discuss your needs, preferences, and any specific requirements. The more information you provide the company, the better they will be able to assist you with your needs. Lastly, it is important to ensure the contractor can customise the clear span structure to meet your specifications.
Clear span construction is a powerful solution for creating wide open spaces without the need for interior supports. This innovative design approach offers numerous benefits, including maximising usable space, flexibility in interior layout, and enhanced aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re planning a warehouse, sports facility, agricultural building, or event space, clear span structures provide the functionality and efficiency you need.
At Allshelter, we specialise in providing high-quality clear span fabric structures that cater to a variety of applications. Our expertise and commitment to excellence ensure that you get a durable and versatile solution tailored to your needs. Consider clear span construction for your next project and experience the difference it can make in terms of space, design, and functionality. Contact us for more information.
