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Tag: semi-permanent structure

Three temporary storage solutions for your business

Posted on by Mathew Hall

Helping you with extra storage space

If you need additional storage space, F&L Temporary Buildings design and install high quality temporary and semi-permanent storage solutions for business across the UK. Whether you’re looking to store stock, equipment, or materials, a temporary storage building can provide the perfect solution directly on your site.

In this article, we’ll explore how temporary buildings differ from other portable storage options to provide a durable, flexible and affordable temporary storage solution. In addition, we will cover the benefits of our buildings and highlight three temporary storage solutions we can provide for your business. 

Finally, we will compare our structures to other storage services such as off-site or self-storage to help you find the optimum storage system to help your business.

Design your storage building for free

Before we explore storage solutions you can design your own bespoke storage building for free, using our interactive building configurator. Choose your size and specification options and we will provide a bespoke design:

Design Your Building

Firstly, what are temporary buildings

A temporary building is a highly durable structure. Temporary, refers to the fact that they are movable and modular. As a result, they provide a flexible solution when it comes to storage space.

It’s a common misconception that they are not built to stand the test of time. With the right care, temporary buildings have a life span of 20+ years. They can be specified with a wide range of ancillary items.  Finishes range from robust industrial steel sides right through to fully insulated walls. The quality and longevity of our buildings are comparable to a traditional building but without the cost or time associated to build one! Furthermore, we can install a temporary building in a matter of days compared to months or even years if you were looking to build a brick and mortar structure.  In addition, a temporary building is in the region of 70% cheaper than a traditional building.  

 
Inside a temporary storage building. This temporary storage solution features industrial steel walls.

Short term storage solutions

If you’re after storage space, you may be exploring options like a self storage facility, storage container or other portable storage units.  Our buildings are engineered to provide storage capacity ranging from weeks to years so if you need short-term storage, one of our rental buildings might be the best option here.  These are typically 10m – 25m in width and modular in length up to 150m in 5m sections.  

Interim Storage

However, if you will need ongoing storage space, a temporary building could be a better option.  But why better?.. 

Flexibility and customisation options

A temporary building is designed specially for your needs.  We can create a custom size, layout options (including partitioning) and eave heights to perfectly match your storage requirements.  In addition, you can specify the building with a range of access options from pedestrian doors to large roller shutter doors.  

Storage containers typically come in fixed sizes with very limited customisation options.  Importantly, with our solution we take time to understand your requirements to provide a bespoke design, lighting, racking and a whole range of ancillary options.

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Future-proof

Although the initial setup might be higher compared to a hiring or buying a simple storage container, temporary buildings offer long-term savings as you will own the asset outright after purchase. Fundamentally, with a temporary warehouse or storage building you will get a bespoke, flexible solution designed to meet your individual needs.

Temporary buildings are suitable for a wide range of uses beyond simple storage, such as workshops, offices, or processing areas. This really futureproofs your investment. For added flexibility, temporary buildings can be easily partitioned to provide separate zones for different use cases, allowing you to combine storage with additional office space.

Finally, if your needs change and you require more (or less) storage, our structures can be expanded or contracted quicky due to their modular construction. There is a buoyant market for second hand structures. We also provide a flexible rental option for our buildings.

You can learn more about long-term temporary buildings by downloading our guide here.

Roller shutter door and pedestrian access to ballasted structure installed by Field & Lawn

Convenience

Compared to off-site storage, the big benefit here is that you will have space exactly where you need it for maximum operational efficiency. We can install a building on any ground surface and any ground undulations. 

As part of our service we carry out a site levels survey and bespoke engineer our structures so that they are site specific for your location. In addition, our structures can be seamlessly integrated into any existing building on your site, connected with a covered walkway or designed as a standalone structure.

To learn more about the best ground conditions and anchorage methods, our article on temporary building installation is worth reading.

So, what temporary storage solutions can we provide?

Find out how much a temporary warehouse like this costs
Loading bay canopy front on
Denholm Industrial new temporary building

If you think a temporary building will be a better fit for your business compared to storage containers or similar options lets dive into how we can help with three popular options to give you the extra space you need. 

1. Temporary storage buildings and warehouses

Temporary storage buildings offer a compact and simple design that are generally smaller than warehouses but provide useful overflow storage space directly on your site. Our storage buildings are manufactured in 5m bays lengths and can be provided in widths of up to 40m.

Temporary warehouses offer large-scale, clearspan storage space. Such option are integral parts of supply chains, inventory management, shipping, and receiving of goods. Warehouses are often deployed on manufacturing sites, distribution centers, and used for seasonal storage needs. Both buildings will provide a secure storage facility that delivers high quality long term storage space. A good example of this type of storage building is our click and collect warehouse for IKEA.

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2. Industrial Canopies

Industrial canopies transform underutilised outdoor space to protect stock that is topically left uncovered outside. Furthermore, they can support general operations with businesses using canopies for loading and unloading operations, significantly improving goods in and dispatch operations with the added bonus of a flexible storage option.

an industrial loading bay canopy deployed as a storage solution

To demonstrate how canopies can provide a flexible and valuable addition to your operations, explore how we helped Oak Furnitureland with a range of storage and loading bay canopies.

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3. Short-term and interim storage marquees & industrial tents

Industrial storage structures are fast to erect and quickly available from our UK stock. We can deliver nationwide. There are two main types of short-term temporary storage solutions.  The first option, which is ideal for very short requirements is a storage marquee.

A storage marquee is a flexible clearspan marquee that is specifically designed for warehousing. It can be installed within a few days on your site and we carry a large amount of rental stock which is available for rapid delivery across the UK.

The second option, is a custom manufactured temporary industrial tent. This solution is made to measure for your storage requirements. Specifically, an industrial storage tent is manufactured to protect goods, equipment, stock, products or vehicles. Storage tents are engineered for durability, rapid deployment, and year-round protection but are mainly used for short to medium-term applications such as seasonal storage or overflow capacity. 

In summary, an industrial storage tent is more suited to longer term use, while a storage marquee is an adapted marquee but with an ehnanced specification such as solid sides and doors.  

You can hire storage for weeks or months, with longer-term options also available. These structures are available with robust steel sides through to solid steel sides which means we can provide additional specification options such as access doors. To complete the structure we can specify a full temporary HVAC solution if required.

We recently provided an interim storage building on a flexible rental agreement for an industrial client.  This project was interesting as it was installed on contaminated ground.  We developed a bespoke anchorage solution to provide the required storage space.  Example, bespoke storage solutions:

Quality and compliance

A key notable difference between a portable storage container and our solutions is the quality and compliance that our buildings provide.  They meet all UK building regulations. Our manufacturing partner supplies structures around the world.  They manufacture in an ISO environment, and their processes meet CE standards for product conformity.  

What about planning permission? We have written a comprehensive guide on planning permission for temporary buildings. However, every building of a certain size in position for more than 28 days should have planning approval. Our buildings are designed to comply with UK building regulations and we can supply drawings and calculations to assist with any application.

Next Steps for getting the storage space you need

For the best solution, we recommend a free site visit and consultation can help you find the answers you need. Together, we can explore the best options for your needs and recommend the most suitable temporary storage solutions. At your consultation, our knowledgeable team will help you with:

• A comprehensive site appraisal and location advice
• Guidance on planning permission
• Choosing your specification and bespoke options
• Budget and feasibility costs

F&L Temporary Buildings are a little different to other businesses. This means you will never get the hard sell from us just helpful, honest advice with no obligations on your part. By understanding the options available and their benefits, you can then make an informed decision.

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Interim Storage Solutions: Rapid Deployment and Scalability

Posted on by Mathew Hall

Keep things moving with an interim storage solution

F&L temporary buildings are uniquely positioned in the temporary building market to be able to provide fast interim storage solutions. This is because we hold over 800,000 sq. ft. of industrial storage structures that can be delivered and installed in days across the UK.

Our industrial tents are fast to erect, available from UK stock for immediate hire. You can hire storage for weeks or months, with longer-term options also available.

Case Study: Interim storage for waste management company

We recently helped a waste recycling plant to do just that. When their plant was scheduled for routine maintenance, they required a fast, cost effective interim storage solution. Our team visited site to fully understand their requirements and propose a two phased solution to provide an initial dry storage tent for their short-term plant maintenance.

On this particular project, we supplied a 15m x 20m x 3m interim structure to provide much needed storage. Our client was previously using offsite storage which increased travel times and emissions. This had a big impact on their productivity and operational performance. From initial contact we developed a solution that could meet their hard internal deadline. RAMS were produced and we installed the structure swiftly, using our experienced, in-house team. The structure was initially provided on a flexible eight week hire, however, we accommodated an extend the hire, meaning their project could continue seamlessly.

Interim storage solution for a waste recycling plant
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A natural progression

Once we have installed an interim storage facility, we often get asked to explore more permanent solutions. The flexibility of the structures we provide make them an excellent and valuable solution that provides storage beyond their initial requirements. In this case, the clients operational performance has improved so significantly that they have asked us to help them with a longer-term storage option. Our temporary building team are working closely with the client to install a semi-permanent solution on the site to form the second phase of the project.

Gable on F&L temporary building

When is temporary storage not temporary?

We are experts in all types of temporary storage and have helped clients with additional storage space for a few days right the way through to semi-permeant storage that will be in pace for 20+ years. When we think of a temporary storage facility, customers are often wondering, how long will it last? There are two main options, the first option which is best suited to short-term needs is a temporary storage tent which is an industrial grade solution that can be specified with robust PCV sides or solid walls. In addition, full HVAC and other bespoke options can be supplied.

The second option is a long-term temporary building. This option provides you the opportunity to design and install a bespoke structure that will provide space for many years. There a vast range of options available and our knowledgeable team can help guide you through these. We offer a free site consultation and promise to never give you the hard sell, just honest, up-front advice to help you get the very best solution.

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The applications are endless

Our interim storage structures are completely flexible and are specified to your exact needs. The most popular uses include warehousing, pallet storage, bulk storage and overflow capacity during re-furnishment works. However our buildings have been used to store and protect heavy machinery, equipment, stock, waste and recycling materials.

If a longer-term solution is the best fit, this route gives you a greater range of options including full insulation, roller shutter doors, lighting, heating and cooling. Essentially, everything you would expect to find in a traditional building, but at a fraction of the cost. In addition, temporary buildings are fast to install and can be manufactured to order in a matter of weeks, without the need of a long and disruptive build. Finally, they can be installed on most ground surfaces, again saving time and cost.

You can learn more about long-term temporary buildings by downloading our guide here.

INdustrial tent being used as interim storage solution at waste management plant installed by Field & Lawn

Your interim storage partners

Our approach and ethos is all about collaboration, we offer a unique, design led approach that puts you first. We don’t just want to supply an off the shelf structure but a solution that is engineered around you. We can expand and flex our structures as your needs change.

Ready to get more space?

Discuss a project with us today

How can a temporary building boost manufacturing productivity?

Posted on by Mathew Hall

Explore our latest temporary building project for the manufacturing sector

We are delighted to have installed a new temporary building for an electrical manufacturing business based in Leicester.  The structure will be used for fitting out pre-fabricated units. It provides a flexible and comfortable industrial workshop space. Project Manager, Chris Kitchin shares an insight into how our client will benefit from their new building and the extra space it has created:

About the structure

F&L temporary buildings designed and installed a bespoke 10m x 10m x 4m structure, with a roller shutter door and pedestrian door for access. The building is fully insulated and clad with a thermally efficient 60mm sandwich panel.  The panels have been specially manufactured in a RAL colour requested by the client to blend in with the existing building.  An insulated, inflated PVC roof and rainwater gutters have been specified to complete the structure.  For anchoring, resin anchors were drilled into the concrete base.  Like all temporary structures, this is an efficient and cost-effective installation as no complex foundations were required. 

Interior of temporary manufacturing building with inflated roofing
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Application: Increasing production capacity

With this new facility, our client will streamline their operations by optimising production timelines, improving productivity and ensuring quality control. The building was installed on an existing base, close to their main building. The proximity of the workshop allows for seamless co-ordination between manufacturing and assembly processes, reducing logistical complexities and enhancing workflow efficiency. 

Rapid installation: Installed in 5 working days

What makes our temporary structures so quick to install?  Modular construction. The building was manufactured off-site, using state of the art processes to ensure quality.  The structure was delivered to site and installed by our in-house team.  There was minimal plant required for the installation which kept disruption to a minimum. This meant that our client didn’t have to suffer the inconvenience associated with traditional construction work.  

In addition, the access to build this structure was tight with an existing fence line in close proximity to the building.  We were able to effectively build this from the inside to save removing the fence.  A real example of our problem-solving expertise. 

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Forklift entering temporary manufacturing building installed by F&L Temporary Buildings

Specification

Walling: 60mm insulated sandwich panels. RAL Matched to existing building

Frame: Aluminium clear-span structure with a 4-channel aluminium extrusion beam, 5m bay length and 22-degree roof pitch.

Doors: 1 no 4,0m (W) x 3,5m (H) electrically operated galvanised roller shutter door fitted with direct drive motor and internal up/down rocker switch.

1 no -1.0m (W) x 2.0m (H) single leaf steel pedestrian door unit fitted with push
 bar, lock and closer

Roof: Insulated Thermal Roof – Double skin PVC material roof 650g /m2, non-flammable, fully tensioned.

Guttering: Large profile UPVC rainwater system with 20m linear and downpipes

 

Quality Standards: Fully compliant to UK Building Regulations and BS6399. Snow loading capacity of 25kg/m2 and wind loading of 28 m/s.

Temporary manufacturing building colour matched to existing warehouse
A temporary manufacturing workshop building

Temporary structure experts

We provide temporary building structures across the UK.  What sets us apart from other providers is our collaborative and design led approach.  We work with every client to fully understand their unique needs and design a purpose built structure that is efficient, cost effective and futureproof.  All our projects are managed by our in-house teams, based in the UK. 

About our manufacturing building solutions

Our temporary building solutions are a great option for manufacturing applications if you need to increase your capacity fast, without the costs and timescales associated with traditional construction projects. Our temporary industrial manufacturing buildings can installed in days and are relocatable. We can provide the very best solution to your needs. In terms of quality and durability, despite the “temporary” name, they are comparable to a semi-permanent building, with a lifespan of 20 years. 

Explore other uses and specification options

If you need additional space, temporary buildings are fast, flexible and bult to last.  In addition to manufacturing applications, they can be used for a wide range of other purposes. Whilst this prefabricated building is fully insulated, there are non-insulated and part-insulated options depending in the application.  Related applications include:

  • Temporary warehouse buildings
  • Industrial buildings
  • Flexible workshops 
  • Loading bays and industrial canopies

Looking for inspiration, explore our other temporary building projects.

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Can AI design a temporary warehouse?

Posted on by Mathew Hall

We put it to the test….

Like most, we have been embracing the power of artificial Intelligence (AI) to make our lives easier. So, we asked the question “Can AI design a temporary warehouse?” 

Dall.e is a system developed by OpenAI that can create original, realistic images and art from a short text description. So, we put Dall.e to work and tested AI’s ability design a temporary warehouse building! Let’s explore the results…

What did we ask for first?

We used the prompt “design a temporary warehouse for storage” we started by keeping the specification simple. It delivered a relatively good looking warehouse building, possibly a little over-engineered internally but overall, we were impressed.

One of the key differences between the AI design and one of our temporary warehouses was in the roof space. Our temporary warehouses offer more space internally due to their clearspan apex roof.

AI Design:

temporary warehouse designed by ai

Actual:

inside a temporary building, an insulated temporary building strcuture from the inside
Explore Storage Buildings

Let’s test it further…

Now we wanted to design a high specification, insulated warehouse building so this time we asked Dall.e to design a “highly insulated and durable temporary warehouse building. Clad in insulated sandwich panels. Please include two roller shutter doors.”

ai designed temporary warehouse

This was an interesting result, we were a little skeptical about including sandwich panels in the prompt for this warehouse but the results were reasonable. We like the addition of the small canopy shelter above the warehouse door. This is a design feature we have delivered for a national rail infrastructure contractor.  However, not having level access could be a challenge and the roller shutter doors were completely missing from the structure.  The concrete slab installation leaves a lot to be desired too!

How should a high spec insulated warehouse look? We have installed five warehouses for Ikea so we can safely say what a good warehouse looks like. You can see a recent insulated warehouse project here.

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Industrial canopy structure

What about a loading bay canopy? This attempt was commendable but still very raw and not as polished as it should be! This attempt did really grasp the shape of the structure providing a large covered loading area. 

The unsightly overhanging material certainly isn’t ideal.  Maybe AI isn’t fully aware of the quality, durability and life expectancy of a “temporary structure.” Our temporary building solution is engineered to perform for over 20 years and backed by a comprehensive warranty. 

temporary warehouse canopy structure designed by ai

We revisited the design brief and asked for a “steel sided canopy structure” and the result looks more suitable although the support beams will certainly get in the way of unloading and loading operations.  Our canopies provide an un-interrupted open elevation for easy access.

If you are looking for a robust, well designed canopy, take a look at the set of canopies we delivered for Oakfurnitureland in this case study.

AI Design:

AI designed loading canopy

Actual:

Industrial steel sided canopy structure

Fast and accurate temporary warehouse design

This was just a quick exercise (and a bit of fun in the office!) to see how AI approaches designing a temporary warehouse. It’s clear that AI “gets it” in principle but the engineering details are not there yet. So, if you need to design a warehouse, what’s better than AI when it comes to design? Natural intelligence, expertise and industry know how combined with world class manufacturing facilities. That’s where we can help.

Our team of temporary building experts can make designing your structure fast and simple. We also won’t miss out any key components such as doors! Our design service is included with structural calculations and design drawings to get your warehouse building up and running. 

So, can AI design a temporary warehouse? We’ll let you decide for yourself. However, if you want a temporary building designed right always come to the experts.

Design your storage building

Our interactive temporary building configurator is a great place to start your design. You can choose a range of specification options and we will progress your design and provide a storage building quotation.

Start Your Design Now

About F&L Temporary Buildings

We specialise in providing additional space that is installed fast and built to last. One of the core applications of our temporary buildings is temporary storage and temporary warehousing. Our storage buildings are manufactured off-site and installed in a matter of days, without disruption. 

Temporary warehouses are an ideal alternative to a permanent building due to their flexibility. We are a strong, well established UK based business with four regional branches. Furthermore, we employ a team of specialists dedicated to providing your business with the very best possible temporary storage building and other applications.

Have you considered a temporary building for your construction project?

Posted on by Mathew Hall

Temporary buildings can play a vital role in construction and infrastructure projects

Our range of versatile temporary structures and canopies provide a number of benefits that compliment modular site cabins. In this article, we will explore the best temporary buildings available for construction projects and how you can use a temporary building on your construction project.

Our temporary building experts explore their unique features, benefits, and real-world examples of successful implementation of temporary buildings on construction and infrastructure projects.

Temporary building for construction project

Additional space. Made to measure

Firstly, consider the importance of having space on construction sites. Temporary buildings offer valuable extra space for a vast range of activities. Traditional modular buildings are often used for staff welfare, site offices and meeting rooms. However, a temporary building can provide significant extra space that can be customised. This is ideal in particular for longer term construction and infrastructure projects.

Secondly, temporary buildings are incredibly flexible meaning they can be used in conjunction with a traditional modular site cabin. A traditional stand-alone site accommodation unit, for example a Portakabin welfare building or toilet block is hired in for a set, specific purpose. They can be stacked and provide a great solution for construction projects. Where as a temporary building offers additional scope for customisation and size options.

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What is the number one use for temporary buildings on a construction site?

Industrial storage facility or on-site warehousing: With large construction projects often requiring a significant amount of equipment and materials, at this point having sufficient storage space is crucial for efficient operations. 

Markedly, a temporary structure can be specified with large doors, suitable for plant access and fitted with racking solutions for safe storage of construction materials. Our best selling solution for construction projects is industrial warehousing.

In addition, if you are looking for something more flexible and larger than a traditional site cabin, a temporary building will also suit your needs.  overall, a temporary building can offer a large, open plan office or be partitioned into smaller offices, meeting rooms and suites.

Why are temporary buildings growing in popularity on construction projects?

Portability

A temporary building can be quickly dismantled and reused for future projects, further maximising their value as an investment. This makes them a good option for multi-year construction projects such as rail and road infrastructure development.

Our temporary buildings are designed with portability in mind and they are completely relocatable.  This provides an added advantage for construction companies. Additionally, these structures can be rapidly and easily moved within the construction site or to a new site as project needs change.

So, whether it’s adapting to evolving project layouts or shifting focus to different areas, during the build programme, temporary buildings offer the flexibility to accommodate these adjustments. Furthermore, they don’t require substantial alterations or time-consuming construction work.

Rapid deployment

The construction industry often faces tight deadlines, and any delays can have a significant impact on project completion. The installation process for a temporary building is rapid, thanks to modular construction techniques.

A temporary building can be installed in a matter of days. It requires minimal plant and due to their flexibility they can be installed on most ground surfaces. They can even joined to or near existing buildings or modular site cabins.

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Construction project including temporary building

What are the best temporary buildings for construction projects?

When selecting a temporary building for a construction project, several crucial factors should be taken into consideration to find the best building. Firstly, the structure and durability of the temporary building is vital. Construction sites can be challenging environments, with exposure to various weather conditions and heavy-duty operations. It is essential to choose a temporary building designed to withstand these conditions and provide reliable and durable shelter.

We can offer a wide range of specification options to suit the intended application. Significantly, our buildings include industrial storage tents, with robust PVC side, durable steel storage buildings (with an optional loading canopy) or fully insulated options.  Additionally, we also offer a range of options which includes aspects such as lighting, heating, cooling, security systems and internal partitioning.

Portable building solutions: Explore completed projects

We have provided a range of temporary modular structures, prefabricated buildings and portable structures to the construction industry, most recently to support the HS2 project. Our first tier contractor partner required a temporary solution for additional storage. We have delivered ten modular building solutions in connection with HS2. Explore the project case study here.

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Temporary vehicle workshop buildings: Increase your maintenance space at speed

Posted on by Mathew Hall

Vehicle workshop Buildings from F&l tEMPORARY BUILDINGS

Every year in the UK, around 2,000,000 cars get repaired or receive routine servicing and maintenance. Subsequently, the automotive industry is booming and the market growth has seen unprecedented demand for car parts and vehicle workshop space.

Our robust, relocatable temporary vehicle workshop buildings provide additional space and capacity that is engineered to perform to help you increase your workshop capacity quickly.

Our most popular solutions for the automotive industry include bespoke maintenance bays, workshop buildings, valeting areas and MOT stations. Additionally, we can also provide large workshop structures to accommodate your HGV and other large fleet maintenance requirements.  

So, if you are outgrowing your existing building and need additional workshop space or storage, our high-quality buildings will be able to help you.

Valeting bay for cars skoda

Design your workshop building 

The first thing to remember is that while they are referred to as “temporary” that does not mean they are a short-term solution.  Due to this, our bespoke workshop buildings can be used for over 20 years.

From an initial design concept, through to the final production drawings and calculations, we work with you to design your workshop without expensive architects.  Our design team will provide all the details you need.  

Traditional workshops often face challenges, particularly in terms of limited space and efficiency. This article explores the concept of temporary workshops as a solution to these challenges, emphasising the need for increasing vehicle maintenance space at speed.

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Bespoke vehicle workshops and maintenance bays

Vehicle maintenance plays a pivotal role in order to ensure the safety and performance of vehicles. Traditional workshops often grapple with space constraints, leading to inefficiencies in their operations. Additionally, inadequate space not only hinders workflow but also limits business growth.  If you are turning customers away due to lack of capacity, you risk loosing long-term customers and may be damaging your reputation with long waiting times. 

Next, we explore how your dealership or accident repair centre can quickly increase your capacity by installing a vehicle workshop building or part storage structure.

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Steel garage buildings and workshops

A popular choice in the automotive industry is a steel workshop design.  In particular, this provides a secure and durable finish that will stand the test of time.  Specifically, this structure is well suited to secure car storage or as a valeting bay, just like the solution we provided to Skoda Warrington.

Insulated vehicle workshops

An insulated building will provide a comfortable working environment for technicians. Insulation is a crucial element that significantly impacts the functionality, performance and comfort within a building. Our insulated buildings feature materials that reduce heat transfer, in order to ensure thermal efficiency to create a comfortable, controlled internal environment. Field & Lawn insulated buildings typically use a sandwich panel wall construction, with a 60mm PIR foam insulated core

Workshop specification options

Temporary workshops offer a quick and flexible solution to the challenges posed by traditional spaces. The versatility and adaptability of temporary buildings make them an ideal choice for creating additional space for vehicle maintenance. These structures provide a temporary solution without the need for major construction, allowing workshops to address immediate space needs.

With all of our temporary workshop buildings, we can supply a wide range of extras such as large vehicle access doors, including roller shutter doors, through to MOT viewing windows, or partition the workshops into individual bays.

Maximising Space with bespoke or standard designs

The key advantage of temporary workshops lies in their ability to maximise available space. We can create a building that fits the specific layout requirements of your vehicle maintenance operations. This means that every inch of space is used efficiently.

Steel garage vehicle workshop building

Safety and Compliance Considerations

Ensuring a safe working environment is paramount in vehicle maintenance workshops. Compliance with local regulations and standards, coupled with adequate safety measures, is essential to protect both technicians and the vehicles being serviced. Comprehensive training programs ensure that workshop personnel are well-versed in safety procedures and adhere to best practices.

New to temporary workshops? 

Temporary workshops, modular structures and portable shelters create additional space quickly. These structures are customisable, allowing workshops to design spaces tailored to their specific needs. The flexibility of temporary buildings enables workshops to adapt to changing requirements without the constraints of permanent construction.

Safety measures, such as proper ventilation, lighting, and signage, contribute to a secure working environment. Workshops must comply with local authorities and industry regulations to create a safe space for both technicians and customers. Prioritising safety not only protects individuals but also establishes trust and credibility in the maintenance services provided.

About F&L Temporary Buildings

We work with major car dealers, such as Skoda, accident repair centres and independent garages to design and deliver high-quality workshop buildings.  From single bay steel valeting bays through to large, multipurpose and state of the art workshops.

What can our buildings be used for?

Their flexibility is practically endless!  You can completely customise and configure your building to meet your needs.  In addition to vehicle workshop buildings, other popular applications include:

    • Workshops
    • Valeting bays
    • Vehicle presentation suites
    • Showrooms
    • MOT stations
    • Storage
    • Bodyshop space
    • Photography studios

As the demand for vehicle maintenance continues to rise, embracing temporary structures is a strategic move towards achieving efficiency and productivity whilst balancing the cost compared to a traditional building.

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Are temporary buildings classed as semi-permanent structures?

Posted on by Mathew Hall

Debunk the myths surrounding semi-permanent solutions

If you’re considering installing a temporary building on your site you may be wondering if it will be classed as a semi-permanent structure. Temporary buildings were once perceived as a quick-fix temporary solution for short-term needs. 

While that is still the case, big improvements in manufacturing and production technology have definitely blurred the lines between what is a “temporary” and “semi-permanent” structure.

Temporary buildings have undergone a transformation. They are no longer poor quality products they are durable, long-lasting and essentially, semi-permanent structures that are suitable for a range of applications. As a result, this shift towards quality and durability has challenged conventional perceptions. 

This article delves into the key question: Are temporary buildings classed as semi-permanent structures? We unravel the intricacies, debunk myths, and explore the robust features and specification options that make temporary buildings a wise long-term investment.  We also cover why you should consider a temporary building to be a semi-permanent solution.

Understanding the terminology:

The terminology of semi-permanent structures and temporary buildings is often used interchangeably, leading to confusion. While they share similarities, they are distinct in their intended use and benefits.

Before looking into the durability of temporary buildings, it’s crucial to clarify the terminology. Temporary buildings are portable, de-mountable and movable structures. This gives you a large amount of flexibility and the ability to relocate or rent a temporary building.

A semi-permanent building generally has a steel or solid roof and is much more complicated to move or relocate. Compared to a temporary building, which features a robust PVC roof and is easily re-located. A semi-permanent building will commonly use a steel frame, whereas a temporary building will use a strong but lightweight aluminium frame system.

Depending on the size and construction methodology, a semi-permanent building may also need more complex foundations and feature traditional construction elements like brick and block. Whereas temporary buildings can simply be installed on a concrete pad or other ground surfaces without too much work.

When looking at temporary buildings, they are designed to be erected quickly and easily due to their modular construction, providing a swift solution for immediate space requirements. On the other hand, semi-permanent structures take longer to install.

The differences between the two structures can be blurry, with many temporary buildings exhibiting durability and longevity that challenge the perception of ‘temporary.’

semi-permanent Temporary building installed by Field & Lawn

BESPOKE DESIGN

If you want to see, what is possible in terms of design options, we have developed an interactive configurator for you to design a bespoke building.  

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The evolution of temporary buildings:

Gone are the days when temporary buildings were synonymous with flimsy structures lacking durability. Advancements in construction materials, engineering, and design have led to the creation of temporary buildings that rival their semi-permanent counterparts in terms of strength and longevity. This plays a crucial role in answering the question “Are temporary buildings classed as semi-permanent?”

Our modern temporary buildings use high-quality materials such as robust yet lightweight frames, durable fabrics, and advanced modular components. These materials contribute to the overall structural integrity, enabling temporary buildings to withstand various weather conditions and environmental challenges.

What about planning permission and building regulations?

Depending on how long you intend to use the temporary building structure, in most cases, you will need to submit a local authority planning application. Due to our experience, we can support you with your planning application. Our structures meet building regulation standards and can also be integrated into any original building on your site. Find your local planning authority on the government website.

Durable Features of Temporary Buildings:

Structural strength and durability:

Temporary buildings are no longer makeshift structures with questionable stability. Today’s designs incorporate robust frames that provide the necessary strength to endure heavy loads and adverse weather conditions.

Inside a temporary warehouse solution under construction

Weather resistance:

The materials used in temporary buildings are chosen for their ability to resist the elements. From heavy rain to strong winds and even snow loads, temporary buildings are designed and engineered to weather diverse environmental conditions.

Bespoke options and flexibility:

One of the unique features of temporary buildings is their adaptability. They can be easily customised to suit specific requirements and can be reconfigured or expanded as needs evolve. This flexibility enhances their long-term viability. Again, this is a slight difference compared to a semi-permanent structure which is harder to extend if you need additional space.

Quality cladding options:

The cladding options used in modern temporary buildings are again, engineered for durability. UV-resistant, fire-retardant, and thermally efficient materials contribute to the extended lifespan of these structures. Like a semi-permanent structure, high levels of thermal efficiency can be achieved by selecting insulated sandwich panels. Or, if the application is more industrial, for example, a workshop, steel cladding can be specified.

Are temporary buildings semi-permanent?

While the term “temporary” implies a finite lifespan, the durability and longevity of modern temporary buildings challenge this perception. With their advanced engineering and high-quality materials, a temporary building can be in place for over 20 years.

In conclusion, the classification of temporary buildings as semi-permanent structures is not just a matter of terminology; it is a reflection of the evolving nature and enhanced durability of temporary buildings.

Choosing a temporary building is an investment in a structure that stands the test of time, offering longevity and adaptability that goes beyond the temporary label. If you need additional space and capacity, I would be more than happy to arrange a local site visit to see the quality and durability of our temporary buildings at a recently completed project.

Building Types

If you are looking for a long-term solution to help your business grow, a temporary building can be designed and specified for any application.  The building types include warehouses, industrial canopies and workshops.  We can design a bespoke building to meet your needs.

About us

F&L Temporary Buildings are the specialist team from Field and Lawn. We are leading modular and temporary building experts, providing a wide range of temporary storage buildings and loading bay canopies. If you are looking for a temporary structure to increase your capacity in the short, medium or long term, we can provide a quick and cost-effective solution. Our range includes insulated buildings, canopy systems and industrial sheds.

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