Relocation offers new life to fabric building

At some point in their operations, many businesses may wonder what to do with an existing fabric structure when their operations change shape or move to another location. One viable option is to relocate. But what does relocation actually involve and when is it worthwhile?

Is it technically feasible to relocate a fabric building?

Technically, most fabric buildings can be moved. However, the year of construction can affect the possibilities of relocation. If the building was built before 2014, it is dimensioned according to the old standards and its durability cannot always be verified by calculation in the light of the new regulations. Such buildings must therefore be assessed on a case-by-case basis before a decision to move is taken.

In addition, the overall condition of the fabric building is important to consider. If the building has not been maintained and is damaged, it may not be worth moving. Snow load requirements also have an impact. A building can only be moved to an area where the snow load is equal to or less than the original location.

In the case of Best-Hall's own fabric structures, portability can be assessed on the basis of design documents. Archival data can be used to determine when the building was built and on what principles it was dimensioned. It is also possible to move fabric buildings made by other manufacturers, but the responsibility for assessing the condition of the building lies more with the customer.

In which situations is the transfer of a fabric structure a sensible solution?

The most typical reason for relocating a fabric building is a change in the company's business, for example the relocation of the company's headquarters or its entire business. In such cases, it can be significantly cheaper to relocate an existing building than to build a new one.

Another common situation relates to mergers or bankruptcy, where the fabric building can be sold and relocated for a new use. As a company's business changes, its space needs may also change, making relocation an option. Sometimes, relocation may only involve a local move, for example, moving a building in a factory yard to a location 50 metres away when a factory is being reorganised.

Modifications and maintenance during relocation

The dismantling of a shed into parts also provides a good opportunity to make other modifications. It is common, for example, to replace the fabric of the building during the move. As the installation of the fabric is included in the cost of the move, the replacement of the fabric is in practice carried out at the cost of the material.

Once dismantled, it is also easier to adapt the building to a new use. For example, the door and frame structures can be updated or other necessary modifications can be made to suit the new use.

In many situations, relocation is a cost-effective and flexible solution, as long as a careful assessment of portability and condition is made. Best-Hall's experts will be happy to help you determine whether your fabric building is suitable for relocation and how to go about it.

Hall relocation in progress