The simplicity of its design complemented with the versatility of the structures has fueled the popularity of metal structures for use as churches.

* The clear-span construction (or column-free interiors) and

* The high ceilings.

Both of these features are easily and readily accommodated with quality metal building design. Properly-constructed metal buildings have a track record of being extremely resistant to the forces of wind, snow, rain, seismic activity, and insect infestation.

Pockets unscathed with finesse unmatched!

The increasing popularity of metal building constructions, especially as the benefactor for churches also revolves around the cost effectiveness and swiftness of pre-engineered construction.

Some metal buildings can be purchased and erected at significantly lesser cost than conventional construction. All component building parts of a metal church are pre-punched, pre-drilled, and pre-welded at a factory prior to shipment to the erection site. This pre-engineering allows for rapid assembly processes and precludes the need for a specialized and expensive workforce. This results, thus in a lower quantity labor force required along with rapid assembly processes. Once delivered, depending upon its size, a church can be completed in far lesser time than more traditional building methods take. Metal buildings are also extremely flexible and can be designed for virtually any configuration. Metal building designs are no longer limited to the more primitive geometrical “box” shapes of the past.

Eco Friendly

The metal building industry is also a leader in the American recycling processes. The majority of all metal used in the United States is recycled and all new metal contains some recycled metal in its constitution. The fact that there is unlimited recyclables to any metal product is the most melodious piece of news for eco-friendly masses.

Mike Zhmudikov is a professional copywriter and seo consultant.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Zhmudikov

Step 1 – Define what benefits you want from the blocks and where you want to use them – The most common reasons to use frosted blocks, with or without color, is to simultaneously improve the looks of the space and increase privacy. Since the faces are similar to an obscure glass they soften and diffuse the light being transmitted into an interior space. The most common places to use frosted glass block are:

o Interior walls separating bathrooms from main living areas
o Exterior windows on the sides of homes for privacy, security and light movement
o Shower walls
o Kitchen backsplashes
o Transom windows in closets
o Conference rooms for privacy and interior light movement
o Bars in recreation rooms
o Windows and walls in churches, schools, hospitals and day care centers to add an architectural design element while not sacrificing privacy
o Other decorative design applications like fountains and interior picture murals

Step 2 – Determine the size and shape of project — The use of satin finished frosted blocks does not need to be limited to straights walls or windows. This product is available in multiple sizes (which include 4″ x 8″, 6″ x 6″, 6″ x 8″, 8″ x 8″, and 12″ x 12″) and in various shapes (there are blocks for the end of a wall, corners, ones that make a gradual rounded radius or 45 degree angle — there are even frosted and colored glass blocks that can create a step down wall).

For windows projects measure the rough framed opening or masonry opening you will put the blocks into. For shower and wall projects it’s helpful to do a rough drawing of the size and shape of the wall. Call a block fabricating and installation company to guide you through the specifics units required to make your design a reality. They should be able to help you not only on what blocks are needed, but the most cost effective way to use the blocks to minimize your final costs (since the blocks cannot be cut it’s always best to think though what specific sizes will be needed so the project comes together professionally and what thickness of block will complete the job at the lowest total cost – note: 3″ blocks will help to keep costs down in some instances).

Step 3 – Define your design goals — Using colored and frosted glass block needs to add both interest and function to the room. If you’re design goal is to create a space that feels calm and tranquil the use of frosted block will be consistent with this objective. On the other hand if you want vibrant color (maybe for a church, school, daycare center etc.) using a non-frosted smooth faced block will be the better choice. If you’re looking to add some patterning into the window, shower or wall the frosted and smooth faced block can be alternated to create a checkerboard design. A horizontal or vertical stripe of color with the obscured frosting process can also create a dramatic look.

Step 4 – Purchase the right product — Doing a block project the right way requires that the correct product. While most people think of buying individual glass blocks and putting them together one by one, this method rarely results in the best finished quality project or the lowest total cost.

Most window projects (blocks can be used in both residential applications in kitchens, bathrooms, family rooms, transoms and in commercial projects for churches, schools, office buildings, hospitals etc.) are done best with prefabricated assemblies. Some of the panels come with vinyl frames and nailing fins that make installations easier in new construction and addition projects. There are also frame-less windows that work better in masonry (brick and block) openings and remodeling projects.

For shower and wall projects the frosted blocks can be put into pre-made panel sections that can be anchored into the surrounding walls. These sections can be safely shipped on a nationwide basis and make the installation process easier and less costly than needing to hire a skilled mason or tile setter to lay the blocks individually.

Step 5 – Getting the job done — Glass block installations can be done by a professional block contractor, a skilled mason or tile setter or as a do it yourself project by someone with good construction skills. The key to success is to make sure you’ve got the right tools, skills, products and installation procedures to do it right the first time.

Consider calling a block panel fabrication and installation company for instructions and guidance on the best method for your specific window, wall or shower. If you’re unsure whether you want to tackle the job yourself call a contractor with specific experience with these glass masonry units (not all general mason contractors and tile setters can deliver a quality glass block job). Hiring a professional contractor should come with a written guarantee to take some of the worry out of the process.

Now that you’re equipped with these 5 steps you’re ready to order your colored and frosted glass blocks for your next window, shower or wall project.

Mike Foti is President of Columbus Glass Block, Cleveland Glass Block, Mid America Glass Block Cincinnati, Dayton, Akron & Vice President of Eastern Glass Block New York & New Jersey – nationwide factory direct suppliers & installers of colored and frosted glass blocks for window, showers and wall projects.

Nationwide 877-668-5888

http://www.columbusglassblock.com/

http://www.columbusglassblock.com/products-designer-and-color.aspx

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Foti

That same line of thinking has allowed individuals and other organizations to consider metal buildings for their own uses.

1. Garage space. For any homeowner, more garage space would be a welcome addition. A steel garage kit would allow a quick and inexpensive way to add space for additional auto storage or a workshop. An even quicker and more affordable way to protect a vehicle from the elements would be a metal carport. Metal carports allow for a more open feel, while keeping the vehicle out of the rain and sun.

2. Extra storage. A common problem facing most homeowners is having enough storage space. Some folks choose to store their items off-site at a storage facility. This can become costly and inconvenient; thus making access to their goods a hassle. Many homeowners look to find ways to store large and seasonal items so they are at hand when needed. A metal storage building erected on your existing property can give you what you need and let you have access to it when you need it.

3. Residential metal buildings. More and more, steel buildings are being considered for conventional and modular home construction. Homeowners are finding that a metal building or steel frame building offers cost savings, quick turnaround, easy building code compliance, as well as ease of construction.

4. Churches. With conventional construction and building materials being quite expensive, smaller or growing church congregations that are supported by donations can build a house of worship that makes financial sense.

5. Barn space. Perhaps you keep livestock and need an affordable place to house your animals. A metal barn would allow you the opportunity to use a steel building designed for farm use. This prefab metal building could provide an inexpensive way to start or grow a farm. Also, with more so-called “hobby farms” popping up in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, a metal building kit would afford the same versatility and durability as commercial steel buildings.

6. Portable buildings. Pre-engineered metal buildings have the potential to be erected and taken down with some level of ease. This might work well in a situation where you need a portable building, meaning a building that is not intended to be there on a long-term basis. A portable storage building would another application.

7. Roofing. Some homeowners and organizations also have looked into having a metal roof on a conventional building. Metal roofs offer the same durability and low cost as metal buildings do. This might be a quick, easy and cost-effective way to put a roof on a storage building, barn or garage.

Of course, there are many uses for prefab steel buildings. They give homeowners opportunities to increase living, storage, and work space. In some cases, where the homeowner or organization has the resources of time and manpower, metal building kits and steel garage kits allow for the do-it-yourselfer to save more money while building a new structure.

These buildings are easy to construct, offer a variety of choices and applications, and are far more economical than conventional buildings. All-in-all, a pre-engineered structure might be the solution you are looking for.

Written by Jim ‘G’ Davidson – freelance writer for http://www.metal-building-sales.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jim_G_Davidson

The topic of church construction comes-up at some point in the life cycle of every ministry. Whether you’re acquiring or remodeling an existing church or building a new worship facility from the ground up, the process of church construction can be daunting to say the least.

Over the years we have found that ministry staff and their advisors are so focused on the “hard” aspects of construction (financing, land acquisition, permits and entitlements, architectural design, etc.) that they tend to under estimate the value of the softer aspects like the design of their audio and video systems. If you desire to have excellent worship and fellowship, then it’s critical that attention be paid to acoustics, audio, lighting, and video systems from the beginning of the church construction process.

One of the major problems plaguing church construction projects is the lack of vendor coordination, communication, and collaboration. There is often a gap in coordination between the design of the sound, lighting and video systems and the installation. Very often one company is selected to perform design work (early in the project) for the architect, and another is selected a year later to install the system. Changes to the electrical, structural and other building systems have often been made by the local building contractors during this time without thought to the impact on the technical systems, because “there was no one to call.”

The key to a successful outcome for any church construction process is to have a design-build firm that has sole responsibility for every aspect of the AV system. A good AV design-build firm serves as a single point of contact on all issues ranging from concept, to design, to final installation and training. The design-build firm’s designers, engineers, and technicians are involved in your project from day one, exchanging information all along the way, while never losing sight of your ministry’s goals and priorities.

Good design-build firms have disciplined project management teams that anticipate and solve problems before they become critical issues. They become an asset to the project by bringing needed expertise at every step along the way insuring that a project is delivered under budget and ahead of schedule.

There are a few different types of art glass used in churches today. This article is a discussion of various common types and styles of stained glass art found in religious institutions.

Faceted Glass

Faceted glass consists of approximately one-inch thick dalles of glass cut by hand and broken over an anvil. These pieces of glass are placed in a pattern on a table and a form is set around the perimeter of the panel. Sandy material called granules, are sprinkled between the pieces of glass. The next step is to pour a two-part epoxy resin between the pieces of glass. We then sprinkle another layer of granules over the epoxy resin. Once the epoxy sets, it results in a very strong load-bearing panel. Studios mainly use faceted glass for less complex designs. Faceted glass windows have a higher material costs but require significantly less labor, often making it a more cost effective solution. Faceted glass does not require a protective covering when installed and requires very little maintenance.

Leaded Stained Glass

Windows with little or no painted work are another type of stained glass art that studios commonly use. Leaded glass with little painted work is less labor intensive than fully hand painted stained glass windows. A Studio can design this medium to match most budgets and tastes. (See Step by step – leaded and painted construction below.)

Fully Hand Painted Stained Glass Windows

Hand painted stained glass windows are constructed the same as all leaded glass except that an artist will hand paint each piece of stained glass then fire the piece in a kiln to adhere the paint to the glass.

Painting allows the artist to create levels of detail not possible with the other new window methods. This process is very time consuming; requires a very talented artist; and is a more costly method then the others.

Whether you are constructing a new building or renovating an old one, keeping within a budget is always a concern. It is important to select a stained glass studio that has the versatility to present a variety of designs that are fitting to the church’s architecture and symbolic desires. Correctly designed windows can be achieved using any of the different types of stained glass available and your church should be given examples of each.

Many quality studios will present examples of work that may not be specific to your project. They will usually ask that you hire their company first before providing specific renderings of your new church windows. It is up to the church committee to decide after interviews and reviewing prior examples as well as conducting background checks, if the studios they are considering are competent and easy to work with.

Once the church committee selects the studio they want to work with, the studios’ artist will provide the church with specific renderings for their approval. It is important for the committee to review these renderings and only accept them if they are completely satisfied. This art form makes a large impact on any worship space. Take the time to be sure your selection is something that will satisfy you and your committee for generations to come. In non-painted windows, you should receive a small example of the glass to be used.

The executing artist is gifted and experienced and you need to allow them to complete the creation with some freedom of selection. Too often a great artist was handicapped due to the many influences by the committee, which can often hamper the overall project.

It is important to consider a stained glass studio that is versed in all areas of stained glass.

For example, a stained glass studio that performs many restoration projects has great insight to the construction, bracing and installation of new windows. Through restoration experience, they have learned what works best long-term and what does not.

Unfortunately, some beautiful new window creations that have been braced and installed improperly caused expensive repairs for the church long before it is appropriate.

Step by step – leaded and painted construction

The stained glass studio and its staff will meet with the committee to discuss the theme, design and coloring schemes of their client’s project. The studios artist will develop a thumbnail sketch or rendering or each window. The studio presents this rendering to the committee for their approval. Once approved, the studio turns the rendering into a full-scale cartoon. The cartoon is a full-size drawing depicting every piece of glass and lead came they will use. This drawing will be the exact size of the window and they should present it to the church committee for their review. This cartoon will not represent color but will show proportion of the design. This is a good checking point for the church prior to construction.

After the church approves the full-scale rendering, the artist will select the glass the studio will use. The artist then codes each piece of glass selected onto the cartoon. The stained glass craftsmen will then cut each type of glass to match the cartoon. If the windows need painted, they will give the painted pieces back to the artist, who then hand paints each piece and then fires it in a kiln so the paint will permanently adhere to the stained glass. The painted pieces are then returned to the craftsmen who will then assemble the window using lead came to custom build the window. When it is complete, the craftsmen will solder each lead joint thus making the stained glass panel one solid piece. They then send the panel to an area for cementing.

The craftsmen then brushes specially formulated cement compound over the panel working it under the flanges of the lead came. Next, they clean the excess cement off leaving cement under the lead came. This cement compound will weatherproof and help strengthen the stained glass window. The panel then dries flat for 48 hours while the cement cures.

Cross Section of the Construction of a Stained Glasss Window

They brace the panel on the interior surface to add extra support. This bracing system is designed in place according to the stained glass craftsmen who recognizes areas of weakness in the design. It is important that they add braces to provide maximum support with minimum intervention to the stained glass artwork.

Once they complete the stained glass panels, they transport the windows to the stained glass job site for installation into the new or existing frames. We find our clients are served better if we provide their general contractor with framing specifications and installation requirements. This approach avoids unnecessary costs and scheduling problems for the church and general contractor. In some remolding situations, this approach is ineffective. In others, the stained glass studio should be responsible for the modification of the existing frames to accept the new stained glass panels correctly. The church needs to review the framing fully with their stained glass studio prior to making this decision.

The stained glass windows should be divided into panels of approximately 12 square feet. In some installations, this might not be possible. Each panel is designed to supports it own weight ensuring that the bracing is adequate for the size of the panel.

It is best that the studio installs the stained glass after the remodel is complete. It is best to install the stained glass windows prior to the installation of the carpet, flooring and pews. If not, others working in the building could potentially break or damage the windows.

When installing new panels into a new double-glazed frame, the studio should shimmy the panels with setting blocks then secure with snap-on aluminum beads. If the exterior of the window has protective covering, then the stained glass is not sealed or caulked into place. We like to use black foam weather-stripping, which provides a clean perimeter line and holds the panel vertically into the aluminum channel against the backstop. This is the best type of installation, when applicable, because it allows others to remove the panels for easy cleaning or maintenance thus reducing potential damage to them.

If the windows do not have an exterior protective covering, it is necessary to secure the panel with glazing tacks or screws and stops. Once secured, you should seal a panel on the exterior perimeter and interior perimeter with a compatible caulk. For some clients, studios used incompatible silicones in their installations that chemically reacted and caused lead deterioration over a few years. We do not recommend a non-flexible caulking such as dap glazing, as this will not allow any movement of the stained glass panel thus creating the potential for premature bulging.

On a new installation that has protective covering, we recommend venting the windows from the exterior. If it is not possible to vent from the exterior, then you need to vent the interior. If the protective covering is insulation glass with a thermo broke frame, no venting is necessary.

About the Author

No matter the size of your worship hall or congregation, today’s wide-reaching online marketplace gives you a huge advantage when it comes to choosing a set of new church chairs. But how do you know where to start? And what exactly are you looking for?

If you’ve never purchased church chairs before, you may not know about all the options available to you.

Chair Type.

There are three basic types of church chairs.

Metal Folding Chairs are arguably the most cost-effective, durable choice. Their strong metal construction means you’ll be able to fold, move, and store them away without having to worry about breakage or damage.

Multi-Purpose Stack Chairs are great for churches that want a more elevated look. They also stack up high – which can be a huge blessing if your storage capabilities are limited.

Wood Church Chairs are heavier and more costly than other types of church chair, but most feel their warmth and style more than make up for it. They are best for semi-permanent placement.

Comfort.

Once you’ve chosen the type of chair you want, you need to give some thought to comfort. There’s a reason unpadded pews and chairs have largely gone out of style – over the course of a long service, they become increasingly hard to sit in. At the very least, your church chairs need a padded seat cushion. A padded seat and back combination works best. Many chair companies will advertise their chair padding with different thicknesses. While it would make sense to simply choose the thickest padding, the truth is that the ‘give’ in chair padding and the actual comfort of the chair may vary widely from model to model.

Options. You may decide your church chairs don’t need any extras, but they may be worth the investment in the time saved.

Book Racks. These are located in one of three places – at the side of the chair, underneath the seat, or on the seat back. They are a good choice for churches who want to be able to provide the congregation with easy access to guest cards, programs, worship books, and hymnals. If you do choose chairs with seat back book racks, you may want to keep in mind that your front row will not have easy access – seat back book racks are meant to be used by the row behind.

Armrests. If your worship hall is tightly packed, armrests can help everyone feel like they’ve got a little more breathing room. It’s important before choosing a church chair with armrests to find out whether they can be stacked or not. Some armrest designs interfere with stacking capabilities.

Ganging Brackets. Probably the least understood of church chair options, ganging brackets are the small hook-like pieces at the sides of church chairs that allow you to attach one to the next. These are a must for any church with multiple services per day. Instead of having to constantly straighten rows, ganging brackets ensure that your chair rows will stay in line.