Quonset Hut End Walls, Insulation, and Framing

In today's Q&A, Earl talks about Quonset hut end walls, explaining how he put together the end walls that came with his huts. He also discusses insulation - spray foam versus blanket insulation, and interior framing.
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[@steffwicker]

Thanks for putting your videos out here! We're building an arched metal building in the spring, and the info you're sharing answers some of the questions I have, or haven't thought of yet. The quality of your videos and detailed descriptions are the best I've found. Keep them coming please!

[@CleverModerns]

You're welcome, glad you found it helpful! Stay tuned!! :D

[@suezgol194]

Happy to find you today.

[@ihateoutube]

You earned a subscriber, you answered so many questions! Looking forward to new content.

[@CleverModerns]

Thanks so much! Yeah I've been on a little bit of a hiatus but hope to get back to making videos soon. Cheers!

[@morganwilkinson7201]

I am new to ur channel liking it alot. Keep it up. Hopefully I will watch all of ur videos soon.

[@micheals.holland8118]

Message is heard loud and clear. Jimi makes a reasonable request and to be ignored is beyond explanation. Steel Master needs to compensate this man and make it right.

[@Frostytravels]

Great channel. Just found it. Gave you a sub. Will be building in the next year so this is wonderful. The tape seals the seam on the insulation.

[@joesaccomanno4791]

Thank you great video!! Getting our building tomorrow and looking forward to erecting it.

[@CleverModerns]

Awesome!! Good luck with your build!

[@kiraleasimms1433]

Excellent Stuff🤩

[@BusGreaseMonkey]

Thanks for the video. Just starting our build.

[@bobpaul851]

Hows the build going, and who you'd go through?

[@middlefloor]

Make sure you join Earl's Facebook group if you haven't already! facebook.com/groups/1806135653042937

[@cristianoalvesfera]

Tank you Sr.

[@deadcarz4926]

Surely the metal behind the blanket insulation will "sweat", and accumulate condensation?

[@mylastboat]

Great video!!!!! Do you feel like the 2X4 framing you installed using the coupling nuts would be strong enough to hold hanging shelves? Thank you-

[@gtvaldez]

in the video you talked about adding 2x4's to that you attached you electrical run to and and boxes. Did you use this to support the interior walls that were added. i am looking to adding an 10 x 8 room to run some freezers and hold temperature at at constant in the room. looking at what you did to support interior walls besides just anchoring them to the floor. thanks for the videos.

[@donnacardermaywhort4274]

Hi Earl this video was very informative! Thank you! I have a question...we have a 20x30 Quonset and I am leaning toward closed spray foam. My question to you is this. using spray foam in your opinion will it add strength to the walls and ceiling? We live in an area where we get heavy snows in the winter. So if it adds strength it would really be worth the spray foam. Also can you paint over the spray foam? I was thinking of putting a loft in and not framing upstairs or very little framing ..... One last questions we were told the steel building had to be thorough cleaned to remove oil residue that is on the steel before spray foaming which we did with a spray washer and dawn, do you think this is adequate? Thank you look forward to hearing from you.

[@michellejean8068]

Thank you so much. I'm a new sub. And I'm looking for someone to build one of these. Thanks.

[@IggyDalrymple]

I saw where some foam insulators insist on applying a primer paint to the Quonset interior so the foam will adhere. Another foam applicator said that you can simply wash the interior with a vinegar/water solution to etch the galvalume.

[@alexharper8861]

Have you made a video yet on how to properly water seal the quonset?

[@bobsokoloski9559]

Be careful with spray foam insulation in K-span buildings (Metal Arch), it can be a serious fire hazard. The foam can spread the fire and you can lose a building very fast. We lost several buildings in Afghanistan because of spray foam fires. The buildings take about 10 minutes for complete consumption. The spray foam was rated as fire resistant as well, and from recognizable manufacturers.

[@CleverModerns]

Thank you, this is an excellent (though extremely unfortunate) cautionary tale. The building code requires a thermal barrier between the foam insulation and the interior space of the building. I will be sure to emphasize the need for this in the future. (This is typically achieved with 1/2" drywall or intumescent fireproofing coatings of sufficient thickness.) The thin metal shell is definitely going to be extremely vulnerable in the case of a fire.

[@sldghamr58]

Bob, Did the fire start with the foam? Or the foam burned as a result of another fire starting.

[@4runner4life27]

@@sldghamr58 The foam was caught on fire by workers cutting window openings with a grinder (sparks) but the foam an insulation acted like an oven and the buildings went fast.

[@notsure1135]

Geezus. That could happen from the electricity as well a few years down the track.

[@garybenton7150]

I have a 25x40 Model Q building on a floating concrete base and sand floor in the middle. I want to add a center concrete floor. Should there be a bond breaker between the new concrete and the floating base?

[@donshone5719]

Sir did you get the bottom plate as part of the kit from steel masters?

[@pkpmoa1536]

Thanks for these little Q&A vids Earl; I find them a great resource for someone like me who is in the early stages of planning and information gathering before I dive in and start building a Quonset home. I did have a question relating to the attachment of wood studs to the shell of the Hut. When these are attached using the threaded rods, is there any concern with the wood touching the metal shell? I know this needs to be done before spraying insulation, but my concern would be with the contact point and the possibility of condensation from the steel to the wood.

[@CleverModerns]

If the hut is insulated properly and has a vapor barrier installed on the inside surface of the insulation you shouldn't get condensation on the steel at all. My understanding is that a sufficient thickness of closed cell spray foam insulation will act as its own vapor barrier in this context. How much thickness would depend on your local climate. Our spray foam installer told us three inches would be our minimum.

[@curtwarkentin6167]

I wonder if you used pressure treated wood for those boards plus maybe put some blueskin on the side of the board touching the metal. It might help but im just guessing at what may help protect those few boards longer from the possibility of rot from condensation.

[@richgosh7793]

I recently purchased a Quonset hut to live in and I’m in the process of replacing water damaged Sheetrock, insulation, and paneling. I am installing new roll installed with a paper back and I plan to add a reflective thermal barrier over the insulation. The house is already framed, so I don’t know how I could get the thermal barrier or vapor barrier on the inside of the insulation. If I tape the thermal barrier. I assume that will act as a vapor barrier as you suggested. I plan to add strapping over the thermal barrier then Sheetrock. Do you see any issues with this plan? I have one 8 inch vent on the ceiling, which was closed and had a mouse nest in it, which might explain some of the condensation. That’s now open. Was thinking about putting a fan in it (inside the ceiling) to suck out hot air but probably won’t get around to it. The house is in Massachusetts and we’ll primarily be using it for the summer. Thanks!

[@ElWilkins_]

Great video. You answered so many questions. How would you keep this building from becoming an electric conductor?

[@moriahmcbee]

Did you ever get an answer?

[@ElWilkins_]

@@moriahmcbee Nope, I would say grounding it with a few ground rods would help.

[@nudawn110]

what is the longterm risk of respiratory aeration of the foam insulation sprayed on

[@joshcameo423]

Hi Earl, I'm very new to construction practices so if I'm asking stupid questions, I apologize. I saw it mentioned in someone else's video that applying spray foam directly to the metal is not a good idea because the metal expands in summer and contracts in winter causing the hardened foam to eventually crack and break off in sheets. Is that accurate? Also, a lot of builds I see use wood for all the interior framing. What are your thoughts on using steel framing instead? And, I'm curious of the viability of building concrete walls for the lower floor making it easier to install doors and windows along the sides of the house and then dropping the Quonset hut on top of those lower walls, adding a lot more height for a second floor? Thanks so much! I love your videos and website!

[@CleverModerns]

After seeing how the spray foam works and what it's like I have a hard time imagining it breaking apart like that. Also I have never heard or seen an actual account of this type of behavior with spray foam, it's always "I heard that..." or "...someone said..." so I'm starting to think it's like a myth of some kind. If anyone has a link to someone's direct account of this happening to them I would love to have a source and investigate it for myself. I have never worked directly with steel framing so I can't speak from experience but I don't see why it would be a bad idea. I would want to insulate it from the outer metal shell to protect against thermal bridging. We have a building at the Quompound with concrete side walls. You can read all my blog posts tagged with that building at this link: www.clevermoderns.com/category/building-the-quompound/loft-house/

[@jonbondy]

Did you consider using nylon couplers to add a thermal break?

[@CleverModerns]

We have looked for them and never found a source. It seems like a good idea. Any thoughts on a source?

[@silviopacheco3519]

Watched one of your videos and became interested. I’d like to get in touch with you if possible to ask you a few questions if you don’t mind, thanks

[@Hamacologia]

Hi. Next week I will start puting in place 5 quonset units, each one has two whirlybird roof ventilators, but I still dont understand how they have to be installed...can you help me? Do I have to cut any part on the roof structure or should it be a special piece where I have to install them?

[@earlparson3936]

I have never installed one of the turbine "whirlybird" ventilators myself but I believe you do have to cut a hole for it. You should check with your manufacturer on exactly what they recommend. Who did you buy your buildings from?

[@Blackford86]

I built one like this I’m thinking of spray form (close cell) is your sprained with foam???

[@CleverModerns]

We haven't gotten to that part yet but we are planning on using closed cell spray foam for sure. It's the best way to go.

[@12vLife]

I am subbing just for this image.. 17:01 !!! Thanks. I am wondering if this can be baked into building plans for a legal Florida residential home build... My county department said this: "Wind rating is not all that has to be considered. Exterior walls must meet the requirements of Chapter 6 of Florida Building Code (FBC) Residential. The roof assembly will have to meet the requirements of FBC Residential Chapter 9. Insulation type and “R” value will be determined by FBC Energy Conservation calculations. An energy form will need to be completed and submitted with the building application. Interior wall finish will need to meet the requirements of FBC Residential Chapter 7. You are not required to connect to electric service."

[@CleverModerns]

These requirements are fairly standard for permit submittal packages in most places. (Subsitute Florida Building Code with International Building Code, California Building Code, etc, depending on where you are.

[@brucebruc3]

Hey so on the base plate for the backwall, where does it line up. Having issues matching the blue print measurements to what we have, do you have any pics showing how to line it up correctly to the side base plates

[@CleverModerns]

I will see if I can find any pics that show this.

[@ericwilson2186]

Need to build timber inside.i only have30x30n the building is 45fwet long.cant get more steel so gonna finish with post n beam.it is a26x45.gonna put more foundation where the house goes narrow as it s only30wide for 15 feet.please advise thanks

[@CleverModerns]

Hi Eric, thanks for watching; I'm not too clear on exactly what you're asking here.

[@EricPaysnoe]

Did you have to cut each of the vertical end wall panels at the top to fit the changing curve of the qonset hut or did the endwall panels come precut to fit correctly as you move center out? Hopefully that questions makes sense...

[@CleverModerns]

They cut them at the factory but one building they were all too long and we had to trim them.

[@ricardobooker1704]

I am erecting a 40 ft wide hut. Can someone recommend the best way to erect the arches. 40ft is very wide I am afraid I might damage the metal in the process. The height is 16ft. Thank you.

[@leandrobalbinot]

ola! sou do brasil estou muito interessado nesse conceito que estão utilizando, gostaria de saber mais alguns detalhes, como conseguir esse metal

[@CleverModerns]

Nós adquirimos nosso edifício de metal de www.steelmasterusa.com.

[@brucegibson818]

Tell me if I'm wrong.... I've only lived in a quonset hut on base in 29 palms California. Hot and dry. I live in Pennsylvania though and want to build one to live permanently. I'm thinking of this more like an upside down boat hull,, not literally but you understand. Boats have a bilge for condensation, house won't. Would it be best to keep insulation an inch or 2 away from the steel and vent in between to keep condensation and mold/ mildew under control? Angle the base to allow drainage? Or am I just over thinking the whole thing?

[@napamoonlight9997]

Bruce Gibson Yes, was thinking the same thing. I wish he would come back to answer but I guess these (steel masters) have been up for at least two years and the info can be found elsewhere. But I am just starting my quest and answering questions within this video would be optimal.

[@randiD123]

Just beginning the journey and trying to determine cost effectiveness of finishing inside of quonset homes. It seems like it will be quite costly. We will be building in VA and I don't even know how to find someone qualified to finish the inside given the radius challenge.

[@CleverModerns]

A Quonset doesn't cost any more than a conventional build, and done right, can easily cost less. The inside of the arch is easy to make a beautiful finish with drywall, plywood, wood slats/T&G, or even corrugated metal for an industrial look.

[@426superbee4]

if you plan PLAN ON THIS ! > it sweats> So any place where its not insulation > it will sweat and rot the wood beams So its best to know where your going to put the braces and go ahead and insulate it? I tell ya> SMALL CELL FOAM IS THE BEST WAY> it BONDS to the metal

[@CleverModerns]

Definitely going to use foam! Thanks for the feedback!

[@426superbee4]

yvw i got one, i use small cell foam. That what i would use, it make the building even stronger, and a higher R value. I LOVE EM so much, so going to make a house out of one cheers

[@patriciaeamon1388]

I want to build a quonset home on passive house principles and with as many sustainable/natural building materials as possible. Are you familiar with flexible wood fiber insulation? It's very moisture tolerant and flexible, with high R values and low flammability. Best of all, it's got the sequestered carbon from the tree and is made from wood waste. Thinking a way to use it might be to throw up the moisture barrier sheets on either side of the insulation (?) panels, which will be laid into interior arched framing throughout the quonset, then using a natural plaster for the interior wall/ceiling/arch surface--plaster is also breathable and moisture tolerant. I think I'd end up with a beautiful plastered interior that maximizes light from the end walls and very few side windows, and an incredibly strong and beautiful arched interior. What are the biggest problems with this method/these materials that I should be considering? One big/obvious challenge will be accessing the panels, which are in very limited distribution. I'm attracted to them for sustainability, health, and aesthetics, however, and now I don't really want to consider the more toxic conventional materials that everyone seems to be using. Do you think this plan is possible? Thanks!

[@patriciaeamon1388]

See the True North Quonsets for how beautiful plaster looks inside of quonset huts....

[@sirstephen2648]

hey there im doing a 25 x 30 x 16 g series dura building can I get some tips or coaching love you to come see the property

[@CleverModerns]

Where are you located? You can email me directly at [e-mail] if you need help with a specific question or want to discuss coaching. I'm happy to help!

[@sirstephen2648]

Clever Moderns ok will do thanks

[@sirstephen2648]

I am trying to build me and my wife's dream home she was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer that has moved to her bone she is fighting and doing well but we had bought some property years back for cheap with the dream of building so after much looking and figuring there is no time like the present we bought a 25 x30 g series from dura span buildings and are putting it on the industrial base plates on a wooden floor box on pretty much the side of a mountain the building will be on 6x6 post it will be a for off the ground in front and about 12 feet in the back I just got the money up to do the post and the outer band board done of these post will be fastened to boulders any tips on that we will be taking our building it will be here between July 1st and 14th and our lumber is being delivered on the 6th of July like I say we have enough to do the post the outer band board and the center support and we'll have to get the rest if the lumber when we build more money up get the floor joist and the plywood and I'm going with all treated lumber ground contact lumber on this build because of it being up in the air in the moisture and stuff being by the river and all we had a camper pulled to the side so we will be moving to the site full-time why were building the Quonset and we hope to have the Quonset built and at least livable but probably still working on it by this summer any advice tips help tricks that you could give would be very appreciated thank you for your time

[@sirstephen2648]

By this next summer I mean I think we will be in camper through winter but who knows also do you have any suggestions on insulation

[@jamesmustian3700]

Help. I dont have fb. My quonset is 25 years old and every month i have to clean off exterior base plates. The base plates are flat on the concrete and hold water, dirt, leaves, etc. Is there a product or suggestion for installing some kind of flashing so the base plates dont hold water and trash. I now have rust pits on my exterior base plates.

[@CleverModerns]

At a minimum you should keep some kind of paint on them to inhibit the rust from continuing to corrode the metal.

[@davidbere5723]

What size are the coupling nuts - all my instructions just say "fastner" but don't give me a bolt size.

[@CleverModerns]

Ours are 5/16 thread. I think the manufacturers all use the same bolt size but it wouldn't hurt to check with your mfr.

[@nicholasashley537]

Looking for a basic front wall framework plan. Is that a even a thing?lol

[@sotoea]

EarlDid you rebar the foundation floor ..? how thick it is..?

[@CleverModerns]

Yes there is rebar in the floor. I would have to look it up in my drawings. The slab is 4" thick but much thicker at the perimeter foundation. The foundation is designed by the building manufacturer.

[@EntertainThemcom]

Can you paint the spray insulation foam?

[@CleverModerns]

You can paint it from what I understand. If you are getting a quote to have your building foamed I would double check with the company doing your insulating though.

[@debbieoneill1336]

Any idea where I can buy end panels.

[@tracelarson3125]

Your MFG. will sell them to you, however, as many who have installed them from the MFG. (very expensive!), they subsequently suggest putting your own in and installed their own on their next QHut install!

[@Codeman785]

I purchased a steel master quonset hut, and the things that irritated me the most: was the instruction manual was terrible at giving key details about installation. And also the waterproofing is quite terrible as well. I had to use a tremendous amount of sealant on the base connectors to stop water from leaking in.

[@MrJasonfromcanada]

my quonest collapsed yesterday under snow load

[@CleverModerns]

Wow how awful. So sorry to hear that. Hope everyone is ok. Was it an older building or had it been damaged at all? Any ideas as to the cause other than just too much snow load?

[@danalea9302]

Can you make a ten by twelve quonset hut portable I would like to travel in it I know it's to wide any ideas and can I make it a pull out at the end any ideas It is a older one can you help me I have a old motor home chassis I want to make it road legal like a motor home

[@CleverModerns]

It sounds like a really cool project but sorry I can't help with that.

[@toufikzemmouri7639]

nimiro

[@144greenville]

Can you bury a quonset hut? Asking for a friend... ;)

[@CleverModerns]

Not really, it voids the warranty. None of the manufacturers will sell it to you for that use.

[@chainsaw5524]

I have a metal building with blanket insulation. It is horrible over time. Rats will nest in the insulation and will destroy it.

[@CleverModerns]

Sorry you are having trouble with that. I hear nothing but negative things about the blanket insulation from people who have actually installed it. Maybe I should interview you about it for the channel.

[@michaelwells7348]

~ are U sure that U Build Quonset Hut homes...

[@mavigogun]

Absolutely no discussion about the moisture management implications of attaching insulation/moisture barrier directly against the shell structure.

[@bladerock9041]

Sounds like Quonset huts would be useless for underground use.

[@CleverModerns]

You are correct. I think there are probably better ways of doing an underground structure. Plus, none of the manufacturers will sell you one if that is your intent, and if you do bury one it would void their warranty (if that matters).

[@mavigogun]

Observation: the host is not occupying a topical structure.

[@jasonbilby1488]

You need to edit this and talk faster is so annoying trying to watch this and you say um 5,000 times

[@brentvanevery773]

Terribly boring

[@YouTube_can_ESAD]

Being an adult is hard./s