Auto Tech Repair, Newport News, Va.
Retrofit Team
Metal-building contractor: EPOC Construction Inc., Newport News
Materials
Auto Tech Repair was a three-bay auto service shop built in the 1960s; it was in desperate need of restoration. The building’s owners wanted renovations to the existing repair shop, upgrades to the exterior of the building and the addition of two bays.
The structure now features the Rigid Frame system, Panel Rib wall system in Cool Egyptian White and SSR standing-seam roof system in Galvalume. Stepped-width frames were used for angled rear walls and along rear bays, and wind beams were incorporated for the stud/parapet front façade.
Metal components’ manufacturer: Varco Pruden
The Retrofit
This project was made possible by a city grant program for façade improvement. Auto Tech Repair was eligible for matching funds of up to $60,000. The architectural appearance and materials for the repair shop required program approval.
“The original design was for structural steel, but when the project bid initially came in over budget, Varco Pruden’s pre-engineered metal building system [PEMB] alternative achieved significant savings,” says Ken Bingman, president of EPOC Construction.
The PEMB system also provided design flexibility for the additional space and support needed to seamlessly blend the substructures for the new façade. The system successfully reduced overall building shell costs while maintaining the front façade requirements.
The metal building structure was used to provide a clear-span frame and single-slope roof. The single-slope metal roof eliminates messy flashing details along the front/high-side eave and provides a clean transition over the existing parapet endwall. Metal wall panels were an economical solution for the rear endwall siding.
“Prior to the renovation project, we were a nondescript auto repair shop, like most others in our area,” notes Mark White, owner. “Since this makeover, our business has increased by at least one-third from our normal business volume. The entire building renovation has become the benchmark for other businesses looking to renovate, remodel or add on to their existing buildings.”