There are numerous types of temporary structures, many uses and benefits of them, and even a variety of definitions of what a temporary structure is. Within their Science & Technology Encylopedia, McGraw-Hill define a temporary structure as "a structure erected to aid in the construction of a permament project".
In reality, temporary structures can also be the end result of the project too. They may be a single structure, created for a precise purpose, for a specific period of time, and are a stand-alone project with no other project being dependant upon them, permament or otherwise.
Sometimes, these structures are only needed for a short period of time, or perhaps to enable a clearly defined function to have been performed, and then they are dismantled or relocated. Their existence and function is temporary.
We all see examples of this type of structure on a daily basis, for example: portaloos, Portakabins, exhibition stands, sports event seating, kiosks, travelling fairground rides, marquees, temporary workshops, warehouses and commercial and industrial units, pontoons and even ice-rinks. There are many more.
When you think about all the structures in existence that are temporary, and are not built to help a permanent building project, McGraw-Hill's definition is obviously far too narrow for our experience and understanding of what temporary structures actually are, so we will embrace a much broader definition.
It might be worth noting that Planning Authorities also have ideas about what constitutes a temporary structure. Typically, if it is going to exist for more than twenty eight days, then planning permission is going to be needed.
The primary reasons why temporary structures are so popular for industry, leisure and emergency circumstances are:
FASTER BUILD TIME - They do not need foundations, and the majority of the component parts are already made and ready to assemble, as a result it takes almost no time to put up and take down again.
MUCH CHEAPER THAN A CONVENTIONAL BUILDING - Shorter lead times in the planning, designing and building stages, and the lower costs of components used in the construction will save you a great deal of money when compared against a conventional building whether you rent or buy outright.
FLEXIBILITY - Once erected, it is extremely easy to add to it, re-configure it, re=loate it, or just dismantle it.
There are many other advantages and features of temporary buildings or structures such as:
- Buildings can be linked together with multi-span configurations
- High performance floor, wall and roofing options
- Contemporary appearance with clean modern finish
- Huge choice of related accessories to suit your exact requirements
- Totally relocatable, in whole or part to create units of different sizes
- Choice of insulation systems, which can easily be combined
- Energy efficient, with climate and noise control
- Simple to assemble, durable buildings with maximum security
- Modular design enables fast construction and easy changes
- Contemporary appearance with clean modern finish
- Buildings can be linked together with multi-span configurations
- Wide range of temperature control systems and materials
- Strong, lightweight materials enable easy transportation and installation
- Interiors can be customized to suit your operational and branding requirements.
Further options include:
- Signage, Canopies, PVC or Steel Guttering, Electrics, Down Pipes, Signage, Lighting,
- Blacked-out Roof, Roller Shutter Door, Barriers, Remote Control, Wide Range of Flooring,
- Heating, Glazed Windows, Smoke Alarms, Doors, Air Conditioning, Power Rental, etc.
