Design-build solutions for successful warehouse construction

When it comes to warehouse construction, there are many design and construction details that must be considered to achieve a successful development. Floor systems, exterior wall types, structure, bay sizing, building systems, and site design are all elements that should be explored in the earliest stages of a project to ensure the most functional and cost-effective facility.

Space utilization, pre-existing site conditions, schedule needs, and more can all play a role in determining the most advantageous option for each of these elements. Partnering with an experienced contractor, like ARCO National Construction, that is actively engaged throughout the design and beginning stages of a project will ensure that the very best design and construction decisions are made, resulting in a superior finished product and the very best customer experience.

The floor system is one of the most important elements in warehouse construction. It must be designed to withstand the unique demands of your operation, from forklift traffic to heavy equipment foundations. Options include traditional reinforced concrete or advanced systems designed to minimize shrinkage and maximize performance.

• Traditional concrete
• Ductilcrete
• Shrinkage compensating
• Heavy loaded floors/equipment foundations

ARCO has experience with all major floor types and can recommend the best option based on your facility’s needs.

Exterior wall type selection for warehouses is often based on building size, schedule needs, and exterior façade preferences. For larger warehouse facilities, uninsulated concrete panels poured onsite are typically the most cost-effective, and almost any exterior siding, cladding, or veneer can be applied to the outward facing portion to meet your aesthetic preferences. Precast panels are produced offsite year-round and installed prior to floor slab, making them the ideal choice in some circumstances in which schedule restraints are a concern.

• Concrete tilt-panel (non-insulated)
• Concrete tilt-panel (insulated)
• Precast concrete tilt-panel

ARCO will help determine the most effective wall type based on your schedule, budget, and design goals.

Structural systems must account for roof loads, storage heights, and flexibility for future expansion. Steel joists and girders allow for long spans and heavy loads, while pre-engineered metal buildings provide a versatile and cost-effective solution. For operations requiring high-density storage, rack-supported structures can maximize available space and are often used in automated storage/retrieval systems (AS/RS).

• Steel joists
• Pre-engineered metal building
• Rack supported

ARCO’s team of experts chooses building structures to maximize efficiency and performance for each client’s unique operations.

Bay sizing plays a key role in optimizing your warehouse operations. Racking layouts, aisle spacing, and forklift travel paths must be carefully planned around building width and clear height. Proper planning ensures a highly functional facility that supports efficient movement of goods and equipment.

Dock types, sizes, and specifications must also be determined in the design phase of a warehouse construction project. The choice between mechanical and hydraulic docks can be made based on your functionality needs. Additional building systems that must be considered include electrical service, HVAC, fire protection, and lighting.

• Mechanical docks
• Hydraulic docks

In addition to evaluating options and standards associated with these systems, ARCO offers the understanding of code requirements to avoid design changes and schedule delays as you get closer to occupancy.

Efficient site design is essential for warehouse operations. Standard ratios for car and truck parking, dock doors, office space, and drive aisle widths must all be considered. With competition for prime sites at an all-time high, many projects now involve more complex or constrained sites. ARCO’s site feasibility services provide site-specific cost data and analysis upfront, giving clients confidence in their decisions before construction begins.