Universal Forest Products, a major supplier of wood products used in global infrastructure, recently reached out to our A.O. Wagner team for help. They are expanding their Orlando operations with two new Pre-Engineered Metal Building (PEMB) canopies.
These buildings will serve as covered storage for lumber and related materials, offering both accessibility and durability. Each structure is sized at 40′ × 120′, with four 30-foot bays, open on the front side to allow easy truck loading and unloading.
Structural Stability and Perfect Leveling
Work began with cutting existing asphalt and excavating column footings per engineered specifications. Next, a full rebar mat and anchor bolt system was installed to secure each bay footing, carefully aligned for future column placement. Within one week, crews had poured column pads and piers, using varying heights to compensate for the natural slope of the pavement and ensuring the entire building sits exactly level.
Site Layout Is Ready for PEMB Installation
With concrete cured and footing elevations confirmed, layout lines were established, and column pads/piers were finalized. The site is now prepared for the next phase: erecting the Whirlwind Steel PEMB canopies. These steel structures will rest securely on the prepared piers, delivering a highly stable and solid structure made to hold up for many years.
Smart Design Considerations
From a building science perspective, this project emphasizes structural integrity, moisture resistance, and minimal material waste, which are key principles of sustainable construction. The use of galvanized steel and precision-cut footings reduces long-term maintenance and ensures consistent performance even under Florida’s harsh climate conditions.
What’s Next?
Over the next 3–4 weeks, the two PEMB canopies will be erected, completing the exterior assembly of these storage buildings. Once finished, UFP will have two durable, weather-protected structures perfect for organizing and preserving crucial materials.
Built to Support UFP’s Mission
This new addition aligns with the client’s broader mission of supporting infrastructure, commercial industries, and community growth. The buildings from Whirlwind Steel Buildings are engineered for dependable use, closing the gap between operational needs and environmental resilience.
A.O. Wagner Construction provides full-service general contracting, management services, and design/build construction throughout Central Florida. We proudly serve Winter Haven, Lakeland, Davenport, Haines City, Auburndale, Avon Park, and surrounding areas. Follow our Project Build Blog to see more of our past projects. For more information, please email us at info@aowagnerfl.com or call 863-299-4444.