CMU vs. wood frame

[tmoe]

Im doing a cost comparison of CMU vs wood framed construction and could use your help. I have extensively consulted google but feel like I could use some advice from the collective voice. Im looking for final in place cost per sq.ft of building. Per linear ft would work too.

- first off, the building is 50' x 100' x 18' tall. It's a large storage shed for the city. How do per sq.ft. costs break down when you get this big. Around here (far north CA) ppl say $100/sq.ft for residential construction, but I find it hard to believe that this would apply to a 4 wall building, even if it is large. I mean come on, $500,000 wood framed storage shed... Is there some sort of multiplier that reduces cost as the footprint gets larger??

- Second, I got numbers all over the board for CMU construction cost. Can I get some of your thoughts? Again looking for final cost including materials and labor.

thanks guys

 

[concretemasonry]

That is definitely not residential construction, so I would contact several industrial/commercial contractor to get general square foot prices. The 18' height gets it out of the realm of routine wood frame construction.

The sf price for CMU construction may be much easier to get because that construction is quite common for the 18' height in many areas.

Much will depend on the parameters you have set for the structural system. Masonry may be easier or you may have to look a steel frame system with an appropriate exterior for performance and appearance.

Dick

Engineer and international traveler interested in construction techniques, problems and proper design.

 

[RFreund]

Maybe try a pole barn or post-frame construction?

EIT

 

[MiketheEngineer]

YES - Pole barns are simple and cheap - running about $10-$12 per sq ft without concrete floor. Add about $6-7$ per sq ft for floor assuming 4'' floor. Your are looking in the $100,00 range - I think.

Even steel PEMBs run just slightly more.

Of course, this is the Mid-west - California - you guys are on a different plane.