Self-Storage Expansion

Expand Existing Self Storage

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INVESTMENT & DEVELOPMENT

The Right Move for Established Companies

The self-storage industry continues to evolve, with profits going to those who keep up. Building on prime real estate now often means multi-story facilities that blend into the retail landscape, winning approval from city review boards. Crowded families, businesses, and individuals all turn to self-storage for diverse solutions, storing everything from pharmaceuticals to heirlooms in climate-controlled units. For established self-storage companies, expansion is the right move.

Building Codes

Building and energy codes have been changing recently. Depending on which code your state has adopted, some of the following may apply to your next project:

Greater levels of insulation are being required on insulated buildings
Some states are limiting or prohibiting the use of floating slab foundations, despite their proven performance
Newer codes require firewalls every 2500 sq ft instead of every 12,000 in buildings without sprinklers
The drive isles can be as narrow as 20′ wide and still conform to code
The roll-up doors must have the same wind rating as the building so make sure the doors you purchase are wind rated
The firewall locations changed compared to your last code
The foundation requirements have also changed. Now, you can only presume 1,500 pound soil bearing capacity. Therefore, we highly recommend conducting a soil test to increase the presumed soil bearing capacity which will impact the amount of concrete needed in your building.

Designs & Styles

Building designs and styles have evolved.

With land prices escalating, multi-story buildings are receiving greater consideration. We recommend you incorporate an elevator into your building.
Wider and larger units are increasing in popularity. Trachte’s standard building offers 9’0″ wide doors on a standard 10′ bay giving your clients more room for their car, boat or trailer, which will set your site apart from the competition.
Building very wide buildings eliminates driveways and thus maximizes the available land. This design can easily achieve 20% more rentable square feet per acre. The interior hallways can be climate-controlled to attract higher-paying customers. The corridors need to be bright and clean, and utilize smooth, heavy-gauge panel so that they will endure over time.

Regulations

Communities are becoming more stringent. The building department and, more specifically, the architectural review board may require:

A high pitched building with a colored roof
A hipped roof on one end
A cupola on the roof
Dormers
A building with an overhang and soffit
Brick, stucco, Drivit™, or other façade
A mansard to hide the edge of the roof

Existing Storage Expansion

Storage Down to a Science

Throughout your expansion project, Trachte provides expert advice and the best materials. Our custom building designs and flexible options, like extra-wide doors, help you meet changing consumer needs and comply with local building codes. Trachte’s regional managers assist in maximizing your site’s square footage and identifying the most profitable unit mix. We also coordinate the installation of your buildings. With Trachte’s tradition of solid engineering, comprehensive service, and custom designs that appeal to review boards, your expansion becomes smarter and easier.

UPCOMING SEMINARS

Houston, TX

January 23, 2025

Knoxville, TN

January 28, 2025

Myrtle Beach, SC

February 4, 2025

UPCOMING CONVENTIONS

SSA Spring Conference & Trade Show

March 12, 2025

Orlando, FL

ISS Inside Self-Storage World Expo

April 22, 2025

Las Vegas, NV