Specialised Structures is renowned for its adaptable and reliable portal frame buildings, combining smart design, expert construction and top-quality materials sourced from trusted suppliers. These structures are designed to deliver both durability and flexibility.
As the Nelson-Tasman area licensee, Fitzgerald Construction has brought these solutions to life with their newly built Nelson factory. Measuring 76m x 28m and standing 7.3m high, this facility serves as the production hub for modular buildings, including classrooms constructed for the Ministry of Education.
‘This is a unique project where Fitzgerald Construction is both the owner and the client,’ says Ange Smith, Steel & Tube’s Business Development Manager for the South Island. ‘It’s a great example of how we support our customers with everything they need—from materials to project insights— through the Specialised Structures business portal.’
Efficient, customised portal frame solutions
‘Our portal frame system allows us to build everything from the smallest carport to the largest commercial warehouse—and everything in between,’ says Vaughan Cornelius, Delivery Manager for Specialised Structures Tasman.
The portal frame system is designed for flexibility, enabling customisation to meet clients’ specific needs. It is also highly efficient, reducing construction time while ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements.
‘We use proprietary software called Planit,’ Vaughan explains. ‘It combines design and pricing in a single package. Preloaded with Steel & Tube’s materials, specifications, and pricing, the software allows us to quickly deliver designs and cost estimates to get projects moving. Once approved, we create consent drawings and move straight into construction when approved.’
Showcasing advanced materials and steel construction practices
The Nelson factory is the largest project delivered by Specialised Structures Tasman. It showcases high-performance materials and advanced steel construction practices, improving both efficiency and durability.
Steel & Tube supplied COLORSTEEL Dridex roofing, which features an absorbent fleece underside that eliminates the need for traditional underlay and netting. ‘This makes installation much faster,’ says Geoff Wiblin, Steel & Tube’s Roofing Specification Manager. ‘There is no requirement for safety mesh since Specialised Structures builds the entire roofing system on the ground before craning it into place.’
The structure also features Steel & Tube’s purlins, girts, gutters, flashings and fastenings. The building features COLORSTEEL Maxam®, a premium base metal with a high-performance protective coating. This combination provides exceptional durability and corrosion resistance, with warranties of up to 50 years, depending on the building’s location.
Reliability in quality and communication
Fitzgerald Construction’s modular warehouse ensures efficient construction regardless of weather conditions. ‘The warehouse gives us the flexibility to maintain year-round production,' Vaughan says. ‘For example, it allows us to deliver modular classrooms to schools across the South Island, ensuring projects are completed on time and to specification.’
Equally important is the ability to rely on Steel & Tube for accurate orders, a robust supply chain for all key steel solutions, and clear communication.
‘We’re very fortunate with Steel & Tube,’ Vaughan adds. ‘Their orders are always accurate—everything is cut to size and pre-drilled as specified. Plus, our account manager, Ange, keeps us updated every step of the way, which is crucial for managing timelines.'
This project highlights the versatility and reliability of Specialised Structures’ portal frame system, combined with Steel and Tube’s high-quality materials. With a strong focus on communication, reliability and innovation, this partnership consistently delivers exceptional results for large-scale construction.
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