When Building out the Interior of a Portable Building

1. Permits

Will you be getting a permit for the structure?  If so, it’s important to check with the local building dept. to find out if there are any special requirements that they will require. 

2. Window & Door Placements

Where will the building be placed on the property?  Where do you want the windows and doors placed taking into consideration the direction the sun rises and sets.

3. Window & Door Options

How large of windows do you want?  What about doors?  EZ Structures can provide different sizes and styles of doors and windows to accommodate the design you’re wanting to achieve.

4. Housewrap (aka Tyvek)

If the goal is to fully insulate and install air conditioning and/or a heat source you may want to consider house wrap as a moisture barrier. All homes use moisture barriers however in Arizona our climate is dry enough that it’s not a huge deal if you decide to skip this option.  There is no reason to install house wrap if you want the building vented and if you want the double barn doors since these don’t seal off as well as a regular house type door. 

5. Insulation

Are you living in an environment with harsh weather, either heat or cold? How much insulation do you need?  As a general rule, R-13 fiberglass insulation is the best value and will give you a great barrier against the heat and cold. The floors, walls, and ceilings should all be insulated.  Spray foam insulation is a great option as well and considered to be the best, however, it will cost more.  Always factor in the expected time frame that you plan to have the building.  It may be worth getting better insulation. 

6. Electrical

What are you looking to do with the building?  Will it be used for an office? If so, you will want to make sure you have plenty of outlets for plugging in computers, printers, etc… Are you making an art studio?  You may want exceptional lighting.  EZ Structures will be excited to visit with you regarding your needs and will make sure to provide you with an electrical package that best fits your needs. 

7. Walls & Ceilings

What type of look are you going for?  If you want rustic, then you may want to consider pine tongue & groove boards for the walls and ceiling.  Semi-rustic? Then maybe just tongue and groove boards on the ceiling.  EZ Structures uses LP Smartside siding for interior walls to create a very durable finish and this can be painted any color you desire.  Drywall should only be considered if the building is going to be permanent and you have no anticipation of moving it someday since it makes the building very heavy. 

8. Flooring

These days, vinyl plank flooring has become increasingly popular due to its durability and ease of installation.  Flooring is one of the last steps to finishing out your building and should be done after the walls are completed. 

9. Air Conditioning & Heat

Ductless mini-split systems are very efficient and almost always the best method for air conditioning and heating.  

10. Delivery

This is possibly the most important part of the entire process.  Your building is ready to be delivered and we need to make sure the area it will be set is prepared properly so it’s secure and has no risk of settling and becoming unlevel.  Also, before purchasing the building, we will need to make sure there will be no problem with getting it moved into place.  EZ Structures can build on-site as well if needed.