Billboard Insider is running a series on out of home fabricators. Today we feature Formetco.
Fabricator: Formetco.
Headquarters: Duluth, Georgia.
Phone: 800-362-6382
Email: structures@formetco.com
How did Formetco get involved in making structures?
Formetco’s entry into the structure business was driven by the dynamic and fast-paced nature of the scoreboards industry. We frequently encountered situations where last-minute changes were necessary, and we realized that having direct control over the fabrication and installation process was crucial to meet these demands effectively. By bringing in the structures division, we positioned ourselves as a comprehensive, turnkey solution provider for both billboards and scoreboards. This integration allowed us to ensure the highest standards of quality and responsiveness, fulfilling our commitment to delivering exceptional products and services to our clients.
What trends are you seeing in new structures (e.g., size, digital versus static, etc.)?
We’re really impressed to see that operators are prioritizing safety features and are incorporating reoccurring safety inspections. As far as billboard displays, it should come as no surprise that over the years, we have seen a significant shift towards digital billboards, with approximately 90% of new builds opting for digital faces. This trend highlights the growing preference for dynamic and versatile advertising solutions that digital billboards offer.
What sort of wind loads are clients building to?
Our clients typically adhere to the wind load requirements specified by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) under the ASCE 7-16 standards, with a Risk Category II rating. These standards ensure that the structures are designed to withstand the wind loads specific to their geographic location, providing safety and durability. In some circumstances, we have even seen that some operators with coastal markets are opting for structures engineered to exceed regional wind load requirements in an effort to lower insurance premiums.
What’s an interesting or challenging build you’ve done?
We have had a couple of recent projects that really stood out. Ervin Building (Charlotte, NC) a collaborative effort with Selective Structures. The sign was installed and then an office was built around it. The sign is over an open-air commons area where people gather and eat. It is a 32’x50’ digital ready (Formetco digitals) Center Mount with a 42’ Vee with an overall height of 54’6” with architectural cladding on both sides and the bottom.We worked with the architects on the design as well as having our project managers working with the installers as this needed to be exact for the buildings design. We were able to address safety concerns with our in-house council and the GC on the job site. We were able to meet their specified timelines and the project was a success.
Road.Space (Miami, Florida) Jeff Campbell, Formetco GM of Fabrication, Tennille, GA: “This project had some of the most complicated fabricated connections I have ever seen.” This job stood out due to the sheer scope of work. The sign is designed by Bennett and Pless to withstand 175 mph wind loads. It is a 14’x48’ digital ready (Formetco digitals) Center mount with a 30’ Vee and 15’ cantilever with an overall height of 61’. The total structure weight came in at 98,000 lbs. We used over 2.8 miles of welding wire on this project. The attached photos are of the guys working on the cantilever. It alone was a 42”x5/8” wall weighing in at 16,000 lbs.
If someone is interested in getting a quote on structures who should they call at Formetco?
For inquiries and quotes regarding structures, potential clients should reach out to the Structures Department at Formetco. They can be contacted via phone at 800-362-6382, through email at structures@formetco.com, or on our new Structures website www.formetcostructures.com. Our team is ready to provide detailed information and support for all your structural needs.
Be sure to check out our new Formetco Structures promo video:
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