Comparison Matrix
At a time that requires the reimagining of the construction industry around the world, the demand for a faster, more flexible, cost-effective building solution that can adapt to changing needs and emerging markets is more important than ever before.
Our at-a-glance comparison matrix demonstrates the different ways Sprung tensioned membrane structures outperform and outlast pre-engineered metal and conventional construction buildings.
How does a Sprung structure compare?
Feature | Sprung Structures | Pre-Engineered Metal Building | Conventional Construction |
| Sprung structures are typically delivered 4-6 weeks for a standard structure | 12 plus months | 12 plus months |
| Compact shipping: Sprung structures up to 15,000 square feet. can be shipped in one 40-foot ISO container or on one 48-foot flatbed | 6,000 sq.ft. per load | n/a |
| If appropriate soil conditions exist, concrete foundations are not required on Sprung structures up to 160′ wide | Yes – no exceptions | Yes – no exceptions |
| 500 to 2000 sq.ft. per day, depending on options, complete with finished interior for a Sprung structure | After foundation is in place, a pre-engineered metal building can be constructed at a rate of 2,000 sq. ft. per week. | 12-18 months for conventional construction |
| 1-6 months for a Sprung structure | 12-18 months for a pre-engineered metal building | 18-24 months conventional construction |
| A Sprung structure has a rust-free aluminum substructure. Sprung’s patented tensioning system does not require any retensioning of membrane panels for the life of the structure. | A standing seam metal roof is prone to large thermal movements. This causes leaks and requires continuous maintenance, especially at penetrations. | Regular maintenance is required. |
| Adding additional modules to a Sprung structure is easy | Renovation required | Renovation required |
| Sprung structures offers unlimited color options | Limited | Limited |
| Yes | No | No |
| Standard feature: daylight panels in peak of a Sprung structure provide an optimum amount of natural daylight | Significant extra cost | Significant extra cost |
| Air permeability is almost 0 in a Sprung structure, resulting in superior energy performance. | Poor air-tightness | Moderate air-tightness |
| Excellent acoustical properties with our comprehensive insulation package and “soft wall” interior membrane | Significant additional costs associated with acoustic treatments needed to make a metal building acceptable for any application where acoustics are a concern (gymnasiums, public assembly, churches, casinos, offices etc. | Limited performance |
| Indefinite lifespan simply by replacing exterior membrane on a Sprung structure every 20-30 years depending on membrane selection | 15-50 depending on quality level | Replace roof every 25+ years |
Delivery
Shipping
Foundations
Construction time on building envelope
Overall fast-track construction timeline. Groundbreaking to completion.
Maintenance schedule
Expandability
Exterior color options
Flexibility to relocate
Daylight panels
Airtight building Envelope Efficiency
Acoustics
Lifespan