While metal buildings are designed to be a sturdy, reliable solution for protecting your valuables, they’re still a major investment. And like any large investment, you want to ensure you get the most for your money. But understanding all the ins and outs might be challenging if you’re new to the metal building industry. But that’s okay because we’re here to help make sense of it all before you buy!
In this blog, we’ll cover 22 crucial things you’ll want to keep in mind when purchasing prefab metal buildings.
When purchasing a new metal building, most people expect a quality-built product. But what else should you expect? If this is your first time purchasing something of this size, we understand that you might not be familiar with the process. So, to help, we’ve listed 22 crucial things you’ll want to know before you buy yours.
When it comes to breaking ground on any construction project, having a solid grasp of the cost is a great first step. Let’s take a look at what you need to know regarding the cost of your structure:
In most cases, yes! With lumber prices rising, steel construction has become one of the most cost-effective options on the market!
Not quite! Even though prefab metal buildings are engineered to protect an affordable price, we wouldn’t call them cheap!
We like to think so! Metal buildings provide an unrivaled level of protection and longevity, making them incredibly valuable in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
Determining the price of a metal building can be tricky. After all, they’re complex structures that can vary in price based on a number of factors, including the price of raw steel, the customization options you choose, and the location where you purchase your building. You’ll want to work closely with a trained building expert to determine a quote on your steel building.
On average, a concrete slab foundation can vary from $5,000 to $16,000 depending on size and manpower costs. When purchasing a metal building, you’ll want to factor in this cost with the price of your structure to get an idea of your total metal building cost.
Yes! Most metal building providers work closely with nationally recognized lenders so that you can qualify for a metal building, no matter your budget! Additionally, many metal building providers also offer rent-to-own options for those with bad or no credit!
Another big aspect of buying a metal building will be its installation. And while most metal building providers will offer free or included installation, there are some essential things you’ll want to keep in mind.
Most certified metal buildings are constructed using galvanized steel. This galvanization process makes them naturally resistant to moisture, rust, mold, pests, and even fires up to 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit!
A pre-engineered metal building is designed and partially or fully constructed in a manufacturing center before it’s shipped off for installation.
Once you’ve purchased your metal building, our installation crews will arrive to begin the installation process. By this point in the process, your building site and the foundation should already be in place. The installation crews will start by assembling the framing first.
At this point, wall and roof panels are secured to the framing, transforming the structure into a fully-enclosed building. Once that’s complete, all that will remain is adding customizations and the anchors that will hold the structure in place.
Several roofing options are available depending on your climate and budget. These include:
A regular roof looks much like a traditional carport roof, with rounded edges and horizontal paneling. It’s a great economical option that is designed to hold up well in most moderate climates.
An a-frame roof is more like the roof you’d find on a residential home, with overhanging awnings, a sharpened roof peak, and horizontal paneling. This roofing style is an excellent option if you live in a region with high winds but minimal rainfall.
Taking the best aspects of an A-frame roof and combining them with vertically oriented paneling, a vertical roof is the cream of the crop in terms of protection. Thanks to its clever design, rain, leaves and general debris will slide off the roof, keeping it cleaner longer.
How do you know if your metal building is made from quality materials? Here are a few questions you’ll need to ask.
When properly maintained, a certified steel building is engineered to last for decades. Since they’re crafted from steel, these structures won’t rot or decay like wooden alternatives. These strengths make metal buildings among the longest-lasting construction types on the market.
Vertical roofing systems are designed to allow debris to slide away from the rooftop easily. And since these roofs won’t be in contact with leaf material and snow that can cause rust damage over time, they can go for decades without needing to be replaced.
How do you know if your metal building is safe? We’ve answered a few questions about determining your metal building’s safety.
Technically, there aren’t any man-made structures that are truly hurricane-proof. However, since steel is one of the strongest building materials available, you’d be hard-pressed to find a building better suited to handle high winds and heavy rain than a steel building.
Much like a metal building in a hurricane, there are few man-made objects that can withstand sustained 300-mile-per-hour wind gusts. However, a steel frame building will probably hold up better in a tornado than any stick-built alternative.
Although, at first glance, it may seem like metal buildings might be oversized “lightning rods,” electricity from lightning strikes is typically transferred from the structure to the ground below, keeping you safe. And given metal building’s inherent flame resistance, you won’t have to worry about fire damage, either!
Believe it or not, steel buildings are far more resilient to seismic activity than their wooden cousins! This feat is possible thanks to steel’s ability to flex when met with external forces. And unlike stick-built buildings that may crack or break when faced with these forces, a steel building will simply bend and hold true.
Did you know that metal buildings are also regularly used for living spaces? Let’s look at a few great questions surrounding this use for metal structures!
Yes! If adequately finished with insulation, drywall, plumbing, and electricity, metal buildings make fantastic livable dwellings. So, if you’re looking for an affordable way to design and build a guest house or mother-in-law suite, steel buildings are your prime choice!
Yes! Like any other permanent structure, you’ll have to secure the necessary permits and abide by regulations, but metal buildings make fantastic homes!
As we’ve mentioned, you can transform a metal structure into a beautiful living space by fully finishing it with insulation, drywall, plumbing, and electricity. From barndominiums to guest houses and everything in between, steel construction is the way to go!
Did you know that metal buildings are highly customizable? Let’s take a deeper look at the ways these buildings can be custom-tailored to your needs!
Yes! Though you might not need a new paint job since these buildings come in various custom color options. From the roofing to the trim and everything in between, you’ll have complete control to color your structure your way.
Yes! In fact, by insulating your metal structure, you’ll be able to maintain an even ambient temperature, reduce moisture, and minimize energy costs!
If you’re using your structure for anything other than storage, you’ll likely want to consider adding insulation. This insulation will not only reduce moisture buildup, but it can do wonders for keeping an even internal temperature year-round.
Now that you have a better understanding of what to expect from your metal building, let’s take a moment to talk about what to avoid! Below, we’ve put together some vital tips for avoiding common mistakes when purchasing a metal building.
Sure, it might save you a few dollars, and the hassle of working with a building inspector, but not securing the necessary building permits can cost quite a pretty penny in the long run. Failing to secure a building permit can result in significant fines and can even end with an order to remove your building entirely.
The most crucial aspect of getting a building right is ensuring that it’s appropriately leveled. This can be solved easily by grading and leveling your build site before you begin the installation process.
Another common mistake is placing your building in the wrong location. For example, if you build your structure in an area below natural water runoff, flood damage is a real possibility. So, take the time to choose the right location for your new metal building. You’ll thank us in the long run!
Sure, there are plenty of metal building manufacturers out there. And they’re not all created equal! But, by taking the time to purchase from a trusted provider, you can ensure that you’re getting a quality product that’s built to last.
Every construction project needs a budget! You can avoid extra expenses and costly mistakes by properly calculating your budget.
Garage Buildings is proud to offer a wide variety of premium metal buildings and steel structures for any need or application under the sun. We design and build, from small metal building kits to large metal buildings and everything in between. If you’re looking for quality and strength, we’ve got you covered.
We’re happy to provide several great financing options that make owning a building on a budget flexible and hassle-free! And if financing isn’t quite your thing, we also offer fantastic rent-to-own options with no hits to your credit and fast approvals!
So, if you’re ready to begin your metal building journey, call Garage Buildings today at +1 (866) 355-4442! Our building experts are waiting to help you design and customize a metal building for your needs!