Steel Building Basics: What to Know Before You Buy

Steel Building Basics: What to Know Before You Buy

Many people consider renting or leasing a pre-engineered steel building rather than buying. The question, “Why lease or rent when you can own?” is worth thinking about. In the long run, renting or leasing an all-steel building can cost more than actually buying a building. Think about it in terms of owning your own home. At a lesser cost than more traditionally built structures, anyone can acquire and erect a pre-fabricated, pre-engineered steel building.


Particularly for first time purchasers, selecting the best all-steel building model can be a perplexing and arduous course. Shoppers may be aware of the basic strength and durability of commercial quality steel–but they may not know how to choose a structure style or vendor.

On the market today you will find hundreds of low cost all-metal structures. These are sold as “economy” building systems and are made of lighter 29 gauge metal and they are commonly offered by steel structure brokers. The finest results come about by considering only stronger 26 gauge commercial quality steel I-Beam building systems, which afford a wide variety of proportion possibilities and more durability.

There are also many fabricators and providers to choose from. However, some companies lack the understanding or the in-house capabilities to aid the customer. Any company can obtain a toll-free telephone number and a web site to sell their goods. You need to determine whether the firm is just selling you a product, or if it is offering an entire assistance package. Manufacturers that provide modern day hi-tech services and a superior assistance plan with your building investment are recommended.

Some steel building fabricators will request a partial payment even before they detail the complete costs for the steel building. You should endeavor to choose a manufacturer or contract manufacturer that will allow you to secure the sale price for a modest partial payment that will then be used to begin engineering. At no charge, a company project guide should be provided to assist with the configuration of your building.

There are several styles of steel buildings on the market today. Pole barns and Quonset huts are two older styles of ranch and farm structures and both have their limitations. Quonset huts are expensive to insulate and are unattractive in appearance. The arches of this hut decrease square footage availability near the sidewalls, and the structure comes unpainted. When buying a pole barn, you must purchase the wood separately. Pole barns have limited width options and they are pricey to put up. Steel building firms producing premium grade steel Rigid I-Beam design, however, should be considered. This type of construction is very familiar to most General Contractors and erectors and they will meet or exceed all structural regulations. Rigid I-Beam buildings can be rapidly erected; you can choose from a variety of paint options; and the width capacities are very generous. Before you sign a contract or make any deposit, make sure you have a good knowledge about pre-engineered buildings and different producers and suppliers.