Basic Guidelines for Buying a Pre-Engineered Steel Structure

There are a number of factors to evaluate when considering the purchase of a new steel building. Investing in the “cheapest” pre-engineered steel building system just because of the price is not advisable. You are better off investing in a pre-engineered steel building that is going to be in place for 30 to 50 years, so you may as well pay for the features you really need in the first instance.

Pay close attention to deals that seem almost too good to be true. Two companies apparently offering the same building at largely different prices need to be investigated further. This might suggest that one company is not revealing the quality of their structure.

A critical element involves local codes. It is your responsibility, rather than the manufacturer or provider’s, to make sure a local building code office will approve your structure. To avoid surcharges, confirm that the agreement states the appropriate specifications and coding before you authorize anything. Until you have confirmed that building codes can be met, do not pay a deposit. Substitutions in the agreement to satisfy a proper code will drive up the building cost. Make sure that any agreement you come to with a manufacturer or supplier is formalized. You are establishing that you understand precisely what you are buying when you assemble all details in printed form.

Modern building materials, building insulation, and accessories all contribute to the final cost of your structure. The cost advantages of a pre-fabricated, pre-engineered steel building when matched up to conventional construction can be huge. You can save in the range of 30% to 50% when compared with more standard construction applications. Labor costs can also be significantly reduced.

A new steel building can be built quickly. Depending on the dimensions and complexity of your design, your pre-fabricated, pre-engineered steel structure may be ready for use in just 60-90 days. Compare this to the six months or more that traditional assembly may take. Pre-engineered steel building systems are extraordinarily strong and in most instances maintenance is virtually non-existent. Finally, they can be safely occupied for 20 to 50 years, providing you with a reliable and durable structure.