Steel Building Purchasing Guide
Steel building popularity has grown in both commercial and residential applications. The steel building industry is erecting homes, garages and barns, along with churches, manufacturing plants and warehouses. Steel is acknowledged for durability and affordability. Much of the construction for steel buildings is done in the factory. Final assembly is completed on site, which is more time and cost effective than conventional structures.
Construction Costs
An estimate for a basic, unfinished steel building would be $16 to $20 per square foot. This price would include a foundation, materials and professional construction. For a finished structure, the cost would rise to between $20 and $30. The final cost of a 1,000 to 4,000 square foot building would run between $20,000 and $50,000. Material and construction prices vary based on size, location and the level of finishing desired.
Pros
- Durability - Steel is strong, durable and weather resistant. As one of the most durable construction materials available, steel holds up against the elements.
- Maintenance - Unlike wooden structures, painting and staining is not a necessity. Steel requires little maintenance.
Cons
- Expense - Steel buildings require the added expense of a continuous foundation; increasing labor and material costs.
- Complexity - Someone with construction experience may be able to build their own pole barn, but a steel structure is a complicated undertaking.
- Difficulty Finishing - Interior finishing of a steel building is more difficult than with a pole barn, as is creating separate rooms.
Pole Barns
Pole barn construction consists of sinking wooden poles deep into the ground. Poles are secured by a concrete slab rather than a traditional foundation. The poles are typically wood, but the building can be framed with wood or metal.
Pole barns are also multi-purpose buildings. They have been typically used as barns for farming applications. Most are designed with large, sliding doors for livestock and farming equipment accessibility. Pole barns are also used as garages, workshops and storage sheds.
Construction Costs
The cost of pole barn construction depends largely upon geographic location. A pole barn is purchased as a DIY kit. The kit for an average sized building, without windows, costs $15,000 to $25,000. The necessary concrete slab will add $5,000 to $10,000 to the price and the budget should include any labor costs.
Pros
- Less Expensive - Generally, pole barns are less expensive to build than steel buildings. A concrete slab, rather than a foundation, is required, greatly decreasing the cost of material and labor.
- Faster Construction - Again, without a foundation, pole barn construction is a much less time-consuming process.
- Curb Appeal - Wooden structures are considered warmer and more inviting, ergo more attractive than steel. Uncovered steel tends to be a colder look.
Cons
- Limitations - Due to stability issues, pole barns are limited to a maximum of 90 feet in width.
- No Basements - A continuous foundation or basement, are not compatible with pole barn kits.
Know Your Dealer
Asking questions ensures that you are dealing with a knowledgeable professional. Decisions need to be made before construction begins. Size, elements and design are just a few factors to be address before finalizing a contract.
Maintenance
Though steel buildings are extremely durable, a maintenance inspection needs to be done at least twice each year. Additionally, an inspection must follow immediately after extreme weather events and after repairs or renovations.
- Will the dealer handle all inspections?
- What are the inspection fees?
- Are maintenance charges included in the contract?
Building Codes & Permits
All construction projects must meet your state’s zoning and building regulations. Insurance must be acquired and a written warranty on the material and building need to be in place before construction begins. A certified blueprint of the building must be submitted to local authorities to obtain a building permit. Details must be provided including height, square footage, exact location and planned use. A letter of structural assurance and the construction schedule will be required, including foundation details.
- Has your dealer researched the zoning regulations?
- What are the fire safety regulations, if any?
- Will your dealer acquire necessary permits?
Climate Considerations
Aspects of the build will depend upon the location’s climate. Added weatherproofing is a must in areas where heavy rain in common. Where hurricanes or earthquakes are possible, the design needs to withstand such forces. Climate aspects must be considered in the final price.
Specialty Builder
Steel construction is a specialized field. Ask for references and research completed structures.
- Is previous customer feedback positive?
- Will the dealer provide a detailed budget and a build schedule?
- Has this dealer successfully constructed steel buildings with your required design aspects before?
When making a final dealer choice, the lowest bidder is not always the best choice. Be sure to compare all aspects of the build, including:
- Price
- Experience
- Quality
- Reputation