Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings
Pre-engineered steel buildings have become a popular alternative to conventional buildings. This type of construction can be used for small storage buildings in a backyard to large industrial buildings. There are many benefits, but also reasons to be cautious.
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Types of Buildings
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There are many variations of pre-engineered steel buildings. These are the most popular categories, according to MBMI Metal Buildings (see Resources below):
Garage or storage buildings are popular for residential use and can be used to house vehicles and boats. Small storage buildings can be erected in backyards and used as a toolshed or workshop.
Metal warehouses are used for commercial and residential customers to house items such as small airplanes and larger boats.
Pre-engineered steel buildings can be used for commercial use for a variety of industries. These structures include auto shops and tanning salons, even community centers.
The buildings are designed for any industrial need, including heavy equipment and food, even chemical processing.
These buildings can be accessorized with stucco cover or rock finish--anything you desire to create a professional, personal look.
Cost
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Price quotes you might receive include the average labor, building and frame; they do not include doors, windows or accessories. These come from buyerzone (see Resources below):
30 by 60 feet, now $25,000
50 by 100 feet, now $42,000
60 by 200 feet, now $100,000
100 by 250 feet, now $144,000 -
Advantages
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Pre-engineered steel buildings require significantly less labor and material than conventional buildings. This drastically reduces their price. You can construct this type of building instead of hiring a builder to construct it for you.
It also takes much less time to build these structures, compared to traditional buildings. With fewer components, the time it takes to complete a pre-engineered steel building is cut in half, compared to the time it takes to build a traditional structure.
Pre-engineered steel buildings require less maintenance than traditional buildings such as wood structures. Manufacturer structural guarantees range from 20 to 50 years.
Disadvantages
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There are disadvantages to pre-engineered steel buildings, so ensure you do your research.
Comparing prices as a consumer is smart shopping, but don't go straight for the lowest price possible when looking for a new structure. According to Metal Building Guide (see Resources below), 26-gauge steel structures are preferred, but so-called economy building systems use thinner 29-gauge steel. The thinner material compromises the strength and sturdiness of the building.
When you look at the cost of a pre-engineered steel building, you must look at all of the cost--not just the building itself. Most buildings do not come insulated and, as discussed previously, they do not include doors, windows or accessories. These are added expenses.
As with any new structure, you must get a permit to build a pre-engineered steel building. Engineer-certified drawings and anchor bolt plans are required for the permit. According to Metal Building Guide, these should come with your pre-engineered steel building. They should not be an extra cost in your package, as with some manufacturers.
Warranty
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Manufacturer offer warranties on pre-engineered steel buildings. Dependent upon the distributor, structural guarantees range from 20 to 50 years.
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