Retail Uses for Steel Buildings

For the past several decades, cement block construction has been the most common choice for retail buildings, but that’s been changing recently. These days, retail operations are just as likely to opt for steel buildings when constructing a new retail storefront. There are many reasons for the upswing in steel buildings as a choice for retail stores, including reasons of versatility, economy and style.

Economy

Retail is a competitive business, and the wise business owner takes savings wherever he can. Traditional building construction requires a huge outlay of capital, time and manpower. Steel buildings can go up in half the time at half the price, which makes financial sense in two ways. First, you’re spending less money to erect a retail space that serves the purpose as well, if not better, and second, you can get your operations up and running sooner, which gets you started on recouping your investment that much sooner.

In addition to starting costs, steel buildings offer financial advantages in the long run, too. Heavy duty steel is weather-resistant, can be built to resist earthquake damage and is fireproof. Powder-coated steel requires almost no maintenance beyond occasional washing with a power washer and soapy water. It’s rust resistant, repels insect infestation and never needs repainting. To top it all off, a steel building may qualify you for a reduction in your property insurance because of its high safety rating.

Versatility

Steel buildings, especially arch frame constructions such as Quonset buildings, offer you maximum flexibility in interior design. Because there is no need for interior support walls, your building can consist of one huge, open space that you can then divide up as you please with modular walls. This flexibility is especially valuable in the retail world, where the ability to be nimble and respond to changes in marketing can make the difference between a huge profit and a loss.

Style

Not too long ago, most people wouldn't have considered steel buildings a stylish choice, but new advances in technology have turned that notion on its head. These days, it’s difficult to tell steel buildings from other types of retail construction. Steel building panels can be painted to resemble wood siding, and can be created in many different styles. You can work with a designer of steel buildings to create a retail storefront that fits perfectly into any type of setting, from color to shape and trim features. Inside, you can finish your metal building just as you would any other type of building.

In short, steel buildings are less expensive, more versatile, more durable and just as stylish as any other type of construction. If your company is considering adding on to your existing storefront or building a new one, contact a reliable supplier and designer of steel buildings to find out just how much you can profit by choosing a steel building.