Avoid These Mistakes When Shopping for Steel Buildings

The word is spreading about steel buildings – they’re among the most economical and practical solutions to storage needs for residential and agricultural uses. Their versatility also makes them ideal for many other uses – garages, barns, carports, riding rings and many other applications. As they’ve become more popular on the market, however, the ranks of those selling steel buildings, metal buildings and steel building kits has grown considerably. While most dealers of steel buildings are reputable, some cut corners and deliver substandard products, some do a poor job of customer service, and some are just a poor fit for inexperienced customers. If you’re looking at steel buildings, it’s important to understand the process of choosing and ordering the building you want, as well as to know the most common mistakes people make when shopping for steel buildings.

Choosing the Wrong Type of Supplier

There are essentially three types of dealers who supply metal buildings – general contractors who can handle every part of the purchase and building process for you, brokers who sell a wide range of steel building options but don’t manufacture or erect them, and manufacturers who design and make the parts for steel buildings. The one you choose will depend upon your situation. If you want to work with one company from the design stage through completion of your build, then you want to work with a general contractor. A broker is a good choice for someone who is familiar with the types of buildings and the process of buying and building them, but may leave a novice feeling completely over his head. Manufacturers vary. Some are very good with novices and will help you with every step of the process. Others are used to working with people who know and understand the process and may not be the right fit for you if this is your first time working with steel buildings.

Letting Yourself Be Bullied Into Buying

Don’t fall for aggressive sales techniques. Most steel buildings dealers are reputable, but some engage in high-pressure selling techniques. Don’t let yourself be pushed into making a decision on buying before you’re ready. There’s a lot of important information you need before you choose among the many options for steel buildings, and being pushed into a decision can land you with a steel building you can’t use. Instead, do your homework, and deal with those who are willing to answer your questions openly.

Not Checking Local Building Codes for Steel Buildings

The most important piece of homework you can do is checking your local building codes before placing an order for a steel building. Many parts of the country have strict specifications about weather readiness, size and wind load. Be aware of them before you buy, and make sure that your building will meet them before you sign a contract.

Steel buildings are among the most economical and practical solutions to most building needs, but it’s important to know what you need before you shop. Take the time to do your homework so that your steel building is exactly the right one for you.