FAQS and Misconceptions About Steel Buildings

Steel buildings are among the most popular solutions for many different uses. They’re commonly chosen for retail outlets and garages, manufacturing facilities and workshops, barns and storage buildings, agricultural and personal use. With hundreds of manufacturers and brokers that deal in steel buildings, finding the right metal building for your use can be intimidating. It shouldn’t be. There’s a lot of information about steel buildings available online that can help you make a choice. These are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about buildings made of steel.

Do I Need an Architect to Design My Steel Building?

If you choose a steel building kit or a standard steel building from a reputable supplier, you won’t need an architect of your own. In fact, the steel building supplier will handle most of the design work. You will need to supply the manufacturer with the building codes for your area or region, however. Given the specifics for your area, the company’s architect and engineers will create the blueprint and specs for your steel building and supply you with the plans and documentation you need to get approval from your local building code department.

Steel Buildings Are Only for Agricultural and Industrial Use, Aren’t They?

While steel buildings are popular in agricultural and industrial structures – barns, warehouses and factory buildings, for example – they’re also among the most popular choices for residential and retail uses. They’re often the best solution for garages, storage buildings and home offices on residential properties because they’re affordable and relatively easy to erect.

What Kind of Permissions and Site Preparation Will I Need?

Generally, you’ll need to check with your local building codes office to find out which permits you’ll need to erect your building. You’ll probably have to have your building plans approved before you can start building. It’s always important to check with your planning office before ordering your building to make sure that you’ll be allowed to build it. In some residential areas, for example, steel buildings are simply not allowed.

As far as site preparation goes, that depends on the complexity of your project. For small projects, such as storage sheds, garages and small home offices, you may not need to do anything beyond building a cement slab foundation. For larger projects, the site planning and preparation will be much more complex.

If you need more storage space on your property, from a storage shed  to an all-out barn, take a look at the many options for steel buildings available on the market. Chances are you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for.