Questions to Ask Steel Buildings Suppliers

People who buy steel buildings have a great resource and source of information that they often overlook – the steel building supplier. Knowing which questions to ask can ensure that you get all the information you need to purchase the right metal building – and all the accessories you need to make it uniquely yours. These questions can help you make sure you get all the information you need to make informed design decisions.

Are You a Broker or a Manufacturer?

When you shop for steel buildings online, you’ll run into two basic types of sellers: brokers and manufacturers. Manufacturers make and sell their own buildings. Brokers are middlemen who sell metal buildings manufactured by others. There are advantages and disadvantages to each choice: manufacturers will be pushing their own products and may be more used to dealing with contractors than consumers. On the other hand, you may get a better price when you buy direct from the manufacturer. Brokers may represent one manufacturer or several. They may be motivated to push steel buildings that pay them the most commission, but they will also be more accustomed to dealing with customers who aren’t as knowledgeable about the business end of things.

How Will My Building Be Shipped and Who Makes the Shipping Arrangements?

Generally, the manufacturer will handle the shipping arrangements, but you’ll be paying the charges, of course. You’ll want to know exactly when your steel building components will be delivered so that you can have your site prepared and have someone there to help you unload them from the trucks. Many steel buildings suppliers will be able to give you helpful tips and information, like giving you an idea how much space you’ll have to clear to store the components for your steel building while you’re preparing for construction.

What Will I Need to Buy to Complete My Steel Building?

It’s popular to say that “steel building kits come with everything you need” – but it’s simply not quite true. You’ll get fasteners, steel framing, walls and roof – everything you need to build the shell for your structure. The building walls will have holes in them for doors, windows and vents where you specify – and may even have channels to run wiring and plumbing pipes – but in most cases, the doors and windows are an extra cost that you’ll have to order separately.

If you’ve never bought a metal building before, you’ll find that the whole process for ordering and buying steel buildings can be immensely confusing. Working with a helpful steel buildings supplier or manufacturer can make it a whole lot easier.