Extra Costs to Consider With Steel Buildings

When you’re shopping for steel buildings online, you’re going to see lots of claims of low, low prices. In fact, many broker and steel building manufacturer sites will tell you that prefab metal buildings provide you with the most affordable solution to adding space to your property. While this is true – steel is nearly always the least expensive building material available, for example – it’s also easy for inexperienced consumers to overlook the additional costs you may have to pay. Here’s what you should know before you sign a contract for metal or steel building.

There’s No Such Thing as “From Inventory”

One of the most important things to know about steel buildings is that every prefabricated metal building is custom-designed and fabricated to meet the specific needs of the customer. Manufacturers do not buy steel building shells in bulk and ship them out when someone places an order. Every building must be engineered to meet the specific requirements of the building code in the area where it will be erected. When you order a steel building, you’re getting the custom design services of a team of engineers.

Know What the Price Includes

Always know what’s included in the price you’re quoted by the steel building seller. There are two basic options: your original quote may include only the building shell – the structural components, the walls and the roof. Once you’ve signed that contract and put down a non-refundable deposit, you’ll do a second round contract that includes customizations like door and window openings, doors, windows, design modifications and trim packages.

More commonly, your original quote will include the structural components, walls and roof, door and window openings and a trim package that includes gutters, roof trim and corner trim. Doors, windows and design modifications will add to the cost later.

Because every company does things differently, it’s important that you understand exactly what will be included in the cost of your metal building.

Site Preparation

In addition to the cost of the building, you’ll be responsible for the cost of preparing your site before your steel building arrives. Those costs may include clearing and leveling the land, as well as pouring a concrete foundation. You may also have to clear access to the building site, and pay for any required permits.

Shipping and Delivery

Steel buildings are heavy – and delivery costs are calculated on weight and distance. The cost of shipping and delivery will nearly always be added to the cost of your steel building after the original quote.

In addition, you’ll need to consider the cost of erecting your metal building and any finishing touches you want, including electricity, plumbing and insulation.

Steel buildings are certainly an affordable option – often the most affordable option – but it’s important to consider all the costs associated with their purchase. Be sure you know what you’re getting into before you sign a purchase contract.