Manufactured steel buildings are becoming the popular choice for many types of commercial and residential buildings. Modern building materials, finishing options and insulation are part of the reasons why. One advantage of steel buildings over traditional construction is that they are quicker and less expensive to build. Durability, affordability, and excellent energy efficiency are all great reasons to choose a manufactured steel building. It is important to keep in mind that not all steel buildings or steel building companies are equal.
Here are a few tips for buying a manufactured steel building:
Check the Local Codes for Steel Buildings
When buying a manufactured steel building, check with your local building code office and local zoning office. You’ll want to get all of the specifications and details you will need to follow for constructing your structure. Many cities/counties have specific codes for steel buildings.
Most manufacturers will work with you to create a design that will conform with all of your local building codes. When talking with the zoning and building offices, be sure to ask about wind load, exposure categories, and seismic values.
Know When to Buy Your Steel Building
Knowing when to buy a steel building is essential for getting the best deal. Steel buildings often follow a seasonal trend. Buying when sales are down will help you to get the best deal.
Steel building sales are usually slow during the winter and summer. Salespeople are more likely to take less of a markup in order to make a sale. However, it is important that you look carefully when it comes to good deals. If there are multiple suppliers that provide proposals for similar buildings and their prices are widely different, ask why. Chances are, the buildings are not as similar as you thought. Make sure you are confident in your offer and that the building has everything you need.
Less Is Not Always Best When It Comes to Metal Buildings
Although the price is obviously an important consideration in your choice, it shouldn’t be your primary deciding factor. Everyone likes to save money when they can, but it shouldn’t be at the expense of stability or safety.
It is common for steel building kits to be “cheap” because the manufacturer cut corners. That may affect the usability and safety of the building, so only buy from a reputable contractor. When you are comparing prices, a several hundred-dollar difference in prices may seem like a big deal, but when the cost is spread out over the decades of use you will get from a steel building, this is actually a small difference.
A lower price may also be the result of things being left out of the building quote. Always make sure you are comparing equal packages. For example, a lower price may be because you are only paying for the steel shell of the building, and you could end up paying more than the comparison price for finishing the building the way you want.
Consider Your Steel Building’s Contract Details
Some manufacturers and suppliers may ask you to commit to a purchase. Many will require a down payment before they put their offer in writing. You should never agree to a verbal go-ahead in order to lock in the price. Get the details in writing to ensure you know exactly what it is you are buying. Carefully review the contract before signing so you know exactly what is including in your price.
Make sure that all of the specifications you have discussed, such as specific window or door models or insulation, are included in the contract. Typically, the contract you are given will have everything for the building priced out for each piece.
Choose Your Steel Building Company Carefully
Absolutely, the most important tip when buying a manufactured steel building is to buy from an accredited, reputable, and trustworthy manufacturer. When you purchase from a reputable retailer and manufacturer, you can be confident that your building design will be to the highest standards in the industry. The last thing you want is to discover the manufacturer you used was working with substandard materials or poor construction practices.
To be sure you are getting the steel building you expect and desire, contact our team at Peak Steel Contractors. Get in touch with us today for a free estimate on general contracting services for your manufactured steel building project in Georgia. Visit us online or call us toll-free at 844-333-7325.