What Do Steel Buildings Really Cost?

Steel buildings are considered to be the most cost-effective type of construction for industrial, storage and retail uses, but the price of the building itself doesn’t tell the whole story. When you purchase a steel or metal building for your project, you also have to factor a number of other costs into your calculations. But even with the additional costs, you’ll usually find that a steel building is considerably less expensive than any other type of construction.

Foundation

Steel buildings need a solid concrete foundation to properly anchor your building and stabilize it. There are some uses for which you may not need a foundation, but in most cases, it is not only recommended, but required by local building codes. The national average for a concrete foundation is about $6 per square foot.

Doors and Windows

The quoted price for your metal building usually includes the I-beam frame and metal walls. Insulation, doors, windows, louvers and skylights will add to the base cost of the steel building package.

Permit Fees

Depending on your location, you may have to pay a thousand dollars or more in permitting fees. These fees are highly dependent on local ordinances, so contact your local building code office to find out what fees you’ll have to pay for permits.

Land and Site Preparation

If you don’t already own land on which you can build, you’ll have to buy or lease a parcel of land that is approved for steel building construction. Your land will also need to be prepared for construction, which could include leveling, clearing and grading it. Again, local costs vary so check with a local landscaping or construction company to get an idea of local pricing.

Delivery Charges

Your building will have to be shipped to you. If it’s a large building, it could require more than one truck. Check with the company providing the building to find out what you can expect to pay out for delivery.

Assembly Costs

Unless you have experience assembling large-scale steel projects, you should hire a professional contractor with experience in erecting steel buildings to put raise your building. It will ensure that your building is put together properly.

Taxes

Finally, don’t forget to add in all applicable taxes to the total cost of construction for your steel building.