Tips on Choosing the Right Steel Buildings

So you’ve studied all your building options and have decided that steel buildings are the best choice for your storage or space needs. All that remains now is deciding among the many types and styles of steel buildings and all the manufacturers and brokers that provide metal buildings. You’re not alone. Every year, tens of thousands of people decide that steel buildings are exactly what they need for their garages, barns, storage buildings, home workshops and other structures. With all the choices and options available, you can be sure that the right configuration of metal building is available. The trick is making sure that you order exactly the steel building you need. These tips can help.

Size Considerations

When deciding on the size for your steel building, the most important factor is determining how much space you have available on which to erect it. It’s not enough just to measure the square footage you have on your property because many municipalities have strict rules about easement. Check with your city or town’s building code office so that you know how many feet you need between your building and the street, your main buildings and neighboring properties and make sure you consider those measurements when deciding on the amount of space you have for your building.

Building Permissions

Before making any decisions, check to be sure that steel buildings are allowed on your property. Your city’s zoning office will be able to tell you if there are any restrictions on the size or type of steel building you can erect on your property. While you’re there, get a copy of the building standards that your metal building will have to meet in order to pass inspection. You’ll need it when you’re ready to order.

Back to Sizing Considerations

Figure out the amount of interior square footage you’ll need for your project. For garages, you can easily find standard measurements for one or two car garages online. For storage or workshop space, draw up a floor plan to scale and figure up the square footage needed to fit all of your equipment or items. Add about 20 percent to your figures to allow for maneuvering space and elbow room.

Work with the Right Merchant

The merchant you choose will make a big difference in how easy it is to purchase your steel building. If you’re not familiar with steel buildings and the construction industry, you’ll do best if you work with a broker or manufacturer that regularly deals with customers new to the industry or residential customers. They’ll generally be more willing to guide you through the steps and process of purchasing and erecting steel buildings and help ensure that you get the best metal building for your needs.