For years, metal buildings have been a fixture of commerce worldwide. From manufacturing to retail, these resilient structures are prized for their strength, versatility, and affordability. They provide companies with the infrastructure they need without breaking their budget. As a result, these companies can increase their capacity, productivity, and profitability.
They’re also some of the only structures that can be constructed at dimensions many warehouse and industrial-sized businesses need. These clear span buildings are built with no need for internal support systems, making them the perfect choice for large-scale enterprises.
While the design and installation of these buildings may seem relatively cut and dry, the metal building industry isn’t without its fair share of nuance. So, if you’re interested in learning more, stick with us! Below, we’ll cover eight things you might not know about commercial-grade metal buildings!
8 Things You Might Not Know About Commercial Metal Buildings
There are many different types of metal buildings on the market. Thanks to modern engineering and streamlined manufacturing processes, these buildings may almost have a cookie-cutter feel to them. But don’t be fooled; these impressive pieces of technology are full of surprises. In fact, we’ve gathered a few things you probably didn’t realize about these structures!
1. Proper Planning Is Essential
All construction projects need comprehensive planning before you can break ground. And large metal buildings are no different! So you’ll need to develop designs, a budget, and a well-thought-out plan for how you intend to use the structure.
2. Turnkey Isn’t Always the Best Option
Remember what we said about buildings being cookie-cutter? Sure, purchasing a turnkey structure might seem practical, but it may prove to be a costly choice in the long run. After all, your business isn’t a one-size-fits-all operation, so why should your building be?
3. Brokers and Manufacturers Aren’t the Same Thing
When you purchase a prefab commercial structure, it’s important to note that manufacturers and dealers aren’t the same. While brokers are trained to take your order and shop for low prices, it may be challenging to change your order once it’s been placed. Additionally, some important design decisions or components might be lost in translation by utilizing third-party dealers.
4. Knowledgeable Customers Make Better Decisions
Let’s face it. Taking the time to perform the necessary research will be a far more significant benefit than any deal a salesman can provide. Understanding what you want, what you can afford, and how you plan to use it are some of the most critical factors in getting the commercial structure you need.
5. The Price of Steel
Raw steel is a valuable commodity that fluctuates regularly based on many circumstances, including demand, shipping costs, world events, and even weather patterns that may disrupt transit. As such, these fluctuations will affect the final price of your structure.
6. Architects Aren’t Always Necessary
Sometimes, working with an architect will unnecessarily increase your project costs. Metal building engineers are trained to design and manipulate building plans while ensuring safety and structural integrity. However, if you need an architect’s assistance, hiring them to plan around your metal building is far easier than having them design the entire structure.
7. Commercial Buildings Have a Wide Range of Uses
Prefab metal buildings aren’t just garages, carports, and sheds anymore! In fact, these structures are now one of the most popular construction methods on the market, used for mills, factories, distribution centers, churches, recreational buildings, and much more!
8. Choose Your Metal Building Company Wisely
There are a ton of metal building companies out there. And not all of them provide the same quality structures or the same level of customer service. That’s why picking a provider with a known record of excellence is crucial. By taking your time and choosing the right manufacturer, you’ll not only increase your buying power, but you’ll be able to rest soundly knowing you got exactly what you paid for.
The Many Uses for Commercial Metal Structures
One feature that sets metal buildings apart from stick-built construction techniques is their flexibility. They can be built to any size and footprint and for just about any application under the sun. This makes them the go-to choice for a wide range of uses, including:
1. Commercial Office Spaces
Did you know that steel buildings are a quick, effective way to build office spaces for your business? These structures can be finished with insulation, drywall, plumbing, electricity, and all the trappings of a traditional structure. And the best part? They can accomplish it at a fraction of the cost of conventional buildings.
2. Recreational Centers
Whether you’re hosting a trampoline park or an indoor rec center, a commercial metal building can handle it! These structures offer an unparalleled level of internal square footage thanks to clear span technology- plenty of room for kids to run and play.
3. Commercial Workshops
Whether your hobby has transformed into a full-time job or you’re hoping to make some extra income, a commercial-grade steel structure offers the room and versatility for a wide range of business activities. From woodshops to welding and machining, only a prefab metal building provides the space and fire-resistance capabilities you need.
4. Commercial Self-Storage
In just over two decades, commercial self-storage has grown from a niche industry to a multi-billion dollar operation. And prefab metal buildings are a big part of why they’re such a prevalent sight in our daily lives. These facilities can be built quickly and efficiently and require minimal upkeep or overhead- perfect for those wanting to develop passive income.
5. Commercial Gyms
Another business avenue where metal buildings excel is the commercial gym industry. Steel buildings have the functionality to make fantastic workout facilities, with room for weights, exercise equipment, washrooms, and even office spaces.
6. Community Event Centers
From church gatherings to picnic facilities and concert venues, commercial metal buildings are incredibly popular due to their quick construction, minimal maintenance needs, and hassle-free installation. As such, you’ll find them used in community centers, houses of worship, government buildings, and more.
7. Car Dealerships
If you plan to open a car dealership, you’ll need ample space to house your inventory, offices, and maintenance centers. And commercial steel structures will be one of your greatest assets when it comes to effective infrastructure. These buildings can be customized to fit your specific needs, from the dimensions down to the color schemes and beyond.
Ordering a Metal Building? Call Metal Barn Central Today!
No matter the industry or application, you can trust Metal Barn Central to have you covered with an expansive lineup of steel structures. From small garages and carports to industrial-sized custom metal buildings, we have the skills and capabilities to deliver products that will last a lifetime.
We’re also proud to offer some of the best financing options in the industry, with flexible payment plans that put the power of commercial building ownership in your hands!
If you’ve been thinking about affordable ways to improve your commercial business, give Metal Barn Central a call at (980) 365-8481! Our metal building experts are waiting to help you design, customize, and install a metal building that’s perfect for all your business needs!
