What to Know Before Building a Metal Structure

Do you need a metal structure for your home, office, or storage facility? No matter the reason, it still gives anxiety because it’s a big decision. You have to spend a handsome amount to have a new structure on your property. If anything goes wrong in any way, you may not receive the return you expected. Metal structures also need to be installed carefully to maximize the benefits of the structure and investment.

Well, they offer several benefits that other materials don’t. This makes them popular among businesses and homeowners in several regions. There are many things to focus on, but three key aspects play a major role in the installation of a steel structure. These are the building costs, permits, and planning before installation.

We will guide you through all the key aspects so you can make the right decision while buying and installing a structure for any reason and in any location.

Table of Contents

Understanding Permits for Metal Structures

Metal structures need a permit, but not all; it depends. Let’s understand all the details about permits so you can get answers to all your questions.

What are building permits, and why do they matter?

A permit is a document issued by the local government of the region where you want to install a structure. It is a permission to build a structure. Without a permit, you may have to face several issues, like paying fines and, in many cases, removing and shifting the entire structure. So, it’s better to contact the local building authorities and ask them whether your building requirements come under any restrictions and if it needs a permit.

Types of permits needed for metal structures

Some rural areas may have fewer regulations, but urban areas typically have stricter regulations. Here are the common types of permits that may apply to your structure:

Building Permit – It is needed for structural work, including adding new buildings.
Zoning Permit – It ensures the land is used for the correct purpose.
Electrical or Plumbing Permits – You need this permit if your metal building has electricity, water, or HVAC systems.
Environmental or Soil Permits – In areas where land protection is strict, this type of permit is a must-have.
How to apply for permits?

The process is not so difficult if you are aware of the right steps. Follow the steps below.

Check your local building department’s website and then call them.
Submit a plan with drawings or blueprints if required.
Pay fees depending on the size and type of project.
Wait for official permission before starting the construction.

It’s also wise to work with a professional metal building company. They often help with permits as part of the package.

What happens if you don’t get a permit?

Here are the repercussions of not getting a permit. They are not always monetary.

You might face legal action.
Your insurance might not cover damages.
It may affect future home appraisals or sales.

So, getting a permit is not just a rule, it’s peace of mind. You can live in or use the structure in various ways without worrying about the legal issues, once you have the permit.

Estimating the Prices of Metal Structures

Metal structures come in different shapes and sizes. And whoever needs them also has their unique requirements. It leads to ups and downs in prices. You must consider key factors to estimate the price of your prefabricated structure before installation.

Factors that affect the cost:

Many factors affect the cost of a metal structure. We have listed the crucial ones below to help you decide on your budget.

Size – Bigger buildings need more materials. And more materials mean more cost.
Materials – Steel grade, insulation, roofing type, all affect the price.
Location – Some areas charge more for labor or have specific codes.
Customizations – Adding doors, windows, skylights, insulation, etc., will add to the cost.

Breakdown of typical costs: materials, labor, permits

We have provided some figures in the space below, which will help you understand how much a structure can cost you.

Here is what goes into the total price:

Materials: 50 – 60% of the cost
Labor: 20 – 30%
Permits and Paperwork: 5 – 10%
Foundation Work: 10 – 15%

For example, a basic two-car garage may start at $5,000–$10,000, while a larger workshop or commercial unit may go beyond $30,000.

Tips for budgeting and saving money

Before you start deciding on the customization and budget, have a look at the tips provided below. They will help you save more

Custom dimensions cost more, so if you don’t need them, go for standard sizes.
Buy in the off-season because it often comes with discounts, especially in winter months.
Avoid last-minute changes as they cost more and delay the construction.
Don’t just go for the first quote; compare suppliers.

Comparing different metal building dealers

Make a list of 4-5 metal building dealers and compare their prices and services. Match your requirements and analyze which dealer can be the right partner for you. If you are sure about what you need, pen your every need down. It helps to actually tick the box and find the right dealer.

You can check the points below:

Which dealer takes the least time to build?
Require less maintenance?
Last longer (up to 50+ years)?
Are they eco-friendly and recyclable?

Planning Your Metal Structure Project

You must be thinking, why does planning come in the end? It’s because, without all the details, you can’t plan. If you do so, you are planning for the project’s failure.

Importance of having a clear plan and design

A clear plan saves your time because you know what to work on and when. Moreover, which steps need to be taken after which one? You can meet your exact needs and avoid wasted space. Often, when people do not plan their metal structure, they end up with either too large, too short, or spending too much money and time. Planning makes your structure look exactly how you imagined it. Without a plan, even the best materials can go to waste. Therefore, planning is essential before building a metal structure.

Working with architects or designers

A small steel structure with standard features hardly needs experts. People with 2-3 years of experience in installation can do it. But if you want to install a commercial building that is generally larger, get help from expert architects and designers. They will help you match your structure to your goals, functionally and aesthetically.

Consider the Purpose and Usage

When you plan, do not forget to consider the purpose behind installing the structure. Keep the usage in mind during planning so you plan for what you need, not what you don’t.

Ask yourself:

Will this be a workshop? Then I will need ventilation and space.
Is it a retail store? Then I will display areas, lighting, and insulation.
Is it a home office? Then I will have to think about comfort and energy savings.

Cut to the chase, your purpose should guide your design and budget decisions.

Timeline and project management tips

Anyone without a timeline always misses the deadline. Therefore, it’s essential to establish a fixed time. A basic metal building might go up in a few days. A more complex one may take weeks.

Make sure to:

Set a timeline
Schedule inspections
Order materials early
Communicate with contractors

Or, you can simply partner with a dealer, and it will take care of all the processes mentioned above.

Final Thought

Finally, you can buy a metal building and utilize it your way. Be clear about the type of structure you want to install on your property, so you can talk to the local building authorities and get a permit. It also helps to share the clear requirements with the dealer. Understand the factors affecting the cost of your structure to avoid overspending. Follow the tips mentioned for budgeting and save more. After collecting all the information and being sure of what you need, plan the entire project. If you want to hire a dealer, research the best dealers after checking their reviews, services.

Do not wait for the right time; make the time right.