How To Buy
There are three major ways to purchase steel structures:
- General contractors (GCs) are the people who will actually construct your building. Typically a GC will get a general idea of the type of building you need, talk to a broker or several manufacturers, then present the options to you.
- Brokers work with multiple factories. Like GCs, they will consult with you to determine your needs then provide a proposal based on the best manufacturer for you. However, their involvement ends once the pieces are shipped. You'll need to set up the building yourself or hire a GC.
- The manufacturers create the component pieces and actually do sell directly to customers in many cases. They will build and ship the steel structure based on specifications you choose and can also work with you to design customized steel structures. Once again, you must oversee the building construction.
Benefits Of Steel Buildings
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Cost
The labor to put up your building is drastically reduced, and therefore enables you to save 30% or more over more traditional construction methods.
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Speed
A finished steel building can be operating in 60 to 90 days, as opposed to 6 months or more.
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Dependability
Without requiring repainting or other maintenance, steel buildings are guaranteed to last 30 to 50 years, depending on the manufacturer.
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Reduced Insurance
Insuring a steel building is significantly less expensive than wood or brick construction.
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Durability
Steel buildings are non-combustible, non-contractual from climate changes (resisting swells, shrinkage, and leaks), and pest-resistant (termites don't eat them).