Anyone considering the construction of a building usually has two concerns: cost and durability. While traditional wooden buildings are often the norm, metal buildings are rapidly gaining popularity for many reasons.

Metal buildings are available in many shapes and sizes to suit even the most demanding consumers. The first step should be to determine your budget. You will quickly discover that you can have a bigger and better equipped building if you choose a steel building as your main construction material. If you expect your new building to be warm in the winter, make sure insulation is included in the cost.

When you buy a metal building, make sure the exterior panels and trim are coated with a protective paint; otherwise, you’ll also have to add the cost of painting to your budget. Items such as doors and windows are also generally not included.

Before opting for the lowest cost steel building, check what the total costs are. Here at Absolute Steel, we will always find out what your total costs are or at least estimate them for you. Many companies will give you a low price, but when you add freight and other costs, you’ll find you’re paying more. Also, most companies’ engineering plans don’t include the foundations and concrete that you’ll need to include to get a building permit. Also check the thickness of the metal and try to get the thickest metal you can afford, as this will ensure that your new building can withstand the elements.

Regardless of the type of building you choose, the cost of laying the foundation is not included, unless you buy through a construction company, in which case it must be included in the cost (along with the labor). Absolute Steel metal buildings are easy to assemble yourself, so you can save on labor costs with a metal building after the foundation is in place.

Freight costs should also be taken into account when choosing the type of building, and again, a metal building is a better option. Most of our construction quotes include shipping, so at Absolute Steel this is not a concern. Prefabricated metal buildings come pre-cut and packaged, so only what you need is shipped to you and there is very little waste. Since metal buildings weigh much less than wood, freight costs are typically much lower.

Even if the cost of a wood versus metal building were exactly the same, you’d still save money by choosing metal. You will likely never have to spend a dime on maintaining a metal building as it comes coated with a protective paint which means it won’t rust. There is also no chance that your metal building will be susceptible to bugs, rot, or other common wood problems.

The useful life of a metal building is much longer than that of other materials, as it resists all types of weather conditions. When a metal building is finally demolished, it’s 100% recyclable, so you don’t even have to pay for disposal. From start to finish, a metal building is easier to assemble, less expensive to ship and assemble, requires less maintenance, and lasts longer than wood. It’s easy to see why metal is a great choice as a building material when you want a strong, durable build that doesn’t cost a thing.