Buying tips: Metal shop buildings
When looking for metal shop buildings, you'll probably want to focus on rigid frame style buildings. These are constructed with a steel skeleton and flat steel panels for the roof and walls. They can include doors and windows in any wall, support include multiple stories, and be expanded with relative ease.
There are two major sets of factors that will influence the design and construction of your metal shop building. One is practical: the actual use of the building. You may need roll-up doors high enough to fit forklifts in. You'll need good ventilation systems to remove dust and fumes. Metal shop buildings always require foundations, which in most cases are flat concrete slabs. The types of machinery you'll be installing in your building will influence the thickness of the foundation you need.
- Don't pinch pennies. If you're spending tens of thousands of dollars, a difference of $500 here or there is not significant. Metal shop buildings last 30 years or more, so make sure you get the building you want.
- Look closely at good deals. When two dealers present bids for similar metal shop buildings that are thousands of dollars apart, you should investigate the details thoroughly. Chances are that one is not including everything you need.
- Verify the building codes. We can not stress this enough: make sure you get in touch with your local building officials once you have specifications from your supplier, but before you sign the contract. Changes to meet code will always drive your costs up, so to avoid late surcharges, you need to verify that the contract includes all the right specifications.
- Get it in writing. Some manufacturers of metal shop steel buildings may ask for a verbal go-ahead to "get the factory working" or to "lock in this price." This is never a good idea. Getting the details in writing will ensure that you know exactly what you're buying. Also, comparing policies from multiple providers before you purchase will prevent you from buying a lemon.
