Steel Buildings

Sometimes, the best way to learn about the purchases you need to make for your business is from other people going through the same process. Here are tips submitted by other steel structure buyers.

Bring your own ideas, but be open to theirs, too

"Spend some time looking at what is available and what uses you are planning for the building. Be flexible and willing to listen to what the salesperson suggests as well. Remember they want you to be happy with your building and their service because if you are happy you become their best advertisement."

- Barbara Lee, Health Care, Crescent City, CA

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Know what you're likely to spend

"Do your homework, know your basic cost before submitting for an estimate. Just the materials can cost $5 to $15 per square foot. Insulation? This will run the bill up another few thousand (I think it’s about $10 to $20 per sq. ft. ...and this cost varies according to size, so a small building can actually end up costing more per square foot than a larger one… so definitely look at all the size options available and their respective costs."

- Bellhillbilly, Construction/General Contracting, Delhi, NY

Find out how they'll treat you

"When taking quotes for steel buildings be sure to ask about customer support."

- Randy M. Shuck, Other Services, Meadow Bridge, WV

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Keep the long view of what you want and can afford

"Make sure to check out all your options when shopping for a steel building. Don't fall for pushy sales people trying to sell you something that will otherwise be gone -there are plenty of companies out there that will sell you exactly what you're looking for without trying to push you towards something you might not even need, and probably even at a better price. If you're looking to build a steel home, a cheap alternative is to purchase a large garage and finish it yourself, if you're handy. Most counties will approve such a conversion if the plans have been drawn up by an engineer. Also, keep your wishes in perspective; things you want vs. things you can actually afford!"

- Annika Johnson, Other Services, Tacoma, WA

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An outline of smart steel building buying tactics

"Plan far enough ahead to avoid costly changes. Make businesses compete for your service. Check quality of service rating if provided. Don't be sold something you don't want. Make sure your purchase is able to accommodate future needs."

- Brian L. Hinton, Non-profit, Lumberton, NC

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Have your measurements ready

"Know exactly the size building you need & the roof pitch; also the number of walk doors & overhead door sizes. And don’t forget that you can’t just erect it on any open patch of dirt. You’ll need a foundation that can run $4 to $8 per square foot for poured concrete."

- Wes Staton, Retail, Owingsville, KY

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Get direct proposal comparisons

"Allow the suppliers to review each other’s proposals, removing the pricing. This will help to show you the differences in their services and offer better information on which is really the best deal! This is especially handy when negotiating the cost of labor – which can be anywhere from $3 to $10 per sf. Local wage requirements will dictate a certain amount, but you may be able to avoid some of the "markup.""

- Laurence Dagget, Retail, San Antonio, TX

Want more information on choosing a steel building dealer? Read our Steel Building Buyer's Guide.

Information was provided by BuyerZone.com users. Tips have been edited for clarity only.