Buying a pre-engineered steel building system is an exciting purchase, and to some, a symbol of achievement. Building is more than just a financial investment — it is an investment in ownership, in business and in the future. Owning a building is a significant step toward achieving the American Dream.
Equipping yourself with all available resources will help you prepare to move forward in the steel building process. Although the nature of any building purchase can cause a certain level of anxiety, we at Armstrong Steel make the process as easy as possible. After all, it's not every day that you buy a building. You should enjoy the experience!
Understanding the full Armstrong Steel building journey can help you move forward with clarity and confidence. While the basic steps mirror other construction methods, pre-engineered steel buildings offer unique advantages—and knowing what to expect at each stage ensures you get the most out of your investment.
The visual below outlines the key milestones in the Armstrong Steel process, giving you a clear, simple snapshot of how your building goes from concept to completion.
Here's what to expect on your path to buying an Armstrong Steel Building.
Step 1: Determine Your Needs & Get Started
Step 2: Receive Your Initial Pricing & Specs
Step 3: Confirm Your Order & Make Initial Payment
Step 4: Finalize Your Design with Your Project Manager
Step 5: Approve Drawings & Engineering
Step 6: Schedule Delivery & Coordinate Logistics
Step 7: Delivery & Unloading of Your Building
Step 8: Begin Construction of Your Armstrong Building
Now, let's walk through what each step involves and tips to help streamline the process.
Getting started with Armstrong Steel begins with defining your vision. Think about your building's purpose, the square footage you'll need, and the general design features that matter most to you.
Your Armstrong Steel Building Consultant will help you explore key details such as dimensions, roof type, and roof pitch — the essential elements that will shape your project's design and cost.
Even if you're not certain about every specification, don't worry. Our team is here to walk you through the options and guide you toward a design that fits your goals, your site, and your budget. Once we understand your vision, we'll begin outlining your project and preparing a personalized quote.
After your design consultation, your Building Consultant will prepare an accurate price quote based on your agreed-upon general design.
You'll receive a detailed specification sheet via email that outlines your building's primary components, materials, and layout features.
This stage ensures transparency — you'll know exactly what's included in your project before you move forward. If adjustments are needed, your consultant can refine the spec sheet until it reflects your ideal configuration.
Once you're comfortable with the proposed design and pricing, our Order Processing Department will prepare your order form.
This document includes your approved details, payment schedule, and contract terms. It will be emailed directly to you for electronic review and signature.
After you've completed the order form and submitted your initial payment, your project will officially move into the design and engineering phase.
Upon order completion, you'll be assigned a dedicated Project Manager who will serve as your main point of contact. Your Project Manager will guide you through the final design steps, ensuring every detail — from door placement to trim color — is accurate before engineering begins.
This is a collaborative process: we'll review your drawings together, make any necessary adjustments, and prepare your project for structural engineering approval.
What impressed me most about the Armstrong process was how supported I felt at every stage. From design to engineering, it never felt like I was navigating the project alone — someone was always there to answer questions and guide me through the details.
Sarah W
Armstrong Building Owner
Next, you'll receive your preliminary approval drawings. Carefully review these drawings to confirm that all details meet your expectations. Once you've signed off, Armstrong's engineering team will produce a final set of stamped, state-certified engineered drawings based on your approved design.
These drawings are used to obtain building permits and form the foundation for fabrication. It's important to complete this step before any production begins, ensuring your building is designed to meet local codes and your specific needs.
With your final drawings approved, our logistics department will coordinate your project's delivery schedule.
At this stage, your Project Manager will also confirm your remaining balance and provide clear payment instructions prior to shipment.
When your building is ready for shipment, Armstrong Steel will provide all delivery documentation and instructions in advance.
Your building components will arrive on a flatbed truck, and you'll need the appropriate equipment — typically a forklift — to unload the materials safely.
Once your building has been delivered, you'll be ready to begin construction.
Now that the building has been delivered the process of buying and taking delivery of your Armstrong Building has been completed and the contract is now fulfilled by both parties. Congratulations!
However, Armstrong Steel is still there for you if you need help with erection. Our staff is prepared and happy to answer any questions concerning any aspect of your new buildings erection. Because Armstrong's engineers and designers work right here out of our corporate headquarters in the USA, you are only a phone call away from speaking directly with the person that has first hand knowledge of your buildings design, trims, drawings, etc...