Choosing the Right Building: A Guide to Comparing Different Options

With building kits becoming more popular, you might wonder if you should consider using them. After all, given the significant investment you’re making in your building project, you need to choose a construction method that delivers optimal value, durability, and efficiency.

Metal building kits provide a cost-effective and versatile construction solution that meets the requirements of various customers. They come in many types and sizes and can even be customized to meet specific requirements. But if you’re new to this construction technology, the options can quickly become overwhelming. How do you choose the most suitable structure for your application?

At Armstrong Steel, we will work closely with you to ensure you choose the right building that suits your needs. After all, a metal building kit (whether for personal or business use) is a big purchase. We’ve also put together this guide to help you identify and compare the different steel building kit options available so you can get started on your research.

Commercial-grade galvanized steel buildings

Among the available options, commercial-grade galvanized steel buildings stand out as the superior choice. These buildings offer unmatched longevity and cost-effectiveness, far surpassing expectations for traditional metal structures. Thanks to the galvanization process, these buildings boast exceptional corrosion resistance, ensuring stability and security even in harsh weather conditions. This makes them the preferred choice for agriculture, industrial facilities, and a range of other applications.

Moreover, commercial-grade galvanized steel buildings are low-maintenance, providing peace of mind with comprehensive warranties that safeguard your investment. Galvanizing is a process that protects steel from rust by applying a zinc coating. Hot-dip galvanizing is the most common method, where steel is submerged in molten zinc to create a durable zinc-iron alloy that offers superior corrosion resistance. Because of these qualities, galvanized steel building kits are ideal for various applications, including agriculture and industry.

Commercial-grade galvanized steel is preferred for metal buildings because it offers the longevity and cost-effectiveness customers expect from these structures. This type of structure allows for the best warranties available on the market because of the high quality materials. They are low-maintenance and remain stable for decades, even against harsh weather conditions.

Red iron building kits

Red iron buildings have been popular metal building kits since the 1950s, and they’re still widely used for today’s commercial facilities that require wide, uninterrupted storage space. These structures are versatile for agriculture, warehouses, equestrian arenas, and industrial factories. Red iron building kits are the main choice for many brokers on the market because they are cheap to source and create high profit margins.

Despite their popularity red iron buildings are prone to rusting, which is why they are coated with a red primer to hide the rust that will appear. This makes them a less comprehensive solution compared to commercial-grade galvanized steel buildings, which deliver enhanced durability and ease of maintenance. Furthermore, warranties for red iron building kits are often limited and less comprehensive, potentially exposing you to higher long-term costs.

Tube frame metal buildings

Tube-framed metal buildings use hollow metal tubes for their framework. These tubes are typically square but can also be rectangular or round. Unlike traditional metal buildings, they don’t have wall girts, so the steel siding is installed horizontally.

One of the biggest advantages of tube-framed metal buildings is their affordability. They are lightweight, so they require less foundation and are relatively easy to assemble, making them a DIY-friendly option. However, this lightweight design also compromises their strength and durability compared to commercial-grade galvanized steel buildings. Tube frame buildings may struggle under heavy snow loads or high winds and offer limited thermal control and condensation management. Additionally, tube frame metal buildings typically come with minimal or no warranties, reflecting their lower durability and reliability, making them a less desirable option for long-term, heavy-duty applications.

Web truss buildings

Often used for smaller structures like carports, web truss buildings rely on an open web truss system for their structural integrity. This design allows for lightweight and sturdy buildings, but it falls short for larger, commercial applications where rigid-frame metal building kits, like those made of galvanized steel, provide a more practical and robust solution. The enhanced strength and structural integrity of galvanized steel buildings make them the preferred choice for any sizeable construction project. Web truss buildings are significantly lighter in weight, which might compromise their durability and suitability for more demanding environments. Warranties for web truss buildings are often very limited, offering little reassurance for potential buyers.

However, the web truss structure isn’t practical for commercial purposes and larger buildings. For these applications, it’s better to use rigid-frame metal building kits.

Pole barns

Pole barns are generally a cost-effective solution, typically employing wood or metal poles and roof trusses. They are normally cut and framed onsite which can be time consuming. They provide spacious, open interiors suitable for various applications, from garages to studios. However, pole barns may not be ideal for complex designs or areas with strict zoning regulations. When compared to commercial-grade galvanized steel buildings, pole barns offer less durability and stability, especially in challenging environmental conditions. Moreover, pole barns require significant maintenance and upkeep expenses, making them less appealing for those seeking a low-maintenance solution. Warranties on pole barns are often insufficient, leaving you with little recourse if issues arise.

Build worry-free structures with Armstrong Steel.

You can never go wrong with our metal building kits for any application. Whether you need a basic or a more elaborate design, our in-house experts will ensure it’s designed, fabricated, and delivered on time. Contact us for a quote here or call 1-800-345-4610.

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