Selecting a Steel Building Company That Provides Full Service and a Complete Package
Are you considering purchasing a steel building in the near future from a particular steel building supplier or manufacturer? If so, you may find this article useful in helping you decide if the company you have in mind will supply you with a steel building that will satisfy all of your needs, as well as meet your local building code office’s requirements.
The first step in dealing with the question of who to do business with is to make sure the steel building company you are considering has a record of dealing fairly with customers. Check first for nationally advertised companies and companies that are otherwise endorsed favorably by other organizations. Make sure that the company you are dealing with will provide a fully-itemized purchase order for your building with each item and option cost stipulated individually.
A set of easy-to-read and comprehensive erection plans should be provided with the purchase of the steel building. Most reputable steel building companies will provide written warranties for their framing, roof, and paint. Make sure that the gauge of the building is specified – remember that 26 gauge steel is thicker than 29 gauge. Ask if the roof is a UL 90 and that lifetime roof fasteners are provided with the building. A deluxe trim package should also be included to enhance your building’s appearance and help to extend its useable life.
Make sure that all framed openings that are engineered into the building at specific locations, in addition to all of the structural elements, are pre-cut, pre-welded, and pre-punched at the factory prior to shipment. The steel building company that you choose should also have the ability to design and rig your building with such features as gutters and downspouts, vents, higher roof pitch and variable roof methods. An erection manual needs to be included with your building purchase. You should be assigned a contact person at the steel building company you will be working with so that you receive the appropriate customer service in the event of any problems.
Make sure that delivery of your steel building includes only your building. The loading and shipping of several buildings to different customers can lead to confusion and incomplete orders. Upon receipt of your steel building, make sure that all component parts–down to the last bolt and washer–are accounted for and report any discrepancies to the steel building shipping department immediately.