What type of metal building do you need?

Discover the building type that meets your needs. Compare the different building systems we offer below

our services

the 4 types of metal buildings

At first glance, most metal buildings look alike, with their signature corrugated metal sheeting on the roof and walls. But what really holds them together? The strength and durability of a metal building come down to its frame. Explore the different metal building types below to find the best fit for your project.

Tube Steel

These buildings are constructed out of 2.5" galvanized tube steel and typically sheeted with 29ga sheet metal paneling.
Pros:
  • Affordable solution for smaller structures 30' wide or less

  • Price includes delivery and install

  • Galvanized steel frame - rot and rust resistant

  • Generic engineered building and foundation plans included

Cons:
  • Not rated for living in

  • Big price jump at 30’+ wide

  • Some building departments will not permit/allow tube steel structures

  • Not available nationwide and/or in some high snow and wind load areas

learn more

Cold Formed

Cold formed steel buildings use components similar to red iron buildings with the benefit of being lighter, without sacrificing strength.
Pros:
  • Includes pre-cut bolt together components

  • Big savings for DIY installers

  • Includes detailed install instructions + videos

  • Building and foundation engineering included

  • 45-year warranty

  • No welding, cutting or mods needed

  • Can be engineered for anywhere in the U.S.A

  • Delivery included in price to 48 states

  • Can add second floor mezzanine

Cons:
  • Price does not include install

  • Limited to 80ft widths depending on wind and snow loads

learn more

Pole Barn

Pole barns are framed using wood and then finished on the exterior with corrugated sheet metal. They also do not require a concrete foundation like cold formed or red iron buildings.
Pros:
  • Reduced foundation cost

  • Readily available material for DIY'ers

Cons:
  • Currently more expensive than some steel frame buildings

  • Longer install time

  • Reduced overhead space due to webbed trusses

learn more

Red Iron

Red iron building frames consist of heavy I-Beam columns and rafters which are anchored to a pre-cast anchor plate in a slab or pier.
Pros:
  • Widths can span 100'+

  • Best price over 80' wide

  • Can engineer for any wind or snow load

Cons:
  • Foundation engineering not included in price

  • Longer lead times for material during peak season

  • Welding and modifications may be needed

learn more

contact a design specialist

Work one-on-one with a metal building design specialist to design the perfect building

contact an expert