Calculating the cost of a steel building

It’s only natural to ask the price of a steel building based on square footage. It makes sense. The property can accommodate a maximum structure size of 30x40, so if I know what the total square footage price is, then I know what to expect.

Yes, that does work in some cases. Buying carpet for instance. However, construction is much more complicated. Think of it this way: if you were looking for a fuel-efficient car and the only factor you looked at was its miles-per-gallon (or as they say in Canada, kilometres-per-litre), you could end up with a Toyota Prius, A Hyundai Elantra, a Lexus ES300h or a Ford Maverick truck. Fuel efficiency is an important factor, but it doesn’t really provide all the information necessary to get you the exact vehicle that fits all your needs.

Pre-engineered steel building pricing is similar in nature. While a concrete slab, a door, four walls and a roof is easy to determine on a square-footage model, commercial and industrial metal buildings are much more complicated, requiring many more factors to determine an inclusive price. As your complete turnkey building partner, we offer all the supply and build services you need in one stop. We're building quality that lasts!

Additional resource for how we price our steel buildings.

Building estimates factor in many details other than footprint

A completed building project is more than just the cost of the steel materials. In general, the final price of a steel building consists of three parts: site excavation and concrete foundation; the cost of the steel components; and, the on-site installation and construction of primary and secondary framing, roofing and wall systems. These can be all approximated to the final dimensions of the building at a preliminary discussion for those who like to kick the tires; however, a more precise estimate is happily provided, along with preliminary drawings, that will list all the details, timelines and other details necessary for an exact capital plan. Here's a few of the other factors that go into determining the final price of a completed pre-engineered steel building quote.

1. Engineering requirements

The most critical elements necessary for preparing a building quote are understanding the site’s seismic, snow and wind loads. They determine how much weight and resistance the structure must support and be engineered to handle. Two buildings with the same square footage can have very different structural demands and very different pricing. Over engineering could mean unnecessary or thicker steel gauges that increase costs. Knowing the local conditions and loads means an efficient and affordable price for metal components for your structure

Pricing also needs to account for local code requirements and stamped engineering drawings. A simple backyard shed project based on a prefabricated design from the local hardware store isn’t concerned much about that – the length and width calculation can be pretty helpful then. Your industrial or commercial structure is inherently more advanced. Do the secondary steel specifications need galvanizing? Insulation may also be necessary if operating in winter or within cold climates. Modern building can achieve significant energy performance savings that reduce long-term hydro costs. All these items change the building price.

2. Current and future building use

Buildings are three dimensional. Your building quote must consider total volume, not just square footage. Maintenance facilities may only need 16-foot eves. Or your structure might need 30-foot ceilings to store boats, or even a mezzanine to store inventory or second floor for offices. A large warehouse with expandable end walls is going to have completely different design and structural needs than a multi-storey golf clubhouse and event space that can handle multiple kitchens and locker rooms.

3. Architecture and design 

Pre-engineered steel building systems offer unrivaled architectural design freedom. By using steel’s immense strength-to-weight ratio, all sorts of advanced and modern facilities can be created, highlighted by innovative features such as cantilevers and window walls. The building price will change with its overall complexity. Component costs are affected by roof pitches, standing seam versus screw-down systems, specialty trims, coatings and other accents that make your structure standout to its neighbours.

4. Commodity market futures for steel

Global supply issues and market steel prices can unfortunately affect the total price of building construction – and these are typically outside our control, affecting the entire industry. However, with advanced planning and forenotice to the mills across Canada and the United States where we get our steel components manufactured, Summit Steel Buildings can work to minimize cost increases when we’re aware of future market shifts. Ordering a building in advance of inflationary periods, for instance, can save considerably. We also have long-term volume relationships with the steel mills so we can get industry-leading bulk pricing. 

Here are a few tricks to saving money on your next steel building construction project.

The price estimate for your pre-engineered steel building begins with one call

When you're thinking about a new building project, give us a call at 877-417-8335 and we’ll get the essential information we need from you to start working on a free quote.

Not surprisingly, it starts with, “what is your postal code?” With a precise location, we’ll be able to look at the local load conditions and your budget to come up with a custom building plan that’s going to fit all your current and future needs. You’ll also receive preliminary drawings to help give you a sense of what your potential structure will look like.

The team at Summit Steel Buildings is more than happy to begin by providing a general “per square foot” price. It is a handy starting point. As a turnkey supply and build partner, we take your custom vision and bring it to life, doing everything required so you only have one point of contact. We’re responsible for the delivering the entire project to your complete satisfaction, from start to end.

You are also welcome to contact us for your free quote by using our webform or by sending an email. We're excited to speak with you and help develop your ideal pre-engineered building solution.