Turnkey construction eliminates unforeseen hassles of metal building kits

While standardized prefabricated DYI packages seem convenient, clients quickly discover how it’s better to have one professional team do the complete building job – from supplying the materials to grand opening.

By Darren Sperling



Read the first part of this article that describes the hidden costs when you purchase a metal building kit from someone else…

A proper building solution requires more than just a building shell that gets delivered to your site and left. Construction is a complicated process, involving many design and engineering processes that are expensive and sometimes difficult to source on your own. We recommend reading our article on all the factors that go into a proper construction quote  and how you can learn industry tricks to save money on construction. 

When you purchase from Summit Steel Buildings as a turnkey supplier and erector, we handle all aspects of the final job – from creating the foundation to supplying all the necessary metal parts to installation and even the final finishing and inspection approvals. Our detailed quotes provide the final (and inclusive) price you’ll pay, without surprises, broken down by total cost as well as per square foot for both materials and all engineering/construction services. You’ll see everything that’s included in both the price and the work to be done. It is much easier to track deadlines and measure progress when you have all the details.

Unlike with prefabricated metal kits, custom-designed steel building solutions give you the exact structure you need with all the features your business will require (such as proper ventilation, shipping and receiving doors, skylights, insulation, plumbing, high-load electrical and proper drainage).

Building prices can range based on the options and customized choices you want for your building. Exterior metal panels can include R20 or R40 insulation (or any value you want), while exterior-facing flashing can be made with different metals or special glazing to give the building a special look. These premium features are not available with standardized kits. The number and type of doors and windows (heavier and stronger ones provide more security and durability) are other key considerations you’ll want for your custom building to suit your operation. Additional floors and mezzanines increases usable space and come at a reasonable additional cost on a per square foot basis.

The type of flooring can also be a consideration. Industrial warehouses might need just concrete with a clear anti-slip coating, while other areas may require carpet, hardwood, tiling or something else to give it an impressive and welcoming look. The beauty of pre-engineered steel buildings is that everything from the architectural design and layout to the finishing and utility infrastructure (water, electrical systems, HVAC/environmental, industrial cranes or machinery) is completely customizable. Heavier-use equipment for manufacturing or heavy industry purposes will always require more intensive design. Summit Steel Buildings quotes include all the necessary costs so you know what you’ll be paying and what you can expect.

Take a long-term strategic view of what your building requirements will be

While businesses may have immediate needs that additional operational space may solve, getting a final building solution that meets all your long-term needs requires intelligent planning. It is always a good idea to book your buildings early in your planning cycle so you can lock in prices and take advantage of savings when steel prices are expected to rise. Planning your building takes time, so use the period of pre-construction to your advantage. Be sure your building will contain all the space and structural elements you will need as your building grows and as your operational capacity changes. Don’t rush into a compromised choice – smart planning always includes strategic thinking and reflection.

Manufacturing all the required beams, panels and components for a customized structure takes more time than buying a prefabricated and standardized structure that might not fit your longer-term needs. Fortunately, this manufacturing can take place in advance or over a wintertime slowdown. Once spring’s warmer weather and more suitable conditions arrive, your construction can begin immediately. Alternatively, foundation work and exterior construction can be planned for late autumn, meaning teams can work throughout the winter on internal structure, plumping, electrical and finishing. Using wintertime as part of the construction can be a cost-saving method in addition to being a way to get your construction completed earlier than might be otherwise possible. Well thought-out construction planning – something a reliable and experienced partner like Summit Steel Buildings can help you with – can get your building ready for occupation at a much quicker pace, and result in an ideal facility to serve your bottom line for decades.

Simply management of your building project by working with one comprehensive partner

Construction projects are very complicated with many unanticipated costs that arise when you purchase a metal kit building rather than going with a turnkey builder. It is critical to be mindful of what’s included (and what’s not) when you are building standardized kits for your next industrial or commercial facility. Choosing to work with a turnkey builder delivers all the building services you need for complete construction, rather than simply components and parts – then leave the rest to you to finish.

We're ready to answer all your questions about construction using Summit Steel Buildings' pre-engineered metal structures. Contact us when you’re ready to get started at 877-417-8335 and receive your free quote and preliminary drawings. 

Read the first part of this article about the hidden costs of purchasing metal building kits from someone else.