When it comes to choosing the right type of metal building for your project, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting between red iron and tubular steel buildings. Both materials are strong and durable, but there are key differences that can have a significant impact on the stability and performance of your building. At Atlantic Steel Structures, we’re here to help you make an informed choice by breaking down the pros, cons, and costs of red iron vs. tubular steel buildings.
What is a Red Iron Steel Building?
If you’ve ever driven past a massive warehouse or one of those giant agricultural buildings out in the country and thought, “Wow, that building looks like it could survive an earthquake or tornado,” there’s a good chance you were looking at a red iron steel building.
These buildings are made from strong steel components shaped like the letter “I.” But these aren’t your run-of-the-mill steel beams. We’re talking high-grade, industrial-strength steel, engineered to support a lot of weight and withstand harsh weather conditions. The “red” in red iron comes from the red oxide coating that’s applied to each piece before it even arrives at the location it will be built upon. That helps prevent rust during transportation and construction and keeps it in top condition for many years.
Why opt for red iron? Well, they’re designed to handle open spaces without needing interior support columns, which gives you a wide, uninterrupted floor plan, perfect if you have a large inventory to accommodate.
What is a Tubular Steel Building?
Some garages, small workshops, and barns feature tubular steel. These structures go by a few names — tube frame, light-gauge steel, or just “metal buildings”—but no matter what you call them, they’re known for being easy to install and customize affordably.
Tubular buildings are created using hollow square or rectangular steel tubes. They might be lighter than red iron components, but don’t let that fool you! These buildings are still tough enough to handle everyday use, and they’re incredibly practical for a wide range of purposes. They’re quick to set up and often come pre-engineered, meaning the design and structural planning are already taken care of before they even arrive at your property.
Tubular buildings are also incredibly versatile when it comes to installation. Some can go straight on gravel or even dirt, depending on local regulations and the size of the building, while others can be placed onto a concrete slab for extra stability. This flexibility makes them especially attractive for homeowners and farmers who want a dependable solution without the long building times and high costs that come with larger steel buildings.
Tubular steel buildings are typically much more affordable than red iron structures, both in terms of materials and labor. You’ll save money upfront and likely on installation too, since they’re designed for a quick and simple setup. This makes them ideal if you don’t have much time to spare or want a smart, cost-effective, and high-quality solution.
Of course, tubular steel does have its limits — it’s best suited for smaller-scale projects and lighter-duty use. But if you’re not planning to store airplanes or operate heavy machinery inside, a tubular steel building might be exactly what you need: strong, reliable, and easy to customize for everyday use.
Red Iron vs. Tubular Steel Buildings Price
One of the most common questions we get asked here at Atlantic Steel Structures is, what’s the difference between red iron and tubular steel buildings in terms of cost? And the honest answer is it depends. The final cost of any building can vary based on factors like the size of the structure, your location, local building codes, intended use, and how customizable you want it to be. That said, we can help break down the cost and value for money you could expect when you’ve told us more about your needs and budget.
Which Option Should I Choose?
Choosing between red iron and tubular steel comes down to your specific goals and needs:
- Go with red iron if you need a large, highly durable building designed to meet strict codes and last for decades.
- Choose tubular steel if you need a cost-effective and easy-to-install solution for a smaller-scale project.
At Atlantic Steel Structures, we work closely with our customers to determine the right fit for their needs and budget. Whether you’re building a commercial facility or a small workshop, we’re happy to talk through your options.
Understanding the differences between red iron and tubular steel buildings isn’t just about materials — it’s about matching the right building system to your goals and budget. While red iron buildings cost more upfront, they often deliver greater value in the long run due to their structural integrity and design flexibility. Tubular steel buildings, on the other hand, can be installed a lot quicker and at a lower initial price, making them ideal for smaller, simpler projects.
At Atlantic Steel Structures, we’re committed to providing honest, expert guidance and high-quality building systems. Contact us today for a FREE quote and see why customers across the country trust us to supply their red iron and tubular steel building projects.
