Buyer’s Guide to Metal Buildings

Buyer guide

Are you thinking about investing in a metal building? Whether you need extra storage space, a new workshop, a barn, or a large commercial facility, steel structures are one of the most durable and cost-effective solutions on the market. At Atlantic Steel Structures, we’ve helped customers across Florida and the U.S. choose the right building for their needs, and we know how overwhelming the process can feel at first.

This Buyer’s Guide will walk you through what makes a good metal building supplier, the key questions to ask before you buy, and how to make sure you’re working with the best metal building company for your project.

What Makes a Good Metal Building Supplier or Manufacturer

The first step is choosing a company you can trust. Not all metal building manufacturers operate the same way, and your choice will impact not only the price you pay, but the long-term performance of your building.

A reliable supplier should offer:

  • Experience & Reputation – Look for a company with a proven track record, customer reviews, and completed projects across different applications.
  • Customization Options – Every project is unique. The best suppliers provide flexible layouts, door and window options, insulation packages, and finishes.
  • Engineering Expertise – Structural plans should meet your state’s codes for wind, snow, and seismic conditions. This is especially critical for steel buildings in Florida.
  • Clear Pricing – Beware of “too good to be true” quotes. A reputable supplier will provide detailed breakdowns without hidden fees.
  • After-Sales Support – From foundation planning to accessory placement, your supplier should support you throughout the entire process.

Key Questions to Ask Before Buying

Before signing a contract or placing a deposit, ask suppliers these critical questions:

  1. Are your buildings engineered for my local codes?
    Building codes vary by state and even county. Confirm that wind, snow, and seismic loads are accounted for.
  2. What is included in the quoted price?
    Ensure items like trim, doors, insulation, and bracing are specified as “included” and not listed as optional extras.
  3. Who designs the foundation plans?
    Anchor bolt plans come from the manufacturer, but stamped foundation plans must be engineered by a licensed professional in your state.
  4. Do you provide warranties?
    Strong warranties on materials and workmanship indicate confidence in product quality.
  5. What is the lead time for delivery?
    If you need a quick steel building, clarify realistic timelines before committing.

Steel Building Suppliers vs. Local Contractors

A common question is whether to go with a national steel building supplier or a local general contractor. Each has pros and cons:

  • Steel Building Suppliers (like Atlantic Steel Structures)
    • Specialize in prefabricated steel structures.
    • Offer competitive pricing due to direct manufacturing.
    • Provide engineered plans designed for compliance.
    • Streamlined ordering process, with fast delivery and support.
  • Local Contractors
    • May not specialize in steel, relying on subcontractors.
    • Can assist with foundation work and site preparation.
    • Costs may be higher due to lack of direct manufacturer pricing.

How to Identify the Best Metal Building Company

With so many choices, how do you separate the best from the rest? Keep these points in mind:

  • Transparency: If a company pushes “cancelled order specials” or one-day deals, that’s a red flag. The best metal building companies don’t need gimmicks.
  • Compliance: Confirm they design to your local building codes. This prevents costly “bumps” later when modifications are required to meet regulations.
  • Customization: The right company will adapt the building to your exact needs, not force you into a cookie-cutter model.
  • Support: Look for a partner, not just a seller. From concept to completion, the best companies guide you through the entire process.

At Atlantic Steel Structures, we pride ourselves on being more than just steel structure manufacturers. We’re a partner in helping you create a building that meets your needs today—and continues to deliver value for decades to come.

Choosing the Right Metal Building Size

When searching for the best metal building company, it’s not just about finding reliable metal building suppliers—it’s also about choosing the right size to fit your needs. At Atlantic Steel Structures, we provide a full range of prefab steel structures designed for residential, agricultural, commercial, and industrial use. Each building is fully customizable, engineered to meet local codes, and backed by long-lasting value.

Below, you’ll find our most popular steel structure buildings—with insights into what each size is best for.

Large-Scale Steel Buildings (Industrial & Commercial)

100×200 Steel Building

  • Space: 20,000 sq. ft. clear-span
  • Best For: Industrial warehouses, distribution centers, aircraft hangars, sports arenas, or large agricultural barns.
  • Why Choose It: Maximum open space and customization, built for high-volume operations and heavy equipment.

60×80 Steel Building

  • Space: 4,800 sq. ft. clear-span
  • Best For: Mid-sized warehouses, manufacturing shops, large garages, or multi-use barns.
  • Why Choose It: Durable and versatile, this size balances affordability with significant floor space.

50×80 Steel Building

  • Space: 4,000 sq. ft. clear-span
  • Best For: Commercial storage, auto shops, or small-scale manufacturing.
  • Why Choose It: A slightly more compact alternative to the 60×80, with similar flexibility and strength.

Medium-Sized Steel Buildings (Farms, Shops & Garages)

40×60 Steel Building

  • Space: 2,400 sq. ft. clear-span
  • Best For: Barns, workshops, or equipment storage.
  • Why Choose It: A popular choice for agricultural operations and mid-size garages needing durable space.

35×45 Steel Building

  • Space: 1,575 sq. ft. clear-span
  • Best For: Hobby shops, horse barns, or personal storage.
  • Why Choose It: A cost-effective solution that still provides generous space for multiple uses.

30×40 Steel Building

  • Space: 1,200 sq. ft. clear-span
  • Best For: Two-car garages, small workshops, or utility barns.
  • Why Choose It: A practical entry-level size for residential or small business use.

Compact Steel Buildings (Personal & Light Commercial Use)

25×55 Steel Building

  • Space: 1,375 sq. ft. clear-span
  • Best For: Garages, farm storage, or equipment sheds.
  • Why Choose It: Long and narrow footprint—perfect for storing vehicles, boats, or trailers.

20×30 Steel Building

  • Space: 600 sq. ft. clear-span
  • Best For: Single-car garage, backyard workshop, or storage unit.
  • Why Choose It: The most affordable option, offering durable protection in a compact design.

Why Choose Atlantic Steel Structures?

  • Trusted steel structure manufacturer with expertise in design, fabrication, and installation.
  • Wide range of steel structures for sale, from compact workshops to industrial complexes.
  • Competitive pricing, including steel building closeouts and fast delivery on quick steel buildings.
  • Compliance with local codes—including hurricane-ready steel buildings in Florida.

Automotive Buildings

Our metal shop buildings provide great flexibility in design choices to help you start or grow your business.

Equestrian Buildings

Our 100% American steel riding arenas feature a clear-span design for durable, year-round riding enjoyment.

Agricultural Buildings

Farm equipment is a valuable asset, so we provide high-quality buildings to keep it safe, secure, and protected.

Commercial Buildings

Our commercial buildings offer versatility for companies who are looking to add additional space at a fantastic price.

Houses of Worship

We help nonprofits build quality church buildings that serve many—without exceeding tight budgets.

Aviation Buildings

From small sport aircraft to large commercial planes, Atlantic Steel designs hangars tailored to your exact needs.

Storage Buildings

Atlantic Steel offers durable prefab steel kits—ideal for safely storing equipment, hay, feed, and more on your property.

Residential Buildings

Our metal shop buildings give our customers flexibility in design options to expand their growing business or start a new one.
Built on Trust, Driven by Service

Our Commitment to Service

At Atlantic Steel Structures, we know that every customer is different. Some come to us with years of contracting knowledge and a deep understanding of steel building terminology, while others are just beginning their journey. Some clients prefer to manage every detail themselves, and others are stepping into this process for the very first time. No matter where you fall, we provide tailored guidance at every stage. The experience may feel overwhelming at first, but it’s also incredibly rewarding—and our team is here to make it easier, clearer, and more exciting.

Built for Long-Term Resilience

Resistant Against Pest and Weather Threats

Finally, steel is an optimal material for people who are worried about pest or weather-related threats.

Termites

Termites infest wood buildings because they are attracted to cellulose, an organic material found in wood that serves as a termite’s primary food source. Steel buildings are made from 100% inorganic material, so they don’t supply the same food as wood buildings do. You don’t have to worry about termites when you choose steel!

Rodents

Large rodents and other pests will also be unlikely to make your steel building their home because there are no cracks or spaces for them to crawl through. There are also fewer places for them to hide. If you’re in an area where you’re regularly battling mice, rats, or other pests, steel is a great choice for you.

Wind

Steel buildings can be manufactured to withstand wind speeds in excess of 180MPH, so they can withstand the vast majority of hurricanes and tornadoes. Whether you’re on the coast or tornado alley, steel can keep you and your valuables safe.

Water

Unlike wood, steel doesn’t absorb water. If it floods, your building will remain undamaged. If you live in a humid area, you won’t have to worry about moisture damaging your structure.

Fire

Steel is fire-resistant and won’t combust in the same way wood does. As a result, steel buildings can impressively resist electrical fires and wildfires.

Earthquakes

Steel is durable, yet lightweight. This means it can bend under pressure rather than snap. When earthquakes occur, steel will absorb the shock from the ground moving below rather than break, providing you with a reliable structure.
Trusted Quality, Coast to Coast

Certified Steel Buildings for Every State

At Atlantic Steel Structures, the integrity of your steel building is important to us. We want your building to be able to endure local weather threats and meet the required building codes. That’s why we’ll work with you and an engineer in your state to make sure your building is manufactured in accordance with state and local building codes. Each of our pre-engineered steel buildings comes stamped and sealed with engineering blueprints that are signed by a licensed engineer in your state.

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