Navigating the Quoting Process for Your Steel Building Project

Pitfalls to Avoid

Jake Fillmore

CEO, Owner & Operator

JMF Steel Construction

Embarking on a new steel building project is an exciting venture, whether it's for a spacious garage, a new workshop, or a storage facility. However, the path to your perfect steel structure is laden with decisions, and one crucial step stands out: getting an accurate quote. Many enthusiastic future building owners trip up during this critical phase, so let's explore the common mistakes you should sidestep to ensure your project doesn't hit any snags.

Rushing for Price Tags Without Solid Specs

A classic misstep in the quoting process is gunning for a price without first clarifying the specifics of your project. It's like asking how much a bag of groceries costs without specifying what's inside. Finalizing the exact location, dimensions, and design of your building is paramount. Remember, size matters, especially since most Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings (PEMBs) cap out at a single story. You might need more elbow room than you first thought, necessitating a broader or longer structure compared to conventional multi-story buildings.

Skimping on the Planning Phase

An all-too-common blunder is underestimating the planning stage. This isn't the time for guesstimates; you need a comprehensive plan. Work closely with your supplier or contractor to hammer out every detail, from customizations to door installations. It's akin to blueprinting your project, ensuring every nut, bolt, and steel beam fits your vision to a T.

Ignoring the Devil in the Details

When soliciting quotes, the more information, the merrier. Ensure you're handing over specifics like the ZIP/postal code of your job site (local codes wait for no build), your preferred design and roof style, door and window requirements, and insulation needs. A ballpark figure based on guesstimates won’t cut it. Be prepared for the final amount to shift, especially considering that delivery and equipment fees love to play hide-and-seek in initial estimates.

Falling for the Apples-to-Oranges Comparison

In the digital era, a quick online search will bombard you with an array of prices. But caution! Not all prefab metal buildings are created equal. That bargain deal might be for a building with hollow tubular framing, the lesser cousin of the robust, solid-steel I-beam frames. The former doesn't buddy up with longevity or high wind/snow loads. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Remember, you’re investing in a structure, not just buying a product.

Skipping the Homework on Manufacturers

Lastly, don't be that person who skips the reviews. Sure, we at BuildingsGuide have your back, serving up only top-tier, thoroughly vetted manufacturers. But for that extra pillow of confidence, dive into customer reviews and testimonials. Double-checking that your chosen supplier is the crème de la crème ensures your project rests in the best hands.

Sidestepping these pitfalls isn't just about saving money; it's about safeguarding your investment. By ensuring a thorough approach to the quoting process—from detailed planning to diligent research—you're not just buying a steel building; you're laying the foundation for a project built on confidence and peace of mind. So, equip yourself with these insights, and you're ready to nail the perfect deal for your steel building endeavor.

JMF Construction

A Boise, Idaho Company

We’ve done projects all over the Treasure Valley and beyond for businesses such as Simplot Western Stockmen’s, CSDI, Champion Produce in Parma, and Farm Equipment USA in Fruitland and Jerome. Have a small project? You’ve come to the right place. We build smaller projects regularly, not just the large scale ones.

Here at JMF, we make it our business to get to know you and your unique project. Call us today!

Call us at (208) 880-1062