Frequently Asked Questions

Before installation day, check for underground pipes, utility lines, or other obstructions beneath the build site. Remove any debris, vehicles, or landscaping from the area. For fully enclosed structures like metal garages, shops, and barndominiums, a poured concrete slab is highly recommended for structural integrity and long-term performance. If you need a concrete slab, we offer concrete services as well. 

In most US counties, any permanent structure requires a building permit — this includes metal carports, garages, shops, and barndominiums. Some areas exempt small open structures under a specific square footage (often 200 sq ft), but enclosed buildings almost always need one. The permit process typically requires engineered site plans, structural drawings, and sometimes a foundation inspection. With our partnership with Metal America, we can provide generic engineered drawings and certified plans at no additional cost after an order is placed to facilitate your permit application. 

The cost of a concrete slab for a metal building depends on several factors: your geographic location, soil conditions, slab thickness (typically 4-6 inches for residential, 6+ inches for commercial or heavy equipment), rebar or wire mesh reinforcement, and whether you need a vapor barrier. Standard residential slabs average $11 to $16 per square foot. For a 30×40 metal garage, that translates to roughly $13,200 to $19,200 for the slab alone. We can provide concrete slab services as an optional part of our build process. Contact us for a site-specific quote that includes ground prep, forming, pouring, and finishing. 

Steel gauge measures the thickness of the metal. The lower the number, the thicker and stronger the steel. Standard metal building framing uses 14-gauge square metal tubing (2.5″ x 2.5″), which is suitable for most residential carports, garages, and small shops. For larger structures, areas with high wind or snow loads, or commercial applications, 12-gauge tubing (2.25″ x 2.25″) is the recommended upgrade. The roof and siding panels are typically 29-gauge (standard) or a 26-gauge option (thicker, more durable). Our buildings are offered in  both 14-gauge standard and 12-gauge heavy-duty framing. If your building exceeds 30 feet in width or is in a high-wind area, we strongly recommend the 12-gauge upgrade. 

Metal buildings are prone to condensation because steel conducts temperature rapidly. Double bubble insulation (also called reflective insulation) is the most popular solution because it creates a radiant barrier, prevents condensation drip, and installs directly between the frame and panels without reducing interior space. For climate-controlled buildings like barndominiums or heated shops, spray foam insulation offers the highest R-value. We can provide insulation as an option. 

When buying a metal building, look for three warranty components: a workmanship and leak warranty covering installation defects, a certified wind rating (typically 140-170 mph with proper anchoring), and a rust-through warranty on the panels and framing. New units include a 90-day workmanship and leak warranty, wind ratings up to 170 mph with proper anchoring, and a 10-to-20-year rust warranty depending on the materials selected. Regular maintenance such as cleaning panels and inspecting fasteners is required to keep the warranty valid. Always request warranty documentation in writing before placing an order. 

 Metal buildings must be engineered to meet or exceed your local building code requirements for wind and snow. Wind ratings typically range from 140 mph (standard) to 170 mph (with proper anchoring and certified engineering). If you’re in a coastal hurricane zone, your local building department may require higher ratings. Always check before ordering. Our buildings are engineer-certified, and we provide stamped drawings for your specific location’s requirements. 

Options typically include traditional financing, rent-to-own programs with no credit check, and deposit-based payment plans.  Most metal building companies require a deposit of 10% to 20% to start an order, with the balance due upon installation. Beyond that, several financing paths are available.

Traditional financing works like a home improvement loan. You apply through a lender, get approved based on credit, and make monthly payments at a fixed rate.   Inquiry takes 1 minute. HFS performs a soft credit check so there is NO IMPACT on your credit to get your loan terms.

Rent-to-own is a popular option for buyers who want lower barriers to entry. There’s typically no credit check required, and you make monthly payments until you own the building outright.