Help Center

Go to our Get Quote page, fill out your information, and submit. Your quote will be emailed to you in less than 48 hours.

Steel building prices aren't one-size-fits-all. Your location's snow load, wind load, and seismic factors directly affect how the building is engineered and fabricated, which impacts the final price. A 40×60 building in Wyoming requires different engineering than the same building in Florida. That's why we need your specific ZIP code and building details to give you an accurate quote.

Yes, in most cases. Prefab steel buildings are designed with minimal waste, and they go up much faster than traditional construction—which saves on labor costs. You also save long-term with lower maintenance, no rot or pest damage, and better energy efficiency. With lumber prices volatile, steel has become one of the most cost-effective options available.

What's included: Steel framing, roof and wall panels, all fasteners, trim, engineered drawings, framed openings for doors/windows, and delivery to your job site within standard zones. Not included: Foundation/concrete work, permits, site preparation, actual doors and windows, and installation labor if you choose to hire someone. We provide the framed openings only—this gives you the flexibility to choose any door or window style you prefer, from budget-friendly to high-end options, and reduces the chance of damaged materials during shipping. The price you see is the price you pay—no surprise charges.

Yes, we offer financing options to help make your steel building more affordable. Visit our financing page to learn more about payment plans that work for your budget.

Step 1: Get your quote (less than 48 hours).
Step 2: Review and approve. Make any changes you need.
Step 3: Place your order with deposit.
Step 4: We create your engineered drawings.
Step 5: You get your permits (we provide the drawings).
Step 6: We manufacture your building (4-6 weeks).
Step 7: Delivery to your site.
Step 8: You build (DIY or hire contractor).

Yes, within 48 hours of ordering. Contact us immediately at (307) 316-2208 and we'll help adjust your kit before it enters production. After that, changes become more difficult and may incur additional costs.

Not at all. Most first-time buyers aren't sure about all the details. That's normal. Our team will help you make the right decisions about size, door and window opening locations, and other options based on how you plan to use the building. We'll guide you through every choice.

We can hold your order until you're ready. Many customers order their building while waiting for permits or preparing their site. Your building can be stored temporarily—just let us know your situation and we'll work with you.

Almost always, yes. Most jurisdictions require permits for any permanent structure. Some rural areas may not require permits for small agricultural buildings, but that's the exception. Check with your local building department before starting any work. Building without a permit can result in fines, being forced to tear down the structure, or issues when you try to sell the property.

Zoning permit: Confirms you're allowed to build the type of structure you want in your location and use it for your intended purpose.

Building permit: Much more detailed. Covers construction methods, materials, safety, engineering, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, and more. You need both.

Yes. We provide complete engineered drawings stamped by a licensed engineer, specifically designed for your location's building codes. These drawings include all the technical details your building department needs. Most building departments accept our drawings without issue.

It varies widely by location. Rural areas might approve in days. Larger cities can take 2-6 weeks or longer. Areas with high winds, seismic activity, or understaffed building departments typically take longer. Your local building department can give you a timeline. Having complete, professional drawings (which we provide) significantly speeds up the process.

Yes. Every FrameCore kit is engineered to meet or exceed the International Building Code (IBC) and is specifically designed for your location's wind, snow, and seismic loads. Our engineer accounts for all local requirements when creating your building's plans.

Most steel buildings use one of three options:

1. Concrete slab: Most common and cost-effective. 4-6 inches thick with reinforcement.
2. Pier foundation: Concrete piers supporting the structure, often used for agricultural buildings or uneven terrain.
3. Perimeter foundation: Concrete footer around the building perimeter with piers at column locations.

Your soil conditions, building size, and local frost line determine which is best. We recommend consulting a foundation engineer or experienced concrete contractor.

No. Foundation work is separate because soil conditions, terrain, and local requirements vary so much. You'll need to hire a concrete contractor or foundation specialist in your area. We provide the anchor bolt plans that show exactly where bolts need to be placed.

A foundation engineer should determine this based on your soil conditions and building loads, but 4-6 inches is typical for most residential and light commercial buildings. Larger buildings or those storing heavy equipment may require 6-8 inches or more. Always have a professional evaluate your specific situation.

Maybe. Your concrete supplier or a structural engineer needs to verify that it's adequate for the building loads and that anchor bolts can be properly installed. The slab must be level, in good condition, and the correct size. Many times it's more cost-effective to pour a new foundation than to modify an existing one.

No. In fact, you should order first. We provide the anchor bolt plan that your concrete contractor needs to pour the foundation correctly. Pouring the foundation before having the building engineered is putting the cart before the horse—the bolt locations must be exact.

Yes. All FrameCore kits include complete engineered drawings stamped by a licensed structural engineer. These drawings are designed specifically for your location and include all the technical details required for permits and construction.

Yes. Our engineers are licensed to provide stamped drawings in all 50 states. The drawings are specifically engineered for your ZIP code's wind, snow, and seismic requirements, ensuring compliance with both state and local building codes.

Minor changes before manufacturing starts are usually not a problem—just contact us immediately. Major structural changes after drawings are complete may require re-engineering and additional costs. That's why we work closely with you during the quote phase to get everything right the first time.

Our engineers input your specific ZIP code to determine the exact wind speed, snow load, and seismic requirements for your location. A building in Wyoming with heavy snow loads will have stronger roof framing than the same building in Texas. A coastal building will be engineered for higher wind speeds. This is why location matters so much for accurate pricing.

Yes, delivery to your job site within standard zones is included. The price you see includes freight. For remote locations outside standard delivery areas, additional freight charges may apply—we'll let you know upfront during the quote process.

Total time from order to delivery is typically 6-8 weeks. This includes manufacturing time (4-6 weeks) and transit time (varies by location). We'll give you tracking information once your building ships so you know exactly when to expect delivery.

You need:

• Clear access for a full-size semi truck
• Level ground where the truck can unload
• A forklift or telehandler to unload the materials
• Someone present to sign for delivery

The driver will not unload—you're responsible for having equipment ready. Many customers rent a forklift for the day or hire a local equipment operator.

Contact us to discuss your site access. While buildings are typically delivered on one or two trucks, we can sometimes arrange alternative delivery methods for challenging access situations. The earlier you tell us about access issues, the better we can help.

Materials should be stored on level ground in a dry location. Keep metal panels off the ground (use lumber to create an air gap) and covered with tarps. Metal panels that sit in moisture can develop staining. Ideally, start building as soon as possible after delivery to minimize storage time.

Yes. Many customers build their own steel buildings. All components are pre-cut, pre-drilled, and pre-welded—no field welding required. You'll need basic construction skills, common tools, and lifting equipment for the heavy beams. Smaller buildings (under 1,500 sq ft) are very DIY-friendly. Larger buildings require more help and equipment.

This varies by size and crew experience:

• Small (30×40): 2-4 days with 2-3 people
• Medium (40×60): 4-7 days with 3-4 people
• Large (60×80+): 1-2 weeks with professional crew

These are frame-up times. Adding doors, windows, and finishing work takes additional time. Professional crews work faster than DIY builders.

We're a building kit supplier, not a general contractor, so we don't directly provide installation. However, we can recommend experienced local contractors in many areas. Many of our dealer partners also offer installation services. Contact us and we'll try to connect you with qualified installers in your region.

Essential: Impact wrenches, drill, level, measuring tape, ladder, safety equipment (hard hats, gloves, safety glasses), and lifting equipment (forklift, telehandler, or crane) for raising beams and rafters.

Helpful: Scaffolding, man lift, extra hands. The main beams can weigh 500-700 pounds each, so you need proper lifting equipment—don't try to muscle them up manually.

Basic construction knowledge helps, but you don't need to be a professional. If you can follow detailed instructions and use power tools safely, you can build a steel building. Many first-time builders successfully complete their projects. The key is taking your time, following the manual exactly, and not being afraid to ask questions when something isn't clear.

Getting the first frame square and plumb. Once the first section is up correctly, the rest follows more easily. Other challenges include: lifting heavy beams safely, working at heights, and ensuring proper panel alignment. Taking your time on the foundation and first frame makes everything else go smoothly.

Yes. You can customize door and window opening locations and sizes, insulation, roof style, wall heights, and more. We'll work with you during the quote phase to add exactly what you need. Some modifications affect engineering and pricing, so it's best to decide on customizations before ordering.

We provide the framed openings for doors and windows, but not the actual doors and windows themselves. This gives you two advantages: less chance of damaged materials during shipping, and complete freedom to choose from budget-friendly to high-end options that fit your needs. You can install whatever doors and windows you want—from basic to custom. Just let us know where you want the openings when you order.

Yes, steel buildings are very easy to expand. You can typically add length to your building by removing the end wall and extending the structure. This is much simpler than expanding traditional construction. If you think you might expand in the future, tell us during the design phase so we can plan accordingly.

Steel buildings can be insulated. Common options include spray foam (most effective but expensive), fiberglass batts (budget-friendly), or insulated metal panels (built-in insulation). We can help you choose the right insulation for your climate and intended use. Insulation dramatically improves energy efficiency and comfort.

Yes. Steel buildings make excellent barndominiums, homes, and living quarters. You'll need to add insulation, interior framing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and finish work. Living spaces require meeting residential building codes and additional permits. Consider working with an architect if you're planning a residential conversion.

All FrameCore buildings come with a 50-year structural warranty on the framing. The metal panels typically carry a 25-year warranty against rust and deterioration. This is an industry-leading warranty that shows our confidence in our materials and engineering.

We use 26-gauge steel panels for roof and walls as standard. This is commercial-grade material—much stronger than the lighter gauges some competitors use. The framing is red iron I-beam construction engineered for your specific loads. We never compromise on material quality.

With proper maintenance, steel buildings can last 50+ years or longer. Unlike wood, steel won't rot, warp, or attract pests. The roof panels and framing are designed for decades of service. Many steel buildings from the 1970s and 80s are still in excellent condition today.

Yes. Steel buildings are actually more resilient than wood construction. They're engineered to withstand high winds, heavy snow, and seismic activity specific to your location. Steel flexes under stress rather than breaking like wood. They're not "hurricane-proof" (nothing is), but they perform extremely well in severe weather when properly engineered and installed.

Inspect everything immediately upon delivery and note any damage on the delivery receipt. Contact us right away if anything is missing or damaged. We'll send replacement parts quickly—usually within a few days. This is rare, but when it happens, we handle it promptly.

Plan for 10-14 weeks total:

• Permit approval: 1-4 weeks (varies by location)
• Manufacturing: 4-6 weeks
• Shipping: 1-2 weeks
• Construction: 1-3 weeks (depends on size and crew)

This timeline assumes no delays with permits or weather. Starting early in spring gives you the best weather for construction.

Spring through early fall is ideal in most regions. You want dry weather for pouring the foundation and erecting the frame. Winter construction is possible but more challenging—cold weather affects concrete curing, and working in freezing conditions is harder. Order in winter for spring delivery if you want to avoid the busy season.

Manufacturing time is relatively fixed (4-6 weeks) because engineering, fabrication, and quality control can't be rushed without compromising quality. However, if you have an urgent timeline, contact us and we'll see what options are available. Planning ahead is always better than rushing.

We work with financing partners to offer payment plans for qualified buyers. Options include traditional loans, equipment financing, and contractor financing. Visit our financing page to discuss what's available for your situation.

Typically, we require a deposit when you place your order, with the balance due before or at delivery. The exact payment structure can vary. If you're financing, your lender will handle the payment schedule. We'll clearly explain all payment terms before you commit to anything.

We accept wire transfers, checks, and major credit cards. For large orders, wire transfer or check is preferred. Your sales representative will provide payment instructions with your order confirmation.

Very little. Steel buildings require far less maintenance than wood structures:

• Check and tighten bolts annually (especially first year)
• Keep gutters and roof clear of debris
• Touch up any scratches in the paint to prevent rust
• Check door and window seals

No painting, no rot repair, no termite treatment. That's it.

Modern steel panels have protective coatings that prevent rust for decades. Red iron framing is treated with primer. If panels are scratched or damaged, exposed metal should be touched up with paint to prevent rust. As long as the protective coating is intact, rust isn't a concern. The 25-year panel warranty covers rust issues.

Uninsulated steel buildings do heat up in direct sunlight. However, properly insulated steel buildings perform just as well as any other building type for temperature control. Add insulation (we recommend at least R-19 in walls and R-30 in roof for most climates), and your building will be comfortable year-round with appropriate HVAC.

Uninsulated buildings are louder than insulated ones. Add insulation and you'll barely notice rain noise—it's comparable to any other building. Many people actually like the sound of rain on a metal roof. If noise is a concern, proper insulation completely solves the problem.

Yes, but it's rarely necessary. Our panels come pre-finished in various colors. If you want a different color later, steel panels can be painted with appropriate metal paint. Most customers choose their preferred color during the order process rather than painting later.