Add value to your home that really pays off.
Metal garage buildings are one of the best home improvement investments. They’re durable, versatile and save money over the long run when compared to traditional wood structures.
The key… installing your metal building correctly.
Poor planning leads to regrets. Right installer and preparation lead to a garage you can enjoy for decades.
Let’s cover…
- Why Metal Garages Are A Smart Investment
- Planning Your Metal Garage Build
- Tips for Preparing The Site
- Metal Building Installation
- Maintenance Tips To Increase Longevity
Why Metal Garages Are A Smart Investment
Metal buildings are big business these days.
According to Grand View Research, the pre-engineered metal building market in the U.S. alone is expected to reach $14.03 Billion by 2025. Why is the market growing so rapidly?
Homeowners are discovering metal garage buildings.
Don’t get me wrong, a well-built wooden garage can provide decades of reliable service. But metal buildings provide several advantages over traditional construction that property owners are noticing.
Whether you want an attached garage or a detached garage, they’re strong enough to provide secure storage for your vehicles. They also make great workshops and add value to your property.
Flexibility is another reason to choose metal. Buildings can be customized to fit nearly any property size or style. Additions and expansions are easy as well.
Better quality metal buildings also save you money.
Most steel garages cost 20-30% less than their wood framed counterparts. Construction time is typically faster too. You get a solid structure that will pay off your investment over time.
Planning Your Metal Garage Build
Take time to plan before you order that first piece of steel.
Local building codes should be your first consideration. Each municipality has zoning rules about how close a structure can be to property lines, how high it can be, and what foundation is needed.
Failing to follow these guidelines can result in fines, delays, and even demolition. Don’t let this happen to you.
Size up your needs before pulling a permit.
How big of a garage do you need? A simple two-car garage can be plenty of space today. But what about tools? Seasonal equipment? Work areas?
Ask yourself these questions:
- Will you need to store trucks or larger vehicles?
- Do you need ceiling height for equipment?
- How much storage space will you require?
- What about electrical needs?
Think about your current and future requirements before deciding on a size. Garages can always be expanded later, but its easier to start larger than try to fit more into a small building.
Tips for Preparing The Site
By far, most problems we see occur during the site preparation phase.
The foundation absolutely needs to be correct. Concrete slab? Make sure it’s cured. Properly installed footings? They should be anchored correctly and level.
But here’s a little known fact…
Water draining around the foundation is bad. When excavation occurs, most contractors grade the soil away from the building. But if the soil isn’t graded properly or if there’s not enough slope, water pools around the foundation. Let’s fix that.
Make sure to take these steps when preparing your building site.
- Clear the ground of grass, weeds, debris in the area of the building.
- Double check soil composition. Some soils are not ideal for supporting foundations.
- Install correct drainage solutions before pouring concrete.
- Allow proper time for any concrete to cure before installing your building.
Metal Building Installation
This is where many DIY disasters happen.
If you aren’t experienced with metal building installation, hire a pro. Many problems we see during inspections are from well-meaning homeowners who try to install their own garage.
Improper assembly, weatherproofing, and anchoring can reduce the life expectancy of your building by decades. Choose an installer you trust.
Even if you have professionals install your garage, understand what matters.
Most municipalities have requirements for how your building needs to be secured to the foundation. High winds, snow loads, and even earthquakes need to be considered.
Make sure these items are done correctly.
- Anchor bolts should be placed according to manufacturers specifications when setting foundations. Bolts must line up with framing members.
- Weatherstripping is applied to prevent air and pest infiltration.
- Doors should be square and level during installation.
- Ventilation is required depending on climate to prevent condensation.
Insulation should be considered during installation as well. Metal garage buildings should include some insulation to keep temperatures comfortable and prevent condensation. Consider climate and intended use when selecting insulation.
During installation is the best time to plan electrical needs as well. Its easier to run conduit and wire before walls go up. Plan for outlets, switches, lighting, and possible future needs like EV charging stations.
Maintenance Tips To Increase Longevity
It’s low maintenance. Kind of.
Metal garage buildings don’t require annual painting, sealing, or pest control like traditional wood structures. But that doesn’t mean they never need to be maintained.
Inspect your building regularly.
Look for scratches or damage to roofing panels and walls. Keep coating intact to prevent rust. Remove debris from roof panels and any gutters to prevent clogging.
Maintenance tips include:
- Check anchor bolts and other fasteners yearly.
- Wash the building with soap and water to remove dirt.
- Lubricate doors to keep rolling smoothly.
- Inspect weatherstripping and replace when cracked.
Your garage door takes the most abuse. Consider this when maintaining your building.
Tracks should be clear of debris and dirt. Roller should be lubricated. Door springs should be properly tensioned. A good garage door will open and close smoothly every time.
Don’t neglect the concrete slab.
Seal the floor every few years to prevent stains and moisture. A clean floor goes a long way too. Your garage will look finished and professional.
Here’s the value…
Homeowners love metal garage buildings because they don’t have to deal with the upkeep that wood buildings require. But that doesn’t mean you don’t maintain it at all. Just significantly less.
Metal Garage Buildings Are A Great Investment
Adding a garage to your home can net you an average of $12,800 to $33,200 in return. That’s according to Angi. A return on your investment of 75-85%.
Not bad.
Not only that, but metal garage buildings offer the benefits of a secure place to park your cars, safe storage, and even a work space. All things that add to your enjoyment of your property.
Don’t forget durability.
A typical wood garage may last 20-30 years before repair or replacement is needed. Solid metal garage buildings can last 40+ years.
It’s the bottom line that matters.
Investing in a metal garage pays off. If you do the homework up front. Choose a quality product. Work with experienced installers.
You end up with a long-lasting metal building that serves its purpose and adds real value to your home. That’s a win in my book.