Regular roof
Rounded corners with panels running front to back. The lowest-cost option and fine for carports in mild climates with little snow or wind.
Free buyer's guide
Metal Building Buyer's Guide
Everything you need to plan, price and install a metal building, in 10 straightforward steps. No jargon, no pressure.
- 10 steps
- About 15 minutes to read
- Free checklist included
The short version
Buying a metal building comes down to 10 steps:
- 1.Confirm a metal building fits your needs and budget.
- 2.Size it around what you'll store, plus room to move.
- 3.Choose your roof style, framing, doors and colors.
- 4.Get it rated for your local wind and snow loads.
- 5.Check zoning, HOA rules and permits.
- 6.Plan a level, accessible site.
- 7.Pick and prep your foundation.
- 8.Choose financing and place your order.
- 9.Get your site ready for delivery.
- 10.Installation day, inspection and upkeep.
Step 1
Is a Metal Building Right for You?
A steel building is one of the most cost-effective ways to add covered or enclosed space to a property. But it isn't the right answer for everyone. Use this quick check before you start pricing.
A metal building is a great fit if...
- You need to protect vehicles, equipment, or a boat or RV from sun, hail, snow and rain.
- You want a lot of space for the money compared with a wood-framed garage or barn.
- You'd rather not deal with rot, termites or regular repainting.
- You want it installed quickly by a crew, not built over months.
- You need a building that can be rated for your local wind and snow loads.
Think twice if...
- Your all-in budget is very tight. Remember to budget for the foundation, site prep and permits, not just the building.
- You need it attached to your house. Most metal buildings are designed as freestanding structures. Attaching one usually means extra engineering, permits and a contractor.
- Your HOA or zoning doesn't allow it. Some neighborhoods restrict steel buildings or require matching colors and materials. Check first (Step 5).
- You need it next week. Manufacturing and installation take time, typically a few weeks to a few months depending on your area and building.
Not sure yet? Talk to an Omega building specialist. We'll tell you honestly whether a metal building makes sense for your project. Call (800) 555-0199.
Next: How to Size Your Metal Building Step 2
How to Size Your Metal Building
Size is the biggest driver of cost, both for the building and for the foundation under it. The goal is to buy enough room for what you'll store today plus a little extra, without paying for space you won't use.
Measure what goes inside
- 1. Measure your widest vehicle or piece of equipment with mirrors folded out. Write down the width, length and height.
- 2. Add room to open doors and walk around. Plan on roughly 3 to 4 feet between vehicles and between a vehicle and the wall, so doors open without dinging anything.
- 3. Add length for walking room and storage. A few extra feet at the front or back gives you space for shelves, a workbench or a mower.
- 4. Check height for your tallest item. Roll-up doors hang slightly below the opening, so give yourself extra clearance above your tallest vehicle, especially trucks with racks, RVs and tractors.
- 5. Plan for what's next. If there's any chance you'll add a vehicle, a lift or a workshop, size up now. It's far cheaper than adding a second building later.
Common sizes and what they fit
| Building size | Typical use | Footprint (sq. ft.) |
|---|---|---|
| 12' × 21' | One-car carport or small garage | 252 |
| 18' × 21' | Two-car carport | 378 |
| 20' × 21' | Small two-car garage | 420 |
| 24' × 26' | Two-car garage with storage | 624 |
| 24' × 31' | Two-car garage with workspace | 744 |
| 30' × 31' | Three-car garage or shop | 930 |
| 30' × 41' | Large garage or workshop | 1,230 |
| 40' × 50' | Shop, barn or equipment building | 2,000 |
| 50' × 100'+ | Commercial or agricultural | 5,000+ |
Many manufacturers list roof length 1 foot longer than the frame (for example, 21' instead of 20') because the roof overhangs the frame. Your specialist will confirm exact dimensions.
Not sure what size you need? Tell us what you're storing and we'll recommend a size.
Get My PriceStep 3
Design Your Metal Building: Roof, Frame, Doors and Colors
Choose your roof style
Boxed eave (A-frame) roof
The classic house-style peak with panels running front to back. Looks more like a traditional garage and is a good mid-range value.
Vertical roof
A-frame peak with panels running from the ridge down to the eaves, so rain, snow and debris slide straight off. The strongest and most durable choice, and the one we recommend for enclosed buildings, snow country, high-wind areas, and longer or wider buildings.
Framing and panel gauge
Gauge numbers run backward: the lower the number, the thicker the steel.
Framing
14-gauge tubing is standard on most residential buildings. 12-gauge framing is heavier and is often recommended for higher wind and snow ratings and larger spans.
Panels
29-gauge sheeting is standard. 26-gauge panels are thicker and more dent-resistant, a smart upgrade in hail country.
Doors and windows
- Roll-up doors are the most common garage doors on steel buildings. Give each vehicle its own door when you can; it's easier to park and to replace one door if it's damaged.
- Walk-in doors let you get inside without opening the big door.
- Windows add light and airflow to workshops and garages.
- Frame-outs are reinforced openings where you can add a door or window later, or install an insulated garage door from a local supplier.
Colors and finishes
Pick roof, wall and trim colors to match your home or stand out. Two-tone walls and wainscot add a custom look for a small upcharge. Try the Omega Color Planner →
Insulation and ventilation
Steel buildings can sweat when warm, humid air hits cool panels. If you'll store anything valuable or heat or cool the space, add insulation or a vapor barrier. Ridge vents and gable vents help move air in barns and shops.
Next: Get Rated for Your Wind and Snow LoadsStep 4
Make Sure Your Building Is Rated for Your Wind and Snow Loads
Every address in the U.S. has a design wind speed and ground snow load. A building rated below those numbers can fail inspection, cause insurance problems, or fail in a storm.
- Certified buildings come with engineered drawings showing they meet specific wind and snow ratings. Most building departments require them for a permit.
- Higher ratings typically add closer truss spacing, heavier framing, extra bracing and more anchors. They cost a little more and are worth it.
Look up the wind speed and snow load for your address in about 2 minutes.
Use the Load LookupStep 5
Check Zoning, HOA Rules and Permits Before You Order
This step saves more headaches than any other. Do it before you finalize your design.
1. Check your HOA or deed restrictions
If you're in an HOA, read your covenants (often called CC&Rs) or ask the board. Many HOAs allow steel buildings with approved colors, heights or materials. Get approval in writing.
2. Find the right local office
In a city or town, look for the planning, zoning or building department. In unincorporated areas, it's usually the county. If you're not sure, call your county and ask who handles building permits at your address.
3. Questions to ask your building department
- Do I need a permit for a detached carport, garage or barn of this size?
- What design wind speed and snow load do you require at my address?
- Which ASCE 7 edition and Risk Category do you use?
- What are the setbacks from property lines, the house and other buildings?
- Are there height or lot coverage limits?
- Do you require engineered (stamped) drawings?
- Do you need a site plan? What should it show?
- Are there foundation or anchoring requirements?
- What inspections are required, and when?
- How long does permit review usually take, and what does it cost?
- Can I apply online?
Your specialist can provide engineered drawings for your permit application. See Permits & Engineering for how it works.
Next: Plan Your Building Site Step 6
Plan Your Building Site
Pick a level spot
The site needs to be level for the building to sit square, for doors to work properly, and for water to drain away. A slight natural slope away from the building is good for drainage, but the pad itself must be level. The more grading you need, the more site prep will cost.
Leave room around the building
Installers need working space around the perimeter, generally a few feet on every side, plus room to bring in the delivery truck. Larger buildings may need more clearance and equipment access.
Look up and look down
- Overhead: Keep clear of power lines and overhanging tree limbs.
- Underground: Call 811 a few days before any digging or anchoring. It's free, and they'll mark buried utility lines. Also mark septic tanks, drain fields, irrigation and private lines yourself.
Stake out the corners
Mark the four corners with stakes and string. Measure to property lines, the house and other structures to confirm you meet setbacks. Walk the delivery path from the road to the pad.
Next: Choose and Prepare Your FoundationStep 7
Choose and Prepare Your Foundation
Your foundation affects cost, anchoring, permits and how you'll use the building.
Concrete slab
The best choice for enclosed garages, shops and most permitted buildings. Clean floor, strongest anchoring, easiest to keep dry.
Gravel pad
A compacted gravel base is a popular, lower-cost option for carports, barns and some garages. Good drainage. Anchored with ground anchors.
Ground (dirt)
Possible for some carports and agricultural buildings if the site is level and firm. Anchored with rebar or auger anchors.
Asphalt
Workable for some open structures with the right anchors; less common for enclosed buildings.
Concrete slab basics
- The slab should be level and square, sized to the building's frame dimensions.
- Many residential slabs are around 4 inches thick with thickened edges (footers) around the perimeter where the frame anchors. Heavier vehicles, lifts, equipment and local codes may call for thicker concrete.
- Your local code and your building's engineered drawings set the final requirements.
- Let new concrete cure before installation; your concrete contractor will advise on timing.
Learn more about concrete foundations →
Next: Financing and Placing Your OrderStep 8
Financing and Placing Your Order
Payment options
Pay in full
Simplest option, typically a deposit at order and the balance at installation.
Financing
Credit-based financing with fixed monthly payments. See financing →
Rent-to-own
No credit check, low upfront payment, and you own it at the end of the term. See rent-to-own →
Before you sign, confirm:
- Exact dimensions, roof style, gauge and certification
- Wind and snow rating on the order matches your local requirement
- Doors, windows, colors and options
- Foundation type and who is responsible for it
- What's included in delivery and installation, and any extra charges (uneven site, long carry, access issues)
- Estimated lead time for your area
Step 9
Getting Ready for Delivery and Installation
Lead times vary by manufacturer, region, building size and season, from a few weeks to a few months. Use that time to get everything ready.
- Permit approved and posted, if required
- Foundation finished, level and cured
- Site cleared of vehicles, debris and anything in the work area
- Access path open for the delivery truck
- Power available nearby for the crew's tools
- Pets secured and someone available to meet the crew
- HOA approval in hand, if applicable
Omega keeps you updated from order to install, so you're not left wondering when your crew is coming.
Next: Installation Day and Long-Term Care Step 10
Installation Day and Long-Term Care
What to expect on installation day
Most residential buildings are installed by a crew in a day or two once the site is ready. The crew assembles the frame, anchors it to your foundation, installs panels, trim, doors and windows, and cleans up the site.
Before the crew leaves, walk through:
- Doors open, close and lock smoothly
- Anchors are installed as specified
- Panels, trim and screws are secure
- Any damage is noted and photographed
Final inspection
If you pulled a permit, schedule your final inspection with the building department.
Simple maintenance
- Rinse panels once or twice a year, especially near salt air or fertilizer
- Keep snow from building up on lower-pitch roofs
- Check anchors and screws after major storms
- Keep gutters, if added, and drainage paths clear
- Lubricate roll-up door tracks and springs per the door instructions
Free download
Take the Buyer's Guide and Checklist With You
Get this guide as a printable PDF, including the permit questions checklist and delivery prep checklist.
Metal Building Buyer FAQs
How much does a metal building cost?
It depends on size, roof style, gauge, wind and snow rating, doors and options, and your location. Remember to budget separately for the foundation, site prep and permits. The fastest way to get an accurate number is a free quote based on your exact size and address. See our Metal Building Cost Guide.
What size metal building do I need?
Measure what you'll store, add 3 to 4 feet between vehicles and around the walls, add length for storage or a workbench, and plan for future needs. A building specialist can recommend a size based on what you're storing.
What's the best roof style for a metal building?
A vertical roof is the strongest and sheds rain and snow best. It's recommended for enclosed buildings, snowy or windy areas, and larger buildings. Regular and boxed eave roofs cost less and work well for carports in milder climates.
Do I need a permit for a metal building?
Often, yes, especially for enclosed garages and larger buildings. Rules vary by city and county. Check with your local building department before ordering.
What foundation do I need?
Concrete is best for enclosed garages, shops and most permitted buildings. Gravel and ground installations work for many carports and barns. Your local code and engineered drawings set the final requirements.
How long does it take to get a metal building?
Lead times range from a few weeks to a few months depending on your area, the manufacturer, building size and season. Installation itself usually takes a day or two for residential buildings once the site is ready.
Can I finance a metal building?
Yes. Omega offers financing and rent-to-own options, with no credit check on rent-to-own.
Get your price
Ready to price your building?
Tell us what you need and where it's going. We'll quote a building sized and rated for your property, usually by 9am the next business day. Prefer to talk it through? Call (800) 555-0199.
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