How To Choose a Builder

So, you’re already sold on the superior benefits of a steel-framed buildings over other alternatives. And you’re simply too busy to build it yourself (even though we offer a fantastic self-build option with our own consultancy option as a half way between the two). But, if you know you need a hassle-free expert turnkey service - how do you choose the right builder for your steel building?

Before we get into the individual benefits there is one obvious benefit that shines above all others – CHOOSE A COMPANY THAT CAN DESIGN YOUR BUILDING AND ERECT YOUR BUILDING AND FIT ALL THE DOORS, WINDOWS, ROLLER SHUTTERS AND MEZZANINE FLOORS. Basically – you need a company that offers a truly turnkey service under one roof. – That’s Steel Build masters.

For those that like to delve into the finer detail, here are the criteria to evaluate one steel framed builder over another:

1. Groundworks

There are two types of steel building builders: those that pour the concrete raft slab and foundations, and those that don’t. If your local builder does not pour the foundation, naturally you’re responsible for arranging a separate contractor to do that part of the job.

Not only that, but you need to arrange to have the builder and the concrete talk to each other about requirements, and line up schedules so the concrete isn’t holding up the construction.

Only some steel building builders like Steel Build Masters offer a full groundworks service as well. This is advantageous because it’s no longer your responsibility to find a contractor and coordinate their schedules. Also, since the same company is responsible for the foundation and the building, they can’t say the foundation was not done correctly.

Equally, and as a caveat to the above: Steel Build Masters offer a National expert coordination service to liaise directly with your local contractor providing detailed plans and specifications for your groundworks to provide the best of both worlds. We even offer a consultancy service to help oversee and check all the work.

2. Quality of Materials

Not all steel buildings are created equal. Cheap buildings are cheap for a reason, and often that reason is sub-quality materials and workmanship. Why take the risk for what is often the smallest of margins. Steel Build Masters design and erect their own design of buildings with the following attributes:

• 100% Made in Britian, Commercial Grade Steel
• Prefabricated with All Galvanised Steel Frames
• Use High Strength Bolts
• Have optional insulation grades for Roof and Walls
• Clear Span (up to 20 metres) or Wide Span with intermediate mullions
• Available with a variety of Windows, Doors and Roller Shutters
• Available with full, half or custom mezzanine floors
• Available with a Large Colour Selections from Walls, Roof and Trims
• Extensive and unrivalled experience and skills in steel erection, cladding and finishing

Make sure the builder you choose can make the same claims. There is a reason why we are the Steel Build Masters.

3. Quality of Craftsmanship

Anyone can order a pre-fabricated building and have it drop-shipped to their location. And plenty of companies will say they can put it together. However, it’s best to contract a company that is experienced putting these types of steel structures together. After all, you purchased a steel building so it would last, so don’t run the risk of an inexperienced builder doing the work.

4. Price

It matters, but you know from experience that the lowest bid doesn’t always result in the best outcome. It’s a good idea to get multiple estimates but go with the company that you think will do the best job in your price range. Check to see if the companies are simply franchised resellers with little actual experience of the design of the building. Always be cautious of resellers – often you will get several quotes each reselling the same building at a different price with different claims – check the paperwork and ask questions before making a decision.

5. Reputation

Not all steel buildings are created equal. Cheap buildings are cheap for a reason, and often that reason is sub-quality materials and workmanship. Why take the risk for what is often the smallest of margins. Steel Build Masters design and erect their own design of buildings with the following attributes:

6. Design Expertise

Check the actual knowledge of the builders. Are they glorified flat=pack experts on a large scale or do they fully understand the design process and have in-depth knowledge of each connection and component? Steel Build Masters design every building from the ground up to include every connection and component to ensure that the building is safe and strong and meets your exact needs. Every building can be custom made to your exact requirements and built accordingly. An attribute that very few companies in the UK can claim.

7. Engineering

Metal structures are engineered. This means that an engineer should be consulted to ensure that it’s built to withstand the various forces that it will need to withstand. Examples include high wind or deep snow loads. All Steel Build Masters buildings are pre-engineered via design software and then independently engineered and signed off for building control.

8. Ease of doing business

Don’t accept wheeling and dealing, and high-pressure sales tactics. Make sure your builder cares about your needs and customises the building to match them. The square peg in a round hole is all too often with resellers trying to sell you a building that simply does not meet your needs – only theirs. At Steel Build Masters we are happy to listen to your requirements and use design intelligence to create a building that will exceed your expectations.

9. Warranty

If a company won’t stand behind its product with some sort of workmanship guarantee that should be a red flag. Steel Build Masters includes a 1-year no-quibble workmanship guarantee to ensure complete peace-of-mind. Plus, we are no spring chickens to the market and we have experience behind us to show that we have built a reputation based on good workmanship and relationships.

10. Try before you Buy

A website or brochure can only convey so much. Ask your builder if you are able to visit examples of buildings before making a decision. Nothing beats seeing the frame and components in the flesh. At Steel Build Masters we are extremely proud of all our buildings and customers. We actively encourage you to visit our yard and offices to see the building in the flesh and to also get to touch and feel each connection etc. You also get to meet the designers in the office and run through options and ideas. We always a great cup of coffee waiting!

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