Metal Buildings Guide

Plan it right the first time — loads, codes, and supplier-grade guidance backed by CodeSmart™.

Run CodeSmart™ Encyclopedia Get a Quote Buyer’s Checklist

CodeSmart™ — Intro (Stacked Only)

METAL BUILDINGS GUIDE CODESMART™

Thinking About Building? Start Here.

CodeSmart™ gives you free building load & code references by ZIP to guide your new-construction plans.

What You Get with CodeSmart™

Enter your ZIP code to instantly see building load and code data tailored to your project.

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Personalized Local Building Codes — wind, snow, seismic, and frost data specific to your area.

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Personalized Framing Recommendation — see if a Cold-Formed or Rigid Frame system fits your site.

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Verified Building Department Link — connect directly to your jurisdiction for official code details.

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Curated Metal Building Supplier — recommended supplier options based on your ZIP and project type.

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Free & Fast — no account or login required. Plan your next build with confidence.

How CodeSmart™ Works — Updated Yellow Topics

How CodeSmart™ Works

Fast, neutral reference data to plan your metal building with confidence.

1Enter ZIP + Basics

Provide ZIP, width / length / eave, roof pitch, use type, and timeframe — simple, private inputs only.

2We Source Verified Data

NWS wind, USGS seismic (ASCE 7), elevation, and AI baselines generate precise load and code suggestions.

3You Verify & Plan

Review results, confirm with your local building department, and plan your structure accurately.

4See Your Suggested Building Type & Supplier

CodeSmart™ shows whether a Cold-Formed or Rigid Frame fits best — plus a suggested supplier for your area.

Heads-up: CodeSmart™ is informational only — final design must be PE-stamped and approved by your jurisdiction.

Metal Buildings Guide — CodeSmart™ (v1.8.8 — PureAI)

1. First Name

2. Last Name

3. Phone

4. Email

5. Jobsite ZIP Code

6. Width (ft)

7. Length (ft)

8. Eave Height (ft)

9. Roof Pitch (rise:12)

10. Building Use

11. Wind Exposure (standard C)

Determines design wind pressure based on surrounding terrain and openness.

A: City center or dense urban area
B: Suburban/wooded area with scattered obstructions
C: Open terrain with few obstructions (standard)
D: Flat, unobstructed coastal/offshore environments

12. Site Class (standard D)

Represents average soil stiffness and affects seismic response.

A: Hard rock
B: Rock
C: Very dense soil / soft rock
D: Stiff soil (standard)
E: Soft soil (needs special analysis)

13. Risk Category (standard II)

Defines building importance and safety factors.

14. Timeframe

Note: Informational only. Verify with your local building department.

RIGID FRAME OR COLD FORMED

Both are 100% steel, precision-fabricated, and engineered for lasting strength — the right choice depends on span, height, and local code loads and budget.

RIGID FRAME DESIGN

Rigid-frame (red-iron) systems are built from welded I-beam columns and rafters engineered for heavy loads, wide clear spans, and high roof elevations.

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COLD FORMED DESIGN

Cold-formed buildings use lighter C- or Z-shaped sections bolted together, ideal for smaller footprints, faster setup, and lower overall weight.

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Both structures are finished with 26-gauge PBR roof and wall panels, accented by a Sculptured Trim Package for a clean, professional look.

Metal Buildings Guide — The Metal Building Buyer’s Checklist (Start Here)

1

Loads & Codes — Get Requirements Right

Confirm adopted IBC year, design wind (Vult), exposure category, ground snow (pg), and seismic parameters (SDS/SD1) with your jurisdiction. These determine steel sizing, foundation, and pricing accuracy. Ask about setbacks, floodplain, and frost depth.

Learn more →

2

Define Geometry & Use

Lock width × length × eave height, roof pitch, and openings before requesting pricing. Plan interior clearances, door heights, turning radii, and future bays so framing supports your workflow and expansion plans.

Open CodeSmart™ →

3

Choose a Reliable Supplier

Ask about engineering source (PE-stamped), coil origin, paint system, warranties, and logistics. Look for realistic lead times and complete trim packages. Compare total installed cost—not teaser quotes.

Contact us →

4

Cold-Formed vs Rigid Frame

Cold-formed: light, fast, ≤60′ spans. Rigid frame: wide clear spans, tall eaves, cranes, mezzanines. Compare usable height, bay spacing, and schedule to select the best strength-to-value system.

Learn more →

5

Panels & Trim

Specify profile (PBR, AVP, 7.2), gauge, substrate (AZ50/AZ55), and paint system. Demand closures, trims, gutters, and downspouts to prevent leaks and elevate curb appeal.

See standards →

6

Insulation & Condensation

Pick insulation for climate and occupancy—fiberglass, spray foam, or hybrid. Use continuous vapor retarders and ventilation to reduce condensation and improve comfort.

Learn more →

7

Permits & Submittals

Provide PE-stamped drawings and calculations. Include site plan, soils/energy docs, and inspection notes. Early, complete packages shorten review and prevent redesigns.

Engineered drawings →

8

Foundations & Site Work

Rigid frames: isolated footings. Cold-formed: grade beam below frost. Verify anchor bolts, slab flatness, elevations, and drainage away from slab edges.

Foundations guide →

9

Installation

Hire insured, experienced crews. Follow stamped drawings and manuals, track deliveries, protect panels, and document all change orders in writing.

Install resources →

10

Payments & Documentation

Use deposits and milestone draws responsibly. Hold retainage until punch-list complete and collect lien waivers. Keep paperwork consistent for clear records.

Get help →

11

Close-Out & Maintenance

Complete inspections, gather warranties, wash panels yearly, and retighten fasteners. Routine upkeep extends roof life and preserves resale value.

Ask a question →

Contact Us for Expert Guidance

Planning a rigid-frame or cold-formed project? We’re here to help. From Bexar County, TX to nationwide delivery, our team provides code-aware guidance, transparent pricing, and fast quotes on prefabricated metal buildings.
Call 210-997-1853 or request a quote today.