Points to Remember When Selecting a Metal Carport and Building Dealer
When selecting a metal carport dealer or metal building dealer, you have choices – many choices in fact. But it’s important to remember that the building you are choosing is a major investment, so your purchase deserves thorough research and vetting of the company you select. Your purchase is not like purchasing a car or a dishwasher – so you will have different considerations and questions prior to purchase. The same size carport sold by two different carport dealers can have a vast number of differences; every manufacturer has a specific process and set standards when it comes to everything from materials specs to detailing standards, engineering, and even sales practices. So, what should you look for when making this all-important buying decision?
Who Sells Metal Buildings?
Metal buildings are generally sold by one of three entities: the manufacturer, the contractor, or the broker. The manufacturer makes and sells the building, while the contractor buys buildings and resells them. The broker works as a type of middle man in the process. Working with each of these entities has its advantages.
Regardless of which you choose to buy from, find out as much as possible about the manufacturer of the building. You need to know not only design loads and building sizes, but also if the manufacturer itself performs the engineering of the building, creates the drawings you may need for permit obtainment, fabricates your building, and delivers it to the site. Some questions to ask your carport or metal building company include:
- Is the manufacturer of this building AC472 accredited? This type of accreditation sets manufacturers apart for quality workmanship and consistent satisfactory manufacturing processes. Obtaining this accreditation signifies that the manufacturer has undergone extensive examination to prove its ability to turn out high-quality metal buildings.
- Is the manufacturer of this building a Metal Building Manufacturer’s Association member? This trade association defines and promotes building manufacturer’s interests, and being a member shows your manufacturer went the extra mile to live up to the Association’s standards.
- Who is the manufacturer and where is the manufacturer based? If working with a contractor or a broker, this information should be readily available so that you can check certification and accreditation credentials. The location also affects shipping of any last minute parts due to changes in your construction plans or other problems.
Additional Considerations
Other important factors to consider when selecting the dealer for your steel carport or metal building include:
- The dealer’s experience. How long has the dealer been in business? Does the dealer have a proven track record?
- The dealer’s location. Is the dealer located in your service area?
- Your buying preferences. Does the dealer offer the type of product you are most interested in?
- Trust factor. Does the dealer have any BBB claims unresolved? Does the dealer offer a warranty from the manufacturer?
- Does the dealer offer setup services?
- Service after the sale. What sort of services does the dealer offer after the sale, and do they meet with your expectations?
- Special offers and pricing. Is the building or carport you want priced within your budget and in-line with industry prices?
Whether you are working with a metal building dealer, garage dealer, workshop dealer or other type of metal building company, these are just a few considerations to make when purchasing your building. Find out more about what Viking Steel Structures offers within our multi-state service area and how we strive to become your metal building dealer of choice.
