How much does a Quonset hut cost?
How much does a Quonset hut cost?
$6 – $20 cost per square foot (kit with delivery)
$20 – $50 cost per square foot (fully installed)
$48,000 – $120,000 average total cost (40x60 Quonset hut)
Quonset hut prices
Quonset hut prices are $6 to $20 per square foot for the kit and delivery or $20 to $50 per square foot with installation. A 30x40 Quonset hut price is $7,200 to $24,000 for the kit alone. A 40x60 Quonset hut costs $48,000 to $120,000 installed.
| Dimensions | Size (square feet) | Average Quonset kit price | Total installed cost* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10x10 | 100 | $600 – $2,000 | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| 10x20 | 200 | $1,200 – $4,000 | $4,000 – $10,000 |
| 20x20 | 400 | $2,400 – $8,000 | $8,000 – $20,000 |
| 20x30 | 600 | $3,600 – $12,000 | $12,000 – $30,000 |
| 30x30 | 900 | $5,400 – $18,000 | $18,000 – $45,000 |
| 30x40 | 1,200 | $7,200 – $24,000 | $24,000 – $60,000 |
| 40x60 | 2,400 | $14,400 – $48,000 | $48,000 – $120,000 |
| 60x100 | 6,000 | $36,000 – $120,000 | $120,000 – $300,000 |
*Includes installation labor, site prep, and a slab foundation
Quonset hut cost by usage
The cost of a Quonset hut depends on how it is finished and used. Many people use prefabricated steel Quonset huts for garage or warehouse storage. You can also use the units for agriculture purposes, a workshop, or even a guest house by adding insulation, electricity, and plumbing.
| Use | Common sizes (SF) | Average installed cost per SF* | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quonset garage | 20x20 (400 SF) 30x30 (900 SF) | $20 – $30 |
|
| Quonset warehouse | 30x40 (1,200 SF) 60x100 (6,000 SF) | $20 – $45 |
|
| Quonset barn or farm building | 40x60 (2,400 SF) 60x100 (6,000 SF) | $20 – $30 |
|
| Quonset workshop | 30x40 (1,200 SF) 40x60 (2,400 SF | $30 – $50 |
|
| Quonset guest house | 20x30 (600 SF) 30x40 (1,200 SF) | $30 – $80 |
|
*Includes labor, site prep, foundation, and finishing costs
Quonset hut prices by model
Quonset huts come with pitched or arched roofs and straight side walls or walls that are part of the arch. The combination of roof and walls you choose determines the shape of your building.
The prices differ between the different Quonset hut models because of the amount of material and labor required to build them. The C- and Q-Models are the most basic and affordable, while the S- and T-Models are the most expensive.
| Model type | Average price per SF* | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Q-model | $8 – $14 |
|
| A-model | $10 – $15 |
|
| C-model | $5 – $12 |
|
| M-model | $10 – $15 |
|
| P-model | $10 – $15 |
|
| S-model | $15 – $20 |
|
| T-model | $15 – $20 |
|
*Kit price with delivery – does not include site prep or installation labor.
If you live in an extreme winter climate, combine a pitched roof with arched walls for more strength to handle snow and wind loads.
Quonset hut cost factors
A Quonset hut kit costs $6 to $20 per square foot. In addition to the cost for the kit itself, you’ll also have costs for site prep, a concrete slab foundation, and labor to assemble and secure the Quonset hut. Installation costs average $14 to $30 per square foot, depending on the location and complexity of your building.
| Factor | Average cost per square foot |
|---|---|
| Quonset hut kit (with delivery) | $6 – $20 |
| Labor | $4 – $10 |
| Site prep | $4 – $8 |
| Foundation | $6 – $12 |
| Interior & exterior finishing (optional) | $20 – $70 |
| Total cost* | $20 – $50 per square foot* |
*Not including finishing
Quonset hut kits have a wide range of prices, from $1,200 for a small garage structure to $160,000 for a large agricultural or warehouse building. Some key reasons for this wide price range include:
Size and dimensions – Larger huts or unique shapes cost more than smaller, standard-shaped ones.
Materials – The quality and thickness of the steel can affect the cost. Higher-quality steel is more expensive but offers better durability. The current price of steel also fluctuates due to demand and supply chain issues.
Usage – A Quonset hut for livestock, a workshop, or a guest house is more expensive because it needs insulation, electricity, ventilation systems, and plumbing. If you use your hut as a garage or warehouse, you will spend less on the build-out.
Delivery – Many suppliers include delivery in their prices, while others may charge a separate delivery fee of $200 to $1,000. Always check with the supplier before purchasing your building to find out what their delivery policy is.
Location – Transportation costs are higher for delivery to remote areas. Labor costs are higher in areas with a higher cost of living.
Finishing costs – Insulation, drywall, flooring, electrical wiring, plumbing, heating, cooling, and painting cost extra.
Customizations – Customized kits are more expensive than standard, off-the-shelf options. Features like extra windows, rolling doors, and exterior colors have extra fees.
Established and reputable manufacturers may charge a premium for their products. However, their kits may come with better warranties, customer support, and higher quality.
Quonset hut FAQs
What is a Quonset hut?
A Quonset hut is a lightweight, prefabricated steel structure used for storage, workshops, agricultural buildings, or other applications. They are known for their curved, semi-circular shape. The U.S. Navy first developed the huts during World War II as a portable and easy solution for military housing and storage.
How long does it take to build a Quonset hut?
You can build a small, simple Quonset hut in a few days. A large or complex building may take several weeks or even months to build.
Where can I buy a Quonset hut?
A number of different suppliers sell Quonset huts. Some of the most popular brands include:
SteelMaster Buildings
DuroSpan
General Steel
Metal Buildings Direct
Are Quonset huts hurricane proof?
No, Quonset huts are not hurricane proof, but their curved design and robust steel construction makes them hurricane resistant when properly installed. The buildings can withstand high winds and flying debris. If you live in a hurricane prone area, be sure to install additional structural reinforcement such as wind braces.
Do Quonset huts leak?
Quonset huts can leak, but they are generally very watertight. The curved shape of the hut helps to shed water quickly and efficiently. However, leaks can occur if the hut is not properly installed or maintained. If you notice a leak in your Quonset hut, have it repaired immediately.
Getting estimates from Quonset hut installers
To get accurate and competitive estimates from metal building contractors near you:
Choose licensed, insured, and bonded builders with installing steel Quonset hut buildings.
Get multiple estimates with similar materials, features, and finishes so you can compare.
Read online reviews of builders on HomeGuide and Google.
Select a builder that fits your budget and timeline.
Request a written contract that includes the timeline, payment schedule, and warranty information.
Avoid making large upfront deposits or paying in full until the job is complete.
Questions to ask a Quonset hut installer
To find the best metal home builder for your project, ask the following:
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
How many Quonset huts have you completed this year?
Can you show me examples of your work in my area?
Does your estimate include site preparation, a foundation, and cleanup?
Will you take care of getting the necessary building permits?
How long does it typically take to install and finish a Quonset hut?
What percentage deposit do you require? What are your payment terms?
We use our proprietary database of project costs, personally contact industry experts to compile up-to-date pricing and insights, and conduct in-depth research to ensure accuracy in all our guides.