How much does a metal building cost?
How much does a metal building cost?
$20 – $50 average cost per square foot (kit + installation)
$24,000 – $60,000 average total cost (30' x 40' building)
Metal building cost
A metal building costs $20 to $50 per square foot for a prefab building kit, including the foundation and installation. A 30 x 40 metal building with a slab foundation costs $24,000 to $60,000, not including site preparation or interior finishing such as drywall, insulation, or electric wiring. Custom-built metal buildings are more costly at $50 to $200 per square foot.
| Building type | Average installed cost (per square foot)* |
|---|---|
| Prefab metal building kit | $20 – $50 |
| Custom-built metal building | $50 – $200 |
*Includes kit, concrete slab, delivery, and construction on site
Cost to build a metal building by type
A metal building is a versatile, durable, and affordable option for garages, workshops, or barns. Prices vary depending on the building type, size, and features. A 10x10 metal shed costs $1,000 to $3,000, while a 20x20 garage costs $11,000 to $30,000 and a 30x40 barn costs $18,000 to $48,000, excluding additional costs for electricity, lighting, workbenches, and storage features.
The following table details the average installed costs for various types of metal buildings.
| Building type | Size (ft) | Average installed cost |
|---|---|---|
| Quonset hut cost | 20 x 20 | $8,000 – $20,000 |
| Prefab metal garage cost | 20 x 20 | $11,000 – $30,000 |
| Shed cost | 10 x 10 | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Workshop cost | 30 x 30 | $18,000 – $45,000 |
| Barn cost | 30 x 40 | $18,000 – $48,000 |
| Horse barn cost (2-stall) | 30 x 40 | $36,000 – $84,000 |
| Barndominium cost * | 40 x 50 | $130,000 – $320,000 |
| Metal building house * | 40 x 60 | $120,000 – $350,000 |
| Indoor riding arena cost | 80 x 100 | $160,000 – $320,000 |
*Turnkey home with interior finishing
Metal building prices per square foot
Prefabricated metal building prices range from $10 to $25 per square foot for the kit alone. A fully installed prefab metal building costs $20 to $50 per square foot. This range covers the kit, delivery, and construction on a concrete slab but does not include site preparation or interior finishing costs.
| Building size (sq. ft.) | Average kit price | Average installed cost |
|---|---|---|
| 10 x 10 (100 SF) | $1,000 – $2,500 | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| 20 x 20 (400 SF) | $4,000 – $10,000 | $8,000 – $20,000 |
| 30 x 30 (900 SF) | $9,000 – $22,500 | $18,000 – $45,000 |
| 30 x 40 (1,200 SF) | $12,000 – $30,000 | $24,000 – $60,000 |
| 40 x 50 (2,000 SF) | $20,000 – $50,000 | $40,000 – $100,000 |
| 40 x 60 (2,400 SF) | $24,000 – $60,000 | $48,000 – $120,000 |
Metal building cost factors
Several factors influence the cost of a metal building:
Size and dimensions: Larger or taller buildings require more materials and labor, increasing costs.
Site preparation: Clearing, leveling, and utility setup costs add to the overall expense.
Design complexity: Custom shapes or multi-level structures increase costs due to specialized engineering and fabrication.
Material costs: Steel prices fluctuate with market conditions, affecting overall building costs.
Location and building codes: Local regulations may require specific materials or standards or dictate the type of foundation you need for your metal building.
Customization options: Additional features like insulation, windows, or interior finishes increase the overall price.
Energy efficiency: Adding insulation and energy-efficient windows increases upfront costs but reduces long-term utility bills.
Additional loads: Engineering for snow, high winds, and seismic factors adds to costs.
Metal building FAQs
How long can you finance a metal building?
Financing terms for metal buildings can vary, but some providers offer plans up to 15 years. This allows you to spread the cost over time.
Can you paint a metal building?
Yes, metal buildings can be painted with specialized paints designed for metal surfaces. It's important to use the right type of paint to ensure durability and prevent rust or corrosion.
Can you live in a metal building?
Yes, metal buildings can be converted into living spaces, often referred to as barndominiums or metal building homes. These structures offer a unique blend of modern living with the durability and efficiency of metal construction.
Are metal buildings cheaper than wood?
Generally, metal buildings are more cost-effective than wood structures, especially when considering long-term maintenance and durability. Metal buildings also offer better resistance to pests and weather conditions, which can reduce maintenance costs over time.
How long do metal buildings last?
Metal buildings are known for their durability and can last for decades with proper maintenance. They are resistant to many forms of damage, including pests and weather conditions, which helps extend their lifespan.
Are metal buildings energy-efficient?
Metal buildings can be energy-efficient, especially when insulated properly. Adding insulation and using energy-efficient windows and doors can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs over time.
Getting estimates from metal building installers
Follow these tips to ensure you get accurate estimates and find the best metal building contractor near you:
Get quotes from multiple metal building contractors to compare prices and services.
Provide detailed project specifications, including building size, type, and any custom features.
Ask for a cost breakdown, including materials, labor, equipment, and potential additional costs.
Inquire about the builder's experience, certifications, and insurance coverage.
Request references from previous clients and examples of similar projects they've completed.
Discuss the estimated timeline for completion and any factors that could affect the schedule.
Consider the quality of materials and long-term durability when comparing estimates.
Ask about warranties on both materials and workmanship.
Clarify what site preparation and foundation work is included in the estimate.
Discuss potential cost-saving options without compromising quality or safety.
Questions to ask a metal building contractor
When hiring a metal building contractor, ask these questions to ensure you're getting a qualified professional for your project:
How long have you been in business and what's your experience with metal buildings?
Are you licensed, insured, and certified to work on metal buildings?
Can you provide references from recent metal building projects?
Can you provide an itemized quote showing the cost of each feature?
Will I receive a rendering of what the building will look like?
Is delivery and installation included in the quote?
What type of insulation options are available?
Are there any additional fees not included in the quote?
How long will the project take?
Will you obtain the necessary permits and schedule inspections?
How do you handle changes or issues during the project?
What warranties do you offer on materials and workmanship?
What's the payment schedule and do you offer financing options?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.