Smart Shoppers Shrewdly Evaluate Quotes
The more objectively you evaluate quotes, the better we will look!
If there was one article to read, it would be this one.
The Importance of Quote Evaluation: Determining accurate quotes is crucial. Not all quotes are created equal. Relying solely on verbal information from salespeople is unwise.
Meticulous Review of Proposal Features: Carefully examine the features and specifications listed in your proposal before making a purchase. Steel building quality varies, and it’s essential to distinguish standard features from upcharges.
Certification Matters: Consider the fabrication facility’s credentials. IAS certification sets certified plants apart by ensuring rigorous quality, efficiency, and safety standards are met. While certified plants may appear costlier upfront, long-term savings often emerge through construction efficiency.
Sheeting Profiles: Differentiate between “R” and “PBR” sheeting profiles. “PBR” profiles offer better leak resistance, especially for roof sheeting. Ensure both roof and wall sheeting are “PBR” profiles to prevent issues.
Warranty Comparison: Examine warranties for color and galvalume finishes. While some companies offer 10 or 20-year warranties, others provide longer-term coverage. Factory Steel Overstock, for instance, delivers a 40-year color warranty and a 30-year galvalume plus finish warranty.
Framed Opening Trim Packages: Pay attention to trim packages for framed openings. Some sellers offer simple trims that leave red iron door jambs exposed, while others provide Fully Flashed Framed Opening kits for a more polished appearance. Note that there may be an upcharge for non-standard features.
Inclusive Accessories: Ensure that all desired accessories are identical in features, quantity, and inclusion when comparing quotes. Some quotes may list accessories as options, leading to confusion. Buying accessories after the initial order can be costlier.
Ground Snow Load vs. Roof Snow Load: Understanding snow load specifications is crucial but often overlooked. Ground snow load differs from roof snow load, with the former being about 30% higher. Ensure both sellers are quoting the same building codes and consider factors like wind speed, wind exposure, seismic loads, and governing codes. Codes must match or exceed local requirements, and it’s advisable to get all responses in writing.

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Client Testimonials
“FSO and John have been wonderful to work with and his pricing has been excellent. All of the information is timely and he is very responsive. I will be purchasing all future buildings from FSO and I truly appreciate working with an excellent company.”
– Paul P 7/10/2017
Everything went as scheduled down to the minute. I got a price on my metal building that could not be matched by anyone. I even had a salesman call me a liar when I told him what my quote was. Also, when they say there is going to be a delivery at 8 in the morning on a certain day, you better be ready at 8 in the morning. No fuss, no muss. Perfect.
– THOMAS C – 11/20/2020
The building turned out great! Could not be happier with the quality! Me and my dad built it from the ground up just us. It’s finally done so time to load it full of projects! Thanks for the help and the quality building!
– Brandon Hillstead
– 40’x 60′ x 16′ 4/10/2020