Since 2011, Factory Steel Overstock (FSO) has pioneered a transparent cost-plus program for certified metal buildings and insulation. The concept was simple but transformative: FSO publicly posted the wholesale cost and revealed its profit margin separately — empowering customers to understand the real cost and compare market rates transparently.
In October 2025, FSO took its mission even further, becoming the first company in the industry to allow the public to recommend the profit amount for both metal buildings and insulation — with fair-use safeguards to ensure integrity. If an offer is unreasonably low, FSO reserves the right to decline the order. The goal is mutual fairness, not exploitation.
Rooted in Experience and Integrity
FSO’s consumer-first model was created by John Barber, a 40-year industry veteran and practicing Spiritual Practitioner whose mission is to level the playing field between corporations and consumers.
His approach reflects deep market knowledge and personal values of transparency and service. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s words, “Be the change you want to see in the world.” Barber realized that most people, when trusted, choose fairness over deception.
What began as an act of faith has evolved into a proven model for ethical commerce.
Accredited Excellence and Proven Results
Since 2013, FSO has maintained BBB accreditation with an A+ rating and achieved 100% of new business through referrals, repeat customers, and organic searches.
“I’m just a regular guy attempting to put up a 40×50 metal building and trying to pinch every penny. After a long time trying to find out how to buy insulation at a decent price (especially Silvercote in white and black vinyl), I found John Barber. I have to admit I was a little skeptical … even with an established BBB rating. So, I called John and asked 100 questions. He explained the process and while he did a fantastic job, I still was a little uncomfortable. The cost savings going with John was substantial. After following a few of his testimonials, I decided to do it — and wouldn’t you know it, everything turned out perfect. Delivery was fast and they stacked the rolls in my garage. I even miscalculated and came back for a few hundred more sq ft, and John was able to provide options to minimize my mistake. I cannot thank him enough. I definitely endorse him.”
— Paul Szymanski, Verified Customer (Sept 2025)
This testimonial reflects how FSO’s transparent cost-plus model consistently delivers savings, clarity, and peace of mind for everyday buyers.
The Insulation Cost-Plus Process — 10 to 20% Savings
- The public can access the Fiberglass Insulation Wholesale Calculator or use the AI Chatbot on FSO’s website.
- An instant wholesale price is generated based on project details.
- Customers complete the Order Form, choosing facing, R-value, roll dimensions, and accessories — then recommend a fair profit for FSO.
- The total delivered cost is instantly emailed to the customer.
- Within one business day, they receive an Order # and pay the wholesale cost directly to a certified fiberglass laminator.
- Shipping coordinates delivery within two business days.
This transparent approach typically yields 10 – 20% savings compared to standard retail pricing.
The Metal Building Cost-Plus Program — Fair Pricing, No Surprises
With decades of experience, John Barber has seen how many outlets exploit customers by selling incomplete building packages and upselling essentials like foam closures, doors, and framed openings. Some charge $1,000 for $60 foam closures or apply 100–300% markups on standard components.
FSO’s Cost-Plus Metal Building Program was designed to protect consumers from these practices.
- Use the Metal Building Wholesale Calculator or AI Chatbot for an instant delivered estimate.
- Fill out the Quote-Order Form; FSO provides the actual cost before profit.
- Include all desired accessories up front — no hidden add-ons later.
- Recommend a fair profit and pay once approved.
- Receive Order # and send a 30% deposit directly to the certified supplier.
- Get Order Acknowledgment with plan and delivery dates.
This model provides the same 10 – 20% cost savings — while guaranteeing full transparency and fairness from the very first quote.
Experience, Expertise, and Ethics in Every Transaction
- Experience: 40+ years of first-hand industry insight.
- Expertise: Accurate, transparent understanding of cost structures and supplier processes.
- Authoritativeness: Verified BBB A+ rating, 5-star reviews, and decades of credibility.
- Trustworthiness: Transparent pricing, secure payments, certified suppliers, and published testimonials.
About the Founder
John Barber — Founder & Spiritual Practitioner
With over four decades in the steel building industry, John’s mission is to create fairness and transparency in a market long dominated by hidden markups and confusing sales tactics.
Learn More
Visit FactorySteelOverstock.com to use the
Insulation or Metal Building Wholesale Calculators, or chat directly with FSO’s AI assistant for an instant quote.
Discover why thousands of customers — like Paul Szymanski — trust Factory Steel Overstock for honesty, savings, and service excellence.
