Frequently asked questions

Pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMB) are steel structures engineered and fabricated to your exact plans before they ship. The frame is all-steel I-beam construction, pre-punched and supplied with the bolts and screws, so the building arrives ready to assemble.

PEMB stands for pre-engineered metal building: a steel building engineered to your site and use, then fabricated and shipped ready to erect.

A well-engineered steel building can last 50 years or more, and commercial structures often stand far longer with routine maintenance. Universal Steel buildings are engineered for durability and finished with a long-life coating system.

Highly. Our in-house engineering and design team handles higher-complexity projects and tailors each building to your site, use, and finish, from clear-span widths to doors, windows, and panel options.

We are a manufacturer with in-house structural engineering, so design and value engineering happen alongside the same team that carries your project the whole way. We use higher-yield steel with strong tensile strength and a paint system built for brilliance and longevity. See our process.

Universal Steel is a manufacturer, not a reseller. We engineer your building to your local code and ship it direct from the plant closest to your site.

Universal Steel of America has specialized in pre-engineered metal buildings since 1995, more than 30 years.

Yes. Universal Steel ships buildings throughout the US and internationally across the Caribbean, Puerto Rico, South America and Africa, from the plant closest to your site.

On average, structural drawings take about 2 to 3 weeks to complete and be ready for a structural engineer's stamp.

Fabrication typically takes about 7 to 10 weeks on average, depending on the complexity of the building.

Universal Steel does not erect buildings, but we have a preferred network of experienced steel contractors and can refer you to one. Many customers also erect the building themselves.

Yes. Many customers erect the building themselves. Every component is individually marked and cross-referenced to easy-to-read assembly drawings, and we provide a step-by-step reference manual.

Cost depends on size, complexity, finishes, and your local code requirements, so every building is quoted to your exact plans. Request a quote for a firm figure.

At a minimum, a forklift with all-terrain tires and a T-spreader bar. Other equipment can be used depending on the size of the building and the site.

There is a 30-day grace period from delivery to report any shortages or damage. Contact your building consultant promptly so we have time to resolve anything.

Yes. Every building is engineered to your site's wind, snow, and seismic codes and to local code requirements. Our building consultants confirm requirements with your local building department.

Permit requirements vary by jurisdiction. We provide structural, engineer-engineered structural stamped drawings to support your permit application.

Universal Steel offers a 25 to 40 year finish warranty covering the paint and coating system. Extended weather-tightness coverage can be added on request.

Yes. We offer a range of insulation systems and can match the R-value you need. Tell us your target and we will include it in your quote.

Beyond the building itself we can provide overhead and roll-up doors, insulation systems, windows, skylights, and hangar doors. If you need it in your package, just ask.

A framed opening is a structural opening built into the design for a window, door, or other accessory. Some accessories require a framed opening.