Questions to Ask When Selecting a Steel Building Installer
Frank Melo • November 1, 2024
In today's complex construction industry, finding the right partner to erect your pre-engineered steel building can be challenging. With numerous companies competing for your business – many with limited track records and minimal verifiable references – how do you identify a trustworthy and competent installation partner?
Due diligence is vitally important. The key to a successful pre-engineered steel building project lies in selecting a company that combines technical expertise with strong project management skills and clear communication. The best way to find a reliable erector for is through referrals from manufacturers and other leaders in the field along with your own research asking intelligent questions and getting the direct, honest answers you require.
That’s why you’ll see Double Black Construction is the preferred builder for so many leading companies. They have the industry experience and specific engineering knowledge of the pre-engineering systems designed by North America’s top manufacturers. Their work as an authorized builder installer means they have the technical expertise and recommendation to ensure the work gets done properly to specification and exacting measure. You only need to see Double Black Construction’s archive of past projects
to get an understanding of why the team is so recommended.
Ask the Right Questions About Steel Erection
Selecting the right professional steel erectors for your project begins with getting multiple bids and being sure to ask potential firms the right questions. The following series of questions will help you gauge the steel erector's expertise, reliability and suitability for your specific steel construction needs, ensuring your project is in capable hands. If answers are vague or the representative is uncomfortable with providing straight answers, it could be a red flag to look elsewhere. When evaluating potential installers, consider these crucial factors:
Experience and Expertise
- How long has the company been in business?
- Do they specialize in pre-engineered metal building assembly?
- Are they authorized builders for major manufacturers?
- What is their track record with similar projects?
Team and Resources
- How many experienced framers will be dedicated to your project?
- What specialized equipment do they own or have access to?
- Do they handle all work in-house or rely on subcontractors?
- How many projects do they manage simultaneously?
Project Management
- Who will supervise the construction site?
- How frequently will the lead erector be present?
- What is their communication protocol during the project?
- How do they handle unexpected challenges or changes?
Verification and References
- Can they provide references from recent and past projects?
- Are they willing to show you completed buildings similar to your project?
- Do they have proper licensing and insurance?
- What warranties do they offer on their work?
Price isn’t everything...
In construction, you truly get what you pay for. If you only consider price, and not other factors (such as experience, focus and a portfolio of successful past jobs), you might end up with an incomplete or unsatisfactory finished building framing just to save money. While it's tempting to choose the lowest bid, remember that quality steel building installation requires expertise, proper equipment, and experienced labor. Professional installers invest in proper equipment and experienced teams, which is reflected in their pricing. The long-term cost of doing upgrades and repairs or living with a less-than-ideal facility, add up and will cost more in terms of time and money than doing the construction correctly in the first place. An adage says, “if it sounds to good to be true, it probably is”.
So, beware of a bid that seems unreasonably low, or considerably lower than all the others. A low-ball bid may be one of the warning signs of an inexperienced or unscrupulous contractor who might disappear before the job is complete. Good quality craftsmanship is a premium service that deserves a fair price in order to get precision and durability that will ensure your building lasts a lifetime.
Find the Ideal Framing and Installation Partner Through Insightful Answers
Selecting the right steel building installer is crucial for your project's success. Focus on finding a reliable and experienced partner, such as Double Black Construction, who demonstrates:
- Proven experience and expertise
- Strong project management capabilities
- Clear communication
- Quality-focused approach
- Transparent pricing and processes
- Solid manufacturer relationships
Remember that while competitive pricing is important, the true value lies in quality workmanship that ensures your building will stand the test of time. Take time to thoroughly vet potential installers – your diligence during the selection process will pay dividends throughout your building's lifetime.
For an accurate quote and to get the answers to your questions, please contact our leadership team through our Contact Us page
or speak with us directly at (833) 322-2722.
You're also welcome to email us at info@DoubleBlackConstruction.com so we can provide you with a free consultation. Submit your drawings and get a quote online!
About the author:
Frank Melo
has a construction civil engineering technology and business background with over 25 years of experience as a business owner and contractor. He was born and educated in London, Ontario and now divides his time between projects primarily in Ontario and British Columbia. He can be contacted at Double Black Construction at (778) 951-4766
or by email at frank@doubleblackconstruction.com
or through LinkedIn.
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Selecting the best professional steel erectors for your project begins with getting multiple bids and asking the right questions.
As economic development in Canada’s North grows, we have the experience to take on whatever commercial building project you require.
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