Metal Building FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about ForgeFab metal buildings, pricing, engineering, lead times, and the design process. If you don’t see your question here, you can always contact us directly.
General Questions & Pricing
Start here if you’re just getting familiar with ForgeFab and metal building projects in general.
What types of buildings does ForgeFab supply?
We focus on pre-engineered cold-formed metal buildings: home shops, garages, barndominiums, commercial buildings, ag/storage buildings, and utility / infrastructure shelters. Each package is engineered and ordered specifically for your project.
Do you install the buildings?
ForgeFab is a supplier, not an installer. We provide the engineered building package, drawings, and support. You’ll work with a local concrete and erection contractor for the slab and installation. We’re happy to coordinate details with them.
Do you only serve Louisiana?
Our primary focus is Louisiana and nearby regions. If your project is outside the state, reach out with the location and we’ll let you know what’s possible based on engineering, shipping, and local code requirements.
How much do your buildings cost per square foot?
Shell-only building costs typically fall in a range, depending on size, loads, openings, insulation, and options. Turnkey projects (slab + building + labor) are usually priced per square foot by your contractor. The best way to get an accurate number is a written quote based on your actual layout and specs.
Is a quote free?
Yes. Quotes are free. For more complex commercial or engineered projects, we may phase the process (budgetary quote first, then full submittal package), but we’ll explain that up front if it applies.
What information do you need to quote a building?
At minimum: location (city/parish), building width, length, eave height, roof type, approximate door sizes/locations, and intended use. The more detail you provide, the more accurate we can be with pricing and lead times.
Engineering, Codes & Permits
These questions cover structural design, drawings, and how ForgeFab buildings fit into code and permit requirements.
Are your buildings engineered?
Yes. ForgeFab supplies pre-engineered systems designed for your location, loads, and building code requirements. Structural calculations and sealed drawings are available when required by the authority having jurisdiction.
Do you help with IECC energy code compliance?
We can provide building envelope options (insulation, liner systems, roof/wall assemblies) that align with IECC requirements for your climate zone. Final code compliance is verified through your designer, engineer, or local building official.
Do I still need a building permit?
In most cases, yes. Permit requirements depend on your parish, city, and the type of project. You or your contractor are responsible for obtaining permits, but we’ll supply the building information needed for submittals.
Who is responsible for the foundation design?
The foundation (concrete slab, piers, etc.) is typically designed by a local engineer or foundation contractor. We provide anchor bolt reactions and building loads so they can design a slab that properly supports the building.
Ordering, Payments & Lead Times
Here’s how the ordering process usually works, along with timing expectations.
What does the ordering process look like?
Typically: (1) We review your layout and goals, (2) provide a written quote, (3) finalize options and drawings, and (4) once you approve and submit the deposit, the building is released to fabrication and scheduled for delivery.
What are typical lead times?
Lead times vary by season, building type, and engineering requirements. Small standard buildings may be just a few weeks; more complex or heavily engineered projects can take longer. Your quote will always include an estimated lead time based on current conditions.
How much do I pay up front?
Most building orders require a deposit when you sign off on the proposal, with the balance due prior to shipment. The exact structure depends on the size and type of project and will be spelled out clearly in your quote and order documents.
Who coordinates delivery to the jobsite?
ForgeFab arranges building delivery with the manufacturer and carrier. You or your contractor are responsible for having equipment and access ready to unload when the truck arrives. We’ll communicate schedules and expectations before the load leaves the plant.
Installation, Foundations & Contractors
ForgeFab supplies the building kit and support, while your local contractors handle the slab, erection, and any interior build-out.
Can you recommend an installer or concrete contractor?
In some areas we may know contractors who are familiar with pre-engineered metal buildings. Ultimately, you choose who you want to work with, but we’re glad to share what we know and help them understand the building package.
Do you provide interior framing or build-out?
Interior framing, walls, plumbing, electrical, and finishes are typically handled by your general contractor or separate trades. ForgeFab focuses on the building shell and envelope.
What should be ready before the building arrives?
The pad should be prepared, the slab or foundation completed and cured, access for trucks and equipment should be clear, and your erection crew should be scheduled. This helps avoid extra freight charges and delays.
What if my contractor has questions during installation?
We encourage your contractor to call or email with questions about the building package, drawings, and details. If something doesn’t look right, it’s better to ask before installing. We’re here to support the project, not just the sale.
Online Design Tool & Process
The ForgeFab online design tool is one of the easiest ways to sketch your building and get a quote based on real dimensions and options.
Do I have to use the design tool to get a quote?
No. The design tool is optional. It’s great for visualizing sizes and door placements, but you can also call, email, or fill out the quote request form with your dimensions and we’ll handle the layout on our end.
Does the design tool work on mobile?
It can be used on a phone or tablet, but it’s much easier on a desktop or laptop, especially when placing doors and windows. If you only have a phone, you can still submit a simple request and we’ll follow up.
What happens after I submit a design?
Your layout comes directly to ForgeFab. We review it, apply engineering requirements, and build a detailed quote around it. If we see anything that needs adjustment, we’ll suggest changes before anything is ordered.
Am I committed to anything by using the tool?
No. Submitting a design or quote request does not obligate you to purchase. It simply gives us the information needed to provide real numbers and options so you can make an informed decision.
Still Have Questions About Your Building?
If your situation is a little different, that’s normal. Send us a message, request a quote, or call and we’ll walk through your project step by step.