Whether you’re adding an accessory dwelling unit for long-term rental, short-term rental, or for a family member, you want to ensure what you’re building is dependable and worth your money. An ADU, also known as a Mother-in-Law Suite, is typically a separate structure from the main house on the property. In many cases, ADUs are built with traditional lumber construction. However, opting for a steel building can save you money in the long run and is likely a lot more affordable than you’d think.
A metal building used as an ADU offers a host of benefits that can save you money in the long run. From maintenance savings to insurance savings, steel is the wise choice. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages of going with steel when it comes to your new building project.
Given that steel is inherently a fire-resistant material, metal buildings are, in general, much cheaper to insure than an equivalent timber construction building. Some of our customers have reported that their insurance quote for a steel building was about half the cost of a wooden structure of the same size.
Steel is also inherently stronger than wood. While that may seem like a pretty obvious statement, it’s worth noting. Because of this, steel buildings do not tend to rot or break down like wooden structures can when exposed to the elements over the long term. In addition, steel buildings require virtually no maintenance throughout their lifetimes. Most steel buildings will outlive the folks who put them up. In fact, here at Great Western, our steel buildings come with a lifetime structural warranty to ensure your building stays up to snuff for as long as it should.
In general, the long-term savings of a metal building for an ADU can be substantial. Importantly, though, it’s worth noting that a steel building is not as expensive as you’d think. In most cases, a steel building isn’t much more costly than a wooden building of the same size. In many cases, they are nearly identical in price for the structure itself.
Beyond the inherent structural benefits of steel, there are some other advantages. A major one is that termites have no interest in eating metal. So, if you’re in an area where termites are a potential issue, a steel building is a phenomenal solution. Most steel buildings have a rust-preventing coating applied to major components. So, steel buildings are highly resistant to issues spanning from insects to corrosion and wear.
Most steel buildings use compression insulation. Modern insulation systems are extremely efficient and can ultimately lead to energy savings if your building is climate-controlled. Whether you’re opting for a mini-split or a full-blown central heating and air system, a well-insulated steel building will make your climate control system extremely efficient.
In many cases, a steel building can actually be completely HOA-compliant. Many HOAs specifically prohibit steel buildings as a blanket solution, even for buildings with steel siding and roofs, like a traditional shop building. However, many HOAs will allow steel buildings so long as they have traditional siding and roof systems.
Many of our customers have opted for non-steel siding on buildings ranging from Stucco and brick to classic vinyl house siding. Furthermore, many of our customers have opted for a traditional tile roofing system.
Starting with the best structure to suit your needs will ultimately bring lifelong satisfaction to your project. Why make compromises now only to regret them in the future? Weigh all your options and ensure you’re doing what’s best for your property’s future!
Looking for a place to start? Our sales team is here to help get you exactly what you need. Whether you’re building an ADU, a full-blown residence, or want to add a separate garage or shop to your property, our steel building kits are your perfect solution. Each one is designed and engineered to meet not only your needs, but your local coding requirements so that you can get the job done right quickly and seamlessly, the first time.
You should receive your estimated quote by email shortly. Please keep in mind that this is just an estimate and does not include snow loads, wind loads, county specific code requirements, delivery or design specific engineering calculations related to the structural soundness of the building.
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