Top 10 Metal Building Myths: Debunked

You’ve probably seen some metal garages, carports, barns, or other similar structures going up in your area. Maybe you’ve even considered getting one for yourself. The popularity of metal buildings only continues to grow across the country, but some people still have questions. And many misconceptions folks carry about metal buildings are nothing more than myths. So, let’s set the record straight and separate the facts from the fiction about these versatile steel structures. 

MYTH #1: Metal buildings rust too easily.

THE TRUTH: Modern metal buildings are framed and covered with galvanized steel, so they actually handle moisture really well. When properly designed and installed, these structures are rated to last for decades. If you’re looking for durability, steel construction is hard to beat. 

MYTH #2: Metal buildings are flimsy and weak.

THE TRUTH: Steel structures are incredibly robust, and every building Carport Central provides is engineered to meet or exceed your local wind, snow, and seismic codes. In fact, cold-formed steel has the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any common construction material, up to 25 times stronger than wood. Our metal buildings are known for their structural integrity and performance, and they’re also proven to be highly resistant to weather, fire, and pests.

MYTH #3: Metal buildings are either too hot or too cold.

THE TRUTH: While uninsulated steel can conduct heat, there’s also a proven solution to the too hot/too cold building problem: insulation. Metal structures can be insulated just like any other building; with proper insulation and airflow, these structures can be designed to maintain a comfortable temperature. In fact, a well-insulated metal home can actually be more energy-efficient than a stick-built home! How? Thanks to steel’s density, the framing components are very compact, making more cavity space available for insulation. And more insulation means less demand on your HVAC system, equating to lower power bills. 

MYTH #4: Metal buildings are too loud when it rains.

THE TRUTH: Everyone tends to associate a metal roof with that signature pitter-patter of rain. In fact, many folks choose a metal roof for their home or barn simply because they like that sound. But if you’re concerned about the decibel level of a heavier rainfall on your metal paneling, there are several good solutions:

1. Opt for beefier 26-gauge metal panels instead of standard 29-gauge panels. The thicker steel doesn’t transmit as much sound.
2. Choose a higher roof pitch. Steeper roofs tend to be quieter when it rains.
3. Add a proper amount of insulation to the roof and sides of your building. Insulation doesn’t just conserve temperature; it also serves as an effective noise buffer.

MYTH #5: Metal buildings are for storage only.

THE TRUTH: Yes, the word “carport” is in our name, but carports are just the beginning of what you can do with a metal building from Carport Central. None of our buildings comes out of a box or off a shelf; each structure is custom-designed and made to order. Looking for something more than just a storage shed? We’ve provided building solutions for everything from batting cages to barndominiums, and from man caves to medical facilities, retail storefronts, race shops, workshops, worship centers, you name it. There’s really no limit to the possibilities; if you can think it, we can probably build it!

MYTH #6: Metal buildings are all ugly and uncustomizable.

THE TRUTH: Who says a metal building has to be boxy and boring? It doesn’t. On the outside, you can decide everything from the basic building design to the gauge and profile of the roof and side paneling, to doors, windows, frame-outs, lean-to and awning additions, ornamental features like cupolas and weathervanes, and colors for the roof, sides (including two-tone wainscot options), and trim.

On the inside, you can also choose the moisture barrier and insulation you want to include, the layout of your interior floor plan (including clear-span space you can divide up and use any way you like), and more. Essentially, every aspect of a metal building is completely customizable according to your specific needs and wants.

Want to design your own custom metal building? Have fun with our 3D Building Design Tool. It’s easy to use and is easily accessible on any computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone. With metal building engineering and technology like this, the only real limit is your imagination!

MYTH #7: Metal structures take longer to build.

THE TRUTH: That’s a very common misconception about metal buildings. The structures we deliver are actually simpler to install than comparable stick-built structures and can be constructed more quickly with less labor. All building components are precision-engineered, pre-measured, and pre-cut in a dedicated fabrication facility, so on-site construction goes much faster and produces less on-site waste. The future of construction is here, and we provide it for happy customers every single day.

MYTH #8: Metal buildings attract lightning.

THE TRUTH: Metal buildings don’t attract lightning any more than other types of structures. Lightning strike probability is primarily determined by height and location. But if lightning should happen to strike your metal building, you’re actually better protected. Why? The metal framing and paneling help diffuse the charge, and each individual anchor serves as a natural ground. If you ever find yourself in an electrical storm, a metal building is honestly one of the safest places to be!

MYTH #9: Metal structures aren’t built to a high standard.

THE TRUTH: There’s actually some truth to this, as not all metal structure companies provide you with the same level of quality. Some have even been known to cut corners and substitute lesser quality materials. But you won’t ever have any of those worries with Carport Central.

We set and maintain a higher standard, and have our own in-house engineer to make sure we get it right anytime there’s a question about building design or structural integrity. Our competitors simply can’t say that, and it’s something that truly sets us apart in this industry.

MYTH #10: Metal buildings are too expensive.

THE TRUTH: Although we saved this one for last, we know that price is probably one of the first things you look at when planning a building project. Thankfully, the cost per square foot to build with metal is often lower than other alternatives, and even more so for larger buildings.

There’s also the ROI factor to consider. A steel building delivers reliability and longevity with much less required maintenance. So, you don’t just save money up front, you keep on saving over time, too. A metal building isn’t just a smart purchase; it’s really a wise long-term investment.

The Bottom Line 

There are many outdated ideas about metal buildings floating around, and we’re here to help clear up these common myths so you can make a more informed buying decision.

Got questions? Ready to get started on your dream building project? Carport Central has you covered! Reach out to us online or connect even faster by calling (980) 321-9898 today.