Key Takeaways
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost Per Square Foot | $50 – $145 for a finished metal building home |
| Average Cost for 2,400 SF Home | $120,000 – $350,000 |
| Factors Affecting Cost | Size, type, materials, labor, site prep, and interior & exterior finishing |
| Comparison With Traditional Homes | Generally more affordable and quicker to build but may face financing and resale challenges |
$50 – $145 Cost Per Square Foot (Finished)
Metal building homes offer a broad range of customizable options that influence the cost per square foot. On average, a finished metal building home can range from $50 to $145 per square foot. This broad range accounts for factors like the complexity of the design, quality of materials, and extent of interior and exterior finishes.
$120,000 – $350,000 Average Cost to Build a 40×60 Home (2,400 SF)
For a typical 2,400 square foot metal home, the average cost ranges from $120,000 to $350,000. This range includes everything from the basic construction of the metal shell to the finishing touches on the interior.
Cost To Build A Metal Home By Size
The cost of building a metal home varies significantly by size. Below is a breakdown of average costs per size:
| Size | Square Feet | Average Finished Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 25×40 | 1,000 | $50,000 – $145,000 |
| 30×40 | 1,200 | $60,000 – $175,000 |
| 30×50 | 1,500 | $75,000 – $215,000 |
| 30×60 | 1,800 | $90,000 – $260,000 |
| 40×50 | 2,000 | $100,000 – $290,000 |
| 40×60 | 2,400 | $120,000 – $350,000 |
| 40×80 | 3,200 | $160,000 – $465,000 |
| 50×70 | 3,500 | $175,000 – $510,000 |
| 50×80 | 4,000 | $200,000 – $580,000 |
| 50×100 | 5,000 | $250,000 – $725,000 |
| 60×100 | 6,000 | $300,000 – $870,000 |
Steel And Metal Building Home Cost Breakdown
Understanding the components that make up the total cost of a metal building home is crucial. Here’s the cost breakdown per square foot:
| Factor | Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Metal Building Shell (Materials) | $10 – $25 |
| Shell Assembly & Setup (Labor) | $5 – $10 |
| Interior & Exterior Finishing | $35 – $110 |
| Total Cost Per Square Foot | $50 – $145 |
Metal House Kits & Plans Prices
Purchasing metal house kits and plans can provide cost savings. Kits generally include pre-engineered metal components that need to be assembled on-site. Prices vary widely based on the complexity of the design and the quality of materials used.
Labor Cost to Build a Steel Frame House
Labor costs can vary based on the location, complexity of the build, and local labor rates. On average, the labor costs to build a steel frame house can range from $5 to $10 per square foot for the shell assembly and setup.
Metal Building Homes Prices By Type
The type of metal building home significantly affects the overall cost. Here are some common types and their associated costs per square foot:
| Building Type | Cost Per Square Foot (Installed and Finished) |
|---|---|
| Barndominium | $65 – $160 |
| Pole Barn House | $50 – $150 |
| Rigid Frame (I-Beam) | $45 – $135 |
| A-Frame House | $100 – $300 |
| Quonset Hut (Arch Style) | $40 – $125 |
| Shipping Container House | $150 – $350 |
| Modular Metal Building | $80 – $160 |
Barndominium or Pole Barn House Prices
Barndominiums and pole barn houses are increasingly popular due to their affordability and versatility. Barndominiums can cost between $65 – $160 per square foot, while pole barn houses range from $50 – $150 per square foot.
Rigid Frame Steel Building Homes Cost
Rigid frame (I-Beam) metal homes provide durability and a longer lifespan. These homes typically cost between $45 – $135 per square foot.
A-Frame Metal Building Homes Cost
A-Frame metal homes, known for their distinctive triangular shape and aesthetic appeal, range from $100 – $300 per square foot due to their unique design requirements.
Quonset Huts
Quonset huts are an affordable and durable option for metal homes. These arch-style buildings range from $40 – $125 per square foot.
Metal Shipping Container Home
Shipping container homes offer modern, eco-friendly living spaces. They can be more expensive, ranging from $150 – $350 per square foot due to modifications and finishes required.
Cost To Finish A Metal Building Home
Finishing a metal building home involves several factors that add to the overall cost. Here is an average cost for a 40×60 metal home:
| Factor | Average Cost | % Breakdown |
|---|---|---|
| Building Shell Materials (Including Assembly) | $36,000 – $84,000 | 30% |
| Site Prep and Foundation | $14,000 – $54,000 | 15% |
| Interior and Exterior Finishing | $70,000 – $210,000 | 55% |
| Total Cost to Build | $120,000 – $350,000 | 100% |
Adding Living Quarters to an Existing Metal Building
Adding living quarters to an existing metal building requires various modifications, including insulation, plumbing, and electrical work. The costs can vary widely depending on the existing structure and the extent of the modifications.
Metal Building Home Vs. Traditional Cost
When comparing metal building homes to traditional homes, several factors come into play beyond the initial costs, including construction time, durability, maintenance, and energy efficiency.
| Factor | Metal Building Home | Traditional Home |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $120,000 – $350,000 | $155,000 – $416,000 |
| Time to Build | 6+ months | 12+ months |
| Lifespan | 50 years+ | 70 – 100 years+ |
| Strength and Safety | Endures winds up to 150 mph | Endures winds up to 150 mph |
| Durability | Resists mold, pests, and fire | Prone to moisture, mold, pest, and fire damage |
| Maintenance | Very low maintenance | Requires repainting every 7 to 10 years |
| Energy-Efficiency | Well-insulated | Costlier to achieve energy efficiency |
| Insurance Costs | May be harder to obtain | Easier to insure, costlier in hazard-prone areas |
| Environmental Impact | Reduced due to sustainable materials | Higher due to traditional building practices |
| Building Codes | May be restricted | Some suburban restrictions |
| Financing | Harder to get a conventional mortgage | Easier to obtain mortgage or loans |
| Selling | Limited resale market | Appeals to most buyers |
Metal Houses FAQs
Does A Metal Building Add Value To Your Home?
Yes, a metal building can add value, especially if it includes ample living space and modern amenities. However, the value addition may vary depending on the location and buyers’ preferences.
What Is A Pre-Engineered Metal Building?
A pre-engineered metal building is manufactured and designed off-site and then assembled on-site. These buildings offer a quicker and often more affordable construction solution.
How Long Does It Take To Build A Metal Building?
Building a metal building generally takes about 6 months or more, depending on the size and complexity of the project.
How Long Do Metal Buildings Last?
Metal buildings have a long lifespan, often exceeding 50 years, with proper maintenance and care.
Who Builds Metal Buildings?
There are many specialized contractors and companies that focus on building metal homes, including general contractors with experience in metal construction.
Getting Estimates From Metal Home Builders
When planning to build a metal home, it’s important to get multiple estimates from different builders to compare costs, timelines, and materials.
Questions To Ask
- What is the estimated cost breakdown for materials, labor, and finishing?
- How long will the construction process take?
- What types of metal and insulation are used?
- Are there any restrictions or permits required in my area?
- Can you provide references from previous clients?
By addressing these considerations and understanding the breakdown of costs involved, you can make an informed decision about building a metal home that fits your budget and requirements.
