Custom vs. prefab: which steel building design is right for you?

  • Author: Fazal Umer
  • Posted On: November 21, 2023
  • Updated On: November 21, 2023

Building a production or warehouse facility is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning and design. Investors often face the dilemma of whether to choose a pre-designed steel hall project or opt for custom solutions. In this article, we will examine both options and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Pre-designed steel hall projects

Pre-designed steel hall projects are readily available in the market, with many companies offering them in various variations and sizes. These projects are versatile and can be used in different locations. They are often more cost-effective than custom projects, which attracts the attention of many investors.

However, it’s worth noting that pre-designed steel hall projects have their limitations. They do not take into account the specific location, ground conditions, or building regulations. Adapting such a project to individual needs can result in additional costs and challenges. Moreover, pre-designed projects may not fully meet the investor’s expectations in terms of functionality and aesthetics.

Pros and cons of pre-designed steel hall projects

Pre-designed projects are not the perfect solution. Considerations for their disadvantages include:

  • Lack of consideration for location and building regulations.
  • Potential for generating additional costs.
  • Limitations in terms of functionality and aesthetics.

The advantages of pre-designed projects include:

  • Lower cost.
  • A wide selection of available designs.
  • Quick access to a ready-made solution.
  • Good quality projects offered by reputable companies.
  • Shortening the time required to obtain a building permit.

Custom steel hall projects

Designing a custom steel hall gives the investor complete control over the design process. Such a project can be tailored to specific needs and requirements, as well as to the location and building regulations. A custom project allows for the inclusion of specific technical requirements, functionality, and aesthetics.

While custom steel hall projects may be more expensive and time-consuming, they offer numerous benefits. Investors can be sure that the project is perfectly tailored to their needs and meets all requirements. Additionally, such a project can be more energy-efficient and adapted to local conditions.

Pros and cons of custom steel hall projects

What are the disadvantages of custom projects? They may include:

  • Higher cost and time requirements.
  • Adaptation to location and building regulations.
  • Greater flexibility in terms of functionality and aesthetics.

Consider the advantages as well:

  • Full control over the project and its customization to individual needs.
  • The ability to include specific technical requirements.
  • Potential long-term savings through better energy efficiency.
  • Uniqueness and originality of the project.

The choice between a pre-designed and a custom steel hall project depends on the investor’s individual preferences, financial resources, and the goals the facility needs to achieve. Pre-designed steel hall projects offer quick solutions and cost savings, but may not fully meet all expectations. On the other hand, custom projects provide full control and the ability to tailor the facility to individual needs but come with higher costs and time commitments. Order an individual design of a steel hall at the KOBEX Design Office.

Avatar photo
Author: Fazal Umer

Fazal is a dedicated industry expert in the field of civil engineering. As an Editor at ConstructionHow, he leverages his experience as a civil engineer to enrich the readers looking to learn a thing or two in detail in the respective field. Over the years he has provided written verdicts to publications and exhibited a deep-seated value in providing informative pieces on infrastructure, construction, and design.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE