- August 19, 2025
Are you thinking of buying a new metal building, but are not sure if it is the right choice because of all the myths online? You are not alone! Misconceptions about steel structures often cause hesitations and make people second-guess their choices.
Here, we will be clearing up some common confusions and busting some of the most common myths surrounding a metal building with the help of simple facts to help you make the best choice for your property. By the end of this blog, we hope you gain clarity, confidence, and real knowledge of the benefits of having a metal building, whether it is a metal garage, barn, or commercial building.
So, let’s dive in and separate facts from fiction.
MYTH #1: Metal Structures Are Industrial And Unappealing
Are you thinking, “Metal outdoor sheds look like a warehouse or barn and will not fit my property and match its aesthetics?”
FACT: The reality is that prefabricated metal sheds come with tons of customization choices, so you can blend them seamlessly into your home and existing building.
Today, they come in a wide variety of external finishes and textures, and you can even add architectural details to them. You can choose external paint colors, roof styles, and siding options, such as faux stone, brick, and wood, to match the outdoor shed building with a traditional home.
You can convert this shed space into a home office, workshop, guest home, or living cum parking space.
MYTH #2: Steel Structures Rust Easily And Don’t Last Long
Most people think, “Steel rusts very easily, and my building will quickly deteriorate. So, I will have to do regular, time-consuming maintenance.”
FACT: The truth is that high-quality steel structure are engineered to firmly stand on your property for decades without rusting or corrosion.
Unlike older untreated metal, modern steel materials are built to last. Steel is galvanized by dipping it in molten zinc to create a coating that protects it from rusting. It can withstand moisture and harsh weather conditions, and you can add extra sealants and coatings over the top to increase its durability.
Not only that, metal does not rot, decay, warp, or attract pests, making it strong and reliable to store your belongings without any worry and with minimal maintenance.
Some metal builder dealers offer warranties like rust-through and 12-gauge galvanized steel framing for 10 to 20 years to show their trust and confidence in the product.
MYTH #3: Metal Buildings Are Hard To Insulate And Always Too Hot Or Too Cold
You can find people saying, “Oh, metal buildings! They are hard to insulate and keep warm in winter and cool during summer.”
FACT: With insulation (of correct R-value), you can easily insulate a steel barn or building, make it energy-efficient, and create a comfortable indoor environment to work throughout the year.
Just like your traditional homes, metal barns can be insulated using materials like –
- Spray foam
- Fiberglass
- Rigid board
- Single/ double bubble
- Woven mineral wool
An insulator helps to regulate indoor temperature and prevent condensation. It also reduces outside noise, which you can read more about in ‘MYTH #7’ below. With an insulated steel building, you can lower heating and cooling costs, saving you money in the long run.
MYTH #4: Steel Structures Are Prone To Lightning Strikes
Are you wondering, “My metal building will act like a giant lightning rod, making it dangerous to stay around or inside during thunderstorms?”
FACT: Steel buildings are actually safer in lightning storms than traditional structures.
Unlike wood, which can splinter or catch fire when struck by lightning, metal offers lightning a direct path to the ground, thereby safely grounding the electrical current instead of trapping it inside.
The simple truth is that a metal strcuture won’t attract lightning, rather acts like a Faraday cage (when grounded) and handles electric current more effectively during storms. In fact, you are asked to get inside a house, a large building, or an all-metal vehicle for safety from lightning.
MYTH #5: It Is Difficult And Expensive To Install A Metal Building Structure
Now, you may wonder, “Putting up a prefab building is complex and will cost a lot.”
FACT: A metal prefab building is mass-produced in a factory under strict guidelines and conditions. Thus, they are easy to assemble on-site, need little labor, and get installed quickly.
In fact, a simple steel prefab shed can be installed in half the time of a wooden one. This is because a steel building comes in standard sizes, which can be easily bolted on-site within a few hours on your property with 3-4 construction workers. You get early access to the structure, and it reduces your labor costs and time.
Note that initial investment in a pre-built building may seem slightly higher than a traditional one, but it needs little upkeep and fewer repairs, which reduces the overall cost over time.
MYTH #6: Steel Buildings Can’t Handle Harsh Weather
Some of you may think, “My steel building will not withstand strong winds, snow loads, or extreme conditions.”
FACT: Modern metal buildings are engineer-certified and can withstand strong winds of up to 180 mph or a snow load of up to 80 PSF without structural failure.
So, you can install a new building in a tornado alley region or areas with extreme heat waves. Note that you can add extra anchors, braces, and purlins for additional structural support. We suggest selecting a vertical roofing style, which requires less cleaning and is aerodynamical in design.
Note: Steel structures can meet and exceed strict local and US building codes and offer superior resistance to elements compared to wood.
MYTH #7: Metal Buildings Are Noisy When It Rains And During Storms
You look at a prefabricated building, and the first thought that runs into your mind is, “It’ll be like living in a tin can and a lot noisier when it rains.”
FACT: The level of noise will depend on the insulation, especially roof insulation, in case of a downpour. A well-insulated steel building will dampen sound and reduce outgoing and incoming noise.
The insulator acts as a sound barrier as it absorbs sound due to rain, wind, traffic, and hailstorms. You can choose thicker material insulation if you want a building space with a workshop, so you can work for hours without disturbing your family in the living room and your neighbor.
BONUS: Steel Buildings Are Hard To Maintain
Are you thinking, “If I install a metal building, I will have to deal with frequent repairs and upkeep?”
FACT: Once installed correctly, your building will need minimal repairs, replacements, and upkeep to last long. It is also easy to clean and does not need deep cleaning due to dense, non-porous, and inorganic steel material.
You can conduct simple inspections and occasional cleaning to maintain the building’s shine. For cleaning, use mild soap, warm water, and a garden hose with a nozzle. You can remove any stubborn stain, like bird droppings, with a soft-bristle brush.
Ditch The Myths – Discover The Strength Of Metal ‘Dream’ Buildings Today!
Throughout this blog, we have discussed some of the biggest myths that surround a metal structure. From concerns about its durability to aesthetics, we have covered most myths that may make you second-guess investing in your steel ‘dream’ building.
No matter what your concerns are – be it about the weather, noise levels, appeal, or longevity of the structure, with little timely maintenance, your building will shine on your property for decades. Now that you know the facts, don’t let outdated information hold you back. Take a closer look at your steel building options and choose one that truly meets your needs.
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