- June 24, 2025
Imagine you have partnered with a metal building dealer and have installed a steel structure. But soon you notice that the structure is not as per your demand, they are asking for extra charges, and there is no guarantee. How would it feel when you neither get the desired building nor peace of mind?
It mostly happens when you do not ask your queries to the dealer and assume some services. Getting a quote can help immensely as it clarifies things before construction. It avoids complicated situations that can leave you in a dilemma of what to do now. You must know what to ask, as it helps you avoid regrets and make a smart decision from day one.
It helps to avoid hidden costs, compare vendors, and make the best decision. Prepare a list of important questions regarding your garage metal building. We provide you with a simple guide to the most important questions. Ask these questions when requesting a quote for a metal garage.
List of Best Questions to Ask Your Dealer
Go through the most important questions and analyze why they matter. It will clarify your doubts. If you have specific questions, also add them to the list.
1. What’s Included in the Quote?
Not all quotes cover the same things. So, ask the following questions to the dealer to know what’s in their quote.
- Does it include delivery and installation?
- Are taxes included?
- Do you charge extra for anchors, braces, or foundation work?
For example, you get a quote for $6,000, but if delivery and installation are separate, your final cost could jump to $8,000. It’s better to clarify the reasons behind variations in the price beforehand to avoid confusion later.
2. What’s the Size of the Garage?
Ask about the garage sizes and types, and their prices. Since size directly affects the cost, list questions related to garage size and its prices. Here are some questions to confirm.
- What are the exact dimensions (width x length x height)?
- What are the price variations as per size?
- Does the quoted size include overhangs or extensions?
But first, decide on the garage size, property measurements, and needs, then ask for quotations.
3. What Gauge of Steel Is Used for Construction?
This question will help you understand whether you can choose a steel gauge or if the dealer decides it. Steel thickness is important for strength and durability, so it would be better if the dealer allowed you to choose the steel thickness.
Ask your dealer:
- What gauge is the frame and roof panel?
- Which gauge is better for our project?
- Is there an option to upgrade for heavy-duty use?
Common gauges:
- 14-gauge is standard.
- 12-gauge is thicker and stronger but more expensive.
4. What Customization Options Are Available?
A customized garage meets your needs more effectively. Because it is designed keeping your requirements in mind, if a dealer does not allow customization or only allows limited customization, you should know about it before placing an order for a metal garage.
You may want windows, doors, insulation, or colors. Ask:
- Can I choose the door size and placement?
- Are windows, vents, or skylights included?
- Is color customization free or extra?
But be clear about the prices as well because some features can raise it. Knowing about the price will help you choose and remove particular features as per your budget and needs.
5. What Kind of Foundation Is Required?
Foundation types vary based on region, weather, and soil conditions. Many dealers ignore these factors, and later, they ask for extra charges to install a particular type of foundation for the structure. Since you need a metal garage, ask the installers what foundation is best for such a type of structure.
Ask the following questions of your dealer:
- Can this be installed on gravel, dirt, asphalt, or concrete?
- Who is responsible for preparing the foundation?
By the way, in most cases, you have to arrange the foundation yourself. But also check with the dealer if they provide this service.
6. What Is the Estimated Installation Time?
Timely installation allows you to start using the space on time. It also helps you start a business quickly and be ahead of the competition. Longer installation time increases the cost of a structure. So, it’s better to ask the dealer beforehand about the delivery time.
You need to know when your garage will be ready. Ask the following questions:
- How long will it take to deliver and install after I order?
- Are there delays due to weather, demand, or location?
Some prefab garages arrive in 2 weeks; others may take 6-8 weeks. So, ask the dealer how much time your project will take on average to complete.
7. What Permits Are Needed for My Garage?
You will need to obtain a permit for a garage installation. It is crucial to ensure the structure adheres to the local building codes. In most cases, you have to talk to your local building authorities and ensure that your structure requirements do not break any rules. In many cases, dealers also help a buyer with obtaining a permit.
So, ask all the questions related to the permit to the company you are partnering with.
- Will I need a permit for this garage?
- Can you help me with the paperwork or provide specs?
Get a certified garage if your area requires meeting local building codes.
8. Do You Provide Warranty?
A warranty shows that the company stands behind the product. It protects you if something goes wrong within a particular time. Without a warranty, you may feel helpless if anything bad happens to your metal garage. Find out whether the dealer has your back by asking the following questions.
- What kind of warranty is included on materials and workmanship?
- How long is the coverage?
- What voids the warranty?
For example, many companies offer a 20-40 year warranty on rust-through for galvanized steel. So, you should ask your dealer what their tenure is. It will give you peace of mind even if anything happens to your structure.
9. Can You Provide a List of Costs for the Features I want?
Which part of the garage or which feature is costing you the most? Which feature of the garage costs you the least? Which features are more expensive so that you can negotiate? A list of prices for each feature is crucial to get answers to all these questions.
Sometimes, quotes don’t tell the whole story. So, you should also ask:
- Are there fees for remote location delivery?
- Is there a charge if I cancel or change the order?
- Are local taxes included?
10. Who Will Handle My Metal Garage Installation?
It’s your right to know whether the team is trained or not. If a team is unskilled, it can make mistakes in the installation. Installation quality is non-negotiable because it ensures the longevity of the structure. Untrained installers can make the structure vulnerable to leaks, instability, or warranty issues.
You can ask, ‘Is installation done by the company or a third-party crew?, “Are they trained and insured? Always go with trained professionals because poor installation can damage your structure or void warranties.
11. Do You Have Pictures of Projects Like the One I Am Planning?
Seeing the pictures helps you understand that the company has worked on similar projects in the past. If they have done it before, it is easy for them to do it impeccably this time too. It’s hard to imagine a structure from quotes. If you have an image, it helps to imagine effectively.
- Are there any customer-submitted photos that I can see?
- Can you add the same features to my structure?
Try to use the chain of thoughts and create more questions as per your structure’s need. It will help you make a confident decision to buy a steel garage.
No Hidden Prices, No Confusing Discussion, We Respect Your Time and Money
At Viking Metal Garages, we believe in transparency and clear communication. It keeps confusion at bay and leads to better relations with our customers. We select the highest-quality steel components to construct your steel garage structure. You receive the exact solution you requested. It is possible because we listen to our customers with all our attention and carefully understand their specifications.
You get the following warranties with us:
- 1-Year Workmanship
- 10-Year Panel and Trim
- 20-Year Rust Through
- 20-Year Limited Warranty on Certified Vertical Roof Style Units
If you have any questions related to warranty, installation, structure type, or other matters, please feel free to contact us at any time.
Alabama