Design Your Own Custom Metal Garage

Design Your Own Custom Garage

in the USA


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FAQs for Garages
How much does a metal garage cost?
Most metal garages cost $3,000–$12,000 installed, depending on size, roof style, steel gauge, and enclosure options. Large or fully customized garages can exceed $25,000.
Typical metal garage prices by size:
- Single-car (12′×20′): $3,000–$6,000
- Two-car (20′×20′ to 24′×24′): $6,000–$12,000
- Three-car or large garages: $12,000–$25,000+
What affects the price most?
Many different factors affect pricing. Such as…
Size & width: Wider buildings require heavier steel and more structural support
Roof style:
- Regular roof = lowest cost
- A-frame = +$300–$800
- Vertical roof = +$500–$1,500+ (recommended for snow or buildings over 30′)
Steel gauge:
- 14-gauge (standard) included
- 12-gauge = +10–15% cost, ~40% stronger
Enclosures & doors:
- Side panels: $400–$1,200
- Roll-up doors: $800–$2,500+ per door
Location: Steel pricing, delivery distance, and local labor rates vary
Engineering requirements: Wind/snow ratings may be required by code
Important cost advantage: Pro Metal Buildings includes FREE delivery and professional installation on level ground, saving most customers $1,000–$3,000 compared to competitors.
Tip: Use the 3D Building Designer to see instant pricing based on your size, location, and features.
What size metal garage do I need?
The right size depends on vehicle count, storage or workspace needs, and whether you plan to upgrade vehicles later.
Common metal garage sizes and best uses:
- Single-car (12′×20′–12′×24′) for one vehicle + light storage
- Oversized single / workshop (12′×30′–18′×24′) for one vehicle + tools or benches
- Two-car (20′×20′–24′×24′): 20′×20′ = tight fit, 24′×24′ = comfortable access + storage
- Oversized two-car (24′×30′–26′×26′) for Trucks, work areas, gear
- Three-car (30′×20′–30′×30′) for Multiple vehicles or vehicle + workshop
- Large workshop/commercial (30′×40′–40′×60′+) for RVs, boats, equipment, businesses
Recommended wall heights (leg height):
- 8–9 ft: Cars, sedans, small SUVs
- 10–11 ft: Trucks, lifted vehicles
- 12–14 ft: RVs, boats, tall equipment
Sizing tips that prevent regret:
- Measure vehicles, including mirrors
- Add 2–3 ft per side for door clearance
- Plan for future vehicles
- Check local setback rules
- Choose larger doors for easier access
- Most popular sizes: 18′×20′, 20′×20′, 24′×24′, 24′×30′
Are metal garages better than wood garages?
Yes. For most homeowners, metal garages outperform wood garages in cost, durability, maintenance, fire resistance, and lifespan.
Cost
Metal: $10–$25 per sq ft installed
Wood: $35–$65+ per sq ft
Lifespan
Metal: 30–50+ years
Wood: 15–25 years
Maintenance
Metal: Minimal (wash + inspection)
Wood: Painting, staining, rot repair
Pests
Metal: Immune to termites and rodents
Wood: Vulnerable
Fire resistance
Metal: Non-combustible, often lower insurance rates
Wood: Fire-prone
Weather resistance
Metal: Engineered for wind and snow loads
Wood: Warps, rots, degrades over time
Installation
Metal: Same day
Wood: Weeks
Verdict: Metal garages are the better choice for ~95% of use cases. Wood only makes sense when HOA rules or strict aesthetics require it.
Do I need a building permit for a metal garage?
In most areas, yes, especially for garages over 120–200 sq ft or those permanently anchored.
Permits are commonly required if the garage:
- Exceeds local size thresholds
- Is permanently anchored
- Includes electrical or plumbing
- Exceeds height limits
- Is close to property lines
Permit rules vary by:
- City vs. county jurisdiction
- Snow and wind load zones
- Zoning type (residential, agricultural, commercial)
- HOA restrictions
What permitting usually requires:
- Engineered building plans
- Wind and snow load ratings
- IBC-compliant, PE-stamped drawings
- Site plan with placement and setbacks
- Foundation details
Good news: Pro Metal Buildings provides certified engineered drawings at no extra cost, customized to your zip code and designed to pass permitting.
Bottom line: Always confirm with your local building department—but permits are straightforward when engineered plans are included.
What site preparation is needed?
Customers are responsible for site preparation. While installation is fast, proper site preparation is critical. Complete these steps before installation day.
Foundation Ready:
- Concrete slab poured a minimum 7 days prior
- Ground level within 3 inches in any direction
- Foundation dimensions match building size (or 6″ larger on all sides)
Site Cleared:
- No vehicles, equipment, or debris in installation area
- 3-5 feet of clear space around building perimeter for crew access
- Low-hanging branches, power lines, or obstacles removed or identified
Utilities Marked:
- Call 811 to mark underground utilities before installation
- Identify septic systems, water lines, electrical, and gas
Permits Obtained:
- Building permit approved and posted if required
- Copy available for inspector if needed
Access Verified:
- Delivery truck can access site (40-50 foot trailer typical)
- Gates, driveways, and access points accommodate large vehicles
- Parking space for crew vehicles (2-4 workers)
How long does it take to install a metal garage?
Most metal garages are installed in 2–8 hours, often in a single day.
Installation time by size:
- 12′×20′: 2–3 hours
- 20′×20′ to 24′×24′: 4–6 hours
- 24′×30′ to 30′×40′: 6–10 hours
- 40′×60′+: 1–3 days
Total timeline from order to completion: Average total timeline: 4–8 weeks
- Design & order: ~1 week
- Manufacturing: 2–6 weeks (seasonal)
- Scheduling: 1–2 weeks
- Installation: same-day completion
Why metal garages install so fast:
- Pre-engineered, prefabricated components
- Bolt-together design (no framing or curing)
- Specialized professional crews
- No paint, stain, or drying delays
After installation: Your garage is usable immediately—park vehicles the same day.
Installation is FREE with Pro Metal Buildings on level ground within the service area.
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Why Choose Pro Metal Buildings?
Free Delivery & Installation
American Based Manufacturing
Exceptional Customer Service
20 Year
Frame Warranty
Contact us for a free quote
About Our Garages
We offer versatile garage options. One-Car, Two-Car, Three-Car or more, are all customizable and available to be installed on-site. Choose your roll-up door size, your style of walk-in door, how many windows, and if you’d like it insulated. We can do it all! Did we mention that our delivery and installation is included with our price?
Free Nationwide Delivery & Installation
American-Based Manufacturing
Support Whenever You Need It.
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