1. Introduction: Why a Metal Garage?

Buying a metal building in 2026 is very different from buying one twenty years ago. The days of calling a number in a farm-supply catalog and hoping a kit shows up straight are over. Today’s buyers are more informed, the buildings are more engineered, and the stakes are higher.

Whether you are protecting a car collection in a triple-wide garage, running livestock on a 60-foot clear-span agricultural barn, or building a commercial workshop that has to pass a county inspection, you are not just buying a structure. You are making a long-term infrastructure decision.

The 2026 regulatory environment has changed significantly. The 9th Edition Florida Building Code and its updated counterparts across Georgia mean that a building not engineered for your specific zip code is not just a structural gamble, it is a legal liability. Wind-load requirements are now granular down to the county level. A building rated for Valdosta, GA carries a completely different engineering profile than one destined for Daytona Beach, FL.

Keen’s Buildings has installed more than 75,000 structures since 1999. The company has watched buildings survive Category 4 hurricanes, and has seen others fail in a tropical storm. The difference almost always comes down to three things: the engineering behind the frame, the gauge of the steel, and whether the buyer understood what they were actually purchasing before they signed.

This guide walks you through every major decision, from selecting the correct gauge of steel and roof style to preparing your site, understanding anchoring, navigating permits, and choosing a payment path.

2. Common Uses for Metal Garages

Metal garages are remarkably versatile. The most popular applications include:

• Vehicle storage – cars, trucks, motorcycles, ATVs, and boats
• RV and camper garages with extra-tall side walls
• Home workshops, hobby shops, and maker spaces
• Small-business garages for mechanics, landscapers, and tradespeople
• Equipment and tool storage for farms and ranches
• Agricultural storage for hay, feed, and implements
• Clear-span commercial warehouses and industrial shops
• Barndominiums – steel-frame shells converted to housing
• She-sheds, man-caves, home gyms, and recreation rooms

Steel-frame shells are currently the fastest-growing segment of the housing market. They are cheaper to build than wood, fire-resistant, and allow for massive, open-concept floor plans that wood framing cannot achieve.

3. Planning Phase: Finding the Right Size

Before you bolt anything to the ground, define the “utility-to-scale” ratio. Most buyers make the mistake of building for what they own today rather than what they will own in 2030.

The “Plus-Two” Rule

A standard two-car garage is typically 20′ x 20′, but in the world of metal buildings Keen’s recommends the “Plus-Two” rule: if you think you need a 20-foot-wide structure, go 22. That extra two feet of clearance prevents door-dings and gives the structural uprights room to exist without cramping your workspace.

Clearance and Peak Height

Do not just measure your truck – measure your future lift. If you plan on installing a two-post car lift later, you need a minimum of 12-foot side legs. Leg (sidewall) height determines how tall your garage door can be and how much interior headroom you get.

Width Recommendations

• Residential use: 12′ to 24′ widths are standard
• Commercial or agricultural: 30′ to 60′ clear-span (no interior columns) is the industry gold standard for maneuverability

Standard Sizes Offered

Dimension	Standard Sizes Available
Widths	12′, 14′, 16′, 18′, 20′, 22′, 24′, 26′, 28′, 30′, up to 60′
Lengths	20′, 25′, 30′, 35′, 40′, 45′, 50′, 55′, 60, 65′, 70′, 75′, 80′, 90′, 100’+
Heights	6′, 7′, 8′, 9′, 10′, 11′, 12′, 14′, 16′, 18′, 20′
Custom	Call for quote – larger and custom sizes available

Frame vs. Roof Dimensions

Important: your building roof is 12 inches longer (length wise) than the building frame. A 12×20 building has a 21-foot roof over a 20-foot frame. This creates a 6-inch overhang on each end that protects walls and doors from rain and snow. Inside usable space matches the frame dimensions, not the roof.

4. Engineering & Codes: Certified vs. Non-Certified

In the Southeast and in most of the country, “certified” is not a marketing term – it is a legal requirement. As of 2026, wind-load requirements have become more granular, and most counties require engineered, stamped plans for a structure of any size.

What Is a Certified Building?

A certified building has been reviewed by a Professional Engineer (PE) to withstand specific wind speeds (often up to 180 MPH in coastal zones) and snow loads. When you purchase a certified building, you receive “blueprints” or calculations. You will need these to get your permit through the local building department.

Standard vs. Upgraded Wind and Snow Ratings

Rating	Standard	Upgraded
Wind	150 MPH	180 MPH certified
Snow	30 PSF	90 PSF
Use Case	Most inland US locations	Coastal / mountain / hurricane zones

Buildings are engineered to meet ASCE 7-22 standards. The 9th Edition of the Florida Building Code (2025/2026) is currently in development and is expected to be effective by December 31, 2026, with stricter wind-load and debris-impact ratings. Every building Keen’s sells in Florida is updated to meet or exceed all applicable building codes.

Permit Requirements

In roughly 95% of U.S. counties, you will need a permit for any structure over 120-200 square feet. Keen’s can provide stamped engineered drawings for an additional cost of typically $150-$300, which you take to your local building office. Always call your local building department before ordering to confirm setback requirements (typically 5-10 feet from property lines) and any HOA restrictions.

5. Steel Gauge: 12-Gauge vs. 14-Gauge

The gauge of the frame tubing is one of the biggest factors in the strength and lifespan of your garage. Counter-intuitively, a lower gauge number means thicker, stronger steel.

Gauge	Details
14-Gauge (.0783″)	Economical and reliable. The industry standard for years and still perfectly adequate for smaller carports and inland storage in low-wind zones.
12-Gauge (.1084″)	Roughly 30% more tensile strength than 14-gauge. The mandatory choice for clear-span buildings wider than 30 feet and for high-wind coastal zones. The climate and building codes have pushed many Florida buyers toward 12-gauge.

When to Upgrade to 12-Gauge

• Any clear-span building wider than 30 feet (required)
• Coastal or high-wind areas
• Heavy-snow regions
• Long-term workshops, commercial, or heavy-equipment use
• Anywhere you want the maximum structural safety margin

6. Roof Styles: Regular, Boxed-Eave, and Vertical

Metal buildings come in three primary roof styles, but only one is considered the gold standard for the Southeast.

Regular (Rounded) Roof

The most affordable option. Panels run horizontally along the length of the roof and the corners are gently rounded. Best for basic carports and short buildings in mild climates. Not recommended for heavy snow or buildings longer than about 36 feet.

Boxed-Eave (A-Frame) Roof

A traditional A-frame profile with horizontal roof panels. Boxed-eave roofs give the garage a more residential house look that blends in with a home, but the horizontal panels share the regular roof’s limitations in heavy snow and on long buildings.

Vertical Roof (Recommended)

The apex of engineering in prefabricated metal buildings. Panels run from the peak down to the eaves, allowing rain, snow, and debris to slide off effortlessly. Keen’s recommends vertical roofs for any building over 36 feet long to prevent “roof ponding” and leaks. If your budget allows, vertical roof is the best long-term value and is required for coastal hurricane certification.

7. Color & Customization Options

Keen’s Buildings offers over 15 different colors for roof, walls, and trim. You can mix and match to make your building complement your home or meet HOA requirements.

Roof Colors

• Barn Red
• Charcoal Gray
• Evergreen
• Light Stone
• Pewter Gray
• Burgundy
• Brown
• Black

Trim Colors

Trim defaults to match the roof color. Additional trim options include white, black, and custom color matching.

Wall Colors

White is the standard wall color. Walls can also be ordered to match the roof color or in beige or light gray.

3D Design Tool

Keen’s offers a 3D design tool that lets you visualize your building in real time. You can change the roof style from boxed-eave to vertical and see the price update instantly, drag and drop walk-doors, roll-up doors, and windows exactly where you need them, and then use augmented reality on your smartphone to place the building in your own backyard before you spend a dime.

8. Doors, Windows, and Accessories

A bare steel shell becomes a usable garage through the accessories you add. The most common options include:

Roll-Up Garage Doors

Standard options include 6×6, 8×8, 9×7, and 10×8, with larger sizes available for RVs and equipment. Think about the height of the tallest vehicle you will ever park inside and round up.

Walk-In Doors

A framed walk-in door is inexpensive and dramatically improves daily usability, you should not have to roll up a 10-foot door every time you grab a tool.

Windows

Windows add natural light and ventilation and are especially helpful in workshops. Order them at purchase so they can be engineered into the wall, adding them later is possible but not recommended.

Insulation

A metal building “sweats” when warm, moist air hits cold steel. Without a vapor barrier, condensation can drip from the ceiling and damage your tools. For most workshops, double-bubble reflective insulation is the best value. For barndominiums or offices where people will be living or working, closed-cell spray foam provides the highest R-value and the best moisture seal. Insulation also dramatically reduces rain noise.

Lean-Tos and Overhangs

An attached lean-to adds covered area on one side of the garage; perfect for extra parking, equipment, or outdoor storage – at a much lower cost than enlarging the main building.

Electrical

Hire a licensed electrician to run electricity. Keen’s can add an electrical package during ordering.

9. Pricing Guide: Starting Prices

All prices below include free delivery and free professional installation. Prices vary by size, gauge, roof type, and state certification requirements.

Building Type	Starting Price	Common Sizes	Best For
Metal Carport	From $1,521	12×20 – 30×40	Vehicle coverage, budget buyers
1-Car Garage	From $3,726	12×20 – 18×30	Single vehicle, small workshops
2-Car Garage	From $5,175	20×20 – 40×40	Families, hobbyists, home businesses
3-Car Garage	From $8,059	22×30 – 40×60	Families, hobbyists, home businesses
RV Garage	From $8,955	18×35 – 50×60	Motorhomes, boats, large vehicles
Metal Barn	From $6,529	30×40 – 60×100	Livestock, hay, farm equipment
Commercial	From $26,952	40×40 – 80×100+	Warehouses, retail, industrial

Prices are estimates and may vary based on location, wind and snow load certification requirements, and customization. A basic building shell typically ranges from $10 to $20 per square foot; high-spec commercial structures can reach $15 to $30+ per square foot; basic carports can be as low as $5 to $10 per square foot.

What Is Included in the Base Price

• Building materials (frame, roof, walls, trim)
• Standard doors per your order
• Free delivery to site
• Free professional installation
• Basic leveling (up to 2 inches)
• Standard four-anchor package
• Debris removal
• 1-year workmanship warranty

What May Cost Extra

• Additional doors or windows beyond standard
• Upgraded 12-gauge frame
• Extra anchors beyond the standard four
• Concrete foundation
• Professional grading (>2 inch variance)
• Permit fees (paid directly to county)
• HOA plan-review fees
• Crane service for difficult access ($800-$1,500)
• Stamped engineered drawings ($150-$300)

10. Three Paths to Ownership

Whether you want a turn-key solution, a custom-engineered build, or a face-to-face consultation, Keen’s offers three shopping paths.

Path A: “Fast-Track” Online Signature Packages

Pre-configured best-sellers for the most common uses in the Southeast, often with flash-sale pricing and 1-3 week priority delivery. Notable packages include:

• The Magnum (30×40) – #1 three-car garage and workshop combo
• The UrbanClassic (24×25) – perfect compact two-truck garage for residential lots
• The Forged Legend (40×60) – industrial-grade clear-span warehouse for commercial or heavy agricultural use

Path B: 3D Custom Design Tool (the Virtual Builder)

For buyers with a specific vision, the 3D design tool lets you change roof styles, drag and drop doors and windows, and use AR on your phone to place the building in your backyard before purchasing.

Path C: Showroom Experience

Keen’s Super Centers across Florida and Georgia, in Live Oak, Waycross, Chiefland, Perry, Dade City and Masaryktown – feature the largest metal building displays in the Southeast. You can walk through 50+ different building types, compare 12-gauge vs. 14-gauge frames and 29-gauge vs. 26-gauge sheeting in person, and sit with a specialist to navigate county-specific permit codes. On-site financing approval is typically available in under 20 minutes.

11. Payment Schedule, Financing & Rent-to-Own

Payment Schedule

• At order: typically 10-20% deposit – secures your build slot and locks the price against steel market fluctuations
• At installation completion: balance is due when the crew is finished and you are satisfied (See Low Monthly Payment Financing Options)

Accepted Payment Methods

Cash, check (with valid ID), money order or cashier’s check, and all major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express). Financing is also available.

Financing Options

• 100% Traditional Financing: No money down at order, 0%-18.99% APR based on credit, terms from 12-60 months, approval in minutes. Best for buyers with 650+ credit scores.
• Rent-to-Own (RTO): No credit check, 36-60 month terms, ownership at term end, early payoff options. The most popular option for residential sheds and small garages; offers instant approval for buildings up to $25,000.
• Third-Party Financing: Keen’s works with multiple lenders and accepts credit union, bank, and outside financing.

Discounts

Ask about seasonal promotions, military and senior discounts, and multi-building discounts.

12. Pre-Installation Checklist (2-4 Weeks Before)

Step 1: Review Your Order (Immediately After Purchase)

Verify building size, color, and features. Double-check the installation address and note your installation date. Save Keen’s contact information.

Step 2: Check Local Requirements (3-4 Weeks Before)

Contact your local building department about permits – typically not required under 200 sq. ft., but varies by location. Allow 1-2 weeks for permit processing. If you have an HOA, review covenants and submit plans for approval (allow 2-4 weeks). Verify setbacks from property lines (typically 5-10 feet).

Step 3: Call 811 (2-3 Business Days Before Installation) – MANDATORY

Call 811 or visit www.call811.com. Provide your installation date and address. Utility companies will come mark underground lines with flags and paint at no charge. Get your ticket or confirmation number. If you do not call 811, Keen’s cannot proceed with installation – no exceptions.

Step 4: Prepare Your Site (1 Week Before)

• Clear all items from the installation area
• Clear 5 feet beyond the building footprint on all sides
• Remove low-hanging branches (15 feet clearance)
• Relocate vehicles, lawn equipment, and furniture
• Remove or secure pets
• Verify delivery truck can access: 12 feet width clearance, 14 feet overhead, 60-foot straight approach
• Measure gate openings if the install is in the backyard (minimum 10′ wide x 10′ tall)

Step 5: Contact Keen’s to Confirm (3 Days Before)

Call to confirm the installation date, provide the 811 ticket number, mention any site concerns, and get the installer’s direct phone number.

13. Site Preparation Requirements

Levelness Standards

Your building site must be level within 2 inches over the length and width of your building footprint. Use a 4-foot or longer level placed in multiple directions. A site with more than 2 inches of variance requires professional grading.

If Your Site Is Not Level

• Basic grading by crew: limited to 2 inches of variance, hand tools, may add 1-2 hours to installation
• Professional grading: required for >2 inch variance, $300-$800 depending on severity, must be completed before the installation date
• “As-is” installation: available for minor variance <3 inches, building follows ground contour, may affect door operation and drainage, requires a signed waiver, not recommended

Drainage

Water should drain away from your building. Avoid low spots where water collects, ensure a 2-3% slope away from the building, and consider a French drain in poor-drainage areas. Gutters are recommended for long-term installations.

Access Requirements

• Width: 9-12 feet clearance
• Height: 9-14 feet overhead clearance
• Length: 60 feet straight approach if possible
• Surface: firm ground (not saturated from recent rain)
• Gate or entry: minimum 10′ wide x 10′ tall, account for fence posts and mailboxes

For impossible access, crane service is available in advance for $800-$1,500 in additional cost.

14. Foundation Options: Concrete, Gravel, Ground

Option 1: Crushed Gravel Base

Four inches of compacted crushed gravel contained by a pressure-treated or steel border. Provides drainage, prevents moisture and rust, and extends building lifespan. Suitable for most installations. Estimated cost: around $3.80 per square foot (pricing varies by location and contractor).

Option 2: Concrete Slab (Recommended)

A permanent, level foundation, ideal for workshops or storage with heavy equipment. The slab must be poured 7-14+ days before installation so it has time to cure. A 4-inch reinforced slab is standard for most residential garages. Concrete prevents moisture from rising through the floor and provides the strongest anchor point for high-wind certification. Estimated cost: around $7.60 per square foot.

Option 3: Direct Ground Installation

Building sits directly on level ground. Suitable for temporary or low-use installations, but not recommended for permanent structures. May allow moisture contact. Included at no extra cost.

15. Call 811: A Mandatory Safety Step

Underground utilities (gas, electric, water, sewer, cable, and phone) can be invisible but extremely dangerous. Striking these lines can cause explosions, electrocution, flooding, neighborhood-wide service disruption, and massive fines and legal liability.

How 811 Works

1. Call 811 or visit www.call811.com at least 2-3 business days before installation
2. Tell them your installation date, address, and type of work (building installation)
3. Utility companies will come out and mark underground lines with flags and paint at no charge
4. Take photos of the markings for your records
5. Keep utility markings visible – do not mow over the flags
6. Provide your 811 ticket or confirmation number to Keen’s before install day

If you smell gas or suspect a utility strike: evacuate immediately, do not use phones or lights, call 911 from a safe distance, then contact Keen’s at 1-386-339-1676.

16. Delivery & Installation Day Process

Most standard buildings in Florida and Georgia currently have a 2-4 week lead time depending on the complexity of your custom engineering. The “order to install” timeline looks like this:

Milestone	Timeframe	What Happens
1. Lock-In	Day 1	20% deposit placed, price locked against steel market fluctuations
2. Engineering	Days 2-5	For certified builds, stamped plans provided for permit submission
3. Manufacturing	Weeks 1-2	Components are cut, welded, and galvanized in the USA
4. Build Day	Day 14-28	Crew delivers and installs the structure in 4-8 hours (standard)

Installation Day Timeline (Standard Build)

1. Crew arrival: uniformed crew of 2-4 installers
2. Site assessment (30 min): verify 811 markings, confirm building placement, review concerns
3. Site preparation (30-60 min): mark footprint, final leveling, install gravel base if ordered
4. Structure assembly (2-3 hrs): unload materials, assemble frame, install roof and wall panels, install trim
5. Anchoring and securing (30-45 min): install ground anchors, secure frame, test stability
6. Final details (30 min): install doors and locks, caulk and seal, touch up scratches, clean up
7. Customer walkthrough (15-30 min): demonstrate door operation, review warranty, collect final payment

A standard 24×24 garage can often be completed in a single day. Larger 40×60 commercial shops may take 3 to 5 days.

Weather Delays

Installations may be rescheduled for safety. High winds, lightning, and heavy rain stop work. Keen’s will contact you 24 hours before if there are weather concerns. There are no rescheduling fees for weather delays.

17. Anchoring Your Building

Every Keen’s Buildings garage is anchored to engineered specifications, whether you are on ground, asphalt, or concrete. The anchor type is selected based on the installation surface and the wind and snow rating of the building.

Standard Anchor Package (Included)

• Four mobile-home auger anchors
• 36-inch penetration
• Cable and frame attachments
• Suitable for most installations

Upgraded Anchor Options

• Concrete anchor blocks
• J-bolt foundation anchors
• Additional augers (6 or 8 total)
• Hurricane strapping

Never skimp on anchoring. The anchors are what keep your investment, and everything inside it, in place during a storm. Certified buildings rated for up to 180 MPH winds require the upgraded anchor configuration.

18. Post-Installation Care & Maintenance

First 24 Hours

Test door operation, verify everything is functioning, take photos for your records, and register your warranty. Do not modify the structure, add weight to the roof, drill holes without approval, or remove the anchor systems.

First Week

Walk around the building. Check for loose trim, verify doors close properly, and look for any shipping damage. Report any concerns within 7 days.

Monthly Tasks

• Remove debris from roof
• Check door hinges and locks
• Clear vegetation from perimeter (maintain 12-inch clearance)
• Inspect for any damage

Quarterly Tasks

• Hose down exterior to remove dirt and pollen
• Touch up any scratches with provided paint
• Check and tighten accessible anchor bolts
• Inspect roof for debris accumulation

Annual Tasks

• Professional inspection (Keen’s offers annual inspection for $99)
• Check roof sealant and caulking
• Lubricate door hinges and locks
• Inspect for rust spots – touch up immediately

Rust Prevention

Your building is galvanized steel, but care extends its life. Touch up scratches immediately, keep 12 inches clear around the base to prevent moisture, do not allow standing water contact, and clean battery acid, fertilizer, and chemicals immediately. An annual coating of car wax helps protect the finish.

Snow Load

Standard buildings are rated for 20 PSF, upgraded for 30-40 PSF. If snow accumulates more than 12 inches, remove it with a soft broom or foam snow rake. Do not use sharp tools and do not climb on the roof.

19. Warranty & 100% Satisfaction Guarantee

Keen’s doesn’t leave until you are completely satisfied. If anything isn’t right at installation, they will fix it on the spot or return within 48 hours at no charge for installation-related corrections.

Installation Workmanship Warranty (1 Year)

Covers installation defects and errors, improperly secured components, leveling issues related to Keen’s work, anchor failures under normal conditions, and door alignment and operation. It does not cover acts of nature, ground settling unrelated to install, modifications you make, normal wear and tear, or damage from misuse.

Manufacturer Material Warranty

• Steel panels and framing: 20-year rust-through warranty, prorated after first 5 years
• Paint and finish: 10-year fade warranty
• Doors and hardware: 1-year defect warranty

Modern steel is treated with Galvalume or a galvanized zinc coating. Most manufacturers (including Keen’s) provide a 20-to-30-year warranty against rust-through.

How to File a Claim

Call 1-386-339-1676, describe the issue, and email photos to warranty@keensbuildings.com. Repair appointments are scheduled within 5 business days.

20. Cancellation, Refund & Return-Trip Policies

Cancellation Windows

• Before manufacturing begins (typically 3-5 days after order): full refund of deposit minus $50 processing fee, no questions asked, refund issued within 7 business days
• After manufacturing begins: standard buildings are 50% of deposit refundable; custom buildings (non-standard size, color, or configuration) are non-refundable
• After installation begins: no refunds once the crew arrives and a satisfaction guarantee covers any issues
• Weather or delay: full refund any time before installation if you cancel; no penalties for delays beyond Keen’s control

Return-Trip Policy

Keen’s completes 99% of installations in one visit. A return trip is only needed if you aren’t available on installation day, the site is not prepared as discussed, 811 wasn’t called, access is blocked, or weather prevents completion. The minimum service-call fee is $200. No return fee is charged if the issue is Keen’s fault, for warranty work, for weather delays, or if Keen’s needs to order additional parts.

21. Technical Specifications

Frame

2.5″ x 2.5″ square tube steel, 14-gauge galvanized (12-gauge available as an upgrade), welded connections, 4-foot on-center spacing.

Roof

29-gauge galvanized steel panels, 12-inch corrugation, lapped and screwed every 12 inches, with a sealed and screwed ridge cap.

Walls

29-gauge galvanized steel panels in vertical orientation, screwed to frame every 2 feet.

Trim

All exposed edges trimmed, color-matched to panels, with sealed corners and joints.

Doors

Roll-up or framed options with heavy-duty hinges and padlockable latches. Standard sizes: 6×6, 8×8, 9×7, 10×8.

Load Ratings Summary

	Standard	Upgraded
Snow Load	30 PSF	90 PSF
Wind Rating	150 MPH	180 MPH
Max. Rafter Spacing	5′	4′
Anchors	10′ Max.	6″ of each Rafter Column

Manufacturing Standards

• All steel galvanized per ASTM A653
• Welds meet AWS D1.3 standards
• Hardware grade 5 or better
• Meets International Building Code (IBC)
• Engineered to ASCE 7-22 standards

22. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost per square foot?

A basic shell typically ranges from $10 to $20 per square foot. High-spec commercial structures can reach $15 to $30+ per square foot. Basic carports can be as low as $5 to $10 per square foot.

Is a metal building cheaper than a wood stick-built structure?

Yes. While raw-material prices have stabilized recently, the total cost of ownership is significantly lower for steel – roughly 30% savings on labor due to faster assembly and 20-50% savings on long-term maintenance and insurance premiums.

Does a metal garage increase property value?

Yes. A permitted metal building on a concrete slab is considered permanent infrastructure. Real estate data suggests a 60-80% ROI on the cost of the building when you sell.

What is the difference between 12-gauge and 14-gauge steel?

Thickness. 12-gauge (.1084″) is roughly 30% thicker than 14-gauge (.0783″) and is the standard for high-wind zones and buildings over 30 feet wide.

Can a metal building withstand a Category 5 hurricane?

When certified, yes. Keen’s buildings are engineered to meet ASCE 7-22 standards, withstanding wind loads up to 180 MPH. This requires specific anchoring and a vertical roof system.

What is a clear-span building?

A clear-span building uses heavy-duty trusses to support the roof without any interior columns, allowing 100% usable floor space – perfect for aircraft hangars, sports arenas, and large workshops.

Do metal buildings rust over time?

Modern steel is treated with Galvalume or a galvanized zinc coating. Most manufacturers (including Keen’s) provide a 20-to-30-year warranty against rust-through.

Are metal buildings safe during a lightning storm?

Counter-intuitively, they are the safest place to be. A steel frame acts as a Faraday cage, conducting the electrical charge around the exterior of the structure and directly into the ground.

Do I need a concrete slab, or can I install on dirt or gravel?

You can install on any level ground using auger anchors, but Keen’s recommends a concrete slab depending on use. It prevents moisture from rising through the floor and provides a more stable anchor point for high-wind certification.

How long does it take to install a metal building?

Once the site is prepared, a standard two-car garage is typically installed in 1 to 2 days. Larger commercial buildings (40×60+) can take 3 to 5 days. Most standard sizes are completed in 4 to 6 hours.

Do I need a permit?

In roughly 95% of U.S. counties, yes – most jurisdictions require a permit for any structure over 120-200 square feet. Keen’s provides stamped engineered drawings you can take to your local building office.

How do I prepare my site for delivery?

Your site must be level within 2 to 3 inches. You must also ensure a clear path for a 30-foot truck and trailer to reach the pad, with no low-hanging power lines or soft mud.

Why does my metal building “sweat” (condensation)?

Warm, moist air hitting cold steel causes condensation. The solution is a vapor barrier or insulation. Without it, condensation can drip from the ceiling and damage tools or equipment.

What is the best insulation for a metal workshop?

Double-bubble reflective insulation is the best value for most shops. For barndominiums or offices where people will live or work, closed-cell spray foam provides the highest R-value and best moisture seal.

Can I turn a metal building into a house (barndominium)?

Yes. Steel-frame shells are the fastest-growing segment of the housing market. They are cheaper to build, fire-resistant, and allow for massive, open-concept floor plans that wood framing cannot achieve.

Are metal buildings noisy when it rains?

Only if they are not insulated. A basic layer of fiberglass or spray foam insulation absorbs the sound waves, making the interior as quiet as a traditional home during a rainstorm.

Can I customize the colors of my building?

Yes. Keen’s offers over 15 different colors for roof, walls, and trim, and you can mix and match.

Is a DIY kit cheaper than professional installation?

Professional installation is usually the better value. Crews are typically 10x faster, insured, and experienced. A mistake on a DIY install can void your warranty and cost thousands to fix.

Can I move my building later?

Possible but not recommended. Buildings can be relocated but may incur damage during disassembly, transport, and re-anchoring. Plan your location carefully the first time.

23. Buyer’s Checklist

Use this checklist as a final gut-check before placing your order:

• I have confirmed permit requirements with my local building department
• I have submitted HOA approval if required
• I have verified property-line setbacks (typically 5-10 feet)
• I have measured my intended site for level (within 2 inches) and truck access
• I have chosen width, length, and leg height using the “Plus-Two” rule
• I have decided on 12-gauge vs. 14-gauge framing based on my wind and snow zone
• I have selected a roof style (vertical recommended for any building >36′ long)
• I have picked my roof, wall, and trim colors
• I have specified every door, window, and accessory I want at purchase
• I have decided whether I need a certified (engineered) building
• I know what foundation I am installing on (concrete, gravel, or ground)
• I have a payment or financing path chosen (cash, traditional financing, or RTO)
• I have reviewed the quoted price against the pricing factors in this guide
• I have read the warranty and cancellation terms
• I have scheduled my 811 call for 2-3 business days before installation

24. Contact & Support

Keen’s Portable Buildings, LLC – since 1999, BBB A+ Accredited, 75,000+ structures installed.

Contact

• Phone: 1-386-339-1676
• Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30am-5pm, Saturday 9am-3pm EST
• General email: info@keensbuildings.com
• Sales: sales@keensbuildings.com
• Warranty: warranty@keensbuildings.com
• Billing: billing@keensbuildings.com
• Website: keensbuildings.com
• Mailing address: 620 W. Howard St., Live Oak, FL 32064

Showroom Locations (Florida & Georgia)

Live Oak, FL • Waycross, GA • Perry, FL • Masaryktown, FL • Chiefland, FL • Dade City – featuring the largest metal building displays in the Southeast.

Service Areas

Keen’s sells and installs metal buildings across a wide service area including Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wyoming. Nationwide shipping is available, call for details.