Redefining Contemporary Home Design: Metal Prefab Buildings

Metal prefab buildings aren't like metal buildings of the past.

There was a stigma surrounding steel structures for many years. Think cold warehouses and industrial metal buildings. Not so much anymore.

Steel homes these days are customizable. You can get an open floor plan, modern aesthetics, and enjoy tremendous savings in the process.

…And they're built faster than traditional options too.

Here's What You Need To Know:

1. Why Prefab Metal Buildings Are Booming Right Now

2. Money Saving Benefits of Building With Metal

3. Design Options You Didn't Know Existed

4. Tips For Picking The Perfect Metal Building For You

Why Prefab Metal Buildings Are Booming Right Now

The dream of homeownership is being sidelined for millions of Americans.

With median home prices still soaring and mortgage rates at nearly 8%, many would-be buyers are feeling locked out of the market. That doesn't mean they've given up hope of owning a home.

Enter metal prefab structures.

Prefabricated steel buildings offer realistic pathways towards owning your own home without breaking the bank. That's leading to growth in the industry. The U.S. prefabricated buildings market size was valued at $43.34 billion in 2025. It's expected to reach $57.83 billion by 2030.

That's an increase of over 33% in five years.

And it's not just tiny prefab homes or office buildings we're talking about. All sorts of metal buildings are gaining popularity… from portable storage buildings to full residential homes. Keen's metal prefab buildings offer options for every need.

Whether you want some extra storage space on your property or are planning to live in your steel building, there are options for you.

Data from the National Association of Home Builders backs this trend up too. Approximately 7% of homebuilders in the United States built a "barndominium" in the last year.

A barndominium (or "barndo" for short) is a metal building that is used to live in. That might not sound like a lot, but it's a significant increase from just a few years ago.

This trend is only going to continue upwards.

Money Saving Benefits of Building With Metal

If you had to guess, what's the number one reason people are turning to metal prefab homes?

Correct! To save money.

Building with metal saves you about 20-30% on average when compared to traditional construction. That's a huge deal!

If you're building a $300,000 home, that's the difference between spending $60,000 – $90,000 more than you have to.

How do prefab metal buildings save you money?

• Lower material costs: Prefab metal buildings are made up of pre-engineered steel sections. Steel just cost less than lumber and traditional building materials.

• Less construction time: Construction takes less time overall. Whereas building might take MONTHS, metal buildings can go up in a matter of WEEKS.

• Lower labor costs: Construction crews won't have to spend as many hours onsite.

• Less wasted material: There's much less waste created during construction since it's mostly done in a factory setting.

…but did you know…

Your savings don't stop after construction!

Metal buildings are virtually maintenance-free. There's no rot to worry about. Termites won't be interested in your home. Drywall cracks and wood shifting? Not metal homes.

Translation: You won't be paying for expensive repairs and replacements for the foreseeable future.

Metal roofing itself lasts 40-60 years in many cases before needing to be replaced. And maintenance is minimal. Compare that to the more traditional asphalt shingles which need replacing every 15-20 years.

Design Options You Didn't Know Existed

If you're like most people I talk to… you might be surprised at how customizable modern metal prefab homes are.

I know I was.

You can easily achieve a modern, contemporary look with the right builder. The end-result will feel like a traditionally built home — but with metal bones.

Some features you can expect with modern prefab metal homes:

• Open floor plans with large clear spans (meaning there aren't load bearing walls every few feet)

• High ceilings for spacious living areas

• Floor-to-ceiling windows for plenty of natural light

• Combination of materials. You're not limited to just steel! You can use wood, stone, glass, etc.

The reason you can achieve so much flexibility with metal buildings is all thanks to the frames.

Steel supports weight differently than wood does. There's fewer support beams and structural alterations you need to make.

Want a 60 foot living room with nothing in the middle? No problem.

Want to add on to your home in the future without ripping everything apart? With metal buildings, it's easy.

It's awesome what you can do these days.

Another benefit? You can get nearly any exterior finish you want on a metal building. From the outside, your neighbors won't even know it's not a traditional home.

You can get finishes like:

• Stucco

• Brick veneer

• Wood siding

• Standing seam metal panels

…and more!

Tips For Picking The Right Metal Building For You

Now that you know all about metal prefab buildings. You're probably thinking about buying one for yourself!

Before you go searching online and finding yourself overwhelmed by options…there are a few things you should know.

First thing's first. What will you be using your metal building for?

Will you be living in it as your primary residence? A workshop with living quarters? A guest house? Maybe you just need extra storage.

Your intention will play a large part in what you should be looking for.

Next, you'll want to check your local building codes.

Many municipalities were unclear on how to deal with metal buildings being used as homes. Luckily, that's starting to change. Now there are specific code requirements that must be met for metal buildings that will be inhabited.

When you start shopping around, look for providers that meet the following criteria:

• Heavy-gauge steel frames that are rated for your specific climate

• Insulation is included in the package

• Options for customizing doors/windows/layout

• Strong warranties on labor and materials

• Local support if you need assistance during construction or DIY-friendly options

Don't forget about the foundation your metal building will need either. You'll need to pour a concrete slab or concrete piers before construction can begin. Keep that in mind for your budget and timeline.

Lastly, consider your future self.

One of the biggest benefits of metal building construction is the ability to expand. Make sure you leave room for your metal building to grow if you think you may want to add on in the future.

Bringing It All Together

Metal prefab buildings have come a long way.

Not only can they save you thousands of dollars over traditional builds. But they're also customizable to your needs and can last for generations.

There's no reason you should feel like you have to settle for a traditional build these days.

If you're considering building something in the near future, look into metal prefab homes. You might be surprised at what you can build.

Here are some other articles related to your search:

• Tempe's Finest: Discovering the Luxury of Fine Homes and Living
• 8 Key Ideas That Inspire Creative Approaches to Home Redecoration
• Why Indoor, Outdoor Design Defines Modern Homes