Frequently Asked Questions

We want to make sure the investment you make in your property lasts as long as possible. That's why we provide a variety of warranties, including the Weathertightness Warranty, Standard I, II, and III Weathertightness Warranty, Paint Warranty, and Saltwater and Marine Atmosphere Warranty, to help protect your metal building project when installed and maintained properly. You can find warranty documents on the specific product pages as well as on your store's page, as warranty documents are specific to the store associated with your purchase.

The best type of metal building for your project would be one that meets or surpasses the most important criteria for your particular build and supports the longest lifespan for your build. This looks different for everyone, so we suggest taking into consideration some of the following things:  Occupancy Level, Dimensions, Location, and Permit Requirements. These are only a few things to keep in mind when selecting your metal building preference, but we suggest reading this article to get more precise details on each of these, plus additonal considerations.  

There are three main metal roof types: Gable, Single-Slope, and Lean-to.

A Gable roof is defined by the triangular portion of the endwall from the level of the eave to the ridge of the roof and is the most common metal roof type. The benefits of metal gable roofs are that they easily shed water and snow as well as allow for more space, providing higher vaulted ceilings and better ventilation.

A single-slope roof type requires the sloping of one plane, extending from one sidewall to the opposite sidewall. You often see these roof types on retail shopping centers, as they're an aesthetically pleasing option.

A lean-to is more of an addition than a roof type, but lean-tos are distinctly identified and can share a common roof line if attached at the eave of the main building, or a different pitch if connected at least 8 inches below the eave.

Learn more about each roof slope in our article about the topic. 

Yes. Metal roofing is a better value long term than selecting asphalt roofing. Metal roofing offers superior durability, often lasting 40-50 years longer than traditional shingle roofing. They are also exceptionally resistant to harsh weather conditions and require immensely less repairs and maintenance when properly installed and cared for.

Sustainability has become an increasingly important point to consider when designing a new building. This article speaks to some of the characteristics that make our prefabricated steel buildings an environmentally-friendly option that will conserve natural resources and reduce environmental impacts 

The advantages of metal buildings are numerous. The flexibility in design allows you to make choices on what you want in your building, providing you with virtually limitless options on the building you desire. The sustainability and ability for materials to be recycled is another benefit that makes metal so attractive for storage buildings. Also, the durability and resistance to elements of metal buildings means you can rest easy knowing that your assets, equipment or vehicles are well preserved inside. Metal buildings are better suited to seismic events. 

Learn more about the advantages of pre-engineered metal buildings and benefits of metal storage buildings. 

Yes, we do! At Mueller, we manufacture all prefabricated buildings we sell. Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and in-house engineering provide greater quality control along with the assurance we'll be here for future needs.

No. Lightning generally strikes the tallest object in an area and can strike any material, not just metal. One advantage of metal roofing is that it won't burn if struck, since it's non-combustible.

We offer a variety of custom-designed solutions that give you the flexibility to design your building to any width, length, or height with a variety of available accessories and customization options. At Mueller, we don't believe in sacrificing functionality for aesthetics, or vice versa.

Some of the major factors to consider when planning a metal building are the size and location of the drainage system, its proximity to other structures, and climate. However, while its important to consider these things, its equally as important to plan ahead to avoid unexpected occurances.

Dive into more detail with our Project Planner or our Top Things to Consider blog article. 

While we understand the importance of a budget and see the value in allocating funds for certain purchases, Mueller chooses to provide products that merit the worth of the item. Here's what we mean by this: when it comes to an investment like a steel building that you plan to use for decades, our priority is not providing you with the most affordable solution, but ensuring you get a good value and unmatched quality. Contact Us for more insight into our logic, as well as the costs associated with a steel building.

Metal buildings are known for their minimal maintenance requirements. However, the need for maintenance does arise, and keeping your metal building in good condition can help preserve it for many years to come. Maintenance should be performed a couple of times per year on your steel building. Immediately preceding or following any major weather events, inspection of your building is critical for timely repairs.

Learn more about metal building maintenance. 

Mueller can store custom-fabricated materials for a limited time. If materials are not picked up or delivered within the applicable timeframe, additional charges may apply and your deposit may be forfeited. Contact your local Mueller store for storage details specific to your order.

Most counties and city governments have codes and specifications governing construction in their area. Understanding these local requirements upfront helps ensure you can obtain the proper permits for your Mueller building.

Mueller's 3D Design Tool lets you design your building online and request a quote directly, we'll email you a quote along with a drawing of the building you designed. You can also contact a sales representative at your nearest Mueller location, who can help design a solution that fits your needs from concept through delivery. Try the design tool here.

Mueller offers in-store pickup on select in-stock products at participating locations. Customers are responsible for providing a properly sized, rated and equipped vehicle or trailer to safely transport their materials. Mueller will load materials using appropriate equipment, such as a crane or forklift, when available. Mueller may refuse to load or release materials if the vehicle or trailer is deemed unsuitable or unsafe.

Mueller offers two delivery options: direct delivery and drop delivery. Direct delivery provides a more convenient, scheduled delivery option, with orders delivered on a Mueller truck and the delivery day scheduled in advance. Drop delivery combines multiple orders on one Mueller truck to help minimize shipping costs. A delivery time range will be established before shipping, but the exact delivery day cannot be determined in advance.

Customers are responsible for having the necessary manpower and/or equipment to safely receive their materials. The jobsite must be safely accessible for Mueller delivery equipment, and Mueller personnel will make the final determination about jobsite accessibility. Customers are responsible for unloading materials when a third-party carrier is used.

Mueller does not install the building for our end customers, we provide all of the building materials and plans needed to properly erect your steel building. After you've received your materials, our customer service team is available to help you should questions arise.

There are three main factors to consider once you're ready to install your metal building: Accessibility, Storage, and Facilities.

Accessibility - Your metal building will be shipped to you on a flat-bed 18-wheeler, so the installation site will need to be accessible via road, or you'll need an alternate plan to unload the building materials and get them to the site. Ensure your site offers plenty of clear space, free from debris, with enough room to stage components prior to installation.

Storage - To prevent damage to your metal building components, you'll need a safe place for storage. Be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions for storing materials.

Facilities - After ordering your building and choosing an erector, check with them to find out what they require for the jobsite. Some erectors require that the building owner provide a dumpster and latrines for the site.

Learn more about how to prepare your site for installation.