Planning a new metal building starts with making the right choices. From the size of the structure to the roof pitch, every decision affects how well the building fits your needs. It can feel like a lot, but with the right partner, the process is simple.
At Hercules Sheet Metal & Metal Buildings, we’ve been helping customers plan and customize their buildings for decades. Our team will guide you through every option, and you can even use our 3D designer to see your ideas come to life.
Here are some helpful considerations to start with:
Start with Your Metal Building’s Purpose
Every good design begins with knowing how the building will be used. A workshop needs different dimensions than a storage shed. A barn or warehouse requires different doors than a home garage. Thinking through your purpose helps narrow down choices and ensures you get a building that works for you now and later. Do you need space for large equipment? Will you add offices inside? Should it be easy to expand in the future? Will it be used for storage? 40.2 percent of rentable storage space in the United States is owned by small operators, which shows how many small businesses rely on external storage rather than large in-house facilities.
Any good metal building supplier (us included) will walk you through the process, making sure the design matches your goals and fits your plans for the future.
Choosing the Right Dimensions
After deciding on the purpose of your building, the next step is settling on the right size. Dimensions matter more than you might think. A 30×40 building might be perfect for a small workshop or garage, but if you plan to store farm equipment, you may need something closer to 40×60 or larger. Height is just as important. For example, if you want to install a car lift or park an RV, you’ll need extra clearance.
On the other hand, a simple storage building may only need standard wall height. It’s also worth considering future needs—adding just a little more space now can be far cheaper than expanding later. Taking time to match dimensions to both current and long-term uses will help you get the most value out of your building.
Doors, Windows, and Access Points
The type and placement of doors and windows can make or break how functional your metal building feels. Think about what you’ll be moving in and out. A single roll-up door might work fine for a small garage, but if you’re storing tractors or boats, you may need a wider overhead or sliding door. For workshops, adding a walk-in door on the side keeps foot traffic separate from vehicle entry, making the space safer and more convenient.
Windows are worth considering too. Natural light can cut down on electricity use and make the interior more comfortable, especially if you’ll spend long hours working inside. For example, a storage-only building may not need windows, but a hobby shop or office space will feel more inviting with them. Planning access points early ensures your layout matches how you’ll actually use the building.
Roof Pitch and Style
Roof pitch is one of those details that has a big impact on both function and appearance. A low-slope roof is often more cost-effective and works well in areas with mild weather. On the other hand, a steeper pitch helps with rain and snow runoff, which is important if you’re in a region that sees heavy storms. The look also changes—some homeowners prefer a higher pitch because it makes the building resemble a traditional house or barn.
Roofing style matters too. For example, an R-panel roof is a solid, budget-friendly option for a storage building, while a standing seam roof provides a sleeker look and extra durability—great for commercial or residential spaces.
Taking the time to weigh weather, style, and long-term maintenance will help you land on the roof design that makes sense for your project.
Customization & Design Details
The finishing touches are what make a metal building truly yours. Color, trim, and insulation can all change the look and feel of the space. For example, adding insulation not only makes it more comfortable year-round but also helps control noise in a workshop.
Choosing lighter colors can keep a storage building cooler in the summer, while bold trim can give a commercial building more curb appeal. Small details like gutters, vents, and skylights may seem minor, but they can make a big difference in day-to-day use.
Bringing It All Together
Designing a metal building is about more than picking walls and a roof—it’s about creating a space that truly fits your needs. From dimensions to access points, every decision plays a role in how useful and cost-effective the final structure will be.
At Hercules Sheet Metal & Metal Buildings, we’ve spent decades helping customers turn ideas into reality. With our 3D designer, you can explore options, test layouts, and see your building before construction even begins. When you’re ready, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.