General FAQs
Got questions? Our FAQs provide quick answers and insights into our processes, services, and more.
Do you help with obtaining construction permits for steel structures?
If the project includes general contracting services, SteelCo will obtain the permit in most cases. If the project stops at drop-shipping materials or erection, we still supply the necessary paperwork for the client to obtain permits for the building that satisfy necessary codes in the project area. All projects get Stamped Engineered Building Drawings & Letters of Certification and we can also supply Stamped Foundation Plans (if applicable). Head over to our dedicated Resources page for more information on the process including permit requirements, permit hold options, and timeline.
Are you certified in any steel design, engineering, and manufacturing standards?
Yes. SteelCo works with suppliers and contractors whose building systems and components are designed and manufactured in accordance with widely recognized industry standards, including those published by organizations such as AISC and AISI. Our building materials are engineered to meet applicable state and local code requirements, helping support smoother review and approval by local jurisdictions.
- We work with manufacturers associated with leading industry organizations such as the MBMA (Metal Building Manufacturers Association). While MBMA does not certify or regulate members, it is a well-known trade association that supports best practices, research, and guidance for the metal building systems industry. This helps ensure our clients receive reliable, code-conscious building solutions backed by established engineering and manufacturing standards.
- The AISC (American Institute of Steel Construction) is a standard setting non-profit organization publishing several standards for steel design and construction, cited almost everywhere by other certifying standards and organizations and included by reference as part of the International Building Code. This technical institute and trade organization guides engineers in the use of structural steel for construction use and publishes a guide for design limits when using ordinary hot-rolled steel for construction.
- The AISI (American Iron and Steel Institute) largely influences public policies for the American steel industry and is comprised of top steel-producing member companies. The AISI publishes design standards that are cited by model codes (such as the International Building Code) and publishes design guides for Structural Steel Framing and Cold-Formed Steel Framing. Additionally, they are a leader in the innovative development and application of new steels and steelmaking technology.
Where do you provide services for materials shipping, erection, and general contracting?
We ship steel building materials nationwide, provide erection services within the Southeast United States, and provide commercial general contracting services in GA, TN, SC, and AL through our sibling company, SCB Construction Group.
Can you provide financing terms for residential or commercial projects?
SteelCo does not offer financing options and requires a 20% deposit at the time of contract signing
What is the typical timeline for project completion from quote to finish?
This is variable as it realistically depends on your project size, scope, and deadlines. However, SteelCo offers competitive project completion and turnaround times due to working with both regional and national plants. We can usually get our suppliers to consider quicker turnarounds on drawings and production on a case-by-case basis and our “buying power” allows us to get favoritism in these matters. We also have the ability to compare suppliers and match our customer’s needs with the best availability in the market.
Typically, on frame buildings (red-iron/PEMB) the stamped permit drawings are available from the plant in 2-3 weeks, around 4-6 weeks for simple self-storage buildings, and 8-10 weeks on more complex frame buildings (crane loads, mezzanine, intersecting rooflines) and climate controlled self-storage buildings. Production turnaround times and schedules ultimately depend on the plant producing the project, the complexity of the project, and supply/demand factors.
