- COMMON QUESTIONS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Have questions about steel buildings? You’re in the right place. Browse our most frequently asked questions below, and if you don’t find what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team directly.
- STEEL BUILDING QUESTIONS
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
We’ve answered our most common questions below. Still need help? Call us, email us, or fill out a contact form and we’ll get back to you promptly.
ABOUT OUR BUILDINGS
How does the process work for steel buildings, concrete, and insulation?
• Steel Buildings Our steel building process starts with a free consultation where we take the time to understand your project goals, your land, and your budget. From there, we work with you to design your building using our free 3D design tool, allowing you to visualize dimensions, roof style, colors, doors, windows, and more before anything is ordered. Once the design is finalized, we handle engineered drawings, permitting, delivery, and erection. Every steel building is custom-designed and built to meet your local code requirements. From first conversation to final walk-through, we manage the entire process so you don't have to.
• Concrete A solid foundation is the most important part of any steel building project, and we handle it in-house. Our concrete process begins with site evaluation and plot staking to ensure the foundation is properly positioned and graded. From there our crew handles site clearing, form setting, and concrete pouring for slabs and piers. We don't move forward with the steel erection until the foundation is inspected and confirmed to be level, solid, and ready to support your structure. Getting this step right the first time is something we take seriously on every single project.
• Insulation Unlike many steel building companies that subcontract insulation work, American Southern Steel handles insulation entirely in-house with our own certified insulation contractors. Once your building is erected, our team gets to work sealing and insulating the structure to ensure maximum energy efficiency and comfort. We assess your building's specific use — whether it's a workshop, a residence, a commercial facility, or a storage space — and recommend the right insulation solution for your needs. The result is a properly sealed, energy-efficient building that performs well in any climate and stands up for decades to come.
• Concrete A solid foundation is the most important part of any steel building project, and we handle it in-house. Our concrete process begins with site evaluation and plot staking to ensure the foundation is properly positioned and graded. From there our crew handles site clearing, form setting, and concrete pouring for slabs and piers. We don't move forward with the steel erection until the foundation is inspected and confirmed to be level, solid, and ready to support your structure. Getting this step right the first time is something we take seriously on every single project.
• Insulation Unlike many steel building companies that subcontract insulation work, American Southern Steel handles insulation entirely in-house with our own certified insulation contractors. Once your building is erected, our team gets to work sealing and insulating the structure to ensure maximum energy efficiency and comfort. We assess your building's specific use — whether it's a workshop, a residence, a commercial facility, or a storage space — and recommend the right insulation solution for your needs. The result is a properly sealed, energy-efficient building that performs well in any climate and stands up for decades to come.
What types of steel buildings does American Southern Steel offer?
We offer a wide range of steel building types for both residential and commercial use, including garages, workshops, agricultural buildings, warehouses, mini storage facilities, and large-scale commercial structures. If you can imagine it, we can build it — no two projects are exactly alike.
What is the difference between square tube steel and Red Iron construction?
Square tube steel is typically used for smaller, lighter structures, while Red Iron (also known as I-beam construction) is used for larger, more heavy-duty buildings. Both options are available through American Southern Steel, and our team will help you determine which is the right fit for your project based on size, use, and budget.
What warranties do you offer on your steel buildings?
We offer product warranties ranging from 20 to 40 years depending on the building package selected. In addition, we guarantee our workmanship against defects for up to 60 days following project completion.
How long does it take to receive my building after ordering?
Delivery times vary depending on your location and the specifics of your build. Based on customer experience, many buildings have been delivered and set up within two weeks of ordering. Our team will give you a more accurate timeline during your consultation.
Can you build in my state?
We serve the contiguous 48 United States. All licensed work is verified with each individual state's licensing board, and every project is fully bonded and insured regardless of location.
What size buildings can you construct?
We can build structures ranging from small 200 sq ft backyard workshops all the way up to 800,000 sq ft commercial facilities. There is no project too small or too large for our team.
DESIGN & CUSTOMIZATION
Can I customize my steel building?
Absolutely. Every building we sell is custom-designed to meet your specific needs. You can customize dimensions, roof style, roof pitch, frame type, colors, wall configurations, doors, windows, lean-tos, porches, building extensions, and interior features. Use our free 3D design tool to start visualizing your build today.
Do you offer engineered drawings?
Yes. We provide engineered drawings as part of our consultative design process. These drawings are essential for permitting and construction and are prepared to meet your local building code requirements.
What is SMART-BILT™?
SMART-BILT™ is American Southern Steel's proprietary building technology engineered to deliver superior structural performance, energy efficiency, and long-term value. Ask about Level 2 Living — a design approach that allows construction at the water's edge while reducing long-term maintenance costs and lowering home insurance premiums.
What is Level 2 Living?
Level 2 Living is a design approach that allows construction directly at the water's edge. It reduces long-term maintenance costs and can significantly lower home insurance premiums — making it an attractive option for customers building on or near the water.
Do you offer off-grid building options?
Yes, and it's one of our specialties. Our off-grid design packages include menu-driven options for solar electricity, backup generators, wall-mounted battery backup, geothermal technology, water well and purification systems, septic systems, and eco-friendly design features.
CONSTRUCTION & PROCESS
What does "turn-key construction" mean?
Turn-key means we handle everything from start to finish — site clearing, concrete and pier installation, framing, insulation, and erection. You don't have to coordinate multiple contractors or manage different crews. One team, one point of contact, and one seamless process.
Do you handle site clearing and concrete work?
Yes. Site clearing, concrete slab work, and pier installation are all part of our turn-key construction services. Getting the foundation right is one of the most important steps in any build, and we handle it in-house.
Do you use subcontractors?
We keep as much work in-house as possible, including our insulation contracting teams. When subcontractors are used for specialized licensed work, all trades are verified with the appropriate state licensing board and the work is fully bonded and insured.
Will you help with plot staking and site preparation?
Yes. We assist with consultative design, plot staking, and site preparation as part of our comprehensive building services.
FINANCING
What financing options are available?
We offer two main paths to financing your steel building. The first is traditional lending through our network of over 200 lenders, with interest rates starting at 7.9% and financing available up to $5,000,000 for terms up to 20 years. The second is our Rent-To-Own program for projects up to $25,000, which requires no credit check and approves everyone.
How quickly can I get funded?
Through our traditional lending partners, funding can happen in as little as 24 to 48 hours after approval. Our team works hard to make the financing process as fast and painless as possible.
Will checking my financing options affect my credit score?
With several of our lending partners, including HFS Home Improvement Loans, checking your rate does not impact your credit score. We encourage you to explore your options with no obligation.
Is there a Rent-To-Own option?
Yes. For projects up to $25,000, we offer a Rent-To-Own program with no credit check required. Everyone is approved, making it a great option for customers who may not qualify for traditional financing.
GENERAL
Is American Southern Steel a veteran-owned business?
Yes. American Southern Steel is proudly U.S. Veteran-owned and operated. The values of service, integrity, and commitment that come with military experience are reflected in everything we do.
How do I get started?
The easiest way to get started is to use our free 3D design tool to sketch out your building idea, then submit it for a free quote. You can also call us directly at (844) 247-8335 or fill out our contact form and a member of our team will reach out to you promptly.
How do I contact American Southern Steel?
You can reach us by phone at (346) 517-8335, by toll-free at (844) 247-8335, or by email at info@amsouthsteel.com. Our office is located at 1909 Lawrence Rd, Suite 100, Kemah, Texas 77565. You can also visit our Contact page to send us a message directly.
- Take The Next Step
Ready to build something great?
Whether you have a clear vision or just an idea, our team is here to help you bring it to life. Let’s talk about your project, your land, and your goals — and figure out the best path forward together.
No pressure, no obligation. Just honest guidance from a veteran-owned team that genuinely cares about getting your build right.