PREFAB SELF STORAGE BUILDINGS

Prefab self storage buildings are among the simplest PEMB buildings to erect, and they fulfill a host of functions for both the personal and commercial user.

Prefab Self Storage: Commercial vs Personal Use

Commercial Use

Prefabricated self storage buildings, also known as mini storage buildings or pre-engineered self storage buildings, are among the most popular type of commercial and PEMB (pre-engineered metal building) buildings being erected today. And there is plenty of demand for it. According to the “2024 Self-Storage Almanac” published by MiniCo Insurance, the American self-storage sector is estimated to be worth $44.3 billion with around 52,301 operational storage facilities, offering an estimated 2,099,000,000 square feet of storage space.

The self-storage industry is booming due to increased urbanization, consumerism, and life transitions that drive demand for extra space. As people downsize, accumulate more belongings, and navigate life changes like moving or starting home businesses, self-storage offers a flexible solution. The industry has also benefited from trends in minimalism, population mobility, and strong investment interest, leading to expanded facilities and greater accessibility, making it a resilient and growing sector. The self-storage industry is expected to continue growing, too. The US market is projected to reach $49.88 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 2.37%. Globally, the market is set to grow at a pace of 4.37%, reaching $72.15 billion by the end of 2029.

For our commercial clients, SteelCo has 23+ years of experience in designing, delivering materials, and building erection (in Southeast U.S. only). Customers of prefab mini storage facilities expect choices and solutions, and we deliver – self storage units or “bays” that start on the small side, usually 5’ X 10’, and then go up in increments from 5’ X 10’ to 10’ X 15’ to 10X 20’ and 10’ X 30’ or even larger. Customers may be happy with outdoor storage units, or they may prefer an indoor unit that provides climate control. Prefab self storage buildings from SteelCo come in a wide variety of building plans and we can customize them to your own specific needs.

Personal Use

Lining up cars or boats haphazardly on one’s property is a thing of the past. Unless they are under cover they are not protected from the elements – the relentless rays of the sun or the hail of winter. They also look unsightly. With a metal storage building (minimum 2,400 sqft) from SteelCo Buildings, your vehicles can be placed under cover where they are out of the elements. You can then work on them throughout the year – no need to wait for nice weather to break out the tools and get to work.

Metal storage buildings can feature a variety of different door systems, so you’ll be sure to have plenty of room to get your cars and boats out of the building as easily as you got them in. Steel self-storage buildings are suitable for collector cars, junker cars you intend to fix, boats, farm machinery and equipment, and any other items you’d like to store indoors but out of your own house, to give you more room there as well.

Whether you are looking for a steel mini storage or residential garage and workshop building with room for cars, vehicles, and machinery, SteelCo Buildings has floor plans for buildings that will also serve those purposes.

Why Choose Prefab Self Storage Buildings?

Clear Span Construction

Steel frames can support expansive structures without needing load-bearing walls or columns. This clear span design provides more usable space, making it ideal for storing large items such as cars or boats.

Our steel self-storage buildings can span up to 350’ wide and 100’ high, offering maximum flexibility.

Did You Know?

Prefabricated and pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMBs) are known for their modularity and expandability, making them highly versatile for various applications.

The modular nature of PEMBs stems from their design, which involves standardized components such as beams, columns, panels, and fasteners which can be easily interchangeable.

Inexpensive yet Sturdy

The reason steel buildings and prefab self-storage units are inexpensive compared to other building materials is that steel is the most recycled metal on the planet. It can be recycled repeatedly and never loses its properties for strength and durability.

Cost-savings for prefab storage units also come from less maintenance over time along with quicker construction times due to prefabricated parts taking less time to put together.

Sturdy

And steel self-storage buildings are also sturdy. Their component parts are crafted from top quality materials made to withstand high winds up to 120 mph (category 3 hurricanes) and heavy snow loads.

In areas prone to hurricanes or tornadoes, PEMBs can be designed to withstand wind speeds of up to 180 mph (category 6+) or more. This involves using stronger materials, additional bracing, and enhanced connections.

Customizable & Expandable

SteelCo Buildings has professional floor plans available for a wide variety of prefab self-storage buildings and prefab mini storage, but can also provide custom-designed building plans from our talented team of designers.

This modular design allows for easy expansion. As business needs grow, additional sections can be seamlessly integrated into the existing structure without significant disruption.

Did You Know?

This adaptability makes PEMBs ideal for industries requiring scalable solutions, such as warehousing, manufacturing, industrial, flex space / commercial spaces, and more offering both initial efficiency and long-term flexibility.

Quick & Easy to Erect

Logically, it just takes less time to erect pre-engineered metal storage buildings because all of the materials are delivered and on hand with nothing more to do than follow the building erection plans.

Typically, PEMBs can be constructed 30% to 50% faster than conventional stick-built buildings. The exact time savings can vary based on the complexity of the project, site conditions, and local labor availability.

How Quick?

There’s no need to wait months and months for your storage building to be erected, or for you to have to wait to start your new self-storage business.

Prefab self-storage buildings can be erected in weeks rather than months.

Lower Maintenance & Insurance

Steel self storage buildings are inexpensive to maintain & have lower insurance premiums on average. Insurance for steel buildings can be up to 30% lower than their wood-framed counterparts.

This reduction is due to steel’s superior fire resistance, durability, and resistance to pests and environmental damage. These properties reduce the overall risk of damage and loss, leading to more favorable rates.

Did You Know?

Because steel is non-combustible, steel mini storage buildings or self-storage buildings are typically rewarded with lower premiums by insurance agencies as the safer nature of these buildings equates to less insurance risk.

Attractive & Long-Lasting

Steel buildings are attractive due to their modern & versatile design capabilities. They can incorporate sleek, contemporary aesthetics with a wide range of finishes & facades.

This flexibility allows for customization in shape, color, & texture, creating visually appealing structures that fit diverse environments, from industrial parks to commercial centers.

Long-Lasting

If not properly cared for, wooden buildings and paint can weather, fade, and peel in just a few years. That’s not the case with steel-framed pre-engineered storage buildings. Top-quality PBR panels come in a wide variety of long-lasting, non-fade colors with paint warranties that typically last 20+ years.

This durability is due to steel’s resistance to common issues that affect other building materials, such as rot, termites, and warping. Steel’s structural integrity under various environmental conditions also contributes to its long-lasting performance.

The SteelCo Difference

For over 23 years, SteelCo Buildings has been dedicated to providing quality pre-engineered metal building (PEMB) materials nationwide and exceptional commercial construction services across across Georgia, and now Tennesee. Our team boasts 100+ years of combined experience in prefab self storage facility and mini storage building materials, design-build, and construction services.

As a locally awarded general contractor, we have successfully managed, designed, and delivered projects exceeding 200,000 square feet in various sectors, including company HQs, commercial flex spaces, industrial buildings, manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, self-storage facilities, retail/mixed-use developments, and more. We are happy to speak with clients about every aspect of your self storage project and investment, whether you are purchasing one of our standardized prefab self storage building kits or whether you need to consult with us on a customized design.

We also offer guidance that helps our clients navigate the processes of building permits, zoning, and local ordinances. And we’re seasoned — we have been supplying floor plans and prefab storage building materials to SMBs and enterprise businesses nationwide for two decades. We are able to provide not only “stock” building (stamped engineering) plans for businesses, but also custom-designed plans to suit any business need or function.

At SteelCo, we pride ourselves on delivering a superior customer experience. That’s on top of our quality pre-engineered steel frames and panels. In the starting stages of your self storage facility, we strongly encourage potential clients to discuss their needs with at least two red-iron PEMB manufacturers to gauge pricing and experience levels. Work with us and we’re confident you’ll see the difference. Reach out to us for a consultation on your project today.

“Accurate inventory paired with competitive pricing. I have completed over half a dozen jobs with SteelCo and am continually impressed, relieved, and thankful with the customer service we have received when ordering and erecting their buildings.”

C O'Brien, KO Storage (Preferred Supplier)

“I used SteelCo for my most recent building addition at our self storage facility. Clint and Brad were great to work with from start to finish. I would highly recommend them if you are in the market for a metal building.”

B Wiggins, Owner

“These guys have been great to work with. I have dealt with Joseph and Brad, and they have been total professionals. Look forward to working with them again!”

B Gates, Owner

FAQs

How are prefab self storage facilities, hallway storage systems, and mini storage buildings different?

Hallway storage systems, mini storage buildings, and self storage facilities are terms frequently used interchangeably within the industry. They refer to structures specifically engineered for the secure storage of personal or commercial items. While these terms are often synonymous, here’s a quick run-down on how to better understand the subtle nuances which can aid you in choosing the ideal storage solution for your needs.

Interchangeable Terms

Hallway Systems: This refers to the layout of storage units within a larger facility or converted building (typically commercial or retail buildings), organized along corridors or aisles to facilitate easy navigation and access to individual units. Hallway systems optimize space utilization while ensuring efficient movement within the storage facility. These types often look like ordinary brick buildings, but you’ll see hallways inside with rows of steel self-storage units, etc.

Mini Storage Building: Often denoting smaller-scale steel storage facilities, mini storage establishments typically offer individually rented storage units tailored for personal or commercial use. These prefab self storage units come in various sizes, providing flexible storage options to accommodate diverse needs, from storing household items to business inventory.

Self-Storage Facility: A comprehensive term encompassing storage space rental for personal or business use. Within self-storage facilities, mini storage units may be available alongside larger storage spaces, catering to clients with varying storage requirements. These often include a wider variety and range of units from drive-up exterior units to indoor climate-controlled units due to the larger scale of these facilities. Self-storage facilities also tend to offer versatility, security, and convenience for storing belongings short or long-term.

Whether for commercial or personal use, hallway systems and steel mini-storage buildings offer secure and adaptable storage solutions customized to meet diverse demands. SteelCo Buildings provides a wide array of available floor plans and customization options to cater to various storage needs. From climate-controlled units to customizable layouts, clients can find the perfect solution to safeguard their belongings while maximizing storage efficiency.

Is security and convenience a top priority for your self-storage building vision? Hallway systems and steel self-storage buildings can prioritize security and accessibility. Advanced security features such as surveillance cameras, gated access, and individual unit locks ensure the protection of stored items. Additionally, convenient features like drive-up access, well-lit corridors, and 24/7 accessibility enhance the overall storage experience, providing clients with peace of mind and ease of use.

Is it recommended to build steel self storage buildings without a General or Commercial Contractor?

Although warehouses and self storage facilties may seem more straightforward than other steel building types, it is generally not recommended to take this on personally especially without a strong foundation in building permits, construction management, and potentially commercial real estate.

Building prefab self-storage units requires a comprehensive approach, including conducting a feasibility study, selecting a suitable site, planning, budgeting for construction and operational costs, and designing the facility with the help of professionals. It also involves managing the construction process and finally operating and maintaining the facility.

It’s also essential to ensure that your concept/design meets local building codes and is suitable for local weather conditions.

Check out: Blueprints For Success: Self Storage Building Plans

How much does it typically cost to build prefab self storage units and self storage facilities?

Building square footage, material and construction type, and location are the top cost drivers for prefab self-storage buildings. Other factors, such as customization and specific features (i.e. climate-controlled units, security additions, contactless check-in, interior flex spaces, etc.), also impact the overall cost.

On average, self-storage facilities start at around $17 to $20 per square foot for PEMB materials. Building erection can range from $6 to $10, and the full construction cost (including materials and construction) can range from $110 to $150 PSF for project sizes under 100,000 SF.

Check out these additional resources:

Breaking Down The Cost To Build Self-Storage Facilities

Estimating Mini Storage Building Costs: A Financial Overview

How long does it take to construct mini storage or self storage buildings?

Please keep in mind these are general timeline estimates and can be reduced accordingly (months for Design and Planning) if using more standardized building plans and designs. Construction timelines may also potentially be reduced in these cases. These timelines reflect the efficiency of using PEMB, which can significantly reduce the construction time due to pre-fabrication and simpler assembly. The exact timeline can still vary based on local permitting processes, site conditions, and the level of customization in the building design.

See more info about project timelines on our General FAQs page.

Small Self-Storage Facilities (2,400 sq. ft.)

Design and Planning: 1-2 months
Permitting: 1-2 months (depending on local regulations)
Site Preparation: 1-2 months
Construction: 2-3 months

Total Time: 5-9 months

Medium Self-Storage Facilities (5,000 sq. ft.)

Design and Planning: 2-3 months
Permitting: 1-3 months
Site Preparation: 1-2 months
Construction: 3-4 months

Total Time: 7-12 months

Large Self-Storage Facilities (10,000 – 20,000 sq. ft.)

Design and Planning: 3-4 months
Permitting: 2-4 months
Site Preparation: 2-3 months
Construction: 4-6 months

Total Time: 11-17 months

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