If you need to build a mechanic shop, one of the easiest and more affordable options is to get a metal building kit.
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In this post, we are going to go over sizes, features and costs for mechanic garages and shops. We will then point you in the direction of some recommended companies so you can order your own metal building kit.
Common Mechanic Garage Sizes
First of all, how big does your mechanic garage need to be? A few years ago, we were seeing a lot of big box auto mechanic shops, often in the range of 30,000 to 40,000 square feet.
But nowadays, we are seeing a lot of mechanic shops measuring 10,000 square feet or less. Some are even as small as 1,200 square feet.
When you are choosing a size for your own mechanic shop, consider:
- The nature of your site
- The types of vehicles you will work on
- How many vehicles you will work on at once
- How much storage space you need for tools, parts and equipment
Most businesses are not going to need more than 10,000-12,000 square feet. But there is such a wide range between 1,200 square feet at the lower end and 12,000 square feet at the upper end. You will just have to assess your individual needs to figure out the right size for your business.
Why Choose Steel for Your Mechanic Shop?
Here are some of the top benefits of steel for mechanic shops and garages:
- Sturdy: Steel buildings can be exceptionally strong, standing up to high winds, rain and snow. If you want your mechanic shop to weather the elements effectively, steel is one of the best materials you can choose.
- Versatile: Steel structures offer excellent versatility through clear-span design. You can rearrange the internal space as needed to accommodate your changing work requirements.
- Low maintenance: Steel requires very little in the way of maintenance, unlike wood. That means you can keep your overhead costs to a minimum by working in a metal shop. You also will be able to save time, keeping your business running smoothly.
- Pest-proof: Rodents and insects can certainly get in and out of a metal building, so the interior is not pest-proof. But the structure itself will not be nearly as easy for pests to damage (nor as tempting) as a wood structure.
- Fireproof: Wood is combustible, but steel is not, making it a safer and more durable option with respect to fire.
- Long-lasting: Finally, a steel mechanic shop can stand the test of time, providing you with many decades of use.
Mechanic Building Features
What should you look for in a high quality mechanic shop metal building kit?
- A clear span layout. The fewer columns you need to deal with, the easier it will be to move vehicles and equipment around inside the structure.
- Options. You should be able to select custom options for siding and colors to create an appearance that is compatible with your brand image.
- Accessories. Roll-up doors, sectional doors, framed openings, interior partitions, insulation, skylights, crane systems, louvers, liner panels, ridge vents and other accessories are available to enhance the functionality of your mechanic shop. The exact options and accessories you can choose from depend on where you purchase your metal building.
How Much Does a Mechanic Shop Cost to Build?
A typical price range for constructing a metal building is anywhere from $10 to $25 per square foot.
So, the size of your mechanic shop will have an impact on the cost. A larger structure will be more expensive, though the cost per square foot may be lower.
The customization options you choose as well as the finishing will add on additional costs. And do not forget about the cost for the foundation as well as installation costs for the building. You will need to add all of these together to come up with a full price estimate for your project.
Where to Order a Mechanic Shop Building Kit
Now that you know more about the basics of building a mechanic shop, let’s take a look at some building companies worth considering.
1. Worldwide Steel Buildings
Worldwide Steel, is a big name in the world of metal buildings. This company has supplied a metal structures for decades, and takes particular pride in creating buildings strong enough to withstand hurricane-force winds.
Their auto repair shop buildings come in sizes as small as 30×40 or as large as 100×100. When you order your building, you can customize the color choices, siding and insulation, as well as choose components for your structure such as sectional doors, framed openings, ridge vents and more.
This company backs its products with solid warranties. There is a 20-year warranty on a standing seam roof or a 25-year warranty on a galvalume roof. The warranty on the paint is 40 years, and the I-beam structural warranty is 50 years.
2. Morton Buildings
https://mortonbuildings.com/projects/automotive
Our next recommendation for building a mechanic shop is Morton Buildings, a company with a history dating all the way back to 1903. Over the course of well over a century, Morton Buildings has developed a reputation as one of the top metal building companies in the US.
With more than 100 construction centers and six manufacturing plants, there is likely a convenient location near you, which keeps shipping times and expenses to a minimum. Morton Buildings is also wholly employee-owned.
Morton Buildings has extensive experience constructing mechanic shops, dealerships, car washes, and similar automotive steel buildings. On their site, you can take a look at some of their recent projects for mechanic garage ideas.
Features of Morton Buildings mechanic shops include clear-span layouts, 26-gauge Hi-Rib™ steel, a variety of door options, and the option for acoustical steel to keep your shop from getting too noisy. You can also have Energy Performer insulation incorporated to keep your structure energy-efficient, eco-friendly and cost-effective.
Just like General Steel Buildings, Morton Buildings backs its structures with excellent warranties. Morton writes, “Our 50-year snow warranty has no weight limit, where many of our competitors do. And these companies make you jump through hoops with manufacturers when you need to use it. A Morton warranty claim is handled directly in-house, and most-importantly, our warranties are non-prorated.”
Build Your Own Custom Mechanic Shop Now
It’s time to take the next step toward building a mechanic shop that is fully customized to your needs.