How Long Does It Take to Build a Metal Building?

“How long will it take?” It’s one of the first questions every developer asks when planning a new pre-engineered metal building (PEMB). Whether you're building a warehouse, shop, or ag structure, understanding the timeline from concept to completion helps you plan better — and avoid unexpected delays.

While metal buildings are faster than traditional builds, there’s still a process to follow. Here's what you can expect when building a PEMB in Utah — and how to keep things moving on schedule.

Step 1: Design and Planning (2–4 Weeks)

The timeline starts with defining what you need. What’s the building for? How big? Will it be insulated? How many doors and openings? The clearer your goals, the faster the design phase moves.

What happens in this stage:

• Site measurements and layout planning

• Building use defined (warehouse, shop, barn, etc.)

• PEMB supplier begins design drawings

• Initial budget and scope reviewed

Tip: Work with a design/build contractor early. Having design and construction under one roof speeds up decision-making and reduces friction between engineering and execution.

Step 2: Permitting and Engineering (3–6 Weeks)

Every jurisdiction in Utah has different permitting requirements. Some counties move fast, while cities along the Wasatch Front may take longer to review commercial submittals.

This phase includes:

• Geotech (if needed) and foundation design

• Stamped engineering drawings

• Site plan approvals and permit submittals

Permit timelines vary:

• Rural/ag zones: 2–3 weeks is common

• Commercial/urban zones: 4–6+ weeks is typical

Tip: Submit a full, code-compliant set of drawings to avoid rejections or back-and-forth with the city.

Step 3: PEMB Fabrication and Delivery (4–8 Weeks)

Once your building is engineered and approved, your PEMB kit goes into production. This is often the longest stretch in the schedule — especially during busy construction seasons.

Factors that impact lead time:

• Steel supply and manufacturer backlog

• Panel profile and insulation type

• Special coatings or colors

Most standard PEMBs ship within 6–8 weeks after order approval. We monitor manufacturer schedules closely to prevent surprises and can suggest fast-track systems when needed.

Step 4: Site Prep and Foundation Work (1–3 Weeks)

While your building is being fabricated, site prep can begin. That means clearing, grading, and pouring your foundation. This timeline depends on:

• Site conditions (cut/fill, accessibility, etc.)

• Soil type and frost depth

• Weather and inspection schedules

Most slabs or footings for PEMBs are straightforward and take less than a week of active work — but always allow time for cure periods and inspections.

Step 5: Building Erection (1–3 Weeks)

Once the steel arrives, things move quickly. Erection is one of the fastest parts of the project — assuming your site is ready and staging is efficient.

A small workshop or ag barn can go up in a few days. Larger commercial buildings with insulation and finish work may take a couple of weeks.

What’s included:

• Steel frame assembly

• Roof and wall panels

• Doors, trims, and accessories

• Insulation and interior prep (if applicable)

Tip: Plan ahead for power, water, and utilities if they’re required for interior buildout or HVAC installs.

Step 6: Final Buildout and Closeout (Varies)

If your PEMB is a basic shell, you may be ready to move in once the building is dried in. But if you're adding electrical, HVAC, mezzanines, or office space, you'll need additional trades to complete those scopes.

Timelines for this stage depend entirely on your building’s complexity.

Total Estimated Timeline: 10–20 Weeks (Start to Finish)

Here’s a rough breakdown:

PhaseTime EstimateDesign & Planning2–4 weeksPermitting & Engineering3–6 weeksPEMB Fabrication4–8 weeksSite Prep & Foundation1–3 weeksErection & Closeout1–3 weeks+

Projects can move faster or slower depending on season, size, location, and decision-making speed. But with a streamlined process and experienced team, most metal buildings in Utah can be completed in under 5 months — often much less.

Final Thoughts

PEMBs are known for fast timelines, but smart planning is still the difference between an on-time build and one that drags. If you're building in Utah, consider local permitting delays, weather windows, and lead times when mapping out your schedule.

At A.D. Constructors, we guide our clients through the entire timeline — from concept to occupancy — keeping things efficient every step of the way.