Why Metal Buildings Are Ideal for Agricultural Use
Utah’s agricultural landscape is diverse — from hay fields and cattle operations to produce storage and irrigation supply. No matter the scale or specialty, one thing all successful ag operations share is infrastructure that works. That’s where metal buildings shine.
Pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMBs) have become the go-to choice for farmers and ranchers across the state. Why? Because they offer a practical, cost-effective solution for everything from equipment storage to livestock housing.
Here’s why metal buildings are a smart investment for Utah ag.
Built for Utah's Weather
Utah is home to high-desert sun, heavy snow loads, and everything in between. A well-designed metal building can handle all of it.
Steel buildings offer:
High wind and snow load ratings
Corrosion-resistant coatings and finishes
Fire resistance (especially critical in wildfire-prone regions)
Compared to traditional wood-framed barns or pole buildings, PEMBs offer far better longevity in Utah’s harsh and variable climate.
Fast to Erect, Easy to Expand
Time is always tight in farming and ranching. Whether you're adding hay storage before first cut or building new shelter before calving season, you don’t have time for delays.
With pre-engineered components manufactured off-site, metal buildings can go from foundation to enclosed shell in a matter of weeks. And when your operation grows, they’re easy to expand — whether by extending bays or adding lean-tos and annexes.
Flexible for a Wide Range of Ag Uses
One of the biggest strengths of metal buildings is their versatility. A single structure can serve multiple functions with minimal modifications.
Common ag applications include:
Hay barns and feed storage
Equipment garages
Workshops and maintenance bays
Livestock shelters and pens
Covered wash pads or loading zones
Grain or seed storage
PEMBs allow for large clear-span interiors, high ceilings, and minimal interior columns — giving you maximum usable space.
Low Maintenance and Long-Term Value
Unlike traditional wood structures that require frequent painting, repairs, and pest control, steel buildings are designed for long-term performance with minimal upkeep.
Benefits include:
No risk of rot, termites, or warping
Long-lasting factory finishes
Minimal repainting or recoating needed
Easy to clean (power-washable surfaces)
That means fewer repairs, lower costs, and more time spent on your operation — not your buildings.
Customizable for Practical Ag Needs
PEMBs aren’t one-size-fits-all. They can be tailored to match your workflow, climate zone, and equipment layout. Consider:
Insulated wall and roof panels for climate-sensitive uses like dairy or produce storage
Ridge vents and louvers for natural ventilation in livestock areas
Overhead or sliding doors to accommodate large tractors and implements
Integrated office or breakroom spaces for farm crews
Whether your priority is utility or comfort, a metal building can be designed around your needs.
Budget-Friendly and Tax-Efficient
Metal buildings typically cost less per square foot than traditional construction — and their fast install means lower labor costs and less downtime.
In many cases, they also qualify for agricultural building tax advantages, accelerated depreciation, or state-level grants. If you’re working with NRCS, local co-ops, or water boards, a PEMB is often easier to permit and justify than more complex construction types.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the agriculture business in Utah, a metal building isn’t just a shed — it’s a long-term asset. Whether you’re housing animals, protecting equipment, or adding workspace, PEMBs deliver a mix of strength, speed, and savings that traditional ag structures just can’t match.
At A.D. Constructors, we’ve helped farms and ranches across the state design and build metal buildings that work as hard as you do.