Do I need to be an architect to use it?
Not at all. Our tool is designed for everyone. If you can use a smartphone, you can design a steel building. It is a simple “point and click” process.
Is the 3D design tool really free?
Yes! We believe you should be able to see your project before you pay for it. You can design, save, and change your building as many times as you like without spending a dime.
How can I verify if a steel building manufacturer is actually CSA A660 certified?
You can verify a company’s status by searching the CWB Group (Quasar) online directory. Simply enter the manufacturer’s name to see if they hold a current A660 certificate. You should also ask the provider for their Letter of Validation, which confirms their certification is active and covers the specific facility where your building will be […]
What is a Certificate of Design and Manufacturing Conformance (CDMC)?
A CDMC is a formal document issued by a CSA A660-certified manufacturer for a specific project. It is signed and sealed by a licensed Professional Engineer and affirms that the building was designed and fabricated according to the National Building Code. Think of it as the legal “birth certificate” for your structure that proves its […]
Why was my building permit denied for a pre-engineered steel structure?
The most common reason for permit denial is the lack of a Certificate of Design and Manufacturing Conformance (CDMC). Building officials use this certificate to verify that the manufacturer is audited and that the specific building was engineered for your local climate. Without this proof of CSA A660 certification, the building is considered non-compliant with […]
What are the legal penalties for buying or selling a non-CSA A660 building?
Under legislation like the Safety Codes Act, owners and manufacturers can face severe legal action for non-compliant structures. For a first offense, fines can reach $100,000, while repeat offenses can lead to fines of up to $500,000 and up to 12 months of imprisonment. Additionally, the city may order the immediate demolition of the building […]
Is CSA A660 certification mandatory for all steel buildings in Canada?
Yes. According to the National Building Code of Canada (Section 4.3.4.3), any steel building system which includes the structural frame and cladding must be manufactured by a company certified to the CSA A660 standard. This applies to commercial, industrial, and most agricultural buildings across all provinces.
Can I easily expand my facility if my first phase fills up quickly?
This is where steel truly shines for startups. Metal Pro buildings are modular by design. You can start with a “Phase 1” to test the market and seamlessly bolt on “Phase 2” or “Phase 3” as your occupancy hits 90%. This allows you to scale your investment responsibly using the cash flow generated by your […]
Will a steel building lower my long-term insurance costs?
Yes. Steel is a non-combustible material. Insurance companies view steel facilities as a much lower fire risk than wood-framed structures. As a result, many self-storage owners report lower annual premiums, which directly increases their Net Operating Income (NOI) and overall property value.
How does steel help me maximize the density of my plot?
Steel has a much higher strength-to-weight ratio than wood. This allows for thinner interior walls and wider clear spans without bulky support columns. By saving just a few inches on every partition, you can often fit 5% to 10% more units on the same footprint, increasing your monthly revenue without buying more land.