Is earthquake insurance cheaper for steel homes?
Often, yes. Insurance companies like lower risks. Since steel is non-combustible and seismically resilient, it is less likely to suffer a total loss. In some parts of Canada, homeowners see significantly lower premiums compared to wood-frame houses.
How does the National Building Code of Canada (NBCC) view steel?
The NBCC sets the “minimum” safety rules for all homes. Most traditional homes are built only to ensure you can get out alive. Steel systems often exceed these codes. They are designed to keep the structure intact and liveable even after the shaking stops.
Are steel homes actually “earthquake-proof”?
No building is 100% earthquake-proof, but steel homes are earthquake-resistant. Steel has a property called “ductility.” This allows the frame to bend and absorb energy without snapping. While a brick home might crumble, a steel home sways and stays standing.
What is “Clear-Span” and why does it matter for height?
Clear-span means there are no interior support columns. In traditional builds, beams or posts might hang down and reduce your “usable” height. Metal Pro’s clear-span design gives you a wide-open space from floor to ceiling.
Will a higher ceiling make my building harder to heat?
Heat rises, so taller buildings can take more energy to heat at the floor level. However, using high-quality insulation and ceiling fans (to push warm air back down) makes high-clearance buildings very energy-efficient.
How do I know if my local zoning allows for a tall building?
Every municipality is different. You should check with your local planning department for “Maximum Building Height” restrictions. We provide engineer-stamped drawings that you can take to your local office to make the permit process easier.
Does a taller building cost significantly more?
The biggest cost in a building is the foundation and the roof. Adding a few extra feet of height to the walls is often very affordable. It is much cheaper to add height now than to try and raise a roof or move to a new building later.
What is the most common ceiling height for a residential garage?
For a standard car or SUV, 10 feet is common. However, if you plan to install a car lift or store a tall truck with a roof rack, we recommend a minimum of 12 to 14 feet to avoid feeling cramped.
Which is better for noise control?
The detached garage is the clear winner for noise. If you plan on using loud power tools, air compressors, or working on engines late at night, a detached structure keeps that noise away from your family’s sleeping quarters.
Can I heat a detached steel garage as easily as an attached one?
Yes, but the methods differ. An attached garage can often tap into your home’s existing HVAC system. For a detached steel garage, it is common to use radiant floor heating or a mini-split system. Because steel buildings are easy to insulate with spray foam, they stay incredibly warm even in Canadian winters.