At the Starting Gate

Building a new self-storage facility requires research, planning, financing, the perfect location and the right contractors. As the market continues to grow, so will the pool of contractors and subcontractors who guide the building process. But how do you know which contractors are best for your project?

Owners should take special consideration when choosing contractors. A reputable one can help turn your investment into a pleasurable undertaking, just as a bad contractor can make the process miserable.

Youll want to use contractors experienced in developing the type of facility you envision. Look for those with diverse project portfolios to assure their versatility and performance quality.

Many self-storage owners find contractors that boast a strong relationship with metal-buildings manufacturers makes the building process more efficient. According to Otto B. Clarke, owner of Ontarios Self Storage 6, In business, it takes professionalism to operate successfully and ensure the project goes smoothly with quality materials and timely delivery. Contractors that work closely with manufacturers are able to accomplish this.

Certification assures a builder is competent and qualified to do the job. The Metal Builders Manufacturing Association created the AISC-MB certification program to enhance customer confidence by assuring a companys buildings passed rigorous engineering and fabrication audits. The AISC-MB certification program has become the industrys seal of approval. Look for it to ensure youre getting the best product quality.

Benefits

Reputable contractors can steer you in the direction of aesthetically pleasing facilities within your budget. Rely on them to help you decide types of external and internal building materials. Since most buildings will outlast the current owners, its important to think in terms of design for resale value, in addition to enhancing curb appeal for attracting customers. Also, experienced builders should be knowledgeable of conditional zoning and municipality requirements, which are the deciding factors in what type, size and overall design of building you can develop.

When working with contractors, always put any revisions in writing and keep records of all communication. This provides documentation and a time line for future reference. Similarly, your contractors should be expected to provide coordinated schedules, budgets and information and never leave you guessing.

Expertise, innovation, design flexibility, affordability and ultimately the maximum return on your investment should all be priorities in selecting self-storage design and the contractor that will undertake the project. Its important to work with the best contractor and manufacturer you can find in order to protect your future. By keeping your focus on the end result, a good contractor can guide and secure your facility better than any other. 

Darby Owenby is engineering manager of American Buildings Company, a manufacturer that designs custom self-storage systems in single and multi-story configurations, featuring custom engineering, an estimating and ordering system, competitive pricing, flexible floor plans, cost-efficient construction and controlled manufacturing process in AISC-MB certified plants. For more information, visit www.americanbuildings.com.