Why Low Bid Contractors give PEMB’s a “Bad Rap”
This long-standing "bad rap" has led many prospective clients, architects and developers to unfairly dismiss pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMBs) before exploring their full potential.
The truth is, the negative stereotypes around PEMB’s are not material defects. They are a direct result of shoddy construction practices and a lack of accountability delivered by cut-rate contractors. The industry’s reputation was built by contractors focused on cutting corners rather than delivering quality.
The Low-Bid, No-Accountability Model
PEMBs are designed to be erected quickly using factory precise components. This efficiency is their greatest strength, but it became the undoing of their reputation. Shoddy contractors realized they could offer an incredibly low bid by combining the cheap manufacturing cost of a basic PEMB with cut-rate labor and a minimal commitment to quality control.
These "low-bid" operators often treated the installation as a race, prioritizing speed over accuracy. They skimped on essential components like proper insulation vapor barriers, failed to correctly seal connections, or used unskilled laborers who misaligned panels and bolted joints incorrectly. The result? Buildings that suffered from leaks, high energy bills, and premature corrosion all failures traced directly to poor installation, not the material.
The unfortunate cycle looked like this:
Shoddy Contractor → Poor Installation → Building Failure → PEMB Gets a Bad Name.
The Metal Building Contractors and Erectors Association (MBCEA) was established to combat this exact problem by promoting professionalism and quality standards across the industry.
The MBCEA offers the highly respected AC478 Accreditation Program the most comprehensive quality assurance program for metal building assembly. This certification signifies that a contractor has met rigorous standards for personnel, safety, and quality management systems.
When you hire a contractor like Raeco Builders, an AC478 Accredited firm, you are choosing accountability. You are investing in a partner who has been independently audited and verified to uphold the highest levels of safety and quality control. This accreditation separates the industry's leaders from the low-bid risk-takers.
The metal building system is an efficient, durable, and highly customizable construction method.
Unlocking the Real Potential of PEMBs
For the client who chooses a qualified, accountable contractor, the PEMB is a dynamic, cost-effective solution:
Financial Advantage: PEMBs are inherently economical. The precise, factory made components minimize on-site labor and material waste, leading to a faster close-in and quicker occupancy. This reduction in the timeline translates directly to a greater Return on Investment (ROI) for the owner.
Design Versatility: Modern PEMBs are far from simple boxes. They offer vast, clear-span interiors ideal for manufacturing, distribution, and storage. Furthermore, they can be customized with various exterior finishes masonry, stucco, architectural panels—allowing for attractive designs that seamlessly blend into any commercial park or urban setting.
Integrity and Durability: When installed correctly, steel offers superior resistance to fire, pests, and severe weather. The buildings are engineered precisely to meet local wind and snow load requirements, offering lasting structural integrity.
The Solution
The key to accessing the true potential of a PEMB is recognizing that the contractor's dedication to quality is more important than the steel itself.
Raeco Builders understands that the PEMB is a high-performance system. We commit to:
Precision Installation: Adhering strictly to manufacturer specifications for connections, sealing, and alignment.
Quality Labor: Our self-performing crews are skilled and specialized in steel erection and concrete.
Full Accountability: Standing behind the entire project, ensuring the building performs as promised regarding weather-tightness and energy efficiency.
Don't let the legacy of cut-rate construction define your next project. By partnering with Raeco who values quality and accountability over the lowest possible bid, you can leverage the genuine advantages of PEMBs.