How Much Does A Fabric Building Cost?

Invariably, one of the first questions we get when talking to someone about a building is, “How much does a fabric building cost?”.

While several factors affect how we calculate a building’s price, we can start with simple square foot ROM (rough order of magnitude) pricing. The cost of a basic tension fabric building will typically range from $10 to $15 per square foot and increase as the building becomes more complex. This ROM does not include installation or foundation costs.

What are the factors involved in calculating a building's price?

The factors involved in calculating a building price include:

Size of the building
Profile design – arch or gable
Openings and finishing – will the membrane terminate at the eve, or will the building have open end-walls?
Choice of membrane – HDPE or PVC, fire rated or non-fire rated
Location – Engineering and space to unload and install the building

What factors affect the cost of a fabric building?

We’ve covered simple costs per square foot, but what factors add to the cost of a building? Big overhead doors are the first place where the price starts to creep. If you want to climate control your structure, add the HVAC equipment, insulation, and interior building liner costs. Other common accessories include lighting, exhaust fans, and ridge vents. Uncommon customization options include fire suppression systems or extra engineering to suspend items from the truss, like conveyors for a fertilizer storage facility.

How does location factor into the cost of a fabric building?

Each fabric building is engineered specifically for the site where the building will be installed. Additional steel reinforcements may be required for buildings built in heavy wind and/or snow regions. The soil conditions, combined with the size of the building, will directly affect foundation requirements. A more stable poured in place or poured in place piers foundation may need to be chosen, which is more costly. Installation costs may also increase for more complex structures and worksites, like busy urban areas.

GNB Learn

GNB Learn is an information resource for general contractors, developers, engineers, architects, and individuals interested in tension fabric buildings. Learn articles are written by our installation, engineering, and project management staff based on lessons they’ve learned from working in the field.