How Long Does It Take to Build a Steel Frame Warehouse?

One of the first questions we’re asked is: how long will it take?

This is totally project-specific. There are multiple factors that determine how long it will take to build a steel frame structure, and they vary across projects depending on size, scale, complexity, and local planning authority requirements.

Each project will go through key phases as detailed in the guide below.

1. Design & Planning

Concept design, technical design, planning submission and approvals typically take several months. This depends on the planning authority overseeing the project and local factors such as environmental concerns, complexity, and the community.

The design is aided by a clear understanding of the client’s industry needs such as freezers, racking system, clean rooms and other technologies. At this point, we will also do a thorough health and safety assessment to ensure we meet the latest regulatory requirements.

2. Detailed Design & Procurement

Detailed architectural drawings are needed to determine material volumes, and a logistical timeline will also be developed to ensure materials arrive on schedule. 

Broadly, most buildings will need foundations, cladding, steel columns and beams, insulation, and, of course, doors and windows.  At Carnegie, we have excellent relationships with our suppliers that have lasted for many years. This helps ensure materials are delivered promptly. 

3. Groundworks

This phase captures site preparation, foundations and drainage.  If extensive ground stabilisation is required, this stage may take slightly longer, and the size of the site will also have a bearing on it.

4. Steel Frame Erection

Once on site, steel frames go up quickly, and you will start to see the outlines of, what will become, the finished building. 

5. Cladding & roofing

If a specific type of cladding or roof is needed, this may affect the speed at which this phase is completed, but broadly speaking, once the building is weatherproofed and secure, the internal works can begin.

6. Internal Works & Services

The architectural designs will dictate this phase, but, as a guide, this is when mechanical and electrical services, office fit-out carpentry, and final finishes to walls and floors are carried out.

Summary

The length of time a build will take depends on multiple factors, and your main contractor should be able to provide a guideline time plan once the initial surveys and designs have been completed.  Experience is highly valuable, as many hitches or potential planning issues can be caught before they cause major delays.

We advise clients on how to maintain operations during an extension or refurbishment by working together and prioritising certain areas. 

Having a partner who is cognisant of your productivity needs is vital, as you need to be able to trust that they understand your day-to-day business pressures.

Clear coordination and early contractor involvement can shorten this programme and reduce delays.