Building a rigid-frame steel building is an efficient, durable and fast solution, particularly suited to Quebec’s climate. But beyond the price of materials, an often underestimated aspect is the cost of installation – that is, the labor required to assemble the structure, install the cladding, insulate and finish the interior.
In this guide, we present budget prices to help you plan your project. These estimates are provided as a guide, based on standard conditions, and may vary according to several factors explained below.
🏗️ Installation of structure and cladding
This step includes :
- Complete assembly of the steel structure (beams, columns, purlins, etc.)
- Installation of exterior panels (walls and roof)
💰 Budget price (labour): $15 to $22/ft².
🧱 Installing mineral wool insulation
Recommended for heated or air-conditioned buildings, mineral wool insulation is often integrated into the building wall (suspended or sandwich system).
💰 Budget price (labour): $4.50 to $7.50/ft².
🪵 Lining installation
The inner lining protects the insulation, improves the finish and facilitates maintenance. Here are the most common options:
| Interior finish | Budget price (labor) |
|---|---|
| White sheet metal (pre-painted steel) | 3.75 to $6.00/sq. ft. |
| Gypsum (conventional interior walls) | 2.25 to $4.50/sq. ft. |
| Plywood (utility) | 3.00 to $5.25/sq. ft. |
📊 Example of overall installation cost – 5,000 ft²
For a standard 5,000 ft² building, here’s a budget estimate for labor:
- Structure + siding: $75,000 to $110,000
- Mineral wool insulation: $22,500 to $37,500
- Interior siding (e.g. white sheet metal): $18,750 to $30,000
✅ Total installation (labour): $116,250 to $177,500
❗Why are we talking about “budget” prices?
The prices quoted are budgetary, as they are used to establish a preliminary estimate before detailed plans are drawn up. Several factors may influence the actual cost:
- 📍 Site location: accessibility, distance, logistics
- 🏗️ Soil conditions: type of foundation required, levelling, excavation
- 🔧 Complex design: doors, mezzanines, cranes, openings
- 📅 Season and timing: winter increases costs (heating, reduced efficiency)
- 📈 Availability of manpower: local scarcity, project overload
- 🛠️ Type of equipment required: cranes, aerial work platforms, specialized platforms
That’s why it’s essential to consult a specialized contractor for a firm quote tailored to the specifics of your project.
🏁 Conclusion
Installing a rigid-frame steel building represents a significant investment in labor, but it also guarantees a high-performance, long-lasting building. Based on these budget prices, you can better anticipate the costs of your project, knowing that adjustments will be necessary at the detailed planning stage.
Do you have a project in mind? Contact a professional installer today for a personalized assessment.
