How Value Engineering Can Save Costs in Steel Building Projects

February 07, 2025

In the world of steel building construction, balancing cost-efficiency without compromising quality is crucial. Value engineering (VE) is a systematic approach that helps General Contractors, developers, and engineers optimize costs while maintaining the structural integrity and functionality of steel buildings. By implementing smart design strategies, material optimization, and construction efficiencies, New Horizon Structures ensures that self-storage facilities, warehouses, and other steel structures are cost-effective, durable, and built for long-term success.

What is Value Engineering?

Value Engineering (VE) is a structured method that evaluates a project’s materials, design, and construction process to determine where costs can be reduced without sacrificing quality or performance. This approach focuses on alternative solutions, material selection, and efficiency improvements that provide the same or better results at a lower cost.

How Value Engineering Reduces Costs in Steel Building Projects

01: Optimizing Steel Design for Maximum Efficiency

One of the largest expenses in steel construction is raw material costs. With Value Engineering, NHS helps General Contractors and developers reduce waste and unnecessary expenses by:

• Adjusting frame spacing: Increasing spacing between frames can minimize steel usage while maintaining load-bearing capacity.
• Using tapered steel columns: Instead of uniform columns, tapered sections optimize material distribution where strength is needed.
• Selecting efficient beam layouts: Redesigning beam configurations helps reduce unnecessary steel weight, leading to cost savings.

02: Alternative Steel Grades and Material Selection

Not all steel is created equal, and selecting the right type for each application can significantly impact costs. Some key considerations include:

• Using high-strength steel where necessary while opting for cost-effective alternatives in non-load-bearing areas.
• Cold-formed steel framing for secondary structures, which is lighter and less expensive than traditional hot-rolled sections.
• Galvanized vs. painted steel – Choosing the right protective coating based on environmental exposure can prevent over-engineering and unnecessary costs.

03: Prefabrication and Modular Construction

Pre-engineered steel buildings (PEMBs) and modular designs streamline construction and reduce labor costs by:

• Minimizing on-site modifications: Prefabricated steel components arrive ready for assembly, reducing fabrication time.
• Reducing labor hours:Faster construction means lower labor costs.
• Improving consistency:Factory-built components ensure higher quality control, reducing errors and rework.

04: Smart Foundation Design

The foundation accounts for a significant portion of construction costs, but VE strategies help lower expenses by:

• Reducing unnecessary concrete volume by optimizing foundation depth and layout.
• Utilizing soil testing to determine the most cost-effective foundation type without overbuilding.
• Considering alternative foundation systems, such as pier foundations, to lower material and labor costs.

05: Streamlining the Erection Process

A faster, more efficient erection process can save thousands in labor costs. NHS ensures:

• Strategic sequencing of steel erection to minimize crane usage and downtime.
• Pre-drilled, pre-welded connections for faster assembly on-site.
• Coordinating logistics and deliveries to prevent delays and optimize workflow.

The Bottom Line: Cost Savings Without Compromise

Value Engineering is not just about cutting costs—it’s about building smarter. At New Horizon Structures, we specialize in providing cost-effective, high-quality steel building solutions that maximize value while maintaining durability, efficiency, and structural integrity.

Why Work with NHS for Value Engineering?

• Over 100 years of combined experience in steel building construction.
• Proven track record in optimizing self-storage and warehouse projects.
• Customized VE solutions tailored to General Contractors and Developers.

Looking to reduce costs without sacrificing quality in your next steel building project? Contact New Horizon Structures today to learn how Value Engineering can benefit your construction process.