What Is a Metal Tube Building? A Complete Guide

If you’ve been searching for affordable, durable structures like garages, barns, or carports, chances are you’ve come across the term metal tube building. But what exactly is it—and why are so many homeowners and business owners choosing them over traditional wood or red iron buildings?

This complete guide breaks it all down in plain terms—so you know what you’re buying, what to expect, and why a metal tube building might just be the best investment you make this year.

What Is a Metal Tube Building?

A metal tube building is a type of prefabricated structure made primarily from square or rectangular galvanized steel tubing. These steel tubes form the frame—the bones—of the building, which is then enclosed with sheet metal siding and roofing.

This style of construction is widely used across the United States for both residential and commercial purposes. Unlike heavy red iron buildings, which are more industrial in nature, tube-frame buildings are:

• ✅ Lightweight but incredibly strong

• ✅ Easier and quicker to install

• ✅ More cost-effective from start to finish

You’ll commonly see metal tube buildings used as carports, garages, barns, equipment storage, workshops, RV covers, and even commercial structures for small businesses.

Why Tube Steel?

The “tube” in metal tube building refers to the galvanized steel tubing used throughout the structure. These hollow steel tubes are manufactured in square or rectangular shapes and serve as the vertical supports, roof bows, and trusses.

This steel framing style comes with several advantages:

• Rust resistance – Galvanized steel has a zinc coating that protects it from rust and corrosion, especially important for outdoor applications.

• Lightweight strength – The tubular design allows for excellent weight distribution without unnecessary bulk, making transport and installation easier.

• Cost-efficiency – Less steel means lower material costs, but still meets engineering standards for strength and safety.

• Flexible design – From carports to barn-style buildings, tubular framing supports a wide variety of layouts and use cases.

• Faster turnaround – These structures can typically be manufactured, delivered, and installed in a fraction of the time it takes to build a traditional stick-frame building.

Common Uses for Metal Tube Buildings

The versatility of metal tube buildings is what makes them such a popular choice. Whether you’re a homeowner, farmer, contractor, or small business owner, there’s a design that fits your needs.

Here are some of the most common applications:

• Carports – Protect your vehicles from UV rays, rain, snow, and hail. Can be open-sided or enclosed on one or more sides.

• Garages – Fully enclosed with roll-up or walk-in doors. Ideal for vehicle storage, lawn equipment, or turning into a home workshop.

• Barns – Great for agricultural storage, livestock housing, or sheltering equipment. Can be customized with stalls or tack rooms.

• RV Covers – Tall and wide enough to fit campers, motorhomes, and trailers. Keeps them protected year-round.

• Commercial Buildings – Contractors use them for tool storage, mobile offices, or retail setups. They can even be outfitted with insulation, HVAC, and electricity.

Roof Styles Matter

One of the most important customization options you’ll have is the roof style, which impacts both appearance and functionality:

• Regular Roof – Rounded edges with horizontal panels. It’s the most economical option and ideal for mild climates.

• Boxed-Eave Roof – A-frame design with horizontal panels. It has a more traditional look and better runoff than the regular roof.

• Vertical Roof – A-frame with vertically-oriented panels. This style is best for heavy rain and snow as it allows faster drainage and less buildup.

What Makes Tube Buildings So Popular?

Metal tube buildings have become the go-to solution for customers looking for a reliable structure without the high price tag or long construction timeline. Here’s why:

• ✅ Affordability – Lower overall cost than red iron or wood-framed buildings.

• ✅ Speed – Installations can often be completed in just a day or two.

• ✅ Customization – Choose dimensions, roof style, colors, door/window placement, and more.

• ✅ Durability – Designed to withstand tough weather conditions.

• ✅ Low Maintenance – No wood rot, termites, warping, or repainting needed.

• ✅ Scalability – Easy to add lean-tos or extend later as your needs grow.

Certification and Engineering

Worried about local building codes or permit requirements? Many tube buildings can be engineered and certified to meet or exceed your area’s codes. This is especially important in areas with:

• High wind exposure (coastal or plains regions)

• Heavy snow loads (mountain or northern states)

• County and city zoning regulations requiring structural documentation

When you order a certified building, it comes with engineered drawings that your local building authority may require before issuing permits.

Foundation Options

Metal tube buildings can be installed on a variety of surfaces, depending on your needs and budget:

• Dirt or gravel – Most cost-effective when paired with earth anchors.

• Concrete slabs – Best for garages, workshops, and enclosed structures. Allows for bolt-down anchors.

• Asphalt – Can be used for driveways or parking pads with specialized anchors.

• Wood decks – Less common but possible with proper engineering.

Regardless of the surface, it’s critical to ensure the site is level, compacted, and properly drained before installation.

How to Order a Metal Tube Building

Here’s what the typical ordering process looks like:

1. Choose your size – Decide on width, length, and height based on your use case.

2. Pick your roof style – Regular, boxed-eave, or vertical.

3. Select color combinations – For roof, walls, trim, and optional wainscoting.

4. Add features – Windows, doors, insulation, lean-tos, and more.

5. Request a quote – Get detailed pricing and options.

6. Apply for financing or rent-to-own – We offer both!

7. Schedule installation – Our crews handle the rest.

8. Enjoy your structure – You’re ready to use it the day it’s installed.

Final Thoughts

A metal tube building is one of the smartest, most flexible investments you can make. Whether you’re storing vehicles, building out a workshop, protecting farm equipment, or launching a small business, these buildings are built to last—and they don’t break the bank.

At Diamond Metal Buildings, we’re proud to help customers across the country find the perfect building for their needs. With financing and Rent-to-Own available, plus certified engineering for peace of mind, it’s never been easier to get the space you need.

Need help figuring out the right size or setup? Contact us today for a free quote—or start browsing our most popular buildings now.