Certification Requirements
What is a Certified Metal Buildings?
Certified metal buildings is engineered to meet local wind, snow, and seismic load requirements ensuring your steel building is safe and durable. According to American Metal Garages, all certified buildings come with engineer-stamped plans, anchoring systems, and load testing documentation to meet or exceed ASCE 7-22 and IBC building codes. This is especially critical in areas prone to hurricanes, snowstorms, or earthquakes.
What Are Non-Certified Metal Buildings?
A non-certified metal building is any pre-engineered steel structure that hasn’t been tested or engineered for regional code compliance. While it may use the same framing materials, it lacks documentation, wind/snow ratings, and engineer-stamped plans. These are best suited for small sheds, backyard workshops, or temporary storage. They’re not recommended in areas with heavy wind, snow, or seismic activity.​ ​
Certified vs. Non-Certified Metal Garages
| Certified Metal Garages | Non-Certified Metal Garages | |
|---|---|---|
| Framing Thickness | 14 and 12-gauge options | 14 and 12-gauge options |
| Made to Handle Light Wind and Snow | Yes | Yes |
| Maximum Wind Rating | 150–180 mph | Not Rated |
| Maximum Snow Load | 30 lbs. per square foot | Not Rated |
| Meets or Exceeds Local Building Codes | Yes | Not Rated |
| Engineering Drawings | Yes | No |
| Stamped/Raised-Seal Plans | Yes (fee applicable) | No |
| Tested to Meet Wind and Snow Loads | Yes | No |
| Braces | Knee Braces on Legs, Peak Braces on Trusses | Includes Four Corner Braces |
| Extra Anchors | Yes | Available on Request |
| Meets Safety Standards | Yes | No |
| Greater Durability | Yes | No |
| Improved Weather Resistance | Yes | No |
Certified Metal Building Standards
While no standardized certification system exists, manufacturers will often base their standards on the average wind, snow, and seismic loads in each region.
1 Wind Loads
2 Snow Loads
3 Seismic Loads​
What Types of Anchors Come with Certified Metal Garages?
Concrete Slab
Wedge anchors or
expansion bolts
Ground (Dirt)
Auger-style mobile home anchors
Asphalt
Specialized bolt-in asphalt anchors
According to American Metal Garages, all certified models include extra anchors and bracing as required by wind zone.
What is Included in Our Engineering Plans?
Certified metal buildings feature detailed engineering plans that include design drawings, structural information, and an engineer’s stamp. These plans are required for permit approval in most states and are essential for passing local inspections.
Why Choose American Metal Garages for Certified Metal Garages?
With over 10 years of experience and 5,000+ metal buildings installed nationwide, American Metal Garages is a name you can trust. Whether you need wind-certified, snow-rated, or seismic-tested steel garages—we’ve got you covered..
These certified steel buildings are fully certified for your region’s weather and backed by industry-leading warranties and craftsmanship guarantees.
Call our experts today at 866-801-1084 and discover what our certified metal buildings can do for you.
