Frequently Asked Questions

• Inorganic; does not warp, split, crack or creep
• Fire resistant: will not contribute fuel to the spread of a fire
• Termite proof
• Mold resistant
• Non-load bearing walls
• Lower insurance premiums
• Consistent quality: steel is produced in strict accordance with national standards--no regional variations and inconsistencies
• Less scrap and waste (2% in steel vs. 20% in wood construction)
• Square corners stay squared; windows and doors open & close as they should
• Lightweight: steel is 60% of the weight of wood framing...making it easier to handle

Yes! We have worked with our customers forming house plans that started with a pencil drawing on the back of a napkin. We can work with you through the whole design process.

Well, GCC's method of using 4-1/2" schedule 40 pipe columns has been engineered for strength because the rigidity of the column is consistent in all directions due to its round shape.

Also, "Joe Builder" anchors his beam colums to the top of the slab which creates a shear point or weak point at the column/slab connection. This significantly reduces the tolerances of the structure. GCC sets each pipe column within a 3' deep concrete pier which eliminates the weak point at the slab. The pipe upright is simply more steel at 11 lbs per ft. Compared to an 8" beam upright at 10 lbs per ft.

Since "Joe Builder's" columns are anchored to the top of the slab, the primary weight of the structure is resting on the slab, which requires a "beefier" concrete beam to prevent cracking under weight of structure. GCC's pipe columns encased in 3' deep concrete piers bears the primary weight of the structure at the column lines. This reduces the need for so much concrete and saves you money!

A bolted building depends on cross bracing and rigitity of sheeting to make the structure strong, whereas a welded structure is strong on its own. There is no need for cross bracing, which increases flexibility to place doors wherever you want since each bay is "usable" .

Well, about 45% more welds!

GCC welds trusses and truss/column connection twice at each connection; first using a 6018 rod and then a 7010 rod. This gives the structure both strength and flexibility.

"Joe Builder" welds a clip to the side of his beam column and then welds the wall girt to the clip with a 4" to 6" weld. GCC cuts the purlin to wrap around the side of the pipe column and weld every inch of the connection.

Yes! GCC uses the same size truss throughout structure just in case you want to add on later. This is called "expandable endwalls". "Joe Builder" uses smaller trusses or only purlin on endwalls. This saves "Joe Builder" money, but makes the structure weaker and makes expansion impossible later.

GCC offers 15 colors, some of which are certifified energy starŪ coatings. (think insurance benefits!)

GCC's panel manufacturer offers the longest warranties available on a metal panel (25 years on galvalume plus (silver) and 45 years on all colored panels).

GCC does not offer "in-house" financing. We are on the approved builder's list for all major financial institutions in the area which makes the process a little smoother.

• GCC offers a one-year warranty on all installed accessories
• GCC offers a two-year warranty on the foundation
• GCC offers a twenty year structural warranty
• GCC offers a twenty-five year manufacturer's warranty on galvalume panels
• GCC offers a forty-five year manufacturer's warranty on painted panels

Yes! We can add the windstorm option to your contract for a minimal fee. We have a dedicated windstorm engineer that can take care of the inspections and application process.

Yes, our structures are capable of passing all permit requirements in texas, including coastal communities.