Industrial development in Middle Tennessee is booming. Nashville continues to attract manufacturers, logistics companies, and large-scale industrial users who need new facilities built quickly without sacrificing quality. But rising material costs, labor shortages, and supply chain volatility can create hurdles for developers and facility managers trying to expand or break ground on a new site.
At Crain Construction, we’ve found that pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMBs) can be a pivotal tool for overcoming challenges in industrial construction. They provide speed, efficiency, and flexibility while keeping costs predictable, making them an excellent option for many industrial projects.
In this post, we’ll highlight the benefits of PEMBs, address some common misconceptions, and share examples from our recent projects here in Middle Tennessee.
Why Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings Make Sense for Industrial Projects
PEMBs provide a systematic approach to construction that is inherently faster and more predictable than traditional methods. Here are a few specific advantages:
1. Faster Construction
PEMBs are designed as a complete system that includes the frame, roof, and walls. That means there’s no need for separate engineers and fabricators to work through every detail from scratch. The integrated design shaves weeks off planning and coordination.
2. Factory Fabrication
Because PEMB components are standardized and pre-detailed, shop drawing and fabrication time are significantly reduced compared to conventional steel. This efficiency allows materials to arrive on-site ready for assembly without lengthy back-and-forths.
3. Just-in-Time Delivery
PEMB manufacturers ship materials in sequence for direct installation. This reduces the need for large storage areas on site and minimizes the chance of delays caused by misplaced or damaged materials.
4. Quicker Vertical Construction
PEMBs use lighter members and bolt-together connections. That allows crews to assemble structures faster and with less specialized welding than conventional steel. The result is shorter construction schedules and faster occupancy for owners.
Addressing Common Misconceptions of PEMBs
Despite their advantages, PEMBs sometimes get a bad rap. Here are a few of the most common misconceptions we hear—and the reality behind them:
1. “They all look the same.”
Some assume PEMBs can be boxy warehouses with plain metal walls. At Crain, we’ve integrated design flexibility on a variety of modern PEMBs, including architectural facades, storefront glass, brick, and block applications. With thoughtful design, these buildings can look just as polished and professional as conventional structures.
2. “They’re lower quality.”
There’s a belief that PEMBs cut corners to save money. The truth is that they are engineered for efficiency and durability. In many cases, they outperform conventional builds in speed, structural strength, and cost predictability.
3. “They’re only for warehouses.”
It’s true that PEMBs are popular for warehouse projects, but their use goes far beyond storage. We’ve built PEMB facilities for manufacturing, automotive, and even office spaces. Their flexibility makes them ideal for a wide range of industrial and commercial applications.
Crain’s Projects: PEMBs in the Real World
We rely on pre-engineered steel when it offers the best value and schedule control for our clients. Here are a couple of examples we’ve built in the Nashville area:
Music City Honda (Mt. Juliet, TN)
Our work on Music City Honda offers a clear example of blending design quality with budget efficiency. When we built the dealership (which opened in early 2020), we didn’t limit ourselves to one construction method. We used conventional steel for the main showroom and office areas. This gave the architect the flexibility needed to create a high-end, custom aesthetic for the customer-facing spaces. We then used pre-engineered metal construction (PEMB) for the service shop. This strategic choice allowed us to manage costs effectively while gaining the speed and capacity necessary for the large service bays.
McInerney and Associates Office /Warehouse (Mt. Juliet, TN)
This project highlights the power of our design-build approach combined with PEMB. By choosing a pre-engineered system, we significantly shortened the construction schedule. This allowed us to meet tight budget goals while delivering a large, high-capacity warehouse facility. The efficiency of the PEMB system was key to maximizing the client’s return on investment.
Looking for a Smarter Way to Build?
For developers and facility managers in the Nashville industrial market, time-to-market and cost control are paramount. Pre-engineered metal buildings offer a reliable path to achieving both. They represent a proven, modern approach to construction that minimizes risk and maximizes efficiency.
Crain Construction understands how to integrate these high-performance systems with all types of architectural facades and complex operational needs. We don’t just build faster; we build smarter.
Ready to explore how pre-engineered steel can accelerate your next industrial project or expansion? Contact our team today to discuss your vision and learn more about our strategic approach to construction.
