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In today’s construction landscape, sustainability is no longer optional. It is imperative. Robertson Building Systems is proud to lead the charge with pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMBs) that deliver unmatched advantages in energy performance, material circularity and resource efficiency. Here are five compelling reasons why PEMBs from Robertson are driving the future of green construction.
Proven Energy Performance
Robertson pre-engineered metal buildings are engineered from the ground up for maximum energy efficiency. Our precision-fabricated systems seamlessly integrate advanced insulation solutions, eliminating thermal bridging and dramatically improving envelope performance. With options for ultra-high R-value panels and cool-roof coatings, Robertson PEMBs help reduce heating and cooling demands. These structures are also ideally suited for rooftop solar arrays and other renewable integrations, helping owners achieve net-zero goals while enjoying significantly lower utility bills.
100% Recyclable Steel for a True Circular Economy
Steel is the most recycled material on the planet, and Robertson Building Systems maximizes this advantage. Every PEMB we deliver contains a high percentage of recycled content, and at the end of its service life (often spanning decades), the entire structure can be recycled without down-cycling. This closed-loop approach drastically reduces reliance on virgin materials, cuts embodied carbon and keeps valuable resources in use indefinitely.
Virtually Waste-Free Fabrication and Erection
Unlike traditional site-built projects that can generate up to 10-15% material waste, Robertson PEMBs are produced in state-of-the-art facilities using digital design and automated manufacturing. Every beam, column and panel arrives on site pre-cut, pre-punched and ready for bolt-up assembly. The result is dramatically less scrap, lower fuel use and cleaner job sites that respect neighboring communities.
Built to Last and Reducing Lifecycle Impact
True sustainability means buildings that endure. Robertson metal buildings are designed to exceed the toughest wind, seismic and snow-load requirements, delivering decades of service with minimal maintenance. This exceptional longevity eliminates the resource-intensive cycle of demolition and rebuilding. Plus, our flexible framing systems allow for easy expansion, reconfiguration or repurposing. This extends useful life even further without generating construction waste.
Affordable Sustainability Without Compromise
Robertson proves sustainability can be affordable. Faster fabrication and erection timelines help reduce labor hours and financing costs. Lower energy bills and maintenance needs create ongoing returns. Owners meet LEED, Net Zero or local green standards without stretching budgets, making responsible construction the smart choice.
Choose Robertson Building Systems for a Greener Tomorrow
At Robertson Building Systems, sustainability is not a buzzword. It is built into every component we manufacture. Our pre-engineered metal buildings prove that high-performance, eco-conscious design can be faster, smarter and more affordable than conventional methods.
Contact Robertson Building Systems today to discover how our PEMBs can elevate your next project and contribute to a truly sustainable future.
Most manufacturers ship components with a “shop coat,” a temporary protective layer applied to all surfaces. This coating helps reduce the impact of normal atmospheric exposure, but it is not intended to provide complete protection during harsh winter conditions.
The Winter Challenge: Road Salt and Deicers
Transporting building materials in winter often means exposure to salt and chemical deicers used on roadways. These materials can splash onto steel components during transit, especially when shipped on open flatbed trucks. Once salt or deicers reach the surface, they can break down the shop coat and accelerate corrosion.
A Simple Solution: Use Tarps During Transit
To reduce risk, request that your shipment be covered with a weatherproof tarp. This small step can make a big difference in protecting your investment. If you are arranging your own pickup, make sure the tarp is made of a durable, weather-resistant material and is securely fastened. Avoid leaving gaps or holes that could allow water, snow, or ice to collect, as freeze-thaw cycles can compromise the primer and lead to early surface damage.
On-Site Storage Best Practices
Winter precautions should also extend to the job site. Whenever possible, unload steel components directly into position for erection. If temporary storage is necessary, place materials above any damp surface—either on a ground tarp or a clean concrete slab—and cover the stack to prevent moisture buildup. Ensure the area is elevated enough so that melting snow or site runoff cannot flow beneath the covering and reach the metal.
At Robertson Building Systems, we understand the challenges of winter construction. Following these simple steps can help protect your metal building components and keep your project on track, even in harsh conditions. For more information on best practices for winter shipping and storage, contact your Robertson representative today.
In the heart of Canada’s dynamic industrial landscape, where harsh winters test structural integrity and vast spaces demand flexible solutions, choosing the right building system is a critical part of operational success. Robertson Building Systems, a Canadian pioneer with over 150 years of expertise in pre-engineered metal buildings, offers proven versatility and efficiency tailored for industrial markets, from manufacturing plants and warehouses to fabrication shops and distribution centers. In this post, we’ll explore why Robertson’s metal buildings stand out as the go-to choice for Canadian industrial operators seeking durability, cost efficiencies and adaptability.
The Versatility of Robertson Metal Buildings: Built for Every Industrial Need
One of the standout features of Robertson’s metal buildings is their remarkable versatility. Unlike traditional construction methods, which can limit future adaptability, Robertson’s pre-engineered systems allow customization options to fit diverse industrial applications. Whether you’re expanding a machine shop in Alberta’s oil sands region or constructing a multi-bay warehouse in Ontario’s manufacturing hub, these buildings can incorporate mezzanines, canopies, cranes, parapets and architectural facades while adhering to local building codes.
Robertson’s product assortment includes over 90 variations of metal roof and wall panels, from single-skin options for basic storage to insulated metal panels (IMPs) for temperature-controlled interiors. This flexibility extends to structural elements, such as the Robertson Thermal System (RTS), which can accommodate up to three layers of 6” blanket insulation for superior energy performance. For industrial operations that handle heavy machinery or require high-volume storage, clear-span designs achieved with Long Bay® System maximize usable interior space with minimal interior columns, allowing for efficient layouts for assembly lines, equipment storage or integrated offices.
In Canada’s industrial markets, where sectors such as automotive fabrication, food processing, and logistics vary widely in their requirements, this adaptability is particularly evident. A Robertson building can be engineered for high seismic activity in British Columbia or high wind loads in places like Halifax or Newfoundland, ensuring your facility evolves with your business, whether you add bays for growth or retrofit for new technology.
Efficiency That Drives Bottom-Line Results: Speed, Savings and Sustainability
Efficiency is engineered into every component of a Robertson building. Pre-engineered metal buildings can help reduce on-site construction timelines, often erected in weeks rather than months, thanks to factory-fabricated, pre-cut parts that bolt together on-site. This can help minimize labor costs and weather-related delays, a critical advantage in Canada’s unpredictable climate, where winter construction can halt traditional projects.
Cost-efficiency extends beyond build time. Metal buildings typically cost less than conventional structures of similar design, with lower long-term maintenance costs due to steel’s inherent resistance to rot, pests and corrosion compared to buildings with organic components. Robertson’s high-tensile steel panels with Galvalume® coatings and specially formulated paints include a 45-year film integrity warranty, helping reduce maintenance expenses for industrial building owners.
Energy efficiency is another key benefit, particularly for Canadian industries that face stringent environmental regulations. The RTS system and IMPs create effective thermal barriers, reducing heating and cooling needs in extreme temperatures, from minus 40 degrees Celsius winters in Manitoba to humid summers in Quebec. This helps cut operational costs and aligns with Canada’s push toward sustainability; steel is virtually 100% recyclable at end of life, and Robertson’s buildings support green certifications by minimizing waste during fabrication.
In an era of supply chain volatility, Robertson’s North American manufacturing network ensures fast delivery and supply chain reliability, helping industrial operations get up and running without costly downtime.
Tailored for Canadian Industrial Challenges: Durability Meets Innovation
Canada’s industrial markets are as diverse as its geography, from resource extraction in the North to advanced manufacturing in the South. Robertson’s metal buildings are purpose-built to overcome these challenges. Their strength helps withstand extreme heavy snow loads and seismic events, while low-maintenance exteriors help resist salt spray in coastal areas or dust in arid regions.
Take, for instance, a fabrication facility in Saskatchewan: Robertson’s custom framing systems provide open interiors for crane operations, with concealed fastener panels for a sleek, professional finish that helps enhance worker morale and productivity. Or consider a distribution center in British Columbia: insulated walls and energy-efficient roofs keep operations running year-round, while also helping reduce energy bills.
Innovation drives Robertson’s edge. With in-house engineering and a commitment to CSA-A660 certification, every building is optimized for performance, backed by a team of district managers who understand local codes and market nuances. This results in structures that meet or exceed expectations, fostering long-term reliability for industries where downtime equals lost revenue.
Why Choose Robertson? A Legacy of Excellence in Canadian Industry
For over a century and a half, Robertson has been synonymous with quality and customer satisfaction in Canada’s metal building sector. Our buildings are not just shelters; they are strategic assets that help boost productivity, manage costs and help to future-proof your operations. In a market where efficiency and versatility are non-negotiable, Robertson delivers solutions that empower industrial growth.
Ready to elevate your facility? Contact a Robertson expert, today, to design a metal building that’s as tough and adaptable as your business. With Robertson, you’re not just building a structure; you’re building success.
When planning a pre-engineered metal building (PEMB) project, the first question most contractors and building owners ask is, “How much will it cost?” While there is no single answer, understanding the main factors that influence pricing helps create accurate estimates and realistic expectations.
Whether you are building a warehouse, retail space, agricultural facility or manufacturing plant, this guide outlines the key components that determine the cost of a PEMB. Below, we discuss the building itself, site preparation, freight and other considerations that affect pricing in 2025.
The steel building components typically represent 40 to 50 percent of the total project cost. This includes the primary and secondary framing, roof and wall panels, trim and fasteners.
Pro Tip: Partnering with an experienced manufacturer, such as Robertson Building Systems, helps you design efficiently, reduce waste and optimize cost without sacrificing performance.
Site preparation can account for 10 to 20 percent of the total project cost, depending on the site’s condition and location.
Typical site prep expenses include:
Sites with uneven terrain, rocky soil or poor drainage will increase costs. Conversely, sites with easy access and minimal grading usually have lower prep costs.
Freight costs can significantly impact your total project budget. Transporting large, heavy building components requires careful planning and can vary widely based on distance and delivery method.
Freight typically averages 10 percent of the building component costs depending on:
Robertson’s manufacturing footprint across North America helps reduce freight costs and shorten delivery times, which can benefit builders managing multiple projects or tight schedules.
While the building components, site prep and freight make up much of the cost, contractors should also account for:
Steel prices have stabilized compared to previous years, but several ongoing factors continue to influence PEMB pricing:
Working with an experienced manufacturer and builder early in the planning process can help you find the right balance between performance, aesthetics and cost.
Plan Your 2025 Project with Confidence
Estimating a steel building project becomes easier when you understand the key variables that drive cost. By accounting for kit pricing, site preparation, freight and construction, you can set accurate budgets and avoid costly surprises.
Ready to plan your next PEMB project?
Contact Robertson Building Systems to connect with a local sales representative and request a detailed quote tailored to your project.
Built on Trust. Proven Through Generations.
Some stories are built in boardrooms. Ours was built on rooftops in Hamilton.
In 1863, Irish immigrant Thomas Irwin opened a small tinsmith and roofing shop in Hamilton, Ontario. His commitment to craftsmanship and reliability laid the foundation for what would become Robertson Building Systems—a pioneer in Canadian metal building systems and a trusted metal building supplier to builders across the country.
With over 150 years of experience serving the Canadian construction industry, Robertson’s legacy is defined by innovation, deep local roots, and a continued commitment to helping builders succeed with high-performance, custom-engineered solutions.
Founded in Hamilton in 1863
Robertson began its journey as a local business supporting Hamilton’s roofing and construction needs. As demand for durable, weather-resistant structures grew across Ontario, so did Robertson’s reputation for quality and innovation in pre-engineered metal buildings.
This early foundation gave rise to a supplier that would help define the future of commercial and industrial metal building construction in Canada.
Expanding Manufacturing to Sarnia – 1917
In 1917, Robertson opened a manufacturing plant in Sarnia, Ontario, marking a major milestone in its ability to support builders across the region. This expansion enabled Robertson to scale production, invest in new technology, and reinforce its role as a trusted Canadian metal building supplier.
With this move, Robertson deepened its commitment to regional infrastructure development, offering solutions designed for Canada’s distinct weather conditions and building codes.
Decades of Innovation and Growth
Over the years, Robertson has continued to evolve—expanding metal building product lines, enhancing engineering services, and adopting technologies that streamline the building process. From custom wall and roof systems to robust framing and energy-efficient packages, Robertson’s solutions are designed to reduce construction time, ensure code compliance, and meet the performance demands of Canadian projects.
As codes and client expectations have changed, Robertson has remained a supplier builders can trust for code-compliant metal building systems—ready for snow loads, seismic zones, and energy regulations.
A Leader in Canadian Metal Building Systems
Today, Robertson Building Systems stands as one of the most respected metal building suppliers in Canada. From our fully staffed office in Brantford, Ontario, we support builders through every phase of their projects—from concept to completion—with localized expertise and full-service collaboration.
Whether you’re constructing a warehouse, agricultural facility, manufacturing plant, or custom commercial building, our systems are designed to perform—and built to last.
A Legacy That Lives On
Robertson’s legacy is grounded in over a century of service, resilience, and builder support. We’ve helped shape skylines, communities, and careers—and we continue to take pride in being a Canadian metal building supplier that values relationships over transactions.
We’re proud of where we started, and even prouder of where we’re headed.
Explore how Robertson Building Systems evolved from a small Hamilton shop into a trusted name in Canadian construction—delivering metal building solutions proven through generations.
Cornerstone Building Brands, Inc. (“Cornerstone Building Brands”), a leading manufacturer of exterior building products in North America, has acquired Metal Sales Manufacturing Corporation (“Metal Sales”), a leading manufacturer of metal building systems and components serving high-growth and diverse end-markets through a vast, multi-channel network.
Headquartered in Sellersburg, Ind., and founded in 1963, Metal Sales has about 900 employees and a nationwide footprint that is highly complementary to Cornerstone Building Brands’ existing operations.
“The Metal Sales acquisition increases Cornerstone Buildings Brands’ participation in the high-growth residential building systems market,” said Matt Ackley, President, Shelter Solutions at Cornerstone Building Brands. “With a combined post-transaction footprint of more than 100 plants and distribution locations for our Shelter Solutions business, we’ll be better positioned to serve North American customers in the $30 billion metal building and components market. We’re excited to welcome the Metal Sales team to our company.”
In today’s evolving construction market, Canadian builders face growing pressure to meet performance standards, navigate complex compliance requirements, and deliver on tighter timelines — all while maintaining quality and efficiency. That’s where Robertson Building Systems stands apart.
With over 150 years of experience, a fully staffed Canadian office in Brantford, Ontario, and a legacy rooted in craftsmanship and builder partnership, Robertson continues to lead as the trusted Canadian expert in high-performance metal building solutions.
Robertson isn’t just operating in Canada — we’re built into its foundation. Founded in 1863 in Hamilton, Ontario, we’ve grown alongside Canada’s construction industry. Our deep understanding of Canadian codes, climates, and builder challenges means we don’t offer cookie-cutter solutions — we deliver tailored expertise shaped by generations of proven performance.
From navigating regional building codes to helping builders respond to evolving market demands, our team delivers practical solutions backed by historical knowledge and local insight.
Canadian builders don’t just need a supplier — they need a partner who can help them win more work, reduce risk, and deliver better results. That’s why Robertson offers full-service support throughout every phase of your project:
We’re here to move your project forward — not slow it down.
Robertson’s metal building systems are engineered for durability, energy efficiency, and architectural flexibility — ensuring long-term performance in even the most demanding Canadian conditions.
Whether your project calls for open-span manufacturing space, complex loading requirements, or compatibility with tilt-up walls and custom roof systems, we deliver the sophistication and flexibility your project demands.
We don’t just supply buildings — we invest in builder success. Our partnerships are built on real collaboration, mutual trust, and measurable results.
From small shops to large-scale industrial projects, builders across Canada rely on Robertson’s expertise, tools, and project support to help them grow their businesses and exceed customer expectations.
Our Brantford, Ontario office isn’t just a name on a map. It’s a fully staffed hub of sales, engineering, and customer support professionals who understand the unique needs of Canadian builders.
Unlike many competitors with limited local infrastructure, Robertson offers true accountability and face-to-face expertise — every step of the way.
At Robertson Building Systems, we know Canadian builders aren’t looking for just another product — they’re looking for a partner who understands their world. One who brings real experience, powerful tools, and boots-on-the-ground support.
That’s what it means to be Built on Trust. Proven Through Generations.
May is Building Safety Month, a time to underscore the importance of resilient and sustainable construction practices with safety standards in mind. At Robertson Building Systems, we are dedicated to leading the industry by delivering custom-engineered metal buildings that meet local building codes, supporting the security and well-being of all who use our structures.
The Value of Building Safety
Building Safety Month highlights the critical role of building codes in protecting communities. From resisting natural disasters to helping achieve long-term structural integrity, properly designed buildings form the foundation of secure and thriving societies. This year’s theme promotes safe spaces for everyone, fostering innovation and collaboration to create enduring structures.
At Robertson, safety is a core principle. Our team is committed to delivering buildings and structures that support safety initiatives and meet local building codes, providing peace of mind for our clients and the communities they serve.
Robertson’s Commitment to Safety and Compliance
With a rich history in the metal building industry, Robertson Building Systems is recognized for fabricating durable, resilient, and high-quality structures. Our buildings are engineered to comply with the International Building Code (IBC), ASCE 7 standards, and regional codes. Here’s how we support safe spaces in every project:
1. Engineered for Durability
Every Robertson building is tailored to address the specific environmental challenges of its location. Whether it’s withstanding high winds in coastal regions or supporting heavy snow loads in colder climates, our advanced engineering helps ensure structural resilience. Our buildings are designed to endure extreme conditions to create resilient spaces with long-term value.
2. Advanced Fire Safety Measures
Fire protection is integral to our designs. Robertson’s metal building systems incorporate fire-resistant materials and assemblies based on local code requirements. By using non-combustible components and integrating fire-safety features, such as proper building exits, we help mitigate risks for occupants and property.
3. Seismic Resilience
In earthquake-prone regions, Robertson’s buildings are designed for seismic performance. Our systems align with IBC and ASCE 7 seismic standards, featuring robust framing and secure connections to provide stability during seismic events. Safety standards are considered throughout the building design.
4. Sustainability and Safety Combined
Robertson’s energy-efficient solutions, such as insulated metal panels and reflective roof coatings, help improve occupant comfort while contributing to durability and environmental goals. By blending sustainability with code compliance, we create structures that benefit both people and the planet.
Partnering for a Safer Future
At Robertson, we view building safety as a shared responsibility. We collaborate with architects, contractors, and project owners to deliver solutions tailored to each community’s safety needs. Our extensive network of Authorized Builders helps to ensure local expertise and a commitment to excellence, which means that every Robertson building is managed with precision and care.
This Building Safety Month, we invite you to join us in celebrating the importance of safe construction practices. Whether you’re planning a commercial, industrial, or community project, Robertson Building Systems is your partner for building with confidence.
Discover Robertson’s Safety Standards
Ready to build a structure that focuses on safety standards and quality? Explore our innovative metal building solutions and learn how we address both safety and performance. Contact our team today to discuss your vision and discover how Robertson can help you build safe, strong, and smart.
Let’s make safety the cornerstone of every project—not just in May, but every day.
