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.