FAQ

For FAQ’s for a specific kit, please the web pages for each of our kits.

Can amateurs really build your kits?

Yes. In the past 40+ years, over 85% of our kits have been built by people with no prior building experience. Our kits are precut and predrilled, which will save you a lot of planning, measuring and cutting time, and prevent errors. Every part of the kit is labeled with a part number for ease of identification. A detailed, customized Construction Manual is written for each kit, accompanied by easy to read drawings. Our manuals have been modified many times over the years based on customer experience and feedback. We offer free support before, during and after construction.

What is included?

Shelter-Kit® buildings include all of the materials required to construct a weather tight shell on your foundation: hardware, fasteners, framing, sheathing, floors, roofing, flashing, drip edge and trim. The Barn/Garage and Unit One kits include a standard window & door package, which can be changed. All materials are hand selected, carefully cut to precise dimensions, labeled, and packaged in easily identifiable bundles that two people can carry. A small amount of siding for the Barn, Barn-House and Green Home kits must be cut at the site. An illustrated Construction Manual describes each step, from the construction of a foundation to the installation of the roof, all in simple, easy-to-understand language. Depending on the kit, options include doors, windows, skylights, stairs, dormers, loft floor openings and larger studs and rafters to allow for thicker insulation. We will gladly work with you on the design of your kit, including your floorplan.

Do you ship kits to Canada?

Yes, we can ship to all parts of Canada. There are no duty fees on shipments to Canada, and we meet the requirements for current building codes in Canada.

What kind of foundation is required?
The foundation can consist of a series of concrete piers, a continuous concrete wall with a crawl space or full basement, or a concrete slab. A pier foundation has a minimal impact on the site and usually does not require the use of heavy equipment: hand tools can be used to dig holes and construct the concrete piers. A plan for your specific foundation will be provided well in advance of the delivery of your kit.

How long will it take to assemble?
Our kits can be assembled by two people in about 3 to 15 days, depending on the kit. No cranes, lifts or power tools are typically required.

Will your kits meet building codes?
Most of our kits meet the latest International Building Code, as well as most local variations of the IBC requirements. Most of our kits meet Canadian building code requirements. We suggest that you talk with your local building officials about permit requirements, including wind and snow loads for your site. If required by local officials, structural drawings bearing a structural engineer's signature and stamp are available. There is a modest fee for these drawings.

What is the lead-time?
Lead time are generally 4-6 weeks, but orders can be expedited. We suggest that you contact us for current lead times. We will work with you to meet your schedule requirements.

Are other floor plans available?
Our kits allow for a wide variety of floor plans. You can create your own floor plan to meet your needs, or work from standard floor plans. We will be glad to work with you to create the floor plan that works best for you. Please see our model-specific floorplan, gallery and specifications pages, where some examples are shown.

How is the kit shipped? What does shipping cost?
The kit is shipped by truck. Generally, we use one of a few private carriers that we have worked with for many years. They guarantee competitive prices and the assurance of a safe, on-time delivery. In all cases, the kits are priced FOB (free on board). This means that shipping costs are in addition to the price of the kit. Shipping costs will range from $300 in our immediate area, to $3000 for areas on the West Coast. Some specific areas may cost more. We will be glad to provide a shipping quote. When the truck arrives at your site, you are responsible for unloading it. Four adults should be ready to unload the kit.

Can I buy just the Construction Manuals or plans?
No. Construction Manuals and plans are only available as part of the kit. They describe in detail the assembly of the individual parts that have been manufactured for your specific building.

Why should you buy a kit building from Shelter-Kit?

We have been in business for over 35 years
We have had a lot of experience designing buildings to customers' specific requirements. We have a very clear purpose and mission: designing and manufacturing kit buildings primarily for assembly by owners with no prior building experience. In the process of working with our customers, we have continuously refined our instructions and kit details to make your project more successful. We provide you with information and assistance to make your project successful. We welcome calls and e-mails from our customers before, during and after their building project.
Our buildings are pre cut and specifically designed for owner assembly—and are unlike other kits, for the following reasons:
- They are easy to assemble and are error free. The required construction techniques are easy. All joints are designed for an easy fit. Our post & beam frames are much easier for amateurs, and allow for more flexibility in your interior floor plan and door and window placement.
- All of the terms in the instructions are easily understandable by amateurs. Our customers will work from our drawings and step-by-step instructions, instead of difficult to read blueprints.
- All of our kits are a complete, weather tight shell. Customers can chose to delete components, including windows, doors, roofing, etc., and buy those locally.
- All materials are selected for quality and ease of assembly and fit. The weight of each piece is limited to what two individuals can handle. The kits are made of individual pieces, and are not "panelized". No cranes or lifts are required.
We only use high quality materials
We very carefully select each piece of lumber. It is very important to us that each piece is square and true, to make assembling your kit as easy as possible.
We custom design nearly every kit for the customer's specific requirements-
We offer distinct types of post & beam cabins, houses, barns and garages each of which can be custom designed to meet your requirements. Options include many styles and brands of windows and doors, dormers, loft floor openings, Tees and Ells. Please see the web pages for each of our kits for more information.

What you should know before you buy any kit building, from ANY company.

It is very important to understand what you will need to know and do to assemble any kit building, and that you clearly understand what is included in the kit. We suggest that you read the brochures, web site and advertising very carefully, and ask a lot of questions.
These are some key areas for you to explore:

What skills and experience are required to assemble the kit? Find out what prior building experience will be required. Make sure that you know how to safely operate the required tools. Be sure that you can properly read and interpret any drawings that are supplied, and that the instructions are geared to someone with your level of experience.
What materials are included? You should read the materials list very carefully so you know exactly what is included. Is the first floor frame and deck included? Does the kit include fasteners, roofing, doors & windows and trim? You should determine the level of finish. Are the materials ready for assembly, or do they require cutting and fitting? What will the completed kit yield: A frame, a frame and sheathing, or a weather tight shell?
What tools and equipment are required to do the job? Check for a list of required tools. You should check to see if you have to hire a crane to lift large components into place.
What do the components of the kit weigh, and how do they have to be handled?
Make sure that you and your helpers can handle the kit components safely. Panelized components can be very heavy, especially at the end of a long day. Make sure that you will not need heavy equipment to unload the delivery truck.
How complicated are the instructions and drawings?We suggest that you carefully look at a sample set of each, to make sure that you can follow them easily. Make sure that they are for YOUR kit, not a generic kit.
What will your project cost? We recommend that you get a full understanding of what your kit will cost, including the shell and the work to erect the shell. The labor costs can be higher than you expect.
What do your local building officials require? You should talk to your local officials before you order any kit. Make sure that the kit complies with the requirements for wind and snow, seismic and live loads. Make sure that engineer-stamped plans are available, if they are required.
What support is available from the manufacturer? You should make sure that support and advice is available before, during and after your project. Make sure that the company has been in business for several years.