Metal building door columns arrive 6 inches too tall: how crews sort out PEMB fit-up errors

The contractor laid out the problem on Reddit's r/Construction: two of the columns are already up, and the question is whether crews cut such columns in the field, rework base plates or change the concrete, and what that costs. Start with who owns which drawing. A metal building manufacturer supplies the steel and an anchor bolt plan with column reactions. The foundation is designed by an engineer or architect the builder or owner hires. Dean Steel Buildings' general policy, for example, says the company neither designs the foundation nor answers for its materials or workmanship.

So measure before anyone cuts. Compare the poured top-of-concrete elevations with the anchor bolt plan, then compare the column lengths with the erection drawings. If the concrete matches the plan, the 6 inches points to the steel. If it doesn't, the problem sits on the foundation side.

A gap this size is past routine fit-up. The MBMA Metal Building Systems Manual, quoted in Dean's policy, treats drift pins, shims, moderate reaming, chipping and cutting as normal erection work that is not subject to claim. Under the AISC Code of Standard Practice, errors that need major changes to a member go straight to the owner and fabricator, so whoever is responsible either fixes them or approves the method. Great Western Buildings, another manufacturer, tells builders to consult the manufacturer before modifying any component and says its engineer can sign and seal a letter approving a field repair. It calls removing concrete or rebuilding piers very unusual, mostly limited to foundations poured at the wrong height or in the wrong spot.

Money follows paperwork. Under the MBMA procedure, the builder files an initial claim listing the error, the proposed fix, estimated hours and a maximum cost. The manufacturer pays only if it issues a written Authorization for Corrective Work before the work starts, and the final claim is due within 10 days of finishing. Direct labor and approved materials are covered; equipment, supervision, overhead and profit are not. Dean states it will not honor work started without that authorization.