Steel Frame Installation Scope: Fabrication Only or Turnkey?

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Buying fabrication only means the factory makes the steel frames to your drawings and delivers them, while a separate crew installs them. Turnkey service adds on-site measurement, installation and fixing, so one party carries responsibility for the result. Choose based on your site skills, schedule and how much coordination you want to manage yourself.

What fabrication-only supply includes

A fabrication-only order covers manufacturing the steel frames to a written specification and delivering them to the site. The frames are cut, welded, finished and packed in the factory, usually after a measurement and drawing stage. Once delivered, the parts are yours to handle, so you need a crew ready to lift, align and fix them.

This option suits buyers who already have an installation contractor or experienced builders. Make sure the drawings state fixing points, anchor positions and any site-welded joints so the installer is not guessing on the day.

What turnkey installation adds

Turnkey service means the supplier handles the whole job, from on-site measurement through fabrication, finishing, transport and installation. The same team that measures the opening is usually the team that fits the frame, which reduces the risk of mismatched dimensions.

On-site measurement and drawing approval
Factory fabrication and surface finishing
Transport and handling on site
Fixing, alignment and final check

Responsibility and risk

The key question is who answers if a frame does not fit. With supply-only, a dimension error may lead to a discussion about whether the fault lies in the measurement, the drawing or the installation. With turnkey, the supplier owns the full chain and can correct it in one visit.

Clarify in writing before ordering who checks the existing structure, who supplies anchors and who is responsible for making good any damaged finish after fitting.

Site conditions that affect the decision

Some sites make installation harder than it looks. Tall buildings, narrow stairwells, limited crane or lifting access, and walls of uncertain strength all add work and risk. Frames that are heavy or long may need several people and proper equipment to place safely.

If the building committee or an engineer is involved, ask early who signs off the fixing method. Exact load and fixing values should always be confirmed with the engineer rather than assumed from general rules.

Cost of coordination and time

Supply-only can look simpler on paper, but it often means you coordinate two parties, arrange delivery windows and handle any delays between fabrication and fitting. Turnkey can save that time, since one schedule covers everything.

Consider how many people you would need to manage and how long the site can stay open. A clear schedule with milestones protects both the homeowner and the contractor.

How to choose the right scope

Start by listing what you already have in place: a trusted installer, the site access, and the engineering sign-off. If any of these are missing, turnkey service usually makes the project smoother. If you have all three, supply-only may suit you well.

Whichever route you pick, share photos, rough dimensions and the intended use with the factory early, so the drawing and specification match what will be fitted.

Frequently asked questions

Is fabrication only cheaper than turnkey?

It can appear less expensive because installation labour is not included, but you must account for your own crew, equipment and any rework. Compare the full cost of each option for your specific site.

Who checks the measurements for supply-only orders?

Usually the buyer or their installer takes the site measurements and approves the drawing. Errors at this stage are the most common cause of fitting problems.

Can I switch from supply-only to turnkey later?

Often yes, but it depends on the stage of the project and how the frames were specified. Raise the question early so the factory can advise on what is possible.

Does turnkey include anchors and fixing materials?

This should be confirmed in writing for each project. Ask the supplier to list exactly what is included in the quote and the scope agreement.

Common mistakes to avoid

The most frequent mistake is assuming the installer will sort out dimensions or fixings on site, which leads to delays and rework. Another is leaving responsibility for measurement and anchoring unclear in the order.

Our recommendation

Put the scope split in writing before ordering, listing who measures, who fixes, who supplies anchors and who makes good finishes. If you are unsure of your site conditions, a turnkey option with an on-site check is usually the safer choice.

Summary

Fabrication-only suits buyers with a capable installer and clear drawings, while turnkey suits those wanting one party to carry the whole job. Decide by comparing site conditions, responsibility and the time you can spend coordinating.

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