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Once upon a time, pre-engineered buildings were something you picked out of a catalog and ordered over the phone. Then, about four weeks later, the components arrived on your job site. Basically, you got a big tinker-toy set with an assembly manual. Some thought this method of construction was a dream; others equated it with a lack of imagination and creativity. Today, however, cookie-cutter construction is generally a thing of the past.

Leaders in the pre-engineered building industry have listened to their critics and have found ways to customize their products in order to expand their customer base. As the industry grows, the structures are getting bigger and better. They are not only popular in industrial areas but in residential and commercial areas, too. A friend's home, your supermarket, your office, or your church—all of them could be pre-engineered buildings.

They may be all the buzz. But misconceptions still abound, leaving many people to ask, "Just what is a pre-engineered building?"

A pre-engineered building is constructed from an exterior system created by a manufacturer. It comes complete with all components (unassembled) and is sometimes referred to as a shell system. There are many different system types: laminated wood-arch systems, prefabricated stud-wall systems, structural insulated-panel systems, truss systems, steel-frame systems, precast-concrete systems, and stressed-membrane systems, which can be set up and taken down several times.

Pre-engineered buildings are not the same as modular buildings. Modular construction has tighter parameters; modular buildings are more finished structures. In modular construction, units are put together, then shipped, and only the final assembly takes place on site.

Today thanks to increased customization, it can be difficult even to tell a pre-engineered building from a conventionally framed building, especially as more manufacturers use 3-d modeling techniques. Plus, the exterior of most pre-engineered buildings (the outside shell) can be finished just as you would finish a traditional building.

Finally, thanks to advancing technology, manufacturers are increasing quality, accuracy, and precision in materials and design. By reducing waste, companies are able to pass on cost savings to their clients without compromising quality.

The comparatively low cost of pre-engineered construction is just one reason why churches are interested in this type of building. Versatility is another major factor. Pre-engineered buildings can be used as sanctuaries, gymnasiums, fellowship halls, and education wings, or they can be used as all four under one roof. Because of their varied uses, these structures can be an economical solution for a young, growing church or a megachurch looking to add more education and recreation space.

The large spans and open interior shells typical of these buildings are what make them attractive, says architect David Case of Flint, Michigan. "They are great for activity centers, gymnasiums, and sanctuaries," he says. "The large amount of open space they offer makes them easily adaptable to different functions."

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