September 20, 2023
BONDUEL – Nestled on a hill off Highway 29 in Bonduel, Co-owner Brad Hochstetler said many locals didn’t even know Hochstetler Metals (located at 525 Commerce Court) existed.
“If you were looking for us you could see us, but that was about it,” he said.
Now, thanks to an expansion project, Brad said, Hochstetler Metals’ exposure has grown tenfold.
That expansion – which started last fall – includes a new building that adds approximately 8,500 square feet to the company’s operations.
Brad – who owns Hochstetler Metals with his dad Kermit Hochstetler – said the decision to build a new building was driven by the need for more offices, warehouse space and a showroom.
“We had a small 12×12 office in the manufacturing area, and had no display area at all,” Brad said. “There were a lot of vendors that wouldn’t sell to us until we had a display space.”
Brad said the new showroom – complete with a graphite counter and epoxy flooring – now affords Hochstetler Metals the opportunity to offer more products.
“The design center in our new showroom also allows us to offer our customers a better visual experience,” he said.
Hochstetler Metals held an open house over the weekend to celebrate the expansion, complete with giveaways, food and tours of its production area.
A bit more about Hochstetler Metals
No stranger to the construction industry, Brad said growing up, he helped out with his dad’s construction business.
After high school, Brad worked for a concrete company for a few years before joining his dad’s company – which is where he said he gained knowledge and experience with steel roofing.
Brad started Hochstetler Metals in 2018 by distributing steel roofing products.
Eventually, he said he purchased his first machine and began manufacturing different profiles of metal roofing and siding for customers.
In 2019, the company purchased a building in Bonduel, added employees and equipment and began manufacturing in-house.
Brad said his father came on board as a partner in summer 2022, bringing with him valuable skills and expertise in the industry.
Brad Hochstetler said the new showroom affords Hochstetler Metals the opportunity to offer more products. Submitted Photo
Today, Hochstetler Metals supplies metal roofing systems, packages to build houses, sheds and barndominiums, which provide multiple profile options of metal in 35-plus colors.
It is also a distributor of Kevmar MFG Meridian steel raised panel doors, Central Urethane Foam products, Weaver Tool Gear, Big Timber Fasteners, Simpson Strong-Tie products, SAMM Mats and Swenson Shear products, among others.
Setting itself apart
Brad said the company – which has about nine employees, including a couple of part-timers – differentiates itself from other metal fabrication companies in the area by offering high-quality steel products, quick turnaround and competitive pricing.
“A lot of companies you have to wait three weeks for steel,” he said. “Usually on most orders, we push them out in 24-48 hours.”
The quality of Hochstetler Metals’ steel, Brad said, also sets them apart.
From homeowners to contractors, Brad said Hochstetler Metals strives to provide quality products, and the knowledge to help clients every step of the way.
Metal roofing – a staple of Hochstetler Metals’ offerings – Brad said has become increasingly popular in recent years, due in part to its durability and longevity.
“Our metal roofing is made from high-quality materials, ensuring it will withstand harsh weather conditions and protect your valuable assets for years to come,” he said.
In addition to metal roofing products, Brad said Hochstetler Metals also offers accessories, such as gutters and downspouts.
“Our knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations for metal roofing contractors in your area, ensuring you get the best installation possible,” he said.
Hochstetler Metals’ showroom is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
For more information about Hochstetler Metals and its products and services, visit
hochstetlermetals.com.