Fortify Building  Solutions Offers Durability & Style To Montanans

Article by Tory Kolkhorst | Photos by Nathan Satran

If you’re a Montanan, it’s no secret there has been a boom in the construction industry in recent years, with Montana even being recognized as a national leader for the most construction jobs. Our growing population, pro-business climate, and the heightened demand for new infrastructure fuel this influx. Between the rising need for more residential capacity, commercial construction, and everything in between, builders must keep up with the needs of their clients to make it in this competitive industry. Within our infamous big sky, volatile weather patterns often bring harsh winters, gusty winds, hail storms, and the like, so Montanans understand the need for sturdy, reliable materials that will stand the test of time. That’s where Fortify Building Solutions comes into play. This local business, with roots in both Billings and Bozeman, specializes in quality metal building products. It is ready to meet the evolving needs of the Treasure State’s growing construction industry, even in the harshest of climates.

ABOUT THE PRODUCTS

Fortify Building Solutions is proud to offer a unique blend of experience and innovation to Montanans through its association with Cornerstone Building Brands, which unites three industry leaders – Heritage Building Systems®, Metal Depots™, Reed's Metals®, and most recently Mueller steel buildings and metal roofing. This desirable mosaic of offerings means that folks in every corner of Montana can benefit from quality products backed by nearly 100 years of proven success by working with the team at Fortify. Their product lines include full metal building packages, metal roof and wall panels, trim, structural parts, accessories, and more, assisting folks with nearly any project they’re looking to take on. 

At the helm of Fortify is Mike DuFresne, the Manager of the Billings and Bozeman storefronts. He shared, “We are all locals who live here and grew up here. We’re still a local mom-and-pop shop, but now we have expanded access to opportunities and products we never did before.” DuFresne explained how the company’s partnership with Cornerstone Building Brands has opened new doors. “Cornerstone is a multi-billion-dollar company, so they can support the needs our clients have.” The range of products and services is impressive. “We sell roofing and siding materials, but we also sell complete steel building packages. This could range from a backyard shed to a large arena, and there is really no one else in this region who offers this.” Whether building a steel shop, getting paired with a local contractor, or a self-proclaimed DIY’er, Fortify Building Solutions is a full-service shop. 

A TOP-NOTCH SERVICE APPROACH 

In addition to their powerhouse network, Fortify Building Solutions team members share a deep commitment to providing excellent customer service that grows into lasting relationships. “Catering to the needs of the customer is the key part of our business model,” says Mike DuFresne. “Anyone can buy this equipment and sell these products, but we want to build relationships with our customers so they keep coming back to work with us. This is something we bring to the table that isn’t always offered.” If a customer has a building project in mind of any scale, they are encouraged to bring all of their ideas to the table so the team at Fortify can generate renderings in their software system to give the customer a 3D visual of what they can expect. At that point, adjustments can be made to ensure they are coming up with something as close to what the customer is dreaming of that is physically possible to create. “We love seeing the finished product. We all get excited about sitting with a customer and making plans, and then to see pictures of the finished product is the most rewarding,” DuFresne went on to share. 

WHY CHOOSE STEEL? 

Best known for its durability and longevity, steel is also gaining popularity for its aesthetic appeal when it comes to modern infrastructure. A rising trend in construction is the sleek, industrial look that metal materials provide, creating a seamless blend of rustic charm and contemporary design. The expansive range of colors, styles, and finishes makes it easy for customers to customize their choices to achieve the exact finished product they’re aiming for in any setting – urban or rural. “With Montana being so ag-focused, a bulk of our business has been ag-related, but with the popularity of steel in residential and commercial spaces increasing, the demand is booming,” DuFresne revealed. 

Nonetheless, we know that steel is more than a design trend, as it remains one of the most practical and reliable materials available on the market. Steel building materials can withstand Montana’s harsh winter weather conditions and extreme temperature changes, proving their obvious appeal to our rugged climate. Further, it is an energy-efficient material and requires minimal maintenance, an added bonus for property owners. “You can put it up and be done. You won’t have to repaint it or fix any cracks or leaks. Metal expands and contracts with hot and cold, so a lot of times, minor hail dents will even correct themselves,” said DuFresne. 

FORTIFY YOUR NEXT BUILDING PROJECT 

No matter the size or scope of your next building project, Fortify Building Solutions has the materials and expertise to make the process easy on you, with satisfaction guaranteed. By combining best-in-class materials with personalized customer service, they’re a proven partner in helping Montanans build structures that will stand the test of time. Give the team at Fortify a call today to get rolling with your next steel building project at 406-797-7798 or drop by their Billings office at 7570 Entryway Drive. 

Cabin Creek Ranch, built by Tim Warnock with Warnock Construction