We all know what a barn is. We also understand what condominiums all are about. But have you ever heard of a barndominium? If you haven’t, then you have landed on the right page.
Barndominiums, or barndos, are the fastest-growing residential housing in the real estate industry. These barndominiums are mainly converted from barns. Metal is often used to construct the entire barn-shaped building.
The terms barn and condominium are combined to describe a barn that can provide the comfort of condominiums. Those who taste it describe barndos as a home construction combining a farmhouse, metal building, and luxury living—an all-in-one structure.
In this blog, we will explore everything about the barndominium. I will help you understand whether a metal or wood barndominium would suit you. Moreover, I will also explain the overall cost you will need to build your barndos.
What Is A Barndominium?
Barndominium is more like a home! You can build this by using a shell of a metal post frame building. You can use these properties specifically for warehousing, barns, and, most importantly, agricultural purposes.
But here is a little twist! You can turn these structures into unique customized homes. Surprising right? Well, it is true! You can customize your barndominium to turn it into a custom house. You just need to add more imagination, that’s all!
On top of that, you can get durability and water resistance at the same time.
In general, the barndominium uses a steel exterior. It might look like a traditional house from the inside. You can also frame them like any other house you might see while driving down a road or in a country area.
On top of that, these structures can also be insulated just to make them as comfortable as a home. The same comfort you would be seeking in a newly bought house.
Without discussing further, let’s talk about the look, material, and the price of a barndominium.
Metal Vs. Wood: Which Barndominium Should I Choose?
When you are building a barndominium, you usually have two different options to choose from. One is metal, and the other one is wood.
If you observe, you will see that most of the barndominiums are made of metal. However, creating a barndominium out of wood is also possible.
However, the only difference is that you will not get the structural durability from the wooden structure like the wooden structure. If durability matters to you the most, I suggest you go for a metal barndominium.
Apart from that, metal is also beneficial in terms of cheaper prices and greater sustainability. If you are looking for something durable and sustainable for the long run, then it would be great to choose a metal barndominium.
Metal kits not only come at a cheap price but also require less customization. On the contrary, if you choose the wooden kit, you may have to go all the way to ensure that everything is perfectly secure.
How Long Does It Usually Take to Build a Barndominium House?
Barndominiums often start with a metal building or a kit. Thus, it is quicker to assemble than a typical brick-and-mortar home.
When it comes to barndos design, in most cases, you will find the same techniques as commercial construction. As a result, low maintenance and space are often prioritized over luxury.
It takes less time to construct a barndo frame, as it uses various kinds of machinery and steel components. If we compare barndo construction with standard construction, barndominiums typically use steel posts and girders to set roofs and walls.
The professionals also use a crane to finish the entire setup. This whole process helps to achieve a stronger barndo. If you implement more, it can help you gain more flexibility in the structure.
Generally, a 2000-square-foot barndo takes 70% to 80% of the time a wooden frame barndo takes. You can save time while constructing metal barndos due to the initial phase.
You can easily spot cranes and machinery at the barndo site. These help to build a complete structure in less time. Once the outer shell is completed, you can start with the inner structure.
It usually takes a few months to have a move-in ready barndo. However, the timeline will also depend on the interior design of the barndominium planning.
In general, barndominiums are known for their unique features and structures. Thus, it is impossible to find barndominiums that look alike.
How Much Does a Barndominium Cost?
In general, barndominiums have some unique structures. Each one of the barndominium ideas differs from one another. So, it is difficult to come down to one price. However, in most cases, a barndominium costs around $100.00 per square foot.
Shocking, no? The price is 10% to 15% less than the traditionally built home. This includes the basic design, the usage of cranes, and other machinery.
While you are on a budget, it is essential to consider the following tips to help you build your dream barndo.
Don’t forget to plan for future expansion
Some first-time barndo builders take advantage of the essential nature of a barndo. They mainly focus on building a proper structure first.
Barndominiums are usually simple. Thus, adding more space becomes easier, especially when planning it out a little early.
The planning for future expansion further allows the homeowners to build additional space at their convenience.
Always try to buy materials from the vendors
This is a universal rule for most purchases. But this mainly works when you are planning to build a barndominium. It is always essential to keep the components in plentiful supply when you need them.
You must schedule material delivery with the vendors who better understand the barndominium. This way, you can get a great deal on the material packages.
Consider doing some work by yourself
If you already know about a barndominium, designing and building a barndo can be an excellent experience. But we all must stay cautious, especially during heavy cases such as construction.
Once you feel like you need more experience, consult with professionals. In many cases, the first timers often try to save money and plan to do construction themselves. But this leads to a waste of money and materials.
You might do the task twice. Thus, I suggest you ask for professional help. You can even learn from them and participate under their guidance.
Is Converted Barndos Cheaper in Cost?
Converting an existing barn into a house can cost you less than building a new one. The cost totally depends on three specific aspects;
- The overall size of the barn
- How much work needs to be done in the barn
- What are you looking to have in your house?
You may have to pay a total of $30,000 on average to convert a barn into a house. This sounds affordable, doesn’t it? I’d say it is worth considering when you are considering moving to a barndominium.
But, apart from that average cost, you must consider the time and costs when it comes to converted barndos, such as:
- To add new concrete flooring
- Running proper plumbing and electrical wiring
- Heating and cooling system (HVAC) if necessary.
Additionally, you must consider the location to build your new barndominium or convert an existing barn. In this way, you can make your barndo look brand new.
Where Can I Find a Barndominium Builder?
To build a barndominium, you must find the right person to help you with crucial aspects. You can ask people around to find out who has the expertise to build a barndominium.
You can also ask the barndo owner who helped them build the barndo. Trust me! This is one of the most effective ways to find the barndo from your location.
You can also search for barndo builders online. You can read reviews there to find out who is the best. People always love to share the experiences they have had with the builders. They prefer sharing both good and bad experiences.
So, it will be easy for you to find a suitable barndo builder in your locality.
Wrapping It Up!
Building a barndominium is a great way to build your dream home without breaking your bank account. You just need the proper knowledge and planning; then, you can make the whole process easy.
Please remember proper preparation is crucial; it will always help you have your customized dream home.
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