Looking to build a barndominium but wondering what materials to use? Our guide explores the different materials for barndominiums, like metal and wood.
During the past few years, barndominiums have become an option for single-family homes. Their affordability, custom options, and open floor plan make it a dream home for those willing to take the non-traditional route!
Have you ever wondered just what makes up these barn-like homes? Generally, a barndominium is made of the same exterior materials as a barn. Barndominiums use metal or wood for the frame, roof, and siding with a concrete floor. The interior is made of materials similar to what you find in a traditional home design, and finishes can range from basic to high-end.
Unsurprisingly, barndominiums have become a popular housing choice for those looking for distinctive and practical home interiors. Whether you are converting existing barns or building a new one, the ability to custom design the interior to suit any aesthetic, ample space for large families, and the possibility of cost savings make it a desirable housing option.
Are you thinking about building your own barndominium, or you’re just interested in learning more about this unusual type of home? If a barndominium sounds like your ideal house, keep reading to learn more about the materials you need to build the barndominium of your dreams!
What is a barndominium?
Barndominiums are a type of home that looks like a barn from the outside but has a modern, large interior living space. A barndominium is a residential building with a concrete slab foundation that looks like a barn but has all the modern conveniences of a home.
The inside of a barndominium looks different depending on how you arrange the floor plan. Barndominium floor plans are simple and open, with high ceilings and concrete floors. Whether using the barn for living quarters or a shop house, the vast open space is a primary characteristic that makes them great for many different uses.
The barndominium concept is the large, open floor plan with high ceilings and many windows that let in a lot of natural light. The living room often has rustic and modern design elements, such as exposed beams, stained concrete floors, and sleek countertops. Most of the time, the kitchen is the center of the living room with an island or bar for family and friends to gather.
Should a barndominium be made of metal or wood?
Choosing the right exterior construction materials is among the most important choices when constructing a barndominium. The most common type is open buildings built with sheet metal siding and a steel frame. While wood is a feasible alternative for people who like a more rustic or traditional design, metal is still a common choice due to its durability and cost. Ultimately, deciding between metal and wood for building a barndominium depends on the climate, finances, and personal preferences.
Most barndominiums have concrete foundations needed to give the building a stable base. The concrete foundation supports the weight of the metal frame or wooden framing and the floors, walls, and roof. Different types of concrete, like a slab-on-grade or pier-and-beam foundation, may be used to build the foundation, depending on the soil and local building codes.
Wooden barndominiums
Several benefits and drawbacks exist when choosing the best material for building a barndominium. Wood is a common choice since it creates a cozy and natural feel.
The capacity of wood to insulate a home can assist lower energy expenses and create a comfortable living space, which is one of its most significant advantages. Wood, however, may be more prone to pests, decay, and fire damage, than a steel frame barndominium which means more upkeep and repair to the homeowner.
Metal barndominiums
The most common material for constructing a barndominium is using a metal frame and sheet metal siding, which has advantages and disadvantages. One of the main benefits of sheet metal walls and the same roof is their durability and resistance to damage from pests, rot, and fire. Another plus for barndominium owners is the steel exterior is low maintenance. It can survive harsh weather like wind and hail.
In addition, metal is frequently less expensive than wood or other materials, making it a preferred option for people on a tight budget.
The downside is the metal can be noisy when it rains or hails. Also, the metal shell makes insulating challenging, which may lead to greater energy expenses.
What are barndominium walls made of?
Usually, sheet metal siding or wood makes the outside walls of a barndominium which gives the home a rugged and long-lasting look. Metal panels are easy to care for and durable. They also come in various colors and textures to fit different design styles. Sealants and stains on the wood siding to make it look better and protect it from water and pests.
Most of the time, drywall or shiplap finishes the inside walls of a barndominium giving it a smooth, clean surface for painting or decorating. Some people leave the metal or wood walls bare for a more industrial or rustic look. Ultimately, your style and maintenance needs will determine what materials you choose for the walls of a barndominium.
Should I use a barndominium kit?
For individuals who want to construct a barndominium on their own, barndominium kits have become a popular option for saving money. They simplify the barndominium building process and come with floor plans and building materials. These barndominium kits frequently contain the structure, siding, roofing, and insulation—everything needed to build a straightforward barndominium.
Using a barndominium kit based on your desired layout can be a cost-effective solution, saving construction time and labor. You can complete the building process on a basic barn kit in just several weeks! Ideally, barndominium kits work best if you want a basic shed and choose simple barndominium floor plans. Check out one of our favorite kits if you plan to use your barndominium for storage rather than living space.
Is it cheaper to build a barndominium or house?
If you’re looking for a new home, you may decide between a barndominium and a traditional house. Both have their benefits, but there are a few key things to remember when comparing barndominiums to traditional homes. The price is one of the key differences, and if you want to save money, a barndominium may be the best option!
Due to the low cost of materials and building, barndominiums are cheaper than other homes. Barndominiums also have more open floor plans and better air circulation. But a traditional home may have more design options and is usually easier to sell because it appeals to a broader range of people.
What does a barndominium cost per square foot?
If you have fallen in love with the barn lifestyle, you probably wonder what a barndominium costs. The cost to build a barndominium depends on several things, such as its size, location, and materials used. On average, it costs between $90 and $150 per square foot to build a barndominium for a complete turnkey build. A barndominium is much cheaper than building a traditional home, which costs anywhere from $150 to $300 per square foot.
The cost per square foot can increase by adding high-end finishes or appliances. Another difference is that you can finance barndominiums through farm credit lenders versus traditional home mortgage lenders. In the end, how much it costs to build a barndominium will depend on your needs and wants.
What are the benefits of building a barndominium?
We love barndominiums for their rustic exterior and modern living quarters. Here are our top 5 reasons you should build a barndominium!
1. Affordability:
Barndominiums are often more affordable than traditional homes because the metal or wooden frames are less expensive than brick or concrete.
2. Energy efficiency:
You can design barndominiums to be highly energy-efficient, with features like insulated walls and windows, solar panels, and other green technologies that reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills.
3. Durability:
The steel frame or solid wood timbers used in barndominiums are strong and durable, protecting against harsh weather conditions, pests, and other potential hazards.
4. Versatility:
You can use barndominiums for primary residences, vacation homes, workshops, storage facilities, and more.
5. Low maintenance:
The metal or wooden exterior of a barndominium is relatively low maintenance, requiring less upkeep and repair than a traditional home made of brick or concrete.
What are the negatives of a barndominium?
While barndominiums have many advantages, here are five potential downsides to consider:
1. Design options:
You are limited in design choices by the metal exterior of a barndominium. It can be challenging to change the shape or appearance of the structure after it is built.
2. Zoning restrictions:
Barndominium construction may be limited or prohibited in some areas due to zoning restrictions. Because they look like barns or sheds, some communities will not allow you to build them as residential homes.
3. Noise and temperature control issues:
A barndominium’s metal exterior and high ceilings can cause noise and temperature control issues. They are prone to echoing and may require additional insulation to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.
4. Potential maintenance issues:
A barndominium’s metal components may require frequent maintenance to prevent rust or corrosion.
5. Resale value:
Because barndominiums are a newer type of residential construction, their resale value may be lower than that of more traditional homes.