5 Reasons You Should Consider Building a Barndominium
If you’re considering building a new home, you might want to take a closer look at barndominiums. While these metal-framed homes, often referred to as barndos, have been around for several years, they’re becoming increasingly popular for numerous reasons. It’s common to see someone build a ranch and add a barndominium on the property. There are many benefits to this style of property. The opportunities are endless when considering the rustic beauty that these buildings offer. Whether you want to build a bigger house for less or want something that will last, the barndo is the option for you.
Here are five reasons you should consider a barndominium for your next home-build.
Barndominiums are Less Expensive
One of the most eye-catching and often inexpensive alternatives to a stick-frame home is the barndominium. Dollar-for-dollar, you get much more house with a barndo. Over the past couple of years, we have seen prices for various materials fluctuate drastically and rapidly. For example, lumber skyrocketed 288% in 2021. Of course, the price has since declined, but still, that has led homebuilders to seek alternative materials such as steel to keep their costs down and value up.
A real estate expert Amanda Brown with Amanda Brown Realty in Gatesville, TX, says her buyers want to make their dollar go further. “I’m seeing more and more home buyers open up to the idea of a barndominium because of the price points. They’re able to get the square footage they want within their budget,” says Amanda.
Sure, there is still plenty of lumber involved in framing support, but comparatively, around 50% less lumber is engaged in building a barndominium than a traditional home. This difference makes the barndominium a much better option financially.
Easier to Build
Another significant benefit of a barndominium is the speed at which it can be built. Most builders who have been around for a while will tell you, building a house from the ground up is no easy task. On the upper end of the spectrum, it can take a year to go from nothing to a finished product. With a barndominium, it takes to build the home from the ground up is typically 4-6 months.
Although every builder has their timeframe, and countless variables may affect the timeline, the 4-6 month ballpark is a good reference for an average barndominium build time. While the time it takes to pour the foundation and finish out the interior of the home remains the same, the time saved comes from the exterior and shell of the building. With a barndo, a good crew can erect the frame and put up the siding in days, not weeks.
Expansive Open Concepts
Barndominiums are inherently constructed differently from traditional stick-built homes. This leaves the possibility of large open floorplans with extremely high ceilings. The open-concept trend has been around for years, but barndos happen to take it to the next level. Imagine having your primary living space completely open.
Between the kitchen, dining room, and living room, the area would be perfect for entertaining and hosting large gatherings of people. “I am seeing an increasing number of my home buyers open to this design. They’re looking for ways to maximize the space in their homes and bring it all together. It’s a trend that has always been around but sought after more by barndominium buyers.” says Amanda.
Built Tough and Built to Last
When you’re putting a sizable amount of your hard-earned money down on a home, you want to make sure it’ll last. Metal building barndos have a very high strength-to-weight ratio, making them less susceptible to damage from severe weather and pests, such as termites. Most building professionals will tell you, an average stick-framed home has a lifespan of around 20 years before needing some exterior repair or replacement.
Barndominiums, on the other hand, can last upwards of 30+ years. The corrugated steel most barndominiums are made of can withstand heavy winds and resist impacts from hail. Some homeowner insurance companies will offer cosmetic damage exclusion discounts if the roof is rated to withstand hail impact. Why pay insurance for something that cannot happen?
Barndos look Fabulous, Chic, and Modern
Barndos typically stay away from traditional exterior materials such as vinyl or wood plank; instead, you can select from a myriad of colors of siding and trim on smooth, untextured corrugated R-panel sheets. This look gives the house a modern chic feel while also allowing color and creativity. If you want a farmhouse appeal with the panache of elaborate colors, then a barndo is the way to go.
This versatile style of home lets you combine different elements to make your style. Whether you choose a vibrant and classy blue with bright white trim and accents, or you’re going for something with more sophistication, such as a charcoal gray with black trim, the possibilities are endless.
Should You Build a Barndominium
Only you can answer that; however, it’s clear that they’re a great option compared to traditionally-built homes. Barndominiums are a functional, durable building style that has the potential to reduce your timeline and cost of construction dramatically. If you’re looking for an option with more space than traditional homes can offer, consider checking out barndominiums. You’ll find they’re an excellent option for all types of homeowners, and you’re sure to find a style you like.
Many people are considering selling their primary residence and building a barndominium. Check out this resource to sell your house fast and buy a barndominium. The grass can feel greener on the other side.