Traditional houses are fine. But if you want something unique and exciting, a barndominium might be more your style. This burgeoning trend is all the rage in 2022, and now is the perfect time to build your own.
What is a Barndominium?
Very simply, a barndominium is a metal building that typically features vaulted ceilings, a barn-like aesthetic on the outside, and energy-efficient, low-maintenance living quarters on the inside. (In some cases, barndominiums use traditional stick-frame building, but metal is the most popular option. More on that below.) Common design features include stained concrete floors, energy-efficient windows, natural wood beams, high ceilings, and other rustic elements.
You can think of it as a beautiful warehouse. Left unfinished on the interior, it would basically be a well-insulated storage building. But it’s the quality design finishes that really bring the building to life.
Because they’re often constructed using metal frames, barndominiums are much safer than the average stick-build in storm-prone regions that experience high winds, lots of snow, and/or threats of wildfire. They also require minimal ongoing maintenance. Because the framing is metal (and even the exterior panels in some cases), frame rot, pest infestations, and frequent exterior painting are non-issues.
In addition to being very energy efficient and easy to maintain, barndominium’s are surprisingly affordable to build. Whereas the typical conventional home may cost somewhere around $145 per square foot to build, a barndominium could be as low as $70 to $90 per square foot (depending on the materials, location, finishes, etc.). Other experienced barndominium builders say they can get that number down to as little as $45-$55 per square foot for very simple designs.
Tips for Building the Barndominium of Your Dreams
As you can see, there are many advantages and incentives to build a barndominium. But with so many different options, where do you begin?
- Use a Metal Building Kit
The first decision you’ll need to make is using wood or metal. Wood has obviously been the preferred building material for traditional barns over the years, but it might not be the best option for building a barndominium where people will live.
Building a wood barndominium, or barndo as some people call them, can be expensive (particularly when tall vaulted ceilings are involved). Metal building kits are much less expensive. On top of that, there are the long-term cost-savings that we alluded to earlier.
“Each one can boast energy-saving advantages, with the edge probably going to the metal barndos,” Barndominium Life explains. “Most are sprayed during the building process with a large amount of closed or open cell insulation, which incorporates state-of-the-art technology to keep the heat or cool inside your barndo where it belongs, depending on the weather. This also keeps your utility bills much lower than typically seen in custom homes in the ‘burbs.”
While it used to be that wood barndos had significantly better curb appeal than metal ones, this isn’t always the case anymore. Metal-built barndominiums have come a long way. They can now be finished with some pretty impressive aesthetics for a very warm and welcoming look.
- Hire the Professionals
If you’re someone who is fairly handy and knows how to build a few things, you might be tempted to tackle your own barndominium project. However, we suggest using caution before going the DIY route.
While they’re certainly simpler to build than a traditional home, metal-built barndos still require expertise. Building codes still apply and everything must be up to code. Yes, you’ll pay an additional 20 to 30 percent more to have a contractor do the job, but that’s money well spent.
- Think About Versatility
As you build out your barndominium, make sure you prioritize versatility. One of the biggest benefits of owning this style of home is the multiple ways in which it can be used. By installing large barn door/garage doors and designing a great room with vaulted ceilings, you give yourself a lot of options down the road. Whether it’s living in the property full-time or turning it into an event venue, you’ll never be restricted to just one use.
Adding it All Up
If you’re looking for an affordable, energy-efficient building that looks unique and has plenty of open living space to enjoy, a barndominium could be a great option for you and your family. And as you approach the design and building process, please keep the aforementioned tips in mind. With the proper planning, your project will be a huge success.
