Barndominium, Post-Frame, Barndo, Shouse. These terms have been used interchangeably to describe a style of building that is gaining popularity in the United States.
What is a Barndominium?
Simply put, a barndominium is a home that borrows framing and building methods from agricultural buildings and modified to act as a single family home. These structures are supported by large vertical columns, often spaced 8 feet on center, and have zero load bearing walls within. Columns are tied together via horizontal girts, in our case 2×6 lumber. The exterior siding is commonly metal which adds structural rigidity and is economical when compared to traditional siding you would find on a home. As for the roof, most will choose metal either directly installed to trusses or a sheathing (plywood) with a moisture barrier in between. These structures are often simple square designs on a concrete slab and can be built as a blazingly fast pace. The photo above was taken 5 days after a 5 man crew began framing a nearly 5000 square feet structure!
What are the advantages of a Barndominum?
A barndominium is a more efficient structure in regards to labor and materials when building big. Massive wall sections can be built and raised quickly and the entire shell of the structure can be “dried in” much faster than a traditional 2×4 stick built home. This means the interior is wide open for framing, mechanical, and finish work far faster. If you have a desire to put sweat equity into your home this is a key advantage as you can get the exterior out of the way quickly and get inside, completely out of the elements to finish off the home. Once complete, maintenance is arguably lower due to the metal roofing and siding. Aesthetically the interior is completely open with no load bearing walls required. Many of these homes feature open floor plans and tall ceilings which can be cost prohibitive in a traditional home.
What are the disadvantages of a Barndominium?
No building method is perfect, and barndos certainly have their disadvantages. The main disadvantage is exterior aesthetics. While subjective, most are put off by the agricultural and boxy design. A lot of folks have built striking post frame homes but in the end, you can not get as creative as a stick built structure. All other disadvantages in our opinion are perceived and can be overcome. The home can be just as or more efficient, strong, and long lasting.
Can Barndominiums have basements?
Yes! You can certainly build a post frame structure on a basement. Like any other structure with a basement, it will cost you more. Most opt for a slab and if severe weather is a concern above ground storm shelters are installed.
Can you get a construction loan to build a Barndominium?
Absolutely! Some lenders in parts of the country will shy away from them as it is not the norm, however, plenty will happily do the loan. Everyones financial situation differs but for ours we were able to obtain a construction loan which will then be converted into a traditional mortgage upon completion. The biggest things to look out for are comparables in your area. These structures are new to appraisers so they are not always sure how to value them which can pose an issue if you spend more than they consider it is worth. I recommend reaching out to an experienced lender in your area to talk to a licensed professional prior to starting.