How Long Does it Take to Build a Barndominium? - RedFish Inspections (2024)

In recent years, barndominiums have surged in popularity as an innovative housing solution that provides both the sturdiness of a storage barn and the comfort of a conventional home. Known for their spacious open floor plans and versatility, barndominiums offer a unique living experience. Barndominiums are just one type of housing available for individuals or families to call home. We will learn in this blog about Barndominiums, why they are trendy, how long it takes to build a barndominium, and more!

Let’s learn more!

What is a Barndominium?

A barndominium, or “barndo,” is a portmanteau of “barn” and “condominium,” but this term has evolved to define a type of residence that combines living spaces with workspaces or storage typically associated with a barn. These structures are often steel or wood framed and can be customized extensively.

Why are Barndominiums Trendy Right Now?

Barndominiums have become trendy due to their cost-effectiveness, durability, and quicker construction time compared to traditional homes. Their wide-open spaces inside allow for a high degree of customization, making them attractive to those who want a personal touch in their living space.

Floor Plan Sizes of Barndominiums

Barndominiums come in various floor plan sizes, ranging from modest 1-bedroom layouts to expansive multi-bedroom configurations. Sizes can vary widely, from under 1,000 square feet to over 2,000 square feet, depending on the owner’s needs and preferences.

How Long Does it Take to Build a Barndominium? - RedFish Inspections (1)

How Do You Build a Barndominium?

Building a barndominium involves several steps:

  1. Designing a Floor Plan: Start by choosing or designing a floor plan that suits your needs.
  2. Acquiring Land: You’ll need a plot of land where you can legally build your barndominium.
  3. Securing Permits: Obtain all necessary building permits from local authorities.
  4. Laying the Foundation: A solid foundation is crucial for any structure, including barndominiums.
  5. Constructing the Frame: The metal or wood frame is erected.
  6. Installing Insulation and Interior Walls: This step makes the building energy-efficient and livable.
  7. Adding Utilities: Plumbing, electricity, and HVAC systems are installed.
  8. Finishing Touches: Finally, interior finishing and exterior features are completed.

How Long Does it Take to Build a Barndominium?

The construction time can vary based on size and complexity, but generally, barndominiums can take anywhere from 6 months to a year to build, which is often faster than traditional homes due to prefabricated elements.

How Much Does a Barndominium Cost?

Costs for a barndominium are typically less per square foot than conventional houses because of the simplified construction process and materials. Prices can range from $80 to $160 per square foot.

Which is Cheaper: Barndominium or a House?

Typically, a barndominium is cheaper to build than a conventional house, primarily due to lower construction and labor costs.

How Long Does it Take to Build a Barndominium? - RedFish Inspections (2)

Pros of a Barndominium

  • Cost Efficiency: Generally more affordable to build.
  • Durability: Built to last with sturdy framing materials.
  • Customization: Highly adaptable design and layout.
  • Speed of Construction: Less time-consuming to construct.

Cons of a Barndominium

  • Financing Hurdles: It can sometimes be harder to secure financing.
  • Perception: They may not be as traditionally appealing.
  • Resale Concerns: Uncertain market for resale.
  • Zoning and Permitting: Possible restrictions depending on location.

Do Barndominiums Hold Their Value?

Like traditional homes, barndominiums can hold their value and even appreciate, especially if well-maintained and located in a desirable area. However, market factors influencing unconventional homes may vary significantly.

Other Maintenance In and Around the Home

Now that you know about building a barndominium, let’s look at some other areas of maintenance in or around the home. One of those is whether to replace or maintain the HVAC unit. Many HVACs will last about 10-15 years but if you are on a first-name basis with the technician and have other issues with the unit, you may need to think about replacing it.

Another is adding in vinyl flooring. If you are putting vinyl flooring in your barndominium, you will want to make sure that you leave the flooring there to acclimate for 48 hours.

Lastly, if you have a property that has a septic tank, you will want to know where it is. To find the lid, look at the septic system plans or follow the sewer pipe.

When Do I Call a Professional?

To ensure legal compliance and structural integrity, you should consult professionals throughout the planning and building process, including architects, contractors, and real estate experts. This is not something a homeowner should take on alone without reaching out to professionals who have the information that you need to build the home.

Check out the video below about the cost of building a Barndominium.

Conclusion

Barndominiums represent a modern, stylish, and cost-effective approach to housing. Ideal for individuals seeking a personalized living space that blends traditional comfort with a touch of rustic charm, barndominiums are a noteworthy option in the vast landscape of residential choices. With their growing popularity and customizable nature, they stand out as a unique solution for homeowners looking for value, durability, and a dash of individuality. Once you have built your barndominium, contactRedFish Inspections Home Inspection services for a barndominium and ranch inspection in Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas.

How Long Does it Take to Build a Barndominium? - RedFish Inspections (2024)

FAQs

How Long Does it Take to Build a Barndominium? - RedFish Inspections? ›

The construction time can vary based on size and complexity, but generally, barndominiums can take anywhere from 6 months to a year to build, which is often faster than traditional homes due to prefabricated elements.

How quickly can you build a barndominium? ›

All the finishing touches – drywall, paint, built-in furniture, moulding, roofing, siding, and fascia – can take 1 or 2 months, depending on the level of extravagance and detail. Minimalists will save time in this stage! All in all, most barndominiums take about 6 months to build.

What do I wish I knew before building a barndominium? ›

Here are the most important things to know about building a barndominium.
  • Obtain a permit for your project. Photo by Bridger Steel, Inc. ...
  • Test the paint. Photo by Justin Doyle Homes. ...
  • Prepare for surprise costs. ...
  • Plan for electrical work. ...
  • Choose your windows and doors wisely. ...
  • Add insulation—it's important.
Mar 14, 2022

What is the downside to a barndominium? ›

Pros of barndominiums include a cheaper cost, fully customizable space, and lower maintenance. They're also highly durable with lots of extra room and are a more eco-friendly housing option. Meanwhile, cons include higher upfront costs, difficulties finding financing, and not all cities allow them.

How much does it cost to build a 2000 sq ft barndominium in Texas? ›

The average cost of a barndominium in Texas is $70 to $95 a square foot to build vs. the cost of a house is around $115 - $145 per square foot.

How hard is it to get a loan to build a barndominium? ›

Difficulty obtaining USDA loan: Though far from impossible, obtaining a USDA loan for a barndominium may be challenging. Many USDA lenders are unfamiliar with these structures and may be reluctant to finance their purchase.

Is it cheaper to build a 1 or 2 story barndominium? ›

Single-story barndominiums are generally perceived as less expensive due to several factors: – **Foundation Costs**: The foundation of a single-story barndominium typically costs less than that of a two-story structure since it bears less weight. This can lead to savings in both materials and labor.

What is the most expensive part of building a barndominium? ›

The biggest cost of building a barndominium comes from purchasing and building the metal shell, including the roof, doors, and windows. Other major exterior features that can affect the building cost include: Metal siding.

Are barndominiums hard to insure? ›

Insurance can be complicated for barndominium homes. According to Barndominium.org, not all insurers cover barndos, especially if they're mixed-use instead of residential only, and those that do might have barndo-specific policies.

Are barndominiums bad investments? ›

As such, it is more difficult to assess the resale value of a Barndominium. Unlike modular homes and trailers, Barndominiums maintain their value and are likely to increase over time. If you are purely looking for a quick resale investment, a Barndominium may not be your best option.

What is the life expectancy of a barndominium? ›

Longevity: Although they may not last as long as traditional homes, a well-maintained barndominium can provide comfortable living for around 50 years. 5. Durability: Barndominiums are built to withstand the elements, ensuring they remain sturdy and reliable over the years.

Are barndominiums prone to mold? ›

Barndominiums offer a blend of rustic aesthetics and modern living that appeals to many homeowners. However, like any other type of construction, they are susceptible to mold growth if not properly designed, constructed, and maintained.

What is the problem with the barndominium? ›

Barndominiums are not immune to corrosion.

If you have a home with the traditional wooden frame, then you will need to manage the issue of rot at some point in that structure's life. When you opt for a metal-based barndominium, then there are corrosion issues that you'll need to manage.

How big of a barndominium can I build for 200K? ›

How big of a barndominium can I build for $200K? On the high end, barndominiums have an average cost of $150 per square foot. At that price, you can estimate a building of around 1,333 square feet for $200,000.

How big of a barndominium can I build for 300k? ›

Written by HomeAdvisor. Barndominiums cost between $120,000 and $540,000, with an average 2,400-square-foot barndominium costing $300,000 to build. The total cost to build a barndominium can vary significantly depending on the size, how much of the work you do yourself, and the finishes you choose.

How much does a 30x40 barndominium cost? ›

Barndominium kits with prices
DimensionsSquare footageUnfinished kit costs
30x401,200$35,000 – $59,000
40x401,600$42,000 – $75,000
40x602,400$69,000 – $120,000
40x702,800$74,000 – $135,000
4 more rows
Jan 12, 2024

How hard is it to build a barndominium? ›

Barndominiums can be built by a licensed contractor, a remodeler, or even a do-it-yourselfer. Since barndos are often erected by machinery, the process tends to be quick and efficient.

What is the first step in building a barndominium? ›

How to Build a Barndominium in 10 Steps: the Ultimate Guide to a Metal Building
  1. Planning and Budgeting. ...
  2. Land Acquisition. ...
  3. Interior Design Elements & Exterior Too. ...
  4. Obtain Permits. ...
  5. Foundation and Framing. ...
  6. Building Installation. ...
  7. Interior Finishing. ...
  8. Install Utilities.
Aug 3, 2023

How much does it cost to build a barndominium in OK? ›

Land Costs: Land prices in Oklahoma vary widely but can range from $1,000 to $5,000 per acre in rural areas, while suburban or urban areas may be more expensive. 2. Construction Costs: On average, construction costs for a basic barndominium can range from $50 to $150 per square foot.

How to build a barndominium on a budget? ›

5 Ways to Save Money on Your Barndominium Build.
  1. Be strategic about where you put your framed openings: ...
  2. Use concrete floors. ...
  3. DIY finish work (Stairs, Barn Doors, Light Fixture Installation) ...
  4. Ask for “builder grade”/“build program” or scour the remnant yard for countertops.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Msgr. Benton Quitzon

Last Updated:

Views: 6159

Rating: 4.2 / 5 (43 voted)

Reviews: 82% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Msgr. Benton Quitzon

Birthday: 2001-08-13

Address: 96487 Kris Cliff, Teresiafurt, WI 95201

Phone: +9418513585781

Job: Senior Designer

Hobby: Calligraphy, Rowing, Vacation, Geocaching, Web surfing, Electronics, Electronics

Introduction: My name is Msgr. Benton Quitzon, I am a comfortable, charming, thankful, happy, adventurous, handsome, precious person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.