Which is going to be the right choice for you? Barndominium or a Home
Whether your lease is up, or you’re just looking for new environment, there are tons of unique housing options to choose from these days.
Barndominiums vs Homes Which is Right for You
Between RV life, barndominiums, traditional homes, and so much more, picking the perfect home can seem overwhelming. Let this be your guide to all things barndominium homes and traditional homes as we cover costs, location, and the pros and cons of both. You’ll have your dream home in no time!
What are Barndominiums?
If barndominium isn’t part of your vocabulary yet, they are essentially barns converted into homes. You may also hear them be referred to as “barndo house”. Usually, they’re metal buildings that have with inside living quarters instead of furry friends. These structures are made of solid wood timbers, steel, and metal components.
The strong materials used to make barndomniums make them a safe and secure option. The metal and steel protect structures against water damage, severe weather, and wear and tear over the years.
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Barndominium?
While every home reno will depend on your taste, budget, and lifestyle, barn homes are typically relatively affordable compared to other homes. Barndominium cost can typically run around $100,000 to $150,000 based on what materials you use and how you go about the building process.
That’s still a huge investment, but the energy efficient make-up of barndos will save money when it comes to running utilities. Plus, they don’t take long to build, cutting labor costs and barndominium prices significantly.
Once you’ve got the outside built, there are a few more things that you still need to work into the budget. It’s important to consider wiring for electricity, as well as plumbing. Another element of building a barn home is ensuring proper insulation.
As far as furnishing the home, it’s typically less expensive for a barndo since they tend to be smaller and more open concept. Refurbish pieces from your old space for that modern barndominium feel, without all the new furniture and décor. Luckily, barndominium on a budget style is all about that rustic, vintage feel!
Pros of Barn Homes
Overall, what can homeowners gain from switching to the barndominium life? One of the most incredible things about barn houses is that their materials are long-lasting. If you build with metal and steel, the home has the potential to last for up to 100 years with little maintenance.
They’re also great because with the unique build and ability to DIY, none of your dream home must-haves are getting booted off the list. Customize your home to be exactly how you want it.
Another great thing about building a barndominium is the fact that they are less prone to flammability. Just one more reason, in addition to their weather protection qualities, why they’re so safe! We know they’re cost effective; but the money saving doesn’t stop once your home is built.
Not only do they have energy saving qualities, but their durability can also help lower insurance costs. The best part? You can pass the long-lasting home through generations
Cons of Barndominiums
Just like any home option, white barndominiums aren’t for everyone. Let’s cover the cons for those readers who might not love barn life living. One thing’s for sure: 100,000+ still isn’t cheap. Building even a small barndominium is a very costly investment that requires saving and hard work, so make sure it’s something you’ll really love.
They’re not necessarily a quick and low-budget solution for a new home.
Another thing to consider is your location; big city guys and gals probably aren’t suited for barndos. A lot of land in a rural area is required for barndominium house building. Some areas have regulations against building barn homes, so be sure to check your state’s building rules.
Also, most of them are only single-story homes, which can be a bit of an issue for bigger families. A 2 story barndominium is very uncommon.
How Are Traditional Homes Built?
There’s one thing that can’t be denied about traditional homes: there are a lot of different building materials to choose from. Houses are made with brick, stone, stucco, wood, vinyl siding, Hardiplank, and more. Building a traditional home can be a long process since there are lots of little steps along the way.
When building a home, the first step is finding that perfect plot of land. Upon identifying a dream home location, it’s essential to check the area’s restrictions and limitations. Then, builders can construct a construction drawing to ensure it’s the ideal space for homeowners with the size of each room.
Once all the preparation is done, homes always start with the foundation. Concrete is poured into forms that reach down the frost line so they can’t move in freezing conditions.
After the foundation, comes the house frame. It’s the skeleton around which the rest of the home is built. Workers then put beams into the foundation to support the inside walls. Once the house frame is complete, builders raise the walls. Then, the roof comes in to protect the home from the outside.
Once all the outdoor work is done, windows, doors, wires, plumbing, etc, still need to be installed inside. Building traditional homes can be a long and complicated process!
How Much Does It Cost to Build Traditional Homes?
The simple answer to this question is, “it depends,” but let’s elaborate. Costs for land vary greatly depending on the size, amenities, and location. After purchasing land, another cost element will be contractors and labor. An additional factor that effects the cost of home building is the size and state of the home. On average, most homes will cost between around $200,000 and $600,000 to build.
Pros of Traditional Homes
The best thing about traditional homes compared to other housing options is the variety of choices to customize with. From the inside to the out, traditional homes offer a greater selection of materials and style options for building. Classic style lovers can go with brick, while modern aesthetic seekers can build with stucco.
Although you can add a touch of “you” to any space, houses are the best way to get the most personalized experience.
What Are the Cons of Traditional Homes?
Let’s start by pointing out the obvious: building a home is super expensive! It turns out buying land, finding builders, and putting together a dream house isn’t exactly the easiest or cheapest task. Plus, some materials aren’t as withstanding as those used in metal barndominiums, leading to more money spent on repairs in the future. If money isn’t your issue, perhaps the environment is.
Building and living in a traditional home can be taxing on the environment. From cranked up AC, to wasteful building materials, houses have the potential to break a hippie’s heart. It can be difficult to stay eco-friendly while building a home. Nature lovers may be better off living in a barndo.
Barndominium vs. Conventional Home: Choosing the Right Option
Now that you know the good and the bad of barndominiums and traditional homes, it’s time to narrow things down and make a decision. Will you enjoy a rustic barn life, or live it up in a city or suburb? The most important factors to consider on your new home journey are location, budget, and personal style.
The last thing you would want is plan a beautiful steel barndominium, only to realize they’re restricted in your city. If you’ve got your heart set on a specific location, it’s important to ensure the home of your dreams can come to life there. If a great barndo spot is your main priority, some of the most popular states for them West Virginia, Mississippi, Ohio, Michigan, Alabama, and Louisiana.
Cost is, of course, a crucial factor in the house debate. Are barndominiums cheaper than houses? Barndominiums could be great for those with a smaller budget, because they give you the possibility to still create your dream home. Overall, those looking to spend less money should definitely go with a barndo over a traditional home.
Personal aesthetic and lifestyle have a lot to do with your environment. Those looking for a sleek and modern vibe would probably be best suited in a traditional house or luxury barndominium. On the other hand, rustic and natural style lovers would fit right in at a barndo.
The final lifestyle aspect to consider is your household’s size. Even if you love woodsy tones and farmhouse barndominium style, you might have to go with a house in order to fit the fam.
With a ton of home building knowledge up your sleeve, you’ll be confident to choose your dream home. Whether you end up in a barndo in the middle of nowhere, or in the heart of a big city, wishing you the best of luck on a new home journey! Don’t forget to stop by Crow Survival’s site for more info on all things outdoor living.
