Building a barndominium can be a great way to combine the rustic charm of a barn with the comfort and convenience of a modern home. If you’re thinking about building a barndominium, it’s important to understand the step-by-step process involved.
From site preparation and design to framing, plumbing, and electrical work, insulation, siding, roofing, and finishing, there are many aspects to consider. In this guide, we will take you through the process of building a barndominium step by step, including important tips for each stage, so you can plan and build your dream barndominium with confidence.
So whether you’re planning to build a barndominium for residential or commercial use, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the process, and will help you to make informed decisions along the way.
Step 1: Site preparation
Site preparation is an important initial step in building a barndominium. It includes several tasks that are necessary to ensure that the land is suitable for building and that the construction process can proceed smoothly.
- Clearing the land: This involves removing any trees, brush, and debris from the property. This ensures that the construction crew has a clear area to work in and that the foundation can be laid on a solid surface.
- Leveling: The land should be leveled to ensure that the foundation is stable and that the building will be level. This may involve adding or removing soil, or using a laser level to determine the elevation of the land.
- Soil testing: It is important to test the soil to ensure that it is stable enough to support the weight of the building. This will help to identify any issues that may need to be addressed before construction begins.
- Obtaining permits and inspections: Depending on the location, building a barndominium may require obtaining various permits and passing inspections. This could include zoning permits, building permits, and inspections for things like septic systems and well water.
- Septic and well installation: if the barndominium is not located in the city, it might require installing septic and well systems.
Step 2: Design
Designing a barndominium involves creating plans for the building that take into account the size of the property, the intended use of the space, and any local building codes.
- Consult with an architect or designer: An architect or designer will be able to help you create plans that meet your needs and comply with local building codes. They will also be able to provide insight on how to best utilize the space and make the most of the available square footage.
- Consider the size of the property: The size of the property will determine the size of the building that can be constructed. The design should take into account the size of the land and the zoning regulations that apply to it.
- Intended use of the space: The intended use of the space will also influence the design of the building. For example, if the barndominium will be used as a residence, the plans will need to include living spaces such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and a kitchen. If it will be used for a commercial purpose, the plans will need to include spaces suitable for that use.
- Building codes: The plans must comply with local building codes and regulations, such as the height of the building, the size of the footings, and the type of materials that can be used.
- Energy efficiency: It is important to consider energy efficiency in the design, such as proper insulation, energy efficient windows, and lighting.
- Aesthetics: The design should also take into account the overall aesthetic of the building, such as the style of the roof, the type of siding, and the placement of windows.
Step 3: Foundation
The foundation is the base upon which the barndominium will be built. It is important to choose the right type of foundation for the building, based on the location and soil conditions.
- Foundation types: There are several types of foundations that can be used for a barndominium, including a crawl space, a full basement, a slab, or a pier and beam foundation. The choice will depend on factors such as the location, the soil conditions, and the intended use of the building.
- Digging a trench: For a crawl space or full basement foundation, a trench will need to be dug around the perimeter of the building. The depth of the trench will depend on the local building codes and the soil conditions.
- Pouring concrete: Once the trench is dug, concrete will be poured to create the foundation. The concrete will need to be allowed to cure before any further construction can take place.
- Laying a slab: For a slab foundation, a concrete slab will be poured directly on the ground. This type of foundation is typically used in areas with good soil conditions and a low water table.
- Pier and beam foundation: This type of foundation is used when the soil condition is not stable, the pier and beam foundation is used to raise the house from the ground and provide extra support.
- Inspections: Before the foundation is covered, a building inspector will need to check it to ensure that it meets all local building codes and is stable enough to support the weight of the building.
Step 4: Framing
Framing is the process of constructing the walls and roof of the barndominium using a combination of wood and steel.
- Wall framing: The walls of the barndominium are constructed using wooden framing members, such as 2×4 or 2×6 studs. These studs are spaced 16 inches or 24 inches apart and are anchored to the foundation using framing anchors.
- Roof framing: The roof of the barndominium is constructed using wooden rafters or trusses. The type of roof framing used will depend on the design of the building and the local building codes.
- Steel framing: Steel framing is also used for the barndominium. Steel framing is more durable and resistant to pests and weather than wood framing, it also allows for larger open spaces and clear span areas.
- Framing inspections: Before the walls and roof are covered, a building inspector will need to check the framing to ensure that it meets all local building codes and is stable enough to support the weight of the roof and any other loads.
- Insulation: Insulation can be installed between the framing members before the walls and roof are covered to ensure energy efficiency and comfort inside the building.
Step 5: Plumbing and electrical
Plumbing and electrical work involve installing the necessary pipes and wiring for the barndominium.
- Plumbing: Plumbing work includes installing the pipes and fixtures needed for the building’s water supply and drainage systems. This includes installing pipes for the main water line, sinks, toilets, showers, and bathtubs. It also includes installing drain and vent pipes, as well as a septic system or connecting to the municipal sewer system.
- Electrical: Electrical work includes installing the wiring and circuits needed for the building’s electrical system. This includes installing the main electrical service, as well as wiring for lights, outlets, and appliances. It also includes installing any necessary electrical panels and circuits to ensure that the building meets all local electrical codes.
- HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and Air conditioning systems should be installed during this stage, it includes installing ducts, vents, and the units themselves.
- Inspections: Before the walls and ceilings are covered, a building inspector will need to check the plumbing and electrical work to ensure that it meets all local codes and that the systems are properly installed.
Step 6: Insulation
Insulation is an important step in the construction of a barndominium, as it helps to ensure energy efficiency and comfort inside the building.
- Types of insulation: There are several types of insulation that can be used in a barndominium, including fiberglass, cellulose, spray foam, and rigid foam. The type of insulation used will depend on the location, the climate, and the design of the building.
- Walls: Insulation is typically installed between the framing members in the walls of the barndominium. This helps to keep the building warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
- Roof: Insulation is also typically installed in the attic or roof of the barndominium. This helps to keep the building cool in the summer and prevent heat loss in the winter.
- Sealing: Along with the insulation installation, it’s important to seal all the gaps and cracks to prevent drafts and improve energy efficiency.
- Inspections: A building inspector will need to check the insulation to ensure that it meets all local building codes and that it is properly installed.
Step 7: Siding and roofing
Siding and roofing are the finishing touches that protect the barndominium from the elements.
- Siding: Siding is the material that covers the exterior walls of the barndominium. Common types of siding include wood, vinyl, aluminum, and fiber cement. The type of siding chosen will depend on factors such as the location, the climate, and the design of the building.
- Roofing: Roofing is the material that covers the roof of the barndominium. Common types of roofing include asphalt shingles, metal, tile, and slate. The type of roofing chosen will depend on factors such as the location, the climate, and the design of the building.
- Waterproofing: The roofing and siding should be installed with proper flashing and waterproofing to prevent leaks and water damage.
- Inspections: Before the siding and roofing are installed, a building inspector will need to check the framing to ensure that it meets all local building codes and is stable enough to support the weight of the siding and roofing.
Step 8: Finishing
Finishing refers to the process of completing the interior and exterior of the barndominium to make it livable.
- Flooring: This includes installing flooring materials such as hardwood, tile, carpet, or vinyl in the living spaces, bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchen.
- Cabinetry and countertops: This includes installing cabinets, countertops, and other fixtures in the kitchen and bathrooms.
- Painting and wall coverings: This includes painting the walls and installing wall coverings such as wallpaper or wainscoting.
- Trim and molding: This includes installing trim and molding around windows, doors, and baseboards to give the barndominium a polished look.
- Lighting: This includes installing light fixtures such as ceiling lights, lamps, and sconces throughout the barndominium.
- Landscaping: This includes planting trees, shrubs, and grass around the exterior of the barndominium to give it a finished look.
- Furnishing: This includes bringing in furniture, appliances and other items that make the barndominium livable and ready to move in.
Step 9: Inspection
Inspection is an important step before move-in to ensure that the barndominium meets all local building codes and is safe to occupy.
- Final inspection: A final inspection is done by the local building inspector, who will check the building to make sure it meets all local building codes and that all necessary permits have been obtained. This includes checking the foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, insulation, siding, roofing, and any other systems or features of the building.
- Punch list: If there are any issues found during the final inspection, a punch list will be created detailing the items that need to be corrected before the building can pass inspection and be occupied.
Step 10: Move-in
Once the barndominium has passed the final inspection, it is ready for occupancy. This includes bringing in furniture, appliances and other items that make the barndominium livable and ready to move in.
Overall, Inspection and move-in are important steps in the construction of a barndominium. The final inspection is important to ensure that the building meets all local building codes and is safe to occupy, and move-in is the final step to make the building a comfortable place to live.
How much cost should I spent to build a barndominium?
The cost of building a barndominium can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including the size of the building, the location, the materials used, and the level of finishes and amenities. However, generally speaking, you can expect to spend between $50 and $200 per square foot to build a barndominium.
Check barndominium floor plan for detail.
For example, a simple barndominium with a living area of 1000 sqft could cost around $50,000 to $100,000. This might include a basic foundation, framing, roofing, and siding, but not include any electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems, or any finishes such as flooring or cabinetry.
On the other hand, a larger barndominium with a living area of 3000 sqft and high-end finishes could cost $150,000 to $600,000 or even more. This would include a full foundation, framing, roofing, siding, electrical, plumbing, HVAC systems, and all the high-end finishes such as custom cabinetry, high-end appliances, and luxury flooring.
It’s important to note that this cost also includes the cost of permits, inspections and contingency funds, in addition to the cost of labor.
It’s important to remember that the cost of building a barndominium will vary depending on your specific situation, so it is best to consult with a professional and get a detailed estimate based on your specific needs and location.
