Barndominium Pros And Cons: What You Should Consider

Barndominiums are exploding in popularity at the moment. Their unique aesthetic, multi-purpose flexibility, and potential cost savings compared to traditional builds have made barndos an extremely attractive option for homebuilders.

You’ll often hear people singing the praises of barndominiums, but not many people talk about the potential setbacks. Prospective homebuilders need to consider every angle before committing to anything, because even though barndos can be an affordable option, they’re still a significant investment.

In this post, we’re breaking down some of the pros and cons of barndominiums, including build speed, energy efficiency, cost savings, and resale value, to help you make a confident decision.

Barndominiums have been generating buzz for their unique aesthetic and practical benefits. But like any major investment, they come with trade-offs that need to be considered. Let’s start with the upsides of barndominiums. 

Here are some advantages of barndominiums.

The first thing many will point out about barndominiums is their incredible flexibility when it comes to design. Because the structure is completely held up by its steel frame, the interior of a barndominium can be configured and customized in nearly endless ways.

Looking for a flowing, open-concept layout? Looking for mixed-use spaces that combine living quarters with workshops or garages? Need extra space for a home gym? Or do you crave an extra-large kitchen? The barndominium can be designed to fit almost any configuration you can imagine, making it the perfect choice for those with specific needs.

Barndominiums are built to withstand the elements, thanks to their steel shell and framing. Their construction makes barndos highly resistant to wind and rain, ensuring they remain structurally sound for many years. This is a significant plus for those living in regions with harsh weather conditions. The steel frame also means barndominiums aren’t susceptible to pests like termites.

As wildfires become more common, many homeowners are turning away from traditional wooden-frame houses . Steel construction makes barndominiums less vulnerable to fire damage compared to traditional wood-framed houses. This is a significant advantage for those living in wildfire-prone areas.

The longer a construction process goes on, the more it will cost you. Barndominiums can be built faster than traditional homes. Prefabricated steel components allow for a more streamlined build, which means you could be moving into your new home sooner than a traditional build.

Barndominiums typically cost less per square foot to build compared to traditional builds. This is thanks to their simple design and efficient construction process. Barndos also offer lower maintenance costs over time, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners.

Barndominiums are perfect for anyone interested in blending living and working spaces. Barndo designs often include oversized garages, workshops, storage areas, or even small businesses under the same roof. 

Barndominiums can be incredibly energy-efficient as long as they’re designed and insulated correctly. Steel framing allows for tight building envelopes that help regulate indoor temperatures and lower energy bills.

Barndominiums are typically easier to maintain than traditional builds since they’re less susceptible than wood and brick builds to things like rot, pests, and wear from weather.

While there are many advantages, there are also some key barndominium cons that deserve careful consideration before you build.

While it’s great to have so much customization and flexibility, this can come at a literal cost. Barndominiums can be harder to resell because of their unique style. Buyers looking for a traditional home might overlook these properties as they do not conform to typical standards. This often results in barndos spending longer on the market and lower resale values.

Local zoning laws may restrict or prohibit the construction of barndominiums. Always check with your local planning office before you get too far into the design process. My Site Plan can help with this by creating quick, detailed site plans that will help local authorities understand your plans.

Financing can be tricky. Some lenders are hesitant to approve mortgages for barndominiums because they’re not considered traditional homes. You may need to work with specialized lenders or explore alternative financing options.

While steel avoids many of the typical issues a traditional build will face, it’s not invincible. Steel components can corrode over time without proper maintenance and protective coatings, especially in humid or coastal environments.

One of the main barndominium cons is noise. The steel construction can amplify sounds like heavy rain, hail, or wind, making it feel noisier than a traditional home.

Many barndominium designs are single-story, which can be a downside if you’re looking for a multi-level home. While two-story barndominiums do exist, they often require more complex engineering, increasing the total cost.

Barndominiums might not be allowed in suburban neighborhoods with strict homeowners associations. You may be able to compromise, but you will need to comply with community aesthetics. This is something to consider before choosing where to build your barndo.

There are so many great pros when it comes to building a barndominium. The open feel, unique aesthetics, flexibility, and durability make them highly attractive to new and experienced home builders looking for something a little different. However, there are trade-offs to consider.

Cost-savings during construction may lead to reduced resale value compared to traditional builds. Securing permits and financing can be trickier due to their unique qualities, and it may be tougher to adhere to HOA standards, which will limit where you can build your new home.

If, after weighing these barndominium pros and cons, you want to build a barndo for yourself, you’ll need a site plan and a barndominium floor plan to help get you started. My Site Plan can help you create detailed site and floor plans for your barndominium design process, permits, homeowners associations, and more. Get started on your journey to the perfect home with My Site Plan.