The Misconception Barndominiums Are Cheap to Build
Many people think building something like a barn, not traditional or building a new steel barndominium kit somehow costs substantially less than traditional stick-built construction. However, creating fully habitable barndo spaces on par with residential finishes and features often is more on par with the pricing for average custom homes. Thankfully reputable barndominium providers like Buildmax.com offer kit homes and floor plans simplifying the build process so buyers can maximize value.
Where Barndominium Expenses Add Up
Yes, repurposing an existing barn or utilizing affordable steel structural frames saves on underlying build expenses. But making that shell livable as a primary dwelling demands significant investment. Think poured concrete, plumbing, electrical, insulation, drywall, flooring and more. Going from tin walls to modernized dwellings easily crosses $100 per square foot. Owners also customize barndos to higher standards than typical homes given the flexibility. Designer fixtures, integrated storage solutions, commercial-grade doors and windows, and open concept builds send costs soaring.
Buildmax Value for Streamlined Barndo Projects
Rather than get discouraged by formidable barndominium build costs, leverage Buildmax as your project partner. Their pre-engineered steel barndo kits including frames, roofing and components streamline structural phases. Various floor plans suit budgets small and large while offering living space flexibility absent from stock plans. Factor in their 3D modeling services, online project tools, customer service guidance and 60+ years of construction expertise as well. Buildmax simplifies executing even the most elaborately customized barndominium vision at reasonable prices thanks to turnkey offerings.
Some Basic Costs That Factor Into Building a Barndominium:
(*These are estimated prices only*)
Land/Property Purchase – Budget for raw rural land or agricultural property purchase if you don’t already own a site.
Steel Structural Frame Kit – Prefab metal barn kits range $20-$60+ per sq ft for materials/shipping. Upwards of $40k+.
Foundation Work – Concrete slab $5-$15 per sq ft. Piers, gravel bed, stem walls extra.
Building Permits & Fees – Varies by municipality but often a few thousand dollars.
Labor Costs:
Framing Assembly & Roofing – $10k to $30k+ for barn builders.
Electrical Wiring – $8-$20k or more depending on circuits, fixtures.
Plumbing Install – $5k to $25k+ for baths, sinks, utility hookups.
HVAC Systems – $8k to $30k+ per climate control unit and ducting.
Insulation Materials & Installation – $5-$15k+ depending on type and R-values.
Drywall Hanging & Finishing – $10k on up for finish crew.
Flooring Installations – Hardwood, tile, etc from $5k to $25k+
Other Considerations:
– Windows & Doors: $5k+, more for specialty
– Painting & Staining: $3k to $10k+
– Landscaping, driveways etc.
All in, basic barndominium shell construction starts around $125-$150 per sq ft, not including property costs. But custom finishes, storage solutions, high-end fixtures and luxury builds can reach $250-$300 per sq ft.
The misconception a basic tin-walled barn transfers easily into budget dwellings falls short of reality. Yet by collaborating with barndo pros like Buildmax, future homeowners tap into resources to build specialty residential spaces matching fantasies and affordable practicalities alike!
