Will a Barndominium Last Longer than a Traditionally Built House? (2024)

When it comes to choosing a home, durability and longevity are key considerations. In recent years, barndominiums have gained popularity as an alternative to traditionally built houses. These unique structures combine the comfort and functionality of a custom-built home with the charm of country barn-style aesthetics. If you’re weighing your options for a long-lasting home, you may wonder: Will a barndominium last longer than a traditionally built house? In this blog post, we’ll explore the factors that contribute to the durability of barndominiums and compare them to some more traditional construction methods.

  1. Structural Strength and Stability:

One of the primary advantages of a barndominium is its robust and sturdy construction. Barndominiums typically feature steel frames, which provide exceptional strength and durability. Steel is resistant to common issues that can affect traditional homes, such as rot, pests, and termite damage. This structural integrity makes barndominiums less susceptible to deterioration over time, giving them an edge in terms of longevity. Other styles of barndominiums include post-frame construction, which uses thick posts that are secured into the ground and support the structure firmly. You can also build a barndominium with standard stick construction just like any other home in America would be built. So you actually have some fantastic options when it comes down to building a strong structure that will last many years into the future.

  1. Protection against Natural Disasters:

Barndominiums often excel in withstanding extreme weather conditions. The steel frame provides the overall best resistance against high winds, making them more resilient during hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe storms. Additionally, steel is non-combustible, offering increased fire resistance compared to traditional wood-framed houses. This ability to withstand natural disasters can contribute to the extended lifespan of a barndominium. If a hurricane or a firestorm can’t take out this steel-frame barndominium, old age doesn’t have much of a chance. It seems that old Father Time has quite the fight on his hands. A post-frame would be a step down from steel but still very strong. In some parts of the country like South Dakota where winds can gust dangerously fast, a post-frame barndominium is going to be rated between 90 -105 MPH. That is considered high-speed wind gusts and these barndominiums withstand that kind of torture from mother nature all year long with no problems, so thunderstorms and general heavy wind shouldn’t be a problem for a post-frame barndominium.

  1. Minimal Maintenance Requirements:

Another factor that affects a home’s longevity is the level of maintenance it requires. Barndominiums are known for their low-maintenance nature. The steel components are less prone to warping, cracking, or deteriorating compared to wood, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements. While routine maintenance is still necessary, such as inspecting the roof, checking for rust, adequate insulation, and addressing any potential issues, barndominiums generally require less ongoing maintenance than a traditional stick home. Wood can rot if it gets wet for extended periods and then dries out, which can diminish the structural integrity of the home. This is a problem you won’t have with a steel-frame barndominium.

Will a Barndominium Last Longer than a Traditionally Built House? (2)

4. Flexibility and Adaptability:

Barndominiums offer a vast range of versatility in terms of design and future modifications. The open floor plans and wide interior spaces allow for easy customization and reconfiguration as your needs change over time. If for some reason you find yourself with additional children in the house and you want to add additional rooms, expand living areas, or repurpose spaces, barndominiums provide the flexibility to adapt to your evolving lifestyle. Having a house that can fill multiple needs is important. This adaptability ensures that your home can meet your requirements now and for years to come. This flexibility shines when compared to a tighter fixed layout in a traditional house that would be much more complex to just simply add onto or adapt with your lifestyle as it changes.

  1. Quality of Construction Materials:

While the materials used in traditional houses can vary widely, it’s worth noting that barndominiums often employ high-quality construction materials. From the steel frame to the exterior finishes and insulation, barndominiums can be built with durable and long-lasting components. However, it is essential to work with reputable builders and suppliers to ensure that the materials used in your barndominium are of high quality and meet industry standards. In the materials industry, you can typically expect to get what you pay for. When it comes to lumber there are different grades of lumber. You don’t want to frame your house with lumber that is bowed out, twisted, warped or all knotted up with bumps and burls. The cheapest material isn’t always the best idea, especially when it comes to building your home. There are some things during the build you may be able to get by with cheaping-out on but your lumber package shouldn’t be one of those things. You want the best quality wood for the least amount of money, not the cheapest wood or even the best deal necessarily. You can begin to see why steel is so attractive after dealing with lumber for a while.

While it’s impossible to guarantee that any home will last indefinitely, it’s safe to say a steel home has a really good chance of outliving us and our children. Barndominiums have several features that contribute to their potential longevity. The robust steel construction, resistance to natural disasters, minimal maintenance requirements, and flexibility in design all work in favor of barndominiums lasting longer than a traditionally built home. However, it’s important to consider factors such as proper construction techniques, material quality, and regular maintenance to maximize the lifespan of any home, regardless of its construction type. Ultimately, making an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences will ensure you choose a home that will provide lasting comfort and satisfaction for years to come.

Will a Barndominium Last Longer than a Traditionally Built House? (2024)

FAQs

Will a Barndominium Last Longer than a Traditionally Built House? ›

Absolutely! Barndominiums are automatically more resistant to fire because of the metal siding. Because of the materials and construction, barndominiums also stand stronger than traditional homes in harsh and severe weather. It's the metal framing that allows for a stronger structure.

Do barndominiums last longer than houses? ›

Durability. Barndos have metal or steel shells which make them resistant to mold, rot, termites, and the elements, which means they'll likely last longer than a typical home made from wood. Open Floor Plan.

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.

What are the negatives of barndominiums? ›

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.

What is the difference between a traditional house and a barndominium? ›

Barndominiums are often preferred by those who need a large amount of space for storage or workspace. This is because they typically feature a large open area that can be used for a workshop, garage, or storage. Traditional homes, on the other hand, are designed primarily for living space.

Do barndominiums stay cool in summer? ›

Barndominiums can indeed be a good option for hot weather, provided they are designed with the climate in mind. Proper insulation, ventilation, and the use of reflective materials are key factors in ensuring these homes remain cool and comfortable even during the hottest months.

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

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.

Do barndominiums hold their value? ›

Barndominiums normally retain their resale value and may even increase in value gradually, although more slowly than a standard home. However, these homes are still rare in some parts of the country, and it may be challenging to get an accurate appraisal in an area where there are few.

Are barndominiums safe in storms? ›

Constructed with metal, a barndo offers superior protection from severe weather. The steel structure of a steel barndominium has a higher wind resistance than a conventional wood frame home. While the metal integrity of your home can endure a tornado, the windows and doors may not.

Do barndominiums have moisture problems? ›

By ensuring proper ventilation, using moisture-resistant materials, maintaining consistent indoor temperature and humidity levels, and being vigilant about potential moisture sources, you can create a healthy and mold-free living environment in your new barndominium.

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.

Are barndominiums worth the money? ›

Barndominiums can offer excellent value, providing the benefits of a traditional home at a fraction of the cost. This makes them particularly attractive for those seeking: A larger home at a lower price. A fully customizable living space.

Is it cheaper to build a barndominium or a traditional home? ›

The most common estimate asserts that a new barndominium with basic amenities will cost about $30 to $40 per square foot to build, compared to the cost of building a traditional home is around $100 to $200 per square foot.

Why is a barndominium better than a house? ›

Barndominiums have the strength and durability that comes with being made from metal, making them just as safe or even more secure than a traditional home.

What is the most cost effective barndominium? ›

Generally the most cost-effective barndominium size falls between 1,500-2,500 square feet. The Average size Barndominium in the US falls around 2500sqft as well. Most of the Barndominium Floor Plans and steel Barndominium shell Kits that you will find online will Start out around 2000sqft and go up from there.

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