The Real Cost of a Barndominium

What are some of the differences in a traditionally built home vs a Barndominium?

Barndominiums have become very popular across Nebraska in recent years. Many homeowners are drawn to the open layouts, large shop spaces and rural style.

One of the most common questions we hear is whether a barndominum costs less to build than a traditional home. The answer is that it depends on the design and how the building is finished. 

❋ Foundation

Welp you made the decision to get a barndo to save the expense and skip a basement. Likely only pouring a slab with a stem wall or trench footing at best. Although basements are still an option we see few that actually have them.

In our experience we have seen basements actually being the least expensive square footage that can be part of a home. We wouldn’t count one out but we wont talk you in to one if you do not need it. 

❋ Finishing

Mechanical systems still cost the same. Heating, cooling, plumbing and electrical systems are generally comparable regardless of whether the home is a barndominium or a traditional house.

Interior Finishes are often the same once drywall, cabinets, flooring, plumbing, and electrical are installed, the interior of a barndo can cost very similar to a stick built home.

Customization can increase costs such as large windows and doors, vaulted ceilings and custom finishes just like any other home. 

❋ Framing

Framing a rectangle with one roofline is about as easy as it gets, and it can be done much quicker than a traditional stick build with fewer man hours. Large open spaces feature open floor plans with fewer interior walls, which can reduce framing and finishing costs. 

❋ A Supportive Space

At Rafter H Custom HoLmes, we’ve helped homeowners plan both traditional homes and barndos throughout Central Nebraska. Each project starts with understanding what the homeowner wants their home to do for them long term.