Ever heard of steel barndominium? These are metal buildings becoming popular due to low overall cost and low monthly maintenance. But why is there a rise in this trend? Let’s see.
Adoption Of Metal Buildings In Residential Settings
The Reason: The average home price of a traditional home in America is about $420,000. And this inflationary pricing isn’t coming down any time soon. On the flip side, the average cost of a metal barndominium is estimated to be $230,000 for a 2,000 square feet home.
So, residential metal buildings are a bargain. They also come with plenty of benefits, some of which are listed below. Have a look.
Advantages Of Steel Buildings Over Conventional Homes
Durability
Structural steel is a robust material that, when galvanized, becomes rust-resistant and lasts long. Metal homes are more durable than wooden homes, which need frequent repair and replacements. That’s because wood absorbs moisture and starts to decompose.
Conversely, metal is a non-porous and dense material that neither absorbs moisture nor allows insects to dig in and create a home for themselves.
Affordability
Prefab steel structures are designed, cut, and drilled in the factory. Hence, they are fast to assemble. As most work is done off-site, less manpower is needed, which saves time and money. In addition, your building is ready for use earlier.
Not only that, metal structures demand less maintenance than traditional homes. Let’s see how. Metal structures can be designed to be energy efficient. You can save money by installing natural lighting sources & solar panels. Insulators and vents will reduce heat transfer and circulate air properly, further lowering your energy bills.
Immunity
Steel is an inorganic material that does not provide food and bedding to termite colonies. Metal panels are so dense that rodents can’t chew through them to enter. So, you don’t need to spend quarterly or annually on pest inspection and control.
Moreover, certified steel buildings can withstand high-speed winds, heavy snow loads, and seismic activities. No matter what season it is, industry-standard metal buildings (14-gauge frames and 26-gauge panels) will stand firm. You can increase strength by using thicker steel, but it will increase the overall cost.
When coated with fire-retardant, steel can sustain fire for up to four hours. Further, an insulator helps slow fire’s spread from one section to another. Since metal is non-combustible, insurance companies offer up to 30% less premium, which saves more money down the line.
Sustainability
Structural steel is 100% recyclable, which means that once produced, it can be reused multiple times while retaining its strength and durability. This makes a standard metal building quite eco-friendly.
Further, metal does not emit toxic fumes over time, so it is healthy and safe for human occupants. You can design metal buildings for LEED certification. Not only will this save you money, but you can also file for a tax credit by saving on energy bills.
Flexibility
No, metal buildings do not have to look like cookie cutters. You have pretty wide options when it comes to designing a metal home. We have listed some common ones below.
Natural Lighting: It saves energy bills. You can include solar tubes, skylights, roof daylighting, ridge lighting, clerestory windows, and light interior color.
Insulators: For an affordable choice, you can go with fiberglass, which has a wide range of R-values, whereas for aesthetics, you can choose insulated metal panels (IMPs).
Ventilations: To save on energy bills, you can add passive vents like ridge vents, gravity vents, and wind turbines. Though, these won’t work in tight areas with obstructions. Another option includes active vents that run on power and give you more control over airflow.
Gutter & Downspout: Since Metal Barndo is large, we suggest adding a gutter with a downspout to redirect water falling overhead into a collection tank. You can filter this water for future use.
Interior: Add drywall and then paint or wallpaper it. For the workspace, we suggest that you choose a simple and non-distracting color/ wallpaper. You can add furniture and other decor items. To make the concrete floor resemble wood, use tintable oil-based stain for a wood grain effect.
Exterior: Opt for light-colored or reflective paint on the roof to redirect sunlight. This will help keep the interior cool. You can add metal siding to resemble wood, stone, or sleek 3D/ curved metal panels.
You don’t necessarily need to adopt all these customizations. Choose one that fits your budget and needs.
Things You Must Consider Before Investing In A Standard Metal Building
Set A Budget
Advance planning helps you avoid unwanted expenses, prevents you from overspending, and gives you a clear vision of monthly and annual expenses, including mortgage, taxes, insurance, utility bills, maintenance, and other miscellaneous costs.
Consider Building Codes
It is important to follow the local zoning rules and their guidelines. These are generally meant for security and safety purposes. For instance, before construction, you may have to follow a specific structural design, fire & health restrictions, HAVC, etc.
We suggest you get your design blueprint and file for a permit. Only after you have secured the permit should you buy the metal building and start site preparation.
Measure Space & Size
Surveying land and measuring sites will help you make accurate architectural plans and identify issues. If the soil quality is poor, you can prepare in advance to minimize the cost overruns.
Be Smart With Accessories
You have multiple options for add-ons to a standard metal building. That’s why it becomes necessary not to overspend on accessories that you don’t need. It is best to make a list of essential items so that you don’t miss anything.
Choose Metal Dealer Wisely
Online channels are full of metal buildings from many sources. But you need to be cautious about it. Not all metal buildings are the same. Some can be made using cheap and flimsy materials. To avoid any wastage of time and money, you can do the following before buying:
- read reviews about metal builders from their previous clients
- educate yourself – multiple blogs and videos can guide you
- request quotes from various metal builders and compare them
- select a dealer that offers a full package, i.e., raw material, shipping, and installation
It is likely you will have to lay the foundation yourself. So, once you get the permit, start pouring the concrete slab, as it takes at least 28 days to set. Opt for a dealer who will guide you from start to end, giving you a seamless experience.
To Summarize The Above
A standard metal building can be designed to fit your residential needs. You can make it your getaway home, guest house, or farmhouse—the options are endless. Metal buildings demand less upkeep and last longer with little care, making them a smart choice.
