Understanding Barndominium Kits, Prefab Options, & What to Expect

What Is a Barndominium?

Barndominiums (or "barndos") are hugely popular right now – we are seeing a lot of requests for this unique living space. A barndominium is a steel building that’s finished out to include the functionality and comfort of a traditional home. They can be just a home, or a combination of your living space plus a garage, workshop, or other multi-purpose space. The possibilities of combining your home with functional space in one building are endless. These versatile buildings offer open-concept layouts, durable steel construction, and are a great option for anyone looking for a custom home with character.

Barndominiums are a cost-effective and highly customizable solution, whether you plan to live in the home full-time, or simply use it as a vacation retreat.

Why Are People Searching for "Barndominium Kits"?

When people search for "barndominium kits," they’re typically looking for a turn-key starting point. A barndominium kit includes the steel framing system, walls, roof, and trim, and it can also include walk doors, overhead doors, and windows. It gives you the structural shell of your home so you (or your contractor) can focus on the finish work inside.

Here are the top reasons people love barndominium kits:

• Durability: Steel frames are superior to traditional homes when it comes to withstanding weather, and resisting pests and fire.
• Cost control: You know the price of your structure up front.
• Better timelines: No waiting for a stick-built structure to be framed from scratch.
• Customization: You choose the layout, finish, and details.

Prefab Barndominiums: Streamlining the Process

Searches for "prefab barndominium" have really gone up as more people look for efficient ways to build. While similar to kits, prefab barndominiums (AKA pre-engineered) mean the steel components are custom designed for your layout, engineered to meet your local code, and manufactured offsite for quick delivery.

Prefab barndominiums are ideal for:

• A homeowner who is working with a contractor and wants a shell to work from.
• Owner-builders who will act as their own general contractor.
• Remote landowners where building speed is essential.

What to Expect With a Barndominium Kit from Box Metal Buildings

At Box Metal Buildings, we specialize in custom-designed metal building kits for barndominiums. We do not erect the buildings ourselves, but we make the ordering process simple and the delivery to your jobsite seamless.

Here’s how it works:

1. You send us your vision: Provide a rough layout or tell us what you need.
2. We work with you to finalize the building size, design, doors/windows, and roof style. We offer so many accessories to really customize the look of your building, or to add functionality.
3. We create a building design to your specifications and to meet your local building codes.
4. You receive a quote that includes the full barndominium kit package and delivery.
5. We coordinate manufacturing and arrange delivery to your build site.

You or your contractor can take it from there, with our team available for support.

Realistic Expectations: What a Barndominium Kit Includes (And Doesn’t)

It’s important to know exactly what you're getting when you order a pre-engineered barndominium kit:

Included:

• Engineered steel frame
• Roofing and siding panels
• Framed openings for doors and windows
• Fasteners, trim, and sealants
• Comprehensive erection drawings that show where each part goes

Not Included:

• Interior framing or finish work
• Electrical, plumbing, interior insulation
• Labor or construction services
• Slab materials and foundation design

This is perfect if you're working with a local builder or managing your own subcontractors.

Design Tips for Your Dream Barndominium

• Open floor plan: Take advantage of the wide, clear-span interiors.
• Tall ceilings: Add a sense of space with high ceiling heights.
• Wraparound porches: Eave, canopy or gabled extensions are a great option to add shade and character.
• Attached garage or shop: Add functional square footage easily.
• Rustic or modern: Barndos can be farmhouse-chic or sleek and contemporary.

Common Questions About Barndominiums

Do I need a contractor to build a barndominium?

Most people do hire a general contractor or act as their own. You don’t need to erect the building yourself to enjoy the benefits of a kit.

Can I customize the floor plan?

We can adjust our framing placements to work in conjunction with your desired floor plan for the interior of the building.

Can I build this on my land?

Definitely. We help design buildings that meet your location’s code requirements.

Why Choose Box Metal Buildings?

• Our team has over 70 years of combined experience in custom metal buildings
• Easy quote process with fast turnaround
• Structures engineered to meet your local codes
• Support throughout the ordering and delivery process

While we don’t build the structures, we make sure you receive exactly what you need to build your dream barndominium with confidence.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

You don’t have to be a builder to bring your barndominium to life. With the right prefab steel building kit and our robust support, your dream home is closer than you think.

Request a free quote today from Box Metal Buildings, and let’s get started on your perfect barndominium kit. Whether you’re hiring a contractor or managing the job yourself, we’re here to help you every step of the way.