Barndominium vs Modular Home: What’s the Difference? Barndominiums and modular homes have become popular choices for those on a budget seeking to build a home in recent years. What sets these two types of housing apart is their construction methods. While modular homes are custom-built off-site and delivered in sections to be assembled on the property, barndominiums are metal or wood buildings that are converted into fully functional homes. Barndominiums are generally cheaper to construct than full, custom-built homes and modular homes, but this all depends on local laws, materials and labor costs.
When it comes to barndominiums vs modular homes, both have their share of advantages. Barndominiums are great for those who like the rustic look and feel – they offer the convenience and affordability of pre-fabricated construction with a unique charm and personality. On the other hand, modular homes can be purely custom-made to your exact specifications, allowing for much more flexibility in design. Plus, modular homes traditionally have shorter build times since they’re constructed in modules, meaning that you can move in sooner.
A barndominium is a type of home constructed with a metal pole barn frame and siding made from steel or aluminum. It can be fully customized, both in the interior and exterior of the home, to the homeowner’s exact specifications. What makes barndominiums so cost-effective is that they use materials you may already have available – such as wood, steel or aluminum – rather than needing to purchase expensive materials from a builder. Furthermore, because a barndominium is essentially incorporating pre-existing elements, building costs tend to be lower than a traditional home or modular.
The cost of constructing a barndominium can vary greatly depending on the location, size and quality of the components used. In many rural or lower-density areas, barndos can be cheaper to construct than traditional or modular homes due to the lower cost of materials and labor. However, if you are located in an area where steel or aluminum costs are higher, or if you choose to install more expensive fixtures and fittings, the cost of a barndominium can quickly approach that of a traditional home or modular. Ultimately, it's important to weigh all your options before making a decision, as the costs of building any type of home can add up quickly. building a barndominium falls anywhere between $95-145 per sq. foot, which is considerably less than a traditional build.
Modular homes, on the other hand, are factory-built dwellings constructed in sections known as modules. These modules are generally made at an offsite facility and then transported to the site of the home. This allows for low cost and shorter construction time, as the components are pre-manufactured and can be quickly assembled on site. Modular homes vary in design, from traditional single-family homes to larger, multi-family dwellings.
When it comes to modular homes, the cost of construction can vary greatly depending on the size and complexity of the home. Generally, the cost can range from $90 to $130 per square foot. However, this is just the cost of the construction materials and does not include any additional costs for labor and permits. Additionally, modular homes can take anywhere from 6-14 weeks to assemble – compared to barndominiums which can, depending on the size and complexity, be built in as little as a few days.
Both barndominiums and modular homes have a number of pros and cons to consider before making a decision. On the plus side, barndominiums offer unique customization options, lower costs, and a slightly faster build time. However, they require ongoing maintenance to keep them in good condition and prevent rust or other premature wear-and-tear of the materials. Modular homes, on the other hand, may cost more but they are turnkey solutions that require minimal maintenance over time.