The rise in popularity of barndominiums is undeniable. As homeowners seek cost-effective and energy-efficient alternatives to traditional homes, the open floor plans and versatile living spaces of barndominiums offer attractive design possibilities. But you may wonder, āHow long does it take to build a barndominium?ā
Most builders like to have the project overview completely mapped out prior to breaking ground ā and itās a good idea. Planning the project outright helps you know how to stage your build, when to schedule contractors, and how to navigate the weather throughout the process.
This guide breaks down the barndominium construction timeline, explains how using pre-finished materials like steel siding saves time, and shares tips to streamline the build.
Why Choose a Barndominium
A barndominium (or “barndo”) combines the structural elements of a barn with the comfort of a condominium, creating a unique living space that’s both practical and stylish. Most feature open floor plans, steel frames, and energy-efficient designs. They are perfect for those who appreciate the charm of a traditional barn with the comforts of a modern home and are praised for their affordability, low-maintenance exteriors, and flexibility in design.
Barndominiums often have gorgeous wood-style exteriors and traditional barn-inspired architecture, like gables, pitched roofs, lofts, sliding barn doors, etc. The aesthetic quality is so important to the barndominium design because itās really what gives the structure its soul.
Natural elements, textures, and rustic decor are just as essential as having durable, modern components that deliver practical functionality and an upscale experience.
Whether you choose a barndominium kit or a custom build, these structures often cost less per square foot than traditional homes.
How Long Does It Take to Build a Barndominium?
Most builders estimate that it will take about six months to build a barndominium from the ground up. That includes site preparation, foundation, framing, siding, and interior finishes.
But keep in mind, this is just a general ballpark. It can be tricky to pin down an exact estimate. Build times vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the design, local building codes, and weather conditions.
Additionally, if youāre converting an old barn thatās in good structural shape, you can shave a lot of time off the first few stages of construction. On the other hand, if youāre building in a remote area where contractors are scarce or have high-demand schedules, add a few months to your timeline to be realistic.
Can a Barndominium Be Built Faster Than a Traditional Home?
Yes, a barndominium can be built faster than a traditional home. While a bardominium will take about six months to build, traditional homes can take 10-14 months to complete, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This does not include design, site prep, and permitting, which will add to the timeline.
What Stages Are Involved in Building a Barndominium?
The construction process follows a logical assembly sequence that includes site preparation, foundation, framing, siding, and interior finishes. Letās take a look at the different stages and about how long each will take.
Site Prep and Foundation
Every barndominium build starts with site preparation. This stage can take about a week for a relatively flat piece of land with minor vegetation. However, plots that have rocky ground or established trees may take longer to clear.
Once the site is prepped, laying the foundation is a pretty straightforward process that takes 2-4 weeks on average, depending on factors like square footage of the build, elevation changes of the site, or while rare with barndos, the installation of a basement.
Additionally, while concrete foundations tend to reach 70% of their full strength in just seven days, certain conditions may require you to wait up to a month before beginning the framing process.
Pro Tip: Work with a general contractor familiar with post-frame construction to avoid delays from weather conditions or permit issues.
Framing and Structural Work
Once the slab sets, itās time to erect the steel or wood framing. Barndominium kits simplify this phase, as parts arrive pre-cut. Open floor plans also speed up framing since fewer interior walls are needed.Ā
HVAC and electrical rough-ins begin during this stage as well.
The framing and structural work can run about 2-6 weeks, depending on the complexity of the layout and how many hands are on deck.
Mechanical and Electric Systems
Electricity, plumbing, and HVAC systems can be put in during this stage of the building process, which is usually where youāll experience the biggest headaches and delays.
Why? Coordination. Unless you plan to do all the work yourself, youāll need to consider the schedules of contractors. Additionally, conducting inspections during each phase of construction is important to ensure codes are up to date. While these may cause brief delays, it will ultimately save time in the long run.
Plan for this stage to last about 1-2 months.
Interior and Exterior Design
Now it’s time to put the finishing touches inside and outside the home.
On the exterior, this means installing roofing, siding, soffits and fascia, energy-efficient windows, and doors. You’d also pave the driveway, finalize exterior painting (if needed), and install light fixtures. Depending on the time of year, landscaping could be accomplished here as well.
The interior work will include insulation, HVAC system completion, drywall, cabinetry, and flooring, which can take 1 or 2 months depending on the level of extravagance and detail. Simpler barndominium floor plans (like those avoiding complex angles) keep this phase on track.
You may also need to get a final inspection to ensure local building codes were followed.
The Complete Barndominium Construction Timeline
As weāve mentioned, several factors can affect the timeframe for building any type of home:
- Weather
- Availability of labor
- Use of kits vs. custom designs
- Level of DIY involvement
- Permitting speed
- Site preparation requirements.Ā
In general, however, a typical schedule of barndominium construction will look like this.
| Construction Phase | Timeline | Key Activities |
| Planning and Permits | 4-8 weeks | Design, engineering, permits |
| Site Preparation | 1-2 weeks | Clearing, grading, utilities |
| Foundation | 2-4 weeks | Concrete work, curing |
| Framing | 2-6 weeks | Steel or wood frame assembly |
| Mechanical Systems | 4-8 weeks | Electrical, plumbing, HVAC |
| Exterior Finishing | 3-5 weeks | Roof, siding, windows, doors |
| Interior Finishing | 4-8 weeks | Insulation, drywall, flooring, fixtures |
| Final Touches | 1-3 weeks | Inspections, landscaping, cleaning |
| TOTAL | 5-11 months | Complete construction process |
Does Using Steel Siding Speed Up Barndominium Construction?
Yes, using steel siding can speed up your barndominium construction timeline. For example, TruLog steel siding has an easy-to-install design that helps lock panels in place as they are put up. This expedites the construction time for contractors with a full team as well as DIY builders working alone.
Also, since TruLog steel siding comes pre-painted in a variety of colors and woodgrain styles, youāll save time not having to paint or stain like you would with real wood siding. Plus, its 30-year paint coat warranty will save you time and money in maintenance.
What Are Other Ways to Speed Up the Construction Timeline?
In addition to steel siding, here are some other ways to accelerate the construction timeline:
- Choose pre-finished materials.
- Select a barndominium kit.
- Opt for an open floor plan.
- Hire an experienced general contractor.
- Order materials early to avoid supply chain delays.
- Schedule trades efficiently to minimize downtime between phases.
- Consider weather patterns when planning construction start dates.
Choose Steel Siding for a Traditional Look With Modern Durability
A barndominium combines both charm and practicality. Plus, being a more simple structure, it generally takes less time to build than a traditional home. Material choice can further impact your construction timelines, costs, maintenance, and durability. If you build smart and use modern materials, youāre in better shape for a fast and easy install that will last for decades.
TruLog steel siding provides an easy-to-install design that doesnāt need to be painted. Plus, it offers the advantage of capturing an authentic wood-look style thatās perfect for the barndominium aesthetic ā all while delivering the strength and low-maintenance of steel. Whether lap siding, board and batten, log, or a combination, TruLog steel siding offers homeowners a multitude of high-end options.
Ready to start planning your barndominium? Download the free TruLog catalog to explore our wide range of siding styles that are ideal for these trending homes.
