Barndominiums have exploded in popularity over the past decade, especially among homeowners looking for open-concept living, rural flexibility, or a blend of residential and functional space.
But while the idea of building a custom metal home on your land is exciting, it also comes with potential pitfalls. Too often, people go into the project with unrealistic expectations, incomplete plans, or the wrong materials. The consequences can be costly.
If you’re considering building a barndominium, here are the most common mistakes people make and how to avoid them.
Assuming a Barndominium Is Always Cheaper Than a Traditional Home
Many people are drawn to barndominiums because of the perception that they’re significantly cheaper than conventional homes. While the initial shell or metal building can be less expensive, the total cost of construction is often misunderstood. Interior build-out costs, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, slab foundation, insulation, and finish materials can drive the total budget up quickly.
Failing to factor in these costs often leads to budget overruns, delays, and sometimes unfinished projects. It’s important to treat your barndominium like any other home build when it comes to budgeting. Request detailed quotes for both the shell and interior work, and account for utilities, permits, and land prep in your planning.
Choosing the Wrong Framing Material
The frame is the foundation of your structure’s durability, and choosing the wrong material can result in long-term problems. Some people opt for wood framing because it appears less expensive at first glance. However, wood can be susceptible to rot, termite damage, warping, and structural weakness over time, especially in humid or flood-prone areas.
Steel framing, on the other hand, provides superior strength, longevity, and resistance to pests and moisture. It’s also easier to integrate into prefabricated kits, which helps speed up construction timelines. The upfront cost might be slightly higher, but the long-term savings and structural benefits are well worth it.
Overlooking Local Permits and Zoning Requirements
It’s easy to assume that building a barndominium on rural land means fewer regulations, but that’s rarely the case. Even in less populated areas, local authorities often require permits, inspections, and zoning approvals. Ignoring these steps can lead to stop-work orders, fines, or even the need to tear down parts of the structure.
Before you purchase a kit or begin excavation, contact your local county or city planning department. Confirm the zoning requirements, building codes, septic regulations, and utility connection rules. Taking this step early in the process prevents major headaches later on.
Treating Insulation as an Afterthought
Metal buildings are especially prone to condensation, thermal bridging, and poor energy retention if not properly insulated. Many first-time barndominium builders underestimate the importance of insulation or assume that any standard residential insulation will work.
The wrong insulation can lead to moisture issues, uncomfortable indoor temperatures, and higher utility bills. It’s critical to choose insulation materials specifically designed for metal buildings, such as closed-cell spray foam or radiant barriers. These materials not only improve energy efficiency but also reduce the risk of condensation inside the structure.
Failing to Properly Prepare the Building Site
A barndominium is only as solid as the ground it sits on. Site preparation is one of the most overlooked aspects of construction. Homeowners often clear the land and pour a slab without considering drainage, soil stability, or grading.
Poor site prep can lead to water pooling near the foundation, structural shifting, or erosion issues over time. Before laying the slab, ensure the site is graded to promote proper drainage, compacted correctly, and located away from low-lying areas that may flood. Investing in proper groundwork protects your structure and extends its lifespan.
Trying to DIY Too Much of the Project
Barndominiums attract a lot of do-it-yourselfers who want to save money by managing or performing much of the work themselves. While there’s nothing wrong with taking on some parts of the build, such as painting or flooring, certain components (like framing, plumbing, electrical, and code compliance) require professional expertise.
Taking on more than you’re qualified to handle can lead to safety issues, code violations, and expensive rework. It can also slow down your timeline significantly. Hire licensed professionals for the critical systems, and be realistic about where your skills are best used.
Designing Without the Future in Mind
When building a home, it’s tempting to focus only on what you need right now. But barndominiums are often designed to be multi-use or expandable over time. If you don’t think about how your needs might evolve, you could end up with a layout that limits your options or requires expensive renovations.
For example, will you eventually want to add more bedrooms, a workshop, or home office? Will you need ADA accessibility for aging in place? Leaving room in your design for expansion, adding plumbing rough-ins where future bathrooms might go, or simply planning for flexible storage space can save you time and money down the road.
Choosing the Wrong Supplier
Not all metal building kits are created equal. Some manufacturers cut corners by using thinner steel, subpar coatings, or non-engineered trusses that don’t meet local building standards. Choosing a kit based solely on price often leads to disappointment in product quality, customer support, or project delays.
Instead, work with a trusted supplier like Watson Metals that offers engineered steel kits, certified trusses, and roofing systems built to last. Look for companies with transparent pricing, local experience, and clear guidance through the building process. When in doubt, ask for client references and warranty details.
Build Smarter with the Right Partner
A barndominium can be one of the most rewarding home projects you take on, offering durability, efficiency, and custom design in a single package. But avoiding these common mistakes is the difference between a smooth build and a costly learning experience.
At Watson Metals, we provide high-quality steel trusses, framing systems, and metal roofing designed to make your barndominium stronger and more efficient from the start. If you’re in the early stages of planning your build, our team can help you choose the right materials and avoid the most common pitfalls. Contact us today to get started on the right foot with your barndominium build.
