Build it right the first time.
A new barndominium or pole barn is a major investment.
And if you own land in DeKalb County, Missouri, post-frame construction can give you an impressive amount of flexibility for your money.
You might want a barndominium with an oversized garage. Maybe you need a workshop or machinery building. Perhaps you simply want additional storage without paying for traditional construction you don’t need.
Whatever the reason, good buildings start with good planning.
Here are some of the decisions worth making before construction begins.
Decide What the Building Needs to Do
Start with function rather than appearance.
What are you actually going to use the building for?
For a barndominium, that might mean determining how much space should be dedicated to living areas compared with garages, workshops and storage.
For a pole barn, consider the equipment, vehicles or materials you intend to store.
Measure them.
It sounds obvious, but many building owners discover after construction that they should have installed a wider garage door, higher ceiling or additional bay.
A little extra planning now can make the building much more useful later.
Consider Future Needs
Building only for today can be a costly mistake.
Families grow. Businesses expand. Hobbies turn into businesses. People buy bigger trucks, tractors, RVs and equipment.
If your property and budget allow it, consider whether a slightly larger building now could prevent you from needing another building several years down the road.
Post-frame construction can make large, open interior areas possible, giving you flexibility as your needs change.
Don’t Ignore Site Preparation
Your building is only as good as the site underneath it.
Drainage, elevation, driveway access and grading should all be considered before construction.
You also need to think about where the building will sit in relation to your home, road, utilities and other structures.
A good contractor can help you identify potential problems before they become expensive problems.
Materials Make a Difference
Not every metal roof, piece of siding, door or structural component is the same.
When comparing proposals from pole barn builders in DeKalb County, look beyond the final number at the bottom of the quote.
What materials are being used?
What’s included?
What type of warranty is available?
A cheaper quote isn’t always cheaper when you compare the actual specifications.
Barndominium Design Is About Lifestyle
One of the reasons barndominiums have become attractive to Missouri property owners is that they don’t force you into a traditional home layout.
Want a huge kitchen opening onto a covered porch?
You can plan for it.
Need a four-car garage next to your living area?
That can become part of the design.
Want a workshop without walking across the property in January?
Build it into the plan.
The best barndominium is one designed around the way you actually live.
Start With the Right Questions
Before choosing a builder, talk through the entire project.
Ask about timelines, materials, site requirements, responsibilities, customization and exactly what you’re receiving for the quoted price.
Good construction begins long before the first post goes into the ground.
If you’re considering building a barndominium or pole barn in DeKalb County, Missouri, take your time during the planning stage.
You’ll be living with the decisions for a long time.
Make them good ones.
