San Antonio Express-News (Sunday)
HOMES & COMMUNITIES
Don’t underestimate the cost to clear the terrain and prepare the site for construction. You also might need to lay a new foundation, which can cost from $5,000 to $30,000 depending on your location and the type of foundation.
You’re turning a typically uninhabited structure into a livable space, so you’ll need to budget for modern conveniences that’ll make it feel like home. This can include HVAC, tile or hardwood flooring, and washer and dryer hookups.
Plan for electrical work
For a basic barn, electricity is not something that needs to be considered. But a barndominium can’t go without electricity, so it’s important to consider the electrical requirements—and to consider them early.
Hire a licensed and skilled electrical company and have it review the power specifications for all the appliances and lighting that will be installed throughout the home. The company should also make sure all the wires are in the precise location you need them to be.
“Once the Sheetrock or walls are in place, it takes much more labor to rework things,” says Sean Dion, owner of Mr. Electric of Queensbury, NY.
Choosing your lighting (both the type of lighting and the fixtures) can be overwhelming, but make your selections early to assure they’ll be available when it’s time for installation. You may also want to include smart thermostats, doorbells, security lighting or devices, and smart switches in your renovation.
Any changes to a project after the contract is signed can be costly.
Choose your windows and
doors wisely
High energy costs are often attributed to drafty windows and doors. So, to make sure your energy bill won’t spike in your barndominium, choose double- or triple-pane windows and a fiberglass or insulated steel front door.
To bring more natural light into the home and embrace indooroutdoor living, Brad Roberson, president of Glass Doctor, suggests incorporating a sliding glass door into your design.
When shopping for a sliding glass door, “look for composite gaskets,
double-pane glass, and other features designed for energy efficiency,” says Roberson.
Add insulation—it’s
important
Since barndominiums are constructed with steel frames and metal walls, they are not good at holding a steady temperature and can accumulate heat during warm weather and lose heat in the winter.
To remedy this issue, experts recommend using batting for insulation, or using foam boards, insulated panels, and spray foam insulation to give more heat resistance.