How to Choose a Barndominium Builder
The decision to construct a new pole barn building is always exciting, but the process is more challenging than most people realize. Barndominium construction is even harder since the structure will be used, at least in part, as a home. Read on to find out how to choose the right pole barn contractor for the job.
Look for Industry Experts
Most contractors are far more experienced with traditional stick-frame construction than they are with building pole barns. They don’t have the experience and expertise to ensure that everything goes smoothly, nor will they necessarily have the right equipment for working with heavy posts and beams. Barndominium builders that focus exclusively on post-frame construction are better choices.
Ask About Materials
A Pole Barn Home will only be as durable as the materials used to build it. While some landowners prefer to use alternative materials like wood siding to make their barndominiums look more like traditional homes, most experts recommend using high-quality steel. This highly durable material lasts longer than wood without the same kind of maintenance needs and it’s more appropriate for pole barn homes.
Pay Attention to Licensing and Insurance
Barndo builders need to be licensed, just like other general contractors. They should also carry comprehensive liability and workers’ compensation insurance policies that cover 100% of the people sent out to job sites. Without that coverage, the landowner could wind up being held liable in the unlikely event that something goes wrong during the construction process.
Read Some Reviews
One of the best ways to find out what to expect from a pole barn contractor is to read through reviews and testimonials from other customers. Those who want to go the extra mile can also ask for references and follow up on them to get answers to more specific questions that aren’t always addressed in general reviews. Just keep in mind that the point is to look for patterns, not individual good or bad reviews, which may not reflect the overall experience of working with the company.
Request a Quote
Do you already have a pole barn builder in mind that seems like they check all of the boxes? The next step is to request a quote and schedule a consultation to discuss the project. Remember that the cost and timeframe for completion will vary depending on the scope of the project, where the home is being built, what materials the landowner chooses, and many other factors. Be sure to compare apples to apples when requesting multiple quotes.