Backyard Barns: Create Your Perfect Space Today
Imagine this scenery in your head when you step into your backyard, and gaze upon a beautiful, functional, and completely customized barn that can serve as an extension of your home. Whether as a storage area, a workshop, or an animal shelter, backyard barns can be an incredibly versatile addition to your property. In this comprehensive guide, we will list down all the necessary information you need about planning, purchasing, and installing the perfect backyard barn for your needs and style.
Choosing the Perfect Location
Assessing Your Backyard Space For a Lofted Barn
Before you can start dreaming about your new backyard barn, you’ll need to determine the ideal location on your property. Assess the dimensions of your lawn, and consider the layout. Is there a flat area that would accommodate a barn with ease? Be mindful of potential obstacles, such as trees, utility lines, or property boundaries that might affect your barn’s placement.
Considering Accessibility and Room for Expansion
Think about how you’ll access the barn, whether on foot or with a vehicle. Additionally, consider the possibility of future expansion. Will you have enough room to add to your barn or alter the surrounding landscape? Planning for future growth will reduce the amount of time and effort to avoid these potential issues.
Selecting the Right Type of Construction
Wood Backyard Barns
Wood frame has been the most popular option throughout the years and are most commonly referred to as pole barns (although you can build steel pole barns as well). Wood has many benefits in wood is relatively cheap and easy to work with. The downsides with wood however is increased maintenance and chance of rot, fire or termite damage.
Steel Backyard Barns
Steel or metal framed barns are our recommendation for a few reasons. The upfront cost can sometimes be marginally more than wood, because of the cost of steel. You save however by taking advantage of the efficiency of factory manufacturing. Your pole barn is cut and drilled at the factory then delivered to your site as a package for simpler assembly. They even make great DIY projects.
Steel also has the added benefits of requiring less maintenance as they aren’t susceptible to rot, fire or termite damage. If you live in a higher risk area for termites, then steel seems like a no-brainer. Even if you don’t, it would be our personal choice.
Determining the Right Size and Style
Understanding Standard Sizes
Customizing Your Backyard Barn
Backyard barns can be customized to reflect your unique style and preferences. Here are a few popular options:
Lofted Barns: These barns feature an upper loft, giving you extra storage space or room for a cozy hideaway.
Sheds: Simple and versatile, sheds are ideal for storing your equipment, like heavy-duty tools and more.
Garages: Larger and more robust, garages can house vehicles, serve as workshops, or even provide additional living space.
Selecting Materials and Elements
Walls and Windows
Steel Cladding: This is our top pick for its durability and essentially zero maintenance. If you’re going with a steel-framed building then it can be provided by the factory as part of your package.
Pressure-Treated Wood: This option provides a durable and weather-resistant finish that is perfect for standing up to the elements.
Painted Wood: For a more polished look, painted wood offers a clean and attractive appearance.
Vinyl Siding: Low-maintenance and cost-effective, vinyl siding is a preferable choice for many residents.
Don’t forget to add windows for natural light and ventilation.
Doors and Accessibility
The type of door you choose for your backyard barn will depend on its primary use and your personal preferences:
Garage Doors: Ideal for easy vehicle access or transferring big objects to and from your barn.
Double Doors: Perfect for increased accessibility and a more traditional barn look.
Single Doors: A simple and efficient option for smaller barns and sheds.
Pricing Your Backyard Barn
Comparing Base Prices
Before customizing, it is important that you understand the base prices for various backyard barn options. Researching online and visiting local vendors will give you a good sense of the price range for different sizes and styles.
Factoring in Customization Costs
Be mindful that customizations can add to the overall cost of your backyard barn. List your desired customizations and prioritize them based on your budget and needs.
Choosing a Supplier
Local vs. Online Vendors
Whether you buy from a local vendor or search online for a provider using Price Buildings, it is significant that you compare their offerings, reputation, and customer service. Local vendors may offer a more personal touch and the opportunity to see the barns in person, while online vendors often provide a broader selection and competitive prices.
Assessing Quality and Reputation
To ensure you are getting a high-quality backyard barn, look for reviews and testimonials from previous customers. In addition, research the company’s history and reputation in the industry. A reputable supplier should be transparent about their manufacturing processes and materials used.
Delivery and Installation
Portable Buildings Delivery
One of the advantages of backyard barns is that many are designed as portable buildings. This means they can be delivered to your property and installed with minimal disruption to your landscape. Ensure that the supplier you choose offers delivery and installation services, and ask about any additional fees associated with these services.
Preparing Your Lawn and Site
The Installation Process
Once your barn arrives, the installation process should be relatively simple and easy to follow. If you don’t want to take it on yourself, you can hire a contractor, but it’s recommended you be present during installation to address any questions or concerns that may arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are backyard barns a good investment?
Yes, backyard barns can be a great investment, adding value to your property, providing additional storage or workspace, and enhancing the overall appeal of your home.
Can I change the size and layout of my barn after it’s built?
While you can make some changes, it is best that you plan your barn’s size and layout carefully before construction to avoid costly changes later.
How do I maintain my backyard barn?
Regular maintenance, such as painting, sealing, and cleaning, will help keep your barn looking great and functioning well for years.
What options are available for animal shelters within a backyard barn?
From simple partitions to customized stalls, many backyard barns can be adapted to accommodate animals. You can easily turn it into a horse barn, chicken stall, animal shelter or more.
Conclusion
