While the barndominium and the modular home are both prefabricated house options, this is where their similarities end. We will tackle in full detail the ongoing modular home vs barndominium debate, and how they differ from other types of homes.
What is the Difference Between Modular Homes vs Barndominium
Generally speaking, prefabricated homes, also known as prefabs, are homes that are built off-site and then delivered to the location where they will be used.
This type of construction has been around for centuries. Recently, it has become more popular due to its many benefits, such as its efficiency, convenience, and its speed of construction.
This is a major advantage for homeowners who are in need of a quick turnaround, and both barndominiums and modular homes offer this home construction option for homeowners.
There is still the question as to which one you will prefer, so we are hopeful this guide will give you some insight and help determine which one is the ideal home for you.
What is a Modular Home?
Modular homes, one of the most commonly prefabricated homes, are houses built in a factory setting and then delivered to the home site for assembly. They are typically made up of multiple modules or “units” that fit together like pieces of a puzzle.
In comparison to traditional homes, modular homes are often touted as the future of real estate because of their flexibility and affordability.
However, this is not to be confused with manufactured homes, which can be moved from one place to another.
A prefab home is one made from sections that are assembled remotely, making a modular home often a prefab home as well, due to its modular construction.
What is a Barndominium?
Barndominiums have become a growing trend since homeowners have turned barns into modern, sleek living spaces, or even work-live spaces.
The good news is that, nowadays, you have the option to grab a prefabricated barndo that meets all your needs.
There are typically large and open floor plans in conventional barndominiums. They are often constructed from prefabricated kits, which are largely manufactured in factories as part of the design process. You can find many barndominium kits under 50k that could work for your project.
In the same way as a modular home, prefabricated construction with barndos offer the same benefits in terms of saving time and money on a project.
Why Build a Modular Home?
There are a number of reasons people might choose to build a modular home. Essentially, wood frames form the exterior and interior walls of a modular home, which are insulated with high-quality materials.
These make modular homes energy-efficient that can save you on utility bills in the long run.
As compared to traditional homes, and even barndominiums, modular homes offer the convenience and speed of construction that are unparalleled.
This is because most of the parts of a modular home are already constructed when they arrive on site. Barndos, on the other hand, will require more construction to assemble due to the nature of their materials and overall construction process.
In fact, many modular homes can be completed in just a few weeks.
Some future homeowners may also prefer the environmental benefits of modular homes, such as their reduced energy consumption and waste production. By following strict guidelines, modular homes reduce waste on site as well.
Modular houses are an excellent choice for eco-conscious homeowners since traditional home renovation and construction waste account for the majority of landfills.
Why Build a Barndominium?
The barndominium, as the name suggests, is a type of home that is built based on the aesthetics of a barn.
Regardless of whether you approach the barndominium design with a contemporary or modern approach, the barndominium at its core will provide you with the rustic charm that you will rarely find in other types of homes.
Building a barndominium has many benefits, one of which is that it can be very cost-effective, as it will cost a lot less than building a conventional house, and sometimes even a modular home depending on your specifications.
If you want to save even more time and money, you can purchase a barndominium kit that will provide you with all the materials and supplies you need for your build.
Modular homes can be completed within weeks and barndos may take a few months since the actual assembly is carried out on site.
Nonetheless, barndos are typically more durable and able to withstand extreme weather conditions due to their steel construction and metal roofs.
In areas that experience heavy snowfall during the winter months, barndominiums may be the best choice for a home.
Moreover, in a world of cookie-cutter homes, more and more people are looking for customizable options. While many home builders offer some degree of customization, barndominiums take it to a whole new level.
While modular homes offer dozens of designs and floorplans to choose from, you may not be able to modify them as much as a barndo.
The barndominium can be designed with an open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, and even be connected to your workshop, commonly referred to as a house.
Choosing the Best Option For You
As compared to building a traditional home, modular homes and barndominiums provide many benefits such as efficiency, affordability, and convenience.
Although both options offer advantages depending on what you’re looking for, we suggest that you go with a barndo.
This is particularly ideal if you prefer the rustic charm of a barn modernized in today’s time, while giving endless possibilities to customize to your liking, offering a perfect blend of work and living space in one place.
Are you ready to build your dream barndo? Check out our FAQ barndominium section for answers to all your barndominium questions.
If you are ready to start building the barndo of your dreams, check out our barndominium floor plans to help you create the barndominium of your dreams or use a barndominium design software program to help you plan out your space for your new home. When in the planning stages, be sure you also check out the barndominium financing and insurance options that are available. For more helpful tips, visit our FAQ barndominium section to get answers to all your barndo questions.