Barndominiums Vs. Manufactured Homes: What’s the Difference?

Manufactured Homes and Barndominiums

With the housing market and interest rates reaching unforeseen heights, potential homebuyers are finding themselves in a unique position. The price of timber-frame homes has increased by nearly 40% in the last five years, making the prospect of owning a home prohibitively expensive.

For years, manufactured homes have been a go-to option that brings home ownership back into financial reality. These structures are pre-engineered using cost-effective materials to reduce the overall construction cost. However, thanks to less durable components, these structures are notorious for wearing out years before a standard stick-built structure would.

But thanks to modern engineering capabilities, another strong contender is entering the residential home market. Metal building homes are a fantastic solution, quickly gaining traction due to their affordability and durability.

In this blog, we'll examine metal buildings and manufactured homes to see how they stack up against one another regarding residential housing. So, if you're a prospective homeowner looking for ways to minimize your building costs, you'll want to keep reading!

What Is a Barndominium?

A barndominium is a residential building that combines traditional living spaces with a functional and versatile metal building design. As you could probably guess, the term "barndominium" is derived from the words "barn" and "condominium" and reflects the building's unique blend of rustic and modern design elements.

Barndominium kits are typically constructed using prefabricated metal building components, which offer several advantages over traditional construction methods. Metal buildings are durable, low-maintenance, and can be designed to accommodate a wide range of architectural styles and floor plans.

What Are Manufactured Homes

Also commonly referred to as a mobile home or trailer, a manufactured home is a type of prefabricated home built in a factory and transported to a specific site for installation.

One of the main advantages of manufactured homes is their affordability. Because they are constructed in a factory setting, these structures can be produced more quickly and efficiently than traditional site-built homes, resulting in lower costs for materials and labor.

In addition, since manufactured homes are portable, they can be moved to different locations as needed, which can be particularly appealing for those who live in areas with a high cost of living or limited housing options.

What’s the Difference Between a Barndo and a Manufactured Home?

When choosing a new home, there are many things you’ll need to consider. And while both manufactured homes and barndominiums provide unique advantages, there are still some key differences you’ll want to consider. For example:

1. Styling

Barndominium homes are often praised for their rustic and modern design elements, with metal barns with living quarters becoming increasingly popular due to their rustic appeal. These homes can be customized to fit the owner's desired style and preferences, making them popular for those seeking a unique and personalized living space. In contrast, manufactured homes often have a more uniform appearance, with fewer options for customization.

2. Customizability

Barndominiums are more customizable than manufactured homes. Homeowners can choose from a variety of barndominium kits or design their own, with options for everything from the floor plan to exterior finishes. This customization level can appeal to those who want a home that truly reflects their personality and style. On the other hand, manufactured homes are typically built to a standard set of specifications, with fewer options for customization.

3. Durability

Barndominiums are known for their durability. They’re built with steel, which offers superior strength and durability. Manufactured homes, while not built with metal, are known to face regular wear and tear over time, and will require ample maintenance to remain in good condition.

4. Configuration

Barndominium homes typically offer more flexibility in terms of configuration than manufactured homes. The open floor plan of a barndominium allows for a more versatile use of space, with the option to convert the lower level into a workshop or garage. On the other hand, manufactured homes are often limited in configuration, with little room for expansion or modification.

5. Building Codes

While both barndominiums and manufactured homes are regulated by building codes, you should be aware of some differences. Manufactured homes are subject to HUD codes, which establish construction, safety, and quality standards. Barndominiums, on the other hand, may be subject to different building codes depending on the location and intended use of the structure. It's important to research local zoning and building codes before choosing either type of home.

Barndominiums Vs. Manufactured Homes: Which Is Better?

In the end, Barndominiums offer higher customization and resiliency but may be slightly more expensive than some manufactured homes.

Ultimately, the choice between a barndominium and a manufactured home will depend on the individual needs and preferences of the homeowner. Factors such as budget, desired level of customization, and local building codes should all be taken into account when making a decision.

Building Your Dream Home? Probuilt Steel Buildings Has You Covered!

No matter where you call home, Probuilt Steel Buildings is proud to be a national provider of metal structures. Whether it’s a backyard storage shed or a metal garage with living quarters, we have the expertise to deliver products that perform.

Our Steel structures are built using advanced engineering and backed by industry-leading warranties and guarantees.

So, if you're ready to dig in and start your homebuying journey but don't want to break the bank, call Probuilt Steel Buildings at (877) 754-1818. Our dedicated building experts are waiting to help you design and customize the metal building home of your dreams!