Guide to Barn Construction

Determine the proper location

Deciding on a location for your new barn involves several factors, the most important being proper drainage, floodplain mapping and the correct zoning to support your endeavor.

I recommend: Start by contacting the proper local governmental authorities. State and Local Government on the Internet maintains a database of all 50 States where you can find specific county agencies to verify the zoning and building restrictions for a barn. Construction can commence after determining any potential flood risk. The Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) offers floodplain maps for every county in the United States. Order a paper copy, CD or online version. 

Choose your barn style

Narrowing down the purpose of your barn determines the barn design and the method of construction. An equestrian barn will include different features than will a hay storage barn. The two main types of barn construction are comprised of stick framing, known as "pole barn," construction or the erection of pre-engineered kits.

I recommend: Begin with a detail and cost comparison when erecting an agricultural barn or check out commercial barn choices. Look for steel arch reinforcement systems for the strength to withstand high winds.

Hire the best barn construction company

Locating quality barn builders, for either metal barns or wooden barns, is crucial to the success of the finished structure. Look for industry-specific barn building companies with good references.

I recommend:  Find contractors for equestrian barns or look for quality commercial and agricultural barn construction companies and ask for a list of their most recent clients. Alternately, check out metal barns manufacturers including Braemar and Gold Seal Steel Buildings, Inc. and request a list of their approved builders.

Do-it-yourself and save

Constructing your own barn from a kit saves money but you must find a pre-made kit or have a custom design firm manufacture one to your specifications. When choosing a kit, request a total material list so you'll know if the insulation, electrical system and plumbing supplies are included.

I recommend: Browse through free downloadable barn designs that you can build or purchase a ready-made barn kit. In addition, you can design your own barn with a rough sketch and work with online barn designers to purchase a custom barn kit engineered to suit your specifications. Search the database at BuyerZone for free price quotes.