Barndominium vs Shipping Container Home: Pros, Cons & Costs

Barndominium vs Shipping Container Home – Pros, Cons & Costs

Key Takeaways

• Barndominiums provide spacious interiors and customization options, typically costing between $30 to $150 per square foot.
• Shipping container homes are compact, eco-friendly, and cost-effective.
• Consider your local zoning laws and building codes as they can significantly impact your choice.
• Barndominiums often blend well in rural settings while container homes can be more versatile in urban areas.
• At Conexwest, we can help you build a fully-fledged container home with customization services.

Pros And Cons Of A Barndominium

Pros

• Space and Layout: Barndominiums usually provide more square footage, which means you can have open floor plans perfect for families or shared spaces. For example, you could have a large living area alongside a workshop or a garage without feeling cramped.
• Durability: Built with steel frames, these structures are made to last. Plus, with regular maintenance, they can easily hold up for decades.
• Design Flexibility: The way barndominiums are built makes it easy to customize them. You can go for a modern farmhouse vibe, add big windows, or even include high ceilings for an airy feel.
• Easier Zoning Approval: Especially in rural areas, building a barndominium is often simpler due to more lenient zoning rules and permit requirements. 

Cons:

• Higher Initial Costs: Barndominiums can cost anywhere from $60,000 to $300,000 depending on their size and how fancy you want them.
• Longer Construction Time: These homes take time to build since the process is more complex than just stacking containers. Depending on the design, you’re looking at more than six months from start to finish.
• Limited Urban Suitability: If you’re in the city, a barndominium might not be practical. Their larger size requires more space, which can be hard to find in urban areas.

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Pros And Cons Of Shipping Container Home

Pros:

• Cost-Effective: Shipping container homes are usually much cheaper, which makes them a great option if you’re on a tight budget.
• Sustainability: By reusing old shipping containers, these homes help cut down on waste.
• Quick Setup: Because much of the structure is already built, container homes can be assembled quickly. In some cases, you can move in within weeks instead of months.
• Modular Design: Their compact size works well in cities or smaller lots. You can also stack and arrange them to create unique layouts, like adding another container for a home office.
• Unique Aesthetic Appeal: If you like the industrial look, container homes provide a modern and minimalist style that stands out. You can add things like large sliding doors or a rooftop deck to make it even more unique.

Cons:

• Space Limitations: These homes are smaller, which might not work if you have a big family or need extra storage. For instance, fitting in a full-sized kitchen and multiple bedrooms can be tricky.
• Insulation Challenges: Without proper insulation, containers can get too hot in summer or freezing in winter. However, adding insulation increases the cost and can take up some interior space.
• Corrosion Risks: In humid areas, moisture can cause rust if the container isn’t properly sealed. Thus, regular maintenance is needed to avoid long-term damage.
• Building Code Hurdles: Depending on where you live, getting approval to build a container home can be tough as some areas have strict rules.
• Resale Value Concerns: The market for container homes is still new, so selling one down the road could be more challenging than selling something like a barndominium.

Read More: Guide to Build a Shipping Container Barndominium

Cost Comparison Of Barndominiums And Shipping Container Homes

We can create simple offices to complex homes with containers.

Barndominiums

• Ranges from $60,000 to $300,000 for a 2,000 sq. ft. structure as per Barndominium Zone.
• Cost per square foot generally falls between $30 and $150 depending on the design and materials used.

Shipping Container Homes

• For most cases, it will range from $25,000 to $250,000.
• The average cost is $80,000.

* These prices are just an estimate and are subject to change. Contact us to get the exact pricing.

Read More: Guide to Build a Shipping Container Home or Apartment

How Conexwest Can Help You Build A Shipping Container Home

We have container sizes ranging from 10ft to 45ft in length.

At Conexwest, we know that building a shipping container home is an exciting process, but it also takes careful planning. 

That’s why we’re here to guide you at every stage - so your dream home becomes a reality. Here’s how we can help you:

1. Comprehensive Container Selection

We have a variety of shipping containers - new, used, and refurbished - to suit your needs. For example, if you’re building a small home office, a single refurbished container might work perfectly. 

Our team also helps you choose the right containers so you can start with a reliable foundation.

2. Custom Modifications

Our experienced fabrication team can handle container customizations of all levels - from adding basic amenities like windows and HVAC systems to creating a shipping container home combining multiple containers.

3. Expert Guidance on Planning and Design

Our experienced team is here to help you design a layout that works for your space and lifestyle. For example, we can show you how to make the most of a small container by adding built-in storage or combining multiple containers for a spacious floor plan. We’ll also make sure everything meets local building codes, so you can move forward without headaches.

4. Quality Assurance and Ongoing Support

We take quality seriously. Every container is inspected to meet our high standards before it reaches you. And even after delivery, we’re here to answer your questions or help solve any issues that come up during construction.

5. Innovative Tools for Planning

Our Conexbuilder tool lets you visualize your shipping container home in 3D. This means you can experiment with layouts, test different designs, and see your ideas come to life - all before construction begins.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a barndominium?

A barndominium is a unique type of home that blends the rustic look of a barn with the comforts of modern living. These homes usually have open layouts and can be made from metal or wood, giving you a lot of freedom to customize them to your taste.

What is the average build time for a barndominium?

The time it takes to build a barndominium depends on the design and where you’re building it, but typically, it takes around 6 to 9 months. More complex designs or unexpected delays, like weather, could extend that timeline.

How long does it take to build a shipping container home?

Shipping container homes are quicker to build and often ready within a few weeks to a couple of months.

Are shipping container homes energy-efficient?

Yes, they can be energy-efficient, but it depends on how well they’re insulated and what systems you use. For example, adding good insulation and energy-saving appliances can make these homes comfortable year-round, even in extreme temperatures.

How can I purchase or lease a container from you?

It’s simple! You can check out our inventory online or get in touch with our sales team. We’ll help you find the right container at a fair price and guide you through the process step by step.