Barndominiums vs. Custom Houses in Texas: A Comprehensive Guide

As a leader in civil, structural, and environmental engineering services, JRH Engineering & Environmental Services, Inc. is proud to serve the expansive landscapes of Texas, including Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, Corpus Christi, Galveston Bay, and Beaumont metropolitan areas[2]. We are a certified Woman Business Enterprise (WBE), Historically Underutilized Business (HUB), and Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB), reflecting our commitment to diversity and inclusion in the engineering industry.

What is a Barndominium?

A barndominium, often referred to as a "barndo," is a unique style of home that has gained popularity in Texas. Traditionally, a barndominium was a barn converted into a living space. More recently, barndominiums come in steel home kits that you can buy to build yourself or hire someone to build for you[1].

Barndominium vs. Custom House: Key Differences

Construction Materials and Design

A traditional house is usually built of wood or brick, whereas a barndominium is made primarily of steel[1]. This difference in construction materials leads to a significant difference in design possibilities. Due to the nature of steel, barndominiums can have a lot more open space and achieve design shapes and options that are difficult with traditional houses. For instance, a barndominium's ceiling height is usually about 14 feet, while a traditional house has lower ceilings.

Size and Space

Barndominiums are usually much larger than a traditional house. This larger size can offer more flexibility in terms of layout and use of space, making them appealing to those who want something more than traditional homes[9].

Cost and Time Efficiency

When it comes to cost, barndominiums can be more affordable than traditional houses. Current estimates value an average 2000 square foot barndominium at around $200,000 USD, making the average cost per square foot about $100. This is at the lower end of the price range for a similar traditionally built home, which is estimated to be between $110 to $170 dollars per square foot[4][8].

In terms of construction time, barndominiums can be built faster than traditional houses. The time to build a barndominium is typically 6+ months, while a traditional house takes 12+ months.

JRH Engineering's Expertise in Barndominium and Custom House Foundations

At JRH Engineering, we offer specialized expertise in foundation design for both metal buildings and traditional residential homes[2]. Our team of highly skilled personnel is dedicated to ensuring the success of your projects, whether you're a homeowner embarking on a residential project or a builder[2].

WBE/WOSB/HUB Certification

JRH Engineering is not only a leader in civil, structural, and environmental engineering services but also a certified Woman Business Enterprise (WBE), Historically Underutilized Business (HUB), and Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB). These certifications reflect our firm's commitment to diversity and inclusion in the engineering industry.

WBE and HUB Certification

As a WBE and HUB certified firm, JRH Engineering is recognized for our commitment to providing opportunities for women and historically underutilized businesses in the engineering industry.

WOSB Certification

In addition to its WBE and HUB certifications, JRH Engineering is also a certified Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB) by the Small Business Administration (SBA). This certification further underscores the firm's commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the engineering industry.

Conclusion

Whether you're considering a barndominium or a custom house in Texas, JRH Engineering & Environmental Services, Inc. is here to help. We understand the unique requirements of both types of structures and can provide the engineering expertise needed to ensure a successful project. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you transform your visions into reality.

Citations:

[1] https://www.hedgefield.com/blog/barndominium-vs.-house-in-texas-whats-the-difference

[2] https://www.jrhengineering.net

[3] https://www.simpleshowing.com/blog/barndominium-kits-vs-custom-builds-which-is-the-better-choice

[4] https://todayshomeowner.com/blog/guides/barndominium-cost-vs-house/

[5] https://www.barndominiumlife.com/barndominium-cost-vs-house-whats-the-difference/

[6] https://www.linkedin.com/company/jrh-engineering-environmental-services-inc

[7] https://www.bobvila.com/articles/barndominium-cost-vs-house/

[8] https://homeguide.com/costs/barndominium-cost

[9] https://gensteel.com/building-faqs/building-comparisons/barndominiums-vs-homes/

[10] https://www.jrhengineering.net/harris-county/civil-engineering-%7C-structural-engineering-firm-in-alief-tx-77411

[11] https://buildmax.com/are-barndominiums-stronger-than-a-standard-home/

[12] https://www.barndominiumlife.com/barndominium-vs-house-your-ultimate-guide/

[13] https://texasfarmcredit.com/resources/texas-barndominiums/

[14] https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jrh-engineering-environmental-services-inc_tx-aircraft-hangar-design-sizes-layouts-activity-7143300236143210496-lugu

[15] https://jjscustombuilders.com/custom-barndominium-builder-vs-barndominium-kits/

[16] https://www.trulogsiding.com/barndominium-cost/

[17] https://www.westernstatesmetalroofing.com/blog/barndominium

[19] https://buildmax.com/are-barndominiums-really-worth-all-the-money/

[20] https://www.trulogsiding.com/barndominium-cost-vs-house/

[21] https://www.stormwater.com/home/news/33047958/jrh-eng-to-expand-engineering-services

[22] https://www.barndominiumlife.com/barndominium-pros-and-cons-deal-breaking-differences/

[24] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGB1RxLAaCI

[25] https://www.prweb.com/releases/jrh_engineering_inc_is_announcing_the_expansion_of_environmental_engineering_services_to_our_civil_and_structural_site_development_engineering_services/prweb11845503.htm

JRH Engineering Inc. is Announcing the Expansion of Environmental Engineering Services to Our Civil and Structural Site Development Engineering Services Houston, Texas (PRWEB) June 05, 2014 -- JRH Engineering, Inc. will be expanding its site development and construction engineering consulting to adding more... www.prweb.com