Barndominiums—metal structures that blend residential and workshop or barn space—are unique not only in their architectural style but also in their electrical design challenges. One of the most critical aspects …
Engineering Solutions to Prevent Moisture Inside Barndominium Metal Walls and Roofs
Barndominiums—those sleek hybrids of barn-style architecture and modern living—offer durability, flexibility, and affordability. But with their metal frames and steel panel exteriors, they also present one of the most common …
Engineering Chase Spaces: Routing HVAC Ductwork and Plumbing in a Barndominium
Barndominiums are beloved for their open plans, tall clear-spans, and barnlike simplicity — but that simplicity can hide a complex challenge: how to route the HVAC ductwork, plumbing, and associated …
The Engineering Behind Architectural Standing Seam Roofs vs. Commercial Corrugated Panels in Barndominium Design
When designing a barndominium, one of the most defining architectural and structural decisions involves the choice of roofing. The roof not only determines the home’s visual style—it’s also a critical …
Snow Load Engineering in Barndominiums: How Roof Pitch, Material, and Frame Strength Prevent Collapse
When building a barndominium in regions that experience heavy snow, one of the most critical — yet often underestimated — engineering considerations is snow load. A roof that looks perfectly adequate …
The Pros and Cons of Moment Frames vs. Shear Walls for Lateral Stability in Barndominiums
When designing a barndominium, the structural engineer’s primary challenge is ensuring the building’s stability under lateral loads — the horizontal forces caused by wind, seismic activity, or even unbalanced snow …
Slab-on-Grade vs. Stem Wall Foundation: An Engineer’s Perspective on the Best Choice for Barndominiums
When it comes to designing a barndominium, the conversation often starts with aesthetics—open floor plans, soaring ceilings, and custom finishes. But any structural engineer will tell you that what truly …
Specifying Gauge and Yield Strength When Building a Barndominium
When designing and building a barndominium, most people immediately think about floor plans, finishes, and curb appeal. But beneath the paint colors and countertops lies something far more critical—the structural …
Can a Metal-Barndominium Frame Perform Well in an Earthquake Zone?
When you think of barndominiums, the first things that often come to mind are open floor plans, cost efficiency, and modern-rustic aesthetics. But if you’re considering building one in an …
Building a Barndominium on Expansive Clay or Poorly Compacted Fill: Challenges and Solutions
When building a barndominium, one of the most overlooked yet critical aspects of the project is the soil beneath the slab. A beautiful design, strong steel frame, and top-notch finishes …