We can help you build a custom barndominium house anywhere in the Carolina’s. From the Blue Ridge mountains in Asheville to the coastal area from Beaufort to Wilmington, we have you all your steel barndominium needs covered.
Barndominiums in North Carolina are catching on fast—it’s not hard to see why. Folks are drawn to these homes for the mix of comfort, style, and everyday practicality. They’re sturdy, thanks to their metal bones, but you can still shape them to match your own taste.
A North Carolina barndominium gives you a shot at a custom home without the sticker shock you’d get from a more traditional build.
People love how versatile these homes are. You can live in one, run a workshop, or do both under one roof. There are also quite a few North Carolina custom builders here who know their way around these projects, which helps take the edge off for anyone nervous about the process.
One big plus: durability. Most barndos are framed in steel and wrapped in metal siding, so you don’t have to worry as much about rot, mold, or pests—especially helpful in North Carolina’s humid, unpredictable weather
.Flexibility is another reason people go this route. You can play around with the layout, toss in a big workshop, or carve out space for storage. Each barndominium feels like it actually fits the people living in it.They’re also surprisingly energy-efficient. Good insulation and up-to-date materials help keep heating and cooling bills down. Some folks even throw in solar panels or high-efficiency windows for an eco-friendly boost.
Carolina barndominiums stand up well to the state’s diverse weather conditions. The steel construction resists damage from:
Metal exteriors require minimal maintenance compared to wood siding. A simple annual inspection and occasional cleaning keeps the structure in good condition.
The galvanized steel components resist rust and corrosion. This durability translates to lower long-term maintenance costs and fewer repairs.
NC barndominium owners enjoy extensive design flexibility. The open-concept design allows for creative floor plans that maximize living space.
Ceiling heights can range from standard to vaulted, creating dramatic interior spaces. The steel frame construction allows for large, unobstructed spaces without load-bearing walls.
Interior layouts can include:
Cost is a big question, and honestly, it depends. Square footage, how fancy you get with the design, and your finish choices all play a role. Custom builds with all the bells and whistles will obviously run higher than a basic kit.
For most folks, the cost to build a barndominium in North Carolina lands somewhere between $95 and $150 per square foot. If you stick with the basics—just metal framing, insulation, and siding—you’ll be closer to the low end. Want hardwood floors or custom cabinets? That’ll bump you up.
If you’re thinking about something bigger, maybe a 2,000-square-foot place, expect a total somewhere in the ballpark of $130,000 to $320,000. Add-ons like workshops, garages, or a loft? Those might tack on another $10 to $30 per square foot. Outdoor kitchens or patios can push the price to $150 to $200 per square foot—it adds up fast.
Builders like Seven Generations Build Group and Morton Buildings know their stuff and have a track record with these kinds of projects. A lot of families go with them for peace of mind.
The price in NC varies based on several key factors:
Metal construction materials require minimal maintenance and offer excellent durability. Most barndominiums maintain their value well due to their steel frame construction and energy efficiency.
Insurance costs often run lower than traditional homes due to fire-resistant metal construction. Many barndominium owners report significant savings on utility bills thanks to modern insulation methods.
The metal structure typically lasts 50+ years with proper maintenance, reducing long-term repair costs compared to traditional wood-frame homes.
Barndominiums in North Carolina are a pretty affordable way to get a home that’s flexible and can be as simple or as fancy as you want. Whether you want to go full custom, grab a kit, or just have someone handle it all, there’s something for pretty much every budget.
Yes, barndominiums are legal to build in the Tarheel state. Read below for more information on codes and regulations…
Barndominium construction in the Carolina’s typically costs 15-35% less than traditional homes of comparable size. The metal structure and simplified construction process contribute to these savings.
Energy efficiency features have become increasingly popular in NC barndominiums. Spray foam insulation, energy-efficient windows, and modern HVAC systems help combat the state’s extreme temperatures.
Open floor plans that maximize the barndominium’s large, unobstructed interior spaces remain a dominant design trend. These layouts create flexible living areas while maintaining the structure’s rustic appeal.
Kits are out there from places like SteelBuilt Direct and some national suppliers (check Barndominium.org). Most kits have the steel trusses, siding, roofing, lumber, hardware, and sometimes insulation. After that, you can either DIY or bring in a builder to finish it up.
North Carolina Permits, Zoning, and Local Regulations
If you’re planning a barndominium in North Carolina, you’ll have to play by the rules. Every build needs to follow zoning laws, building codes, and get the right permits before you start swinging a hammer. Local governments keep an eye on this stuff for safety and land use reasons.
Chapter 160D of the North Carolina General Statutes set up a unified framework for development regulations. Basically, it makes sure cities and counties are (mostly) on the same page about zoning, permits, and land use.
Zoning rules can be all over the place. Some towns are cool with residential barndominiums; others might say they’re only for farms or mixed-use. Before buying land, double-check if you’re allowed to build what you want. The North Carolina Zoning Atlas is a good place to start for an overview.
Here’s what’s usually required:
Inspections during and after the buildklahoma. Permit costs should be included in your overall budget planning.
Zoning approval for residential use
Building permits to make sure your place is up to code
Your building plans must comply with local building codes. These codes ensure the structure is safe and meets minimum standards for construction quality.
Some rural areas in NC may have fewer restrictions than urban locations. However, all construction must still meet state building standards.
Zoning regulations determine where you can build residential structures. Confirm your land is zoned appropriately for a residential barndominium before purchasing or beginning design work.
https://www.doa.nc.gov/divisions/state-construction-office/nc-building-code-2018
