Residential Homes

QSI constructs the exterior shell of residential buildings. We do not provide the interior finish.

QSI’s spacious residential post-frame buildings are not only affordable and attractive but are the perfect place to hang your hat. Choose from a variety of sizes, materials and exterior features to make it your own. Each residential QSI post-frame building can be tailored to meet your specific needs.

Barn homes, or barndominiums, are popping up everywhere. Is this a Midwest
phenomenon? Why are they so popular right now? Is it cheaper and faster to build?
Let’s explore the factors contributing to this trend and discover why barndominiums might not be the ideal choice for everyone.

Barn homes offer a unique appeal to a rural homeowner as a consideration for
individuals seeking a blend of tradition, character, and modern living. Barn homes pique our interest with the idea of an affordable and low-maintenance post-frame structure with high-quality materials and quick build times compared to a traditional home.

Benefits of Living in a Barndominium

Post frame homes and the underlying post-frame construction process come
with various benefits for homeowners. Floating slabs used in traditional barns are unsuitable for a home as they lead to damaged sheetrock and windows and doors that don't function properly.

The exterior shell of the barn home needs to be constructed similarly to any conventional home, and the use of trusses allows clear spans within the inside of the structure. Full-span interiors provide a versatile canvas for design and almost limitless options for personalization. Flexibility in room layouts and interior design allows homeowners to customize the space according to their preferences.

Cost-Effective Maintenance

Steel siding on a barn home offers a remarkably easy and cost-effective maintenance solution. Its inherent durability and resistance to the elements make it a low-maintenance option, requiring minimal upkeep over the years. Unlike traditional siding materials, steel doesn’t rot, and is resistant to pests, ensuring longevity without the need for frequent repairs or replacements. With its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions and its straightforward maintenance requirements, steel siding proves to be a practical choice for barn homes, allowing homeowners to enjoy both aesthetic appeal and peace of mind.

Quick Construction Process

Typically, a barn home quote is presented like a standard post-frame quote, as the
exterior structure or shell only. Also, not all building crews have the skill sets to
erect this type of structure. As a result, this product may be offered in some locations
and not others due to crew availability. The site preparation is up to the property owner, and no finishes are included. This is ideal for those who want to escort their barn home from concept to completion.

High-quality materials should be used when building a barn home. Some of the
most popular options include the following:

• Steel roofing and siding: A variety of roofing styles exist, such as shed roofs or
  gambrel roofs, for an authentic barn look. The best option is built with
  high-quality metal panels of 29-gauge steel on the roof, sides, trim, and
  continuous ridge ventilation. Look for a 40-year steel warranty; the home will
  never need to be painted!
  
  
• Wood trusses: Trusses are the weblike structure that provides the foundation for
  the roof. Durable code-compliant wood is used to build the truss to ensure a roof
  lasts for years. Beware of builders using low-grade wood or fewer trusses to
  cut costs. The best builders use on-staff engineers to develop additional wind
  bracing, meaning a post-frame home can withstand blasts of Midwest wind over
  110mph. Buildings should adhere to the 2018 International Building Code (IBC) to
  ensure integrity and functionality.
  
  
• 2X6 Stud Wall Construction or Laminated columns bracketed to the concrete: The home's exterior uses the most durable materials. When 3-ply laminated columns are used, they come with a 60-year warranty. The barn home can also be framed with standard 2x6 studs. In either construction method, OSB sheeting covers the exterior shell to complete the proper building envelope.

Contrary to appearance, the entire cost and process of building a barndominium is comparable in price to a traditional home. There may be some cost and time savings in the surrounding barn structure, which may be completed in a week to a few months. However, the interior finishes require the same amount of time and expense. There are no shortcuts for sheetrock or labor to get the plumbing set correctly.

Once the exterior shell is complete, the homeowner works with a finish contractor to complete the interior in a way that complies with building codes for that area. Although some regions of Kansas and Missouri do not have building codes, there are better places to cut corners, adhering to codes regardless of enforcement is sound advice. Common problems in the vapor barrier, insulation, egress, plumbing, and septic can be highly costly in the future.

The opportunity to reduce costs comes in getting involved in the project hands-on. The contractor can work with an owner on painting and other DIY elements.

While barn homes have a unique appeal, potential homeowners must carefully weigh the pros and cons. From renovation challenges to potential resale limitations, these factors highlight barn homes may only be the best fit for some. As with any housing choice, thorough research and consideration of individual preferences and lifestyles are crucial before embarking on the barn home journey.

Pole Barn Home FAQs

What factors contribute to the current popularity of barn homes?

The rise of the farmhouse aesthetic in interior design has influenced the popularity of barn homes. In addition, the open design has the potential for cost savings on maintenance.

What are the key features that make barn homes appealing to homeowners?

The opportunity to finish the interior in a way that reflects the style of the tenants.

What challenges or obstacles do people face when converting a barn into a home, and how are they overcome?

While many see a barn home as a way of life, some perceive it as a cost-effective way to move from an urban environment, a transient style of living, or a mobile home. Working with a reputable company and lenders familiar with barn homes will help homeowners find a solution to fit their needs.

Are there economic factors that make barn homes a more attractive option for homeowners?

There is a perception that barn homes are cheaper to build, which is unfortunately not the case. The interior should be finished in a way families and individuals can live safely. Shortcuts can cause issues with mold and even lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. It’s essential to adhere to most building codes, even without enforcement.

Are there any technological advancements that have made converting barns into homes more feasible and appealing?

QSI is working with leading manufacturers to develop products to make barn-style living more accessible financially while maintaining high standards of construction and livability.

How do barn homes address the need for modern amenities while maintaining their rustic charm?

Barn homes often successfully blend traditional, rustic elements with modern conveniences. This combination appeals to individuals who want to balance historical charm and contemporary comfort.

Are there any potential drawbacks or criticisms associated with barn homes that might impact their popularity in the future?

A barn home must be built as a home with the proper procedures and materials. If buying an existing barn home, ensure it was correctly constructed using a reputable home inspector. In some instances, if it is discovered the structure was not built as a residence, the building may be condemned.

How have perceptions of rural living and the desire for a connection to nature contributed to the popularity of barn homes?

Many barn homes are situated in rural or scenic locations, providing homeowners with a closer connection to nature. Large windows and open spaces often allow ample natural light and panoramic views.


Our expert sales representatives will give your dream project the right start, walking you through the entire process from reviewing your plans to completion. Then you can either work with a contractor for the interior build or figure out which elements fit into your DIY wheelhouse.

You dream it. We build it. The possibilities are endless.

Notable Add-on Features:

• Cupolas

• Interior liner

• Wrap around porches

• Lean-to