Concrete & Foundation Requirements for Barndominiums and Kit Homes (2024)

FAQs

How thick does a concrete slab need to be for a barndominium? ›

For barndominiums up to 1,500 sq. ft., most recommendations fall between a 4” and 6″ thick slab. This accommodates moderate traffic and furnishings adequately without excessive concrete use. The steel perimeter beams of barndominium kits require less internal slab support than wood framing.

Properly executed, an embedded perimeter beam concrete slab foundation formulated from high strength 5,000 PSI concrete mix designs provides ideal structural support for the tremendous clear spans and dynamic live loads generated over generations of family life within your barndo.

**Consider the Use of Each Room:** Different areas of a barndominium might have different flooring needs. For example, durable and easy-to-clean floors like concrete or tile might be more suitable for workshop areas, while living spaces might benefit from the warmth of wood or carpet.

Traditional foundations are constructed of poured concrete or concrete block. A typical foundation wall minimum thickness of eight inches applies to walls eight feet or less with no more than seven feet of soil pressing against it.

How Much Weight Can a Concrete Driveway Hold? Typically, concrete driveways that are 4″ thick can withstand loads of regular vehicles, which is approximately 8,000 pounds. A 6″ thick concrete driveway can withstand heavy-duty trucks that can around weigh about 70,000 pounds.

The short answer is Yes!, they absolutely can. Don't be super shocked if it happens because it is common. But understanding why concrete floors crack, how common this issue is, and whether it can be prevented offers a more nuanced perspective on this durable flooring choice that everyone loves.

Steel framing, popular in barndominium construction for its durability and resistance to pests, can be more expensive than traditional wood framing. Framing costs can range from $20 to $50 per square foot, making it one of the most significant portions of the construction budget.

Slab Thickness

If you are planning to park large, heavy vehicles inside (such as trucks or larger RVs), you should consider making the slab 6″ thick, and using 4000-psi concrete. You may not need this for a kit home, but often times a barndominium may be used to store vehicles and heavy equipment.

As many barndominiums are constructed from metal, a vapor barrier tape will help prevent potentially damaging condensation from entering the structure. Reducing the energy costs to heat the home. Many barndominiums often have vaulted or cathedral ceilings, meaning the ceilings are not parallel to the floor.

One con that comes with concrete homes is that only some people have the tools and know-how to make them. Many building companies want to build concrete homes, but they often don't have the resources to implement construction. It mostly depends on the area you're in.

What is the best type of flooring in a barndominium? ›

Polished concrete flooring is LEED certified and does not release any volatile organic compounds (VOCs) the way many vinyl and nylon flooring options can, making it the ideal choice for the barndominium builder that's alternatively seeking a chemical-free home.

Barndominiums offer a blend of rustic aesthetics and modern living that appeals to many homeowners. However, like any other type of construction, they are susceptible to mold growth if not properly designed, constructed, and maintained.

Plain concrete deck foundations without rebar are acceptable under the minimum standards of construction established in the International Residential Code. However, placing reinforcing steel within footings is a relatively easy and inexpensive practice that can provide increased performance.

Most homes have a foundation made of concrete that serves as a sturdy, level base for the walls and roof. Without a foundation, your home would sink into the dirt and fall apart. Although concrete is strong, it isn't invincible and will eventually start to degrade. Concrete foundations usually last around 80-100 years.

The foundation that your house is built on can have a major impact on the structural integrity of your home. A slab foundation is made of concrete that is typically 4" to 6" thick in the center. The concrete slab is often placed on a layer of sand for drainage or to act as a cushion.

In most cases, you'll want your patio to be 4 inches thick, although you should add reinforcement and increase the thickness up to around 8 inches if you want it to support heavier loads and resist cracking more readily. Although thicker slabs will cost more, you'll start seeing diminishing returns at around 6 inches.

In general, for residential areas like walkways and patios, 4 inches of concrete is sufficient for a slab. For a deck or deck stair landing, again, around 4 inches of concrete is sufficient.

Generally, a 4-inch surface can hold up to 4,000 pounds per square foot when adequately reinforced. Unreinforced, it can only hold 40 pounds per square foot. Steel bars or wire mesh can be placed in the concrete before it is poured to reinforce the pad.

Your concrete foundation for a metal building will be a minimum of 4″ thick. However, if you're planning to use your metal building to store heavy vehicles and equipment, we will recommend a 6″ slab.