Barndominium Shell FAQs
Thinking about building your dream barndo but not sure where to start? Let’s kick things off with the foundation—literally. If you’ve been hearing the term barndominium shell tossed around but aren’t 100% sure what it means (or how much it costs), you’re in the right place. This guide breaks it all down, from what’s included to where you can buy one and how to customize it to fit your lifestyle.
What Is a Barndominium Shell?
A barndominium shell is the outer structure of your home—the steel framing, roof, exterior walls, and all the hardware needed to keep it standing tall. It’s everything you need to go vertical and get protected from the elements, but it leaves the interior wide open for your own layout and finishing touches.
You’ll often hear it called a shell only barndominium, and that’s exactly what it is: just the bones, ready for whatever floor plan, style, or upgrades you want to throw at it. It’s ideal for folks who want to build in phases or get their hands dirty with some DIY interior work.
Want to start designing now? You can design your own barndo kit and interior directly through our website.
How Much Does a Barndominium Shell Cost?
Let’s talk numbers. How much does a barndominium shell cost depends on your size, location, and add-ons. On average, a barndominium shell can run anywhere from $20 to $50 per square foot for the basic structure. That doesn’t include your slab, insulation, or interior work—but it does give you a solid structure and roof over your head.
We offer transparent pricing on all our barndominium kits, and you can always get a ballpark number using our free cost calculator.
For a deeper look at how costs stack up, check out our full comparison of barndominium cost vs house cost.
Are Barndominium Shell Kits Worth It?
Absolutely. If you’re trying to keep control of your budget while still building a high-quality, customized home, barndominium shell kits offer one of the smartest ways to start. They’re affordable, fast to install, and flexible enough for almost any design.
And if you want to keep it all under one roof (pun intended), we even offer DIY barndominium kits so you can save on labor and take full ownership of your build.
Benefits of Starting with a Barndominium Shell
- Lower upfront costs
- Flexibility to finish on your own schedule
- Faster build timelines
- Easy customization of interior layouts
- Less risk of unexpected expenses halfway through
If you’re building in Georgia or nearby, we’ve also got popular Atlanta barndominiums already underway that use this exact approach.
Where Can I Find Barndominium Shells for Sale?
If you’re googling barndominium shells for sale, don’t waste your time digging through random listings. We’ve got the good stuff right here, with expert support, custom options, and straightforward shipping throughout the U.S.
Our barndominium shell kits Texas customers love include custom packages ready to ship anywhere in the Lone Star State. Whether you’re in the city or out on acreage, we’ve got your back.
Want something a little more polished and cozy? Take a peek at our cottage style barndos for inspo.
How Do Barndominium Shell Prices Compare to Full Builds?
Here’s the thing—barndominium shell prices are just one part of the puzzle. Full turnkey builds usually run between $225–$350 per square foot, depending on finishes. Starting with a shell can help you cut that number down significantly if you’re willing to take on some of the work yourself.
Think of the barndominium shell as a blank canvas. You get to decide how basic or fancy the interior becomes—and that’s a big plus if you’re on a tighter budget.
If you’re looking to build up, not just out, you can also check out our two story barndominium floor plans for ideas on how to expand your square footage vertically.
What About Barndominium Shell Kits With Prices Listed?
Good question. We do our best to offer barndominium shell kits with prices listed clearly on our site, but since prices can vary by state, steel market, and design, it’s best to reach out directly for the most accurate quote.
Most kits include the shell, roof, trim, and all the structural components you need to go vertical. You can always upgrade your package with insulation, porches, interior framing, and more.
And yes—we’ll help walk you through what you really need versus what’s just nice to have. We’re not here to upsell you; we’re here to build something solid.
Can I Customize My Barndominium Shell?
Heck yes. Whether you want skylights, a wraparound porch, or multiple garage bays, every barndominium shell kit we build can be tailored to fit your vision. You’ve got options, and we’re here to help you make the most of them.
Need a modern farmhouse vibe? Classic country? Something totally off the wall? Our American barndominiums offer design inspiration and floor plans you can tweak to your heart’s content
Is a Shell Only Barndominium Right for Me?
A shell only barndominium is perfect for folks who want control over their build and don’t mind putting in a little sweat equity. Whether you’re working with a contractor or going full DIY, starting with a shell gives you the freedom to pace your project—and keep it budget-friendly.
It’s also a great choice for landowners who want to build in phases. Get the structure up now, finish the inside later. No rush, no pressure.
Ready To Build Your Barndominium Shell?
If you’re serious about getting a barndominium shell up and running, we’re here to make it happen. From premium barndominium kits to custom floor plans and design support, Boss Hog Barndominiums is your go-to partner in the barndo game.
Got questions? Need help figuring out how much does a barndominium shell cost in your area? Hit us up. We’ll give you straight answers, honest prices, and a whole lot of enthusiasm for your future build.
Let’s get it done—Boss Hog style.