If you’re in need of more storage space on your farm or property, it might be time for you to consider building a new barn or garage. Of course, this is easier said than done if you are operating on a limited budget. There are, however, some ways for you to get the job done while saving a bit of cash in the process.
Here are some tips for saving money when building barns with steel trusses in Arkansas:
- Use DIY steel building kits: If you’re really strapped for cash but want a good-sized, functional barn, you can look into a selection of DIY steel building kits. As the name suggests, these kits give you everything you need to put up a steel barn yourself. All of the materials are already measured and cut; you just need to tighten the bolts with a cordless drill, and make sure all aspects of the building are erected according to the specifications in the manual. Typically this process only takes a few days and the help of a couple friends. No previous carpentry or framing experience is required!
- Reconsider the spacing of your columns: If you don’t want to go the DIY route and are going to build a traditional barn, then you need to carefully consider how it’s designed. Certain elements of the design can lead to higher costs, such as columns. Builders often space columns between six and 12 feet apart. The wider you space these columns, the less expensive your structure will cost, because you don’t need to get as many columns and trusses to hold it up. All it takes is some smart engineering and design work to figure out how to space out your columns and reduce the amount of trusses you’ll need to safely hold up the building.
- Use durable materials: You’re going to be tempted to save money up front by purchasing less expensive materials. However, in the long run, you need to consider maintenance and repair costs. If you choose materials that are built to last, then you’ll be able to leave your barn alone without making significant repairs for much longer, saving you money in the long run.
- Add wainscoting: Wainscoting is often overlooked when talking about barn construction, but it is important for any post-frame building such as a barn. These steel panels are placed all along the bottom of a building, and typically in a different color than the rest of the barn siding for aesthetic purposes. Though the wainscoting adds to your upfront costs, it makes the building significantly more durable, acting as a buffer if you should accidentally hit the wall of your barn with your equipment, such as a truck, tractor or lawnmower.
These are just a few tips to help you save money when building a new barn with steel trusses in Arkansas. For more information about these tips and the variety of services and products we provide, we encourage you to reach out to us today at Adams Truss, Inc.