Looking for the perfect space to expand your farming, storage, or business operations? Our comprehensive shopping guide to large barns for sale is here to help. Discover the benefits of investing in a spacious barn, explore top features to consider, and find the best options on the market—tailored to meet your unique needs and maximize your property’s potential.
Types and Applications of Large Barns: Comparison Table
| Barn Type | Typical Materials | Primary Uses | Customizable | Notable Benefits | Typical Size Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Timber Frame/Post & Beam | Wood (heavy timber) | Storage, livestock, events, living | Yes | Aesthetic, durable, historic | 24×36 ft and up |
| Metal Barns | Steel | Equipment, horses, workshops, storage | Yes | Fire-resistant, low-maintenance | 36×21 ft to 70×161 ft |
| Modular Barn Kits | Metal/Wood | Horse stables, utility, storage | Yes | Fast assembly, engineered safety | 20×24 ft to custom sizes |
| Prefab Shed/Barn Kits | Wood, Plastic, Vinyl | Storage, workshops, garage, hobby | Yes | DIY-friendly, cost-effective | 10×12 ft to 16×32 ft |
| Gambrel Barns | Wood/Steel | Livestock, hayloft, events, living | Yes | Max loft space, classic look | 24×32 ft and up |
| Monitor (Raised Center) | Wood/Steel | Livestock, events, workspace, garage | Yes | Extra ventilation, two floors | 36×48 ft and up |
| Utility Garage Barns | Wood/Steel, Vinyl | Vehicles, equipment, storage | Yes | Wide doors, robust, versatile | 12×16 ft to 32×60 ft+ |
Everyday Usage: How Large Barns Meet Your Needs
Storage and Protection
- Equipment & Machinery: Large barns keep tractors, trucks, and farm implements safe from weather.
- Vehicles & Boats: Use as full-sized garages for classic cars, RVs, or boats.
- Feed & Hay: Secure, dry storage for feed, hay, and agricultural supplies.
Livestock and Animal Housing
- Horses: Modern horse barns often offer stalls, wash racks, aisles, and tack rooms.
- Cattle, Goats, Chickens: Customizable layouts accommodate various types of farm animals.
- Weather Protection: Proper barn design provides shelter from both heat and cold, reducing stress and improving animal well-being.
Workshops and Workspaces
- Repairs and Projects: Barns offer ample room for workbenches, tools, and large project areas.
- Studio or Hobby Spaces: Consider a loft space for a home office, creative workshop, or retreat.
Event and Living Spaces
- Event Venues: Timber and gambrel barns provide rustic, beautiful backdrops for weddings, parties, and corporate events.
- Barn Homes: Many large barn models can be finished as barndominiums—living spaces full of character, often with open layouts and high ceilings.
The Benefits of Large Barns
1. Exceptional Versatility
Large barns adapt to an array of uses, from classic agricultural functions to modern living spaces or event venues.
2. Durability and Longevity
- Timber Frame/Post & Beam: Historic mortise and tenon joinery ensures barns that last generations.
- Metal Barns: Resistant to rot, pests, and fire—providing decades of low-maintenance service.
- Modular Kits: Engineered components with precision cuts maximize strength.
3. Spaciousness and Organization
Tall walls, high ceilings, and lofts or second levels offer maximum storage—whether for hay bales, vehicles, or extra workspace.
4. Aesthetic and Property Value
A well-designed barn can dramatically enhance your property’s value and curb appeal, especially with classic styles like New England carriage barns or red gambrel barns.
5. Customization Options
From stall configurations and window placement to exterior finishes and rooflines, you can tailor a large barn to exactly fit your needs.
How to Choose the Right Large Barn
The perfect barn is the one that serves your unique needs and fits your property. Consider the following factors when shopping:
1. Intended Use
- Livestock or horses require: Water, ventilation, insulation, easy-clean flooring, and stalls.
- Equipment or vehicle storage needs: Large clear spans, minimal posts, tall doors.
- Workshops or event use: Lighting, finished interiors, restrooms, accessible entries.
2. Material Selection
- Timber/Wood: Timeless, warm appearance; can be more expensive, requires periodic maintenance.
- Steel/Metal: Fire and pest resistance, longevity, minimal upkeep, often faster to erect.
- Vinyl/Plastic/Budget Options: Easy assembly, lower cost, usually for smaller uses.
3. Size and Layout
- Measure all items you plan to store and allow space for future growth.
- Common barn dimensions: Start at 24×36 feet, but can reach 70×161 feet for riding arenas or multi-use buildings.
- Loft or No Loft? A loft adds square footage for storage or living without increasing footprint.
4. Local Climate and Site Conditions
- Snow and wind load requirements may dictate structural strength and roof pitch.
- Select ventilation and insulation to suit hot or cold climates.
5. Budget and Assembly
- Prefab kits and modular barns streamline construction and save on labor.
- Timber frame barns might require more skilled labor but offer unmatched character.
- Remember to account for extras: doors, flooring, interior finish, delivery, and permits.
6. Customization and Future Expansion
- Many barn companies offer customizable kits—add lean-tos, increase door sizes, or modify stall layouts.
- Consider roof style (gable, gambrel, monitor, continuous), siding material, and color options.
7. Building Codes and Permits
- Always check your local zoning regulations and building codes before purchasing.
- Ask the supplier if engineered plans for permit submission are included.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
- Plan for Future Needs: Go one size bigger than your minimum—barns are rarely too large!
- Shop for Quality Materials: Look for heavy-gauge steel in metal barns, or large authentic timbers in wood barns for maximum strength.
- Evaluate Access: Wide, tall doors ease moving large equipment or animals in and out.
- Ventilation Matters: Ensure there are windows, vents, or cupolas for airflow, especially for animal housing.
- Loft Safety: Build stairs or ladders to code, with handrails, if you plan on frequent loft use.
- Foundation Selection: Choose the right foundation—concrete slabs are best for garages, while piers may suit traditional barns.
- Assembly Skill Level: DIY shed kits may be feasible for experienced handypersons, but larger timber or metal barns often require professionals.
- Weather Protection: Opt for roof overhangs and gutters to channel water away from the structure.
- Optimize Lighting: Add skylights or large windows to take advantage of natural light.
- Get Everything in Writing: Confirm supplier warranties, delivery timelines, and exactly what comes in your kit.
Technical Features Comparison Table
| Model/Kit Type | Size Range | Material | Assembly Type | Loft/2nd Floor | Doors & Access | Wind/Snow Rated | Customizable | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Timber Frame Kit | 24×36 up to custom | Heavy Timber | Professional/DIY | Yes | Double sliding, glass, overhead | Yes | Yes | $40,000–$200,000+ |
| Metal Barn Kit | 36×21–70×161+ | Steel | Prefab panels | Optional | Roll-up, sliding | Yes | Yes | $3,170–$188,000+ |
| Modular Barn Kit | 20×24–custom | Steel/Wood | Pre-cut, prefabricated | Optional | Varies | Yes | Yes | $10,000–$100,000+ |
| Shed/Barn Kits | 10×12–16×32 | Wood, Vinyl, Plastic | DIY/Prefab | Some w/loft | Swing, double, pocket doors | Some | Some | $2,000–$7,000 |
| Gambrel Style | 24×32–custom | Wood/Steel | Kit/Custom | Yes | Large overhead | Yes | Yes | $15,000–$80,000+ |
| Monitor/Breezeway | 36×48–custom | Wood/Steel | Kit/Custom | Yes | Center aisle | Yes | Yes | $30,000–$150,000+ |
Related Video
Conclusion
Finding the right large barn for your property is a major investment that pays off in flexibility, protection, and property value. Whether you need a timeless timber frame structure, a modern prefabricated steel barn, or a practical modular kit, understanding your needs and the available options is key. By prioritizing quality materials, smart design, and forward-thinking planning, you’ll ensure your new barn is a lasting asset for generations to come.
FAQ
-
What is the difference between timber frame and steel barns?
Timber frame barns use large wooden beams and traditional joinery for a classic, historical appearance, often favored for homes, events, and aesthetic value. Steel barns (metal barns) are constructed with prefabricated steel panels, offering supreme durability, fire resistance, and low maintenance, making them ideal for equipment and livestock. -
Do I need a permit to build a large barn?
Most areas require a building permit for large barns. The requirements vary by location, so check with your local building department before purchasing. Many kit suppliers offer engineered plans to help with the permit process. -
How long does it take to assemble a large barn?
Assembly time varies. Small prefab kits can take a few days with a small crew, while custom timber or steel barns may take several weeks from foundation to completion, depending on complexity and weather. -
What foundation is best for a barn?
Concrete slabs are recommended for garages and workshops; gravel pads or pier foundations work for traditional barns. The best foundation will depend on your usage and local soil conditions. -
How do I choose the right barn size?
Consider all intended uses, measurements of equipment or vehicles, livestock headcount, and possible future needs. When in doubt, it’s best to go a size bigger, as space fills up quickly. -
Can I customize the interior layout?
Yes, most barn kits and custom barns allow you to modify stall locations, add lofts, change door types, and include partitions, windows, or even plumbing and electricity. -
Are metal barns noisy or hot?
With proper insulation, metal barns are comfortable and quiet. Quality kits include insulation options for temperature control and sound dampening. -
How do I maintain my barn?
Timber barns benefit from periodic inspections, occasional repainting, or staining. Metal barns need little more than cleaning and checking for rust, particularly around joints and hardware. -
What is the lifespan of a large barn?
A well-maintained metal barn can last 40–60 years or more. Timber frame barns, properly constructed and cared for, can stand for over 100 years. -
Can large barns be used as living spaces?
Absolutely. Many timber and steel barns are designed as “barndominiums” or event spaces—finished with insulation, climate control, and all the amenities of modern homes while retaining rustic charm.