Constructing a new building can be a big investment and it is important to have a clear understanding of the costs involved. Post frame buildings, also known as pole barns, are a popular option for those looking for a cost-effective and versatile solution. But how much should you expect to pay for a post frame building and what factors impact the cost?
In this article, we will delve into the various factors that influence the cost of a post frame building, including size, location, materials, labor costs, customizations and upgrades, and permit fees. We will provide some pricing examples, as well as what you can expect if you opt for a turnkey post frame building that includes excavation, concrete, and electrical. These items are generally called “site improvements”.
By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of what to expect when it comes to the cost of a post frame building. Whether you are looking to construct a small storage shed or a large workshop, this information will help you make informed decisions and plan your budget accordingly.
Factors that affect the cost of a post frame building
The cost of a post frame building is influenced by several factors, including size, location, materials, labor costs, customizations and upgrades, and permit fees. Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors.
Size of the building
The size of your post frame building will have a significant impact on the cost. The larger the building, the more materials and labor will be required, and thus the cost will increase. If you’re trying to get the best cost per square foot, we would suggest keeping your building width as narrow as possible. The width is always determined by the length of the truss. The wider the trusses are, the more it will cost per square foot. If you are looking to keep the cost per square foot low, go for length not width.
Location
The cost of construction can vary significantly depending on where you are located. Factors such as local labor costs, the availability of materials, and building codes and regulations can all impact the cost of your post frame building.
Materials
The cost of materials will depend on the type of lumber, roofing materials, siding materials, windows and doors, insulation and hardware and fasteners you choose. Opting for high-quality materials will increase the cost, but it will also result in a more durable and long-lasting building.
Labor costs
The cost of labor will vary depending on the complexity of the project and the experience and skill level of the workers. Hiring a professional post frame contractor will likely increase the cost, but it will also ensure that the work is done correctly and efficiently.
Customizations and upgrades
If you want to add custom features to your post frame building, such as insulation, electrical wiring, or plumbing, the cost will increase.
Permit fees
Building permits are required for most post frame building projects. The cost of the permit will depend on the type and size of the building and the local regulations in your area.
Pricing Options for Post Frame Buildings
When it comes to building a post frame structure, there can be several pricing options to choose from, depending on your needs and preferences. Let’s take a look at three common options that Everlast Structures also provides:
Turnkey Pricing
Your time is valuable, and you feel more comfortable letting us manage the project from start to finish. This option includes all materials, labor, permit fees, and project management. This is a great option for those who want a hassle-free experience and don’t have the time or expertise to handle the construction process themselves.
Basic Set Up Pricing
You see value in us getting all the important stuff completed, such as site prep, footings, and building the shell. You can handle the rest, including the interior finish work, electrical, and plumbing. This option is ideal for those who want to save some money and are comfortable handling some aspects of the construction process themselves.
Just the Building Pricing
You can handle a large portion of this project. You just want us to provide a high-quality building package built by high-quality craftsmen. This option is perfect for those who have the skills and resources to handle the site preparation, footings, and interior finish work themselves.
Each of these options has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, and the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and circumstances. Before making a decision, it is important to carefully consider your goals, budget, and available resources.
Average Cost of a Post Frame Building
The average cost of a post frame building will depend on several factors, including design, material selections, and site conditions but expect you spend at least 50k.
Starting Price for Post Frame Buildings
If you get just the building, expect to spend at least 50k
If you are purchasing “just the building” from us, it is recommended to plan to spend at least $50,000, as this does not include concrete or excavation, which will still need to be done and will cost additional money.
The total with basic set up, the total may come to something like 88-40k:
The basic set up of a post frame building, which includes site preparation, footings, and building the shell, can range from $38,000 to $40,000. However, this is just the starting point, and the final price will depend on the required level of design, material selections, and site conditions.
Two 1,200 sq ft buildings can have vastly different prices, with one selling for $70,000 and the other for $200,000, depending on the design and material selections.
As we spoke about before, factors such as steeper pitch roofs, taller walls, porches, windows, service doors, shutters, cupolas, interior finishings, radiant floor heating, and thicker concrete floor can all increase the cost of the building. Material selections, including stone/brick, fancy overhead doors, higher-end windows and doors, stamped concrete, and cedar porch posts/wood finishes, can also impact the cost.
Site conditions, such as site slopes that need to be filled to bring to level, site slopes that require berms and swells to prevent water from running into the building, a long driveway leading to the building, and bad soil, can also impact the cost of the building.
In general, the cost of a post frame building will vary depending on the required level of design and material selections.
For example, two 1,200 sq ft buildings can have vastly different prices, with one selling for $70,000 and the other for $200,000, depending on the design and material selections.
A basic storage post frame building will be on the lower end of the price spectrum. As you add functionality features and aesthetic features…it can drive the price up depending on your needs and selection.
You can see price examples of projects based on storage size, functionality and aesthetic features on our website.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of a post frame building can range from basic storage to storage and functionality to storage, functionality, and aesthetics, and the final price will depend on the required level of design, material selections, and site conditions. To get an estimate of the cost for your specific post frame building project, you can use our post frame price estimator.