Information to Know Before You Build
Monitoring construction cost is a necessity when building. Yankee Barn Homes offers these seven suggested areas where cost can be considered.
Footprint Shape
Go up, not out when seeking a cost-effective footprint. If you’re monitoring construction cost from the start, use a rectangle footprint. This is one of the best ways to monitor cost. Don’t make the mistake of thinking there’s no creativity in a rectangle. It may be a basic shape but the resulting home will be far from ordinary.
Bump-outs, ells and dormers create visual interest but they add to overall cost. This is not to say you should not use them, as many designs would look odd or bland without them. On the plus side, all three create more space while adding visual interest and creativity to the home. Ultimately, it comes down to choice. Your style and your budget will guide you.
Framing
Yankee Barn Homes offers three options to frame your build. You can choose from full post and beam, partial post and beam, or minimal timber. This is one area where you can begin monitoring construction cost from the get-go.
A full timber frame affords the most flexibility in design options. The frame bears the weight of the house, therefore walls are more easily moved or not used. Open areas with a large volume of space are easily attained.
A partial timber design uses a post and beam frame for the main living areas while using little or no timber frame in the remainder of the structure. Panelized construction makes using timber in limited spaces possible.
Minimal timber means the home is primarily constructed using our True Panel System. Timber is used as a decorative feature and not for structure enforcement.
Frame Embellishments: It stands to reason embellishments cost more. They also can make the difference between good and great. This another area where the YBH Design Team will help you decide how to get the most out of your design.
Vaulted Ceilings: Vaulted ceilings add character to your home. However, you are using up large volumes of space. Consider a 10’ or 12’ ceiling over this space. You retain the sense of volume in the room while the space above becomes additional usable square footage. If a vaulted ceiling is a must have, place it in the space where you’ll most enjoy it. They are truly a spectacular feature in a timber frame home.
Window Choice and Arrangement
Windows are the single most expensive item in any home.
One way to save: Combining less expensive, but very good quality windows for a wall of glass appearance is more cost-effective than putting in a massive one-piece window unit. Show the YBH Design Team the look you want. They may be able to suggest options while adding cost savings to your build.
Specialty Windows: There are some designs that call for specialty windows. They will and do make the difference between good design and great design. It’s all in where your preferences lay.
Wall and Ceiling Materials
Tongue and groove wood planks are gorgeous and add a depth of character to a timber frame home. Consider them as you would a frame embellishment and a vaulted ceiling; place them where you’re going to most enjoy them.
Using wood planks in select rooms and using drywall in less showy areas is one option. Another option is to simply use drywall everywhere. YBH has built numerous homes that use only dry wall and they are no less gorgeous. it’s all in the style you’re after and what your taste and budget dictate as necessary to you.
Staircase Design
The least expensive staircase is a straight flight. It can be placed on either an interior or exterior wall
If you add turned or curved flights and landings, you add cost. Even more so if you use specialized windows to feature the staircase.
Choosing Fixtures and Finishes
This is the final area where making purposeful and informed decisions can help to control build costs.
Prioritize your list of must haves and decide what should be installed as you build and what can be done or upgraded later. You will not regret having a sound and beautiful timber frame structure. Get your necessary items in place, then add as you go and your budget allows.
