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Quick Answer
Yes, it is possible to convert a metal building into a house. Metal buildings are durable, customizable, and can be insulated to create a comfortable living space. With the right floor plan, insulation, utilities, and finishes, a metal building can be transformed into a unique home.
Is a Metal Building Suitable for a House?
Metal buildings are commonly used for garages, workshops, storage, and agricultural purposes. However, they can also work well as houses due to their:
Durability: Metal is resistant to rot, mold, mildew, termites, and fire. It can withstand extreme weather conditions including high winds, heavy rain, and snow loads. This makes metal last longer than wood framing.
Lower Cost: Prefabricated metal buildings are cheaper to construct than traditional stick-built homes. The materials and labor are less expensive.
Quick Construction: Metal building kits can be installed rapidly compared to building a house from scratch. This reduces overall construction timelines.
Customization: Metal buildings come in a variety of sizes and layouts. They can be ordered to suit specific floor plans and design needs. Open floor plans are easily accommodated.
Energy Efficiency: Proper insulation helps metal buildings meet modern energy codes. They can be just as efficient as wood-framed homes.
The main downsides are that metal can dent, metal conducts heat, and a basic metal building lacks aesthetic curb appeal. However, these factors can be mitigated with the right design choices.
How to Design the Floor Plan
When converting a metal building into a home, pay close attention to the floor plan. Follow these guidelines:
– Living Spaces: Include an open kitchen, dining, and living room for an inviting communal area. Have it span the width of the building for natural light.
– Bedrooms and Baths: Locate private bedrooms and bathrooms towards the back. At minimum, include one bathroom per bedroom.
– Utility Rooms: Position laundry room, storage rooms, and closets along one side. Make sure they are easy to access.
– Entryways: Create a front porch or deck to serve as a transition zone. Add a back door off the kitchen for access and flow.
– High Ceilings: Set plate heights at least 10 feet for an airy, spacious feel. Include clerestory windows near the roofline to increase light.
– Open Floor Plan: Minimize interior walls and doors. This makes the space feel larger and improves visibility.
– Loft Space: Consider adding a loft area for extra sleeping or living space. These are easy with the high open ceilings of metal buildings.
Take advantage of the long open spans and adjust layouts until you have an optimal floor plan tailored to your lifestyle.
How to Insulate a Metal Building for a House
Proper insulation is critical when converting a metal building into a home. Follow this insulation guide:
– Walls: Use fiberglass batt insulation with an R-value of at least R-13 between the wall girts. Higher R-values (R-19+) are better for colder climates.
– Roof: Apply at least R-30 rigid foam insulation above the roof decking. Cover it with an interior panel system for aesthetics.
– Floors: Install R-19 batt insulation between floor joists if the building has a crawl space. Use rigid foam for slab foundations.
– Vapor Barriers: Install vapor barriers on the warm side of the insulation to prevent condensation issues. Use poly sheeting or kraft faced insulation.
– Windows: Choose insulated, low-E windows to prevent heat gain/loss. Avoid single pane.
– Doors: Use foam core metal doors or fiberglass doors with weather stripping for exterior doors.
– Joints: Caulk and seal all joints, seams, gaps, and openings thoroughly to prevent air leaks.
With the right insulation and air sealing, you can maintain comfortable temperatures in a metal building home. Proper ventilation is also key to prevent humidity and condensation problems.
How to Run Utilities in a Metal Building House
Like any home, a metal building house needs essential utilities installed:
Electrical: Work with an electrician to install adequate wiring and panel capacity. Make sure to size the panel for any large appliances or future expansion. Install indoor and outdoor lighting, outlets, switches, and circuits per code.
Plumbing: A qualified plumber can run water supply lines, drain pipes, and venting. Consider an on-demand tankless water heater to save space. Install bathroom and kitchen fixtures.
HVAC: Have a heating and cooling contractor size and install ductwork, vents, and an HVAC system with enough BTUs for the interior square footage. This provides climate control.
Septic System: If not on municipal sewer, have a permitted septic system installed with a drainage field. This handles wastewater.
Natural Gas: Contact the local utility company to bring in a natural gas line if desired for appliances. This requires gas piping.
Cable/Internet: Communication lines need to be run for things like telephones, computers, and television. Networks can also be set up wirelessly.
Coordinate timing so utilities are installed as needed throughout the construction process. All permits, inspections, and codes must be followed.
How to Add Interior Finishes
The interior finishes transform a basic metal building into a warm, inviting home. Recommended finishes include:
– Drywall: Install drywall on interior walls and ceilings for aesthetics and fire protection. Use moisture resistant drywall in bathrooms.
– Trim: Add door trim, base trim, window trim, and crown molding. This gives a finished look.
– Flooring: Choose tile, laminate, hardwood, or carpet flooring throughout rooms. Use luxury vinyl plank for baths and laundry.
– Paint: Apply 2-3 coats of interior paint on walls and ceilings in desired colors. Accent walls provide character.
– Cabinets: Install kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and storage built-ins to maximize space.
– Countertops: Select attractive countertop materials like granite, quartz, or solid surface.
– Fixtures: Include modern fixtures like ceiling fans with lights and plumbing fixtures in finishes like black or brushed nickel.
– HVAC Grilles: Blend in air supply and return vents with the rest of the decor.
The finishes give your metal building home the aesthetics and functionality of any conventional house.
How Much Does It Cost?
Converting a metal building into a house costs $100-$300 per square foot on average. The total expense depends on factors like:
– Size of the building
– Quality of finishes and appliances
– Placement of windows and doors
– Complexity of the floor plan
– Local labor costs
– Whether utilities are already on site
– Permitting fees
A basic 1,500 square foot metal home conversion may cost around $150,000. High-end finishes can drive this up towards $300,000 or more. The conversion still tends to be cheaper than building a comparable traditional house from the ground up.
Tips
Follow these tips for the best results when making a house out of a metal building:
– Hire contractors experienced with metal building homes for installation and utilities.
– Get all required permits and meet building codes. The local municipality can provide requirements.
– Consider spray foam insulation for a higher performance envelope.
– Look into ENERGY STAR rated windows, appliances, and HVAC equipment.
– Install an overhang on the south side to shade and prevent overheating.
– Landscape around the building to increase curb appeal.
– Add a covered front porch to create outdoor living space.
Conclusion
Converting a pre-engineered steel building into a residential home is an innovative, budget-friendly construction method. With creativity and proper planning, a metal building can be transformed into a comfortable, energy-efficient house tailored to your needs. The durable steel construction provides long-lasting resilience while allowing for completely customizable layouts and finishes. If looking for a unique home that is quicker to build than traditional construction, making a house out of a metal building is a promising option worth exploring.