Can I make a metal building into a house?

Converting a metal building into a residential home is absolutely possible with proper planning and renovation. Metal buildings provide a blank canvas to create a unique living space with an open floor plan. While they are not designed for residential use out of the box, metal buildings can be outfitted to meet building code requirements for a home. With insulation, climate control, plumbing, electrical systems, drywall, and finishes, a metal building can be transformed into a comfortable place to live.

Benefits of Using a Metal Building

Metal buildings offer several advantages as a starting point for a home:

  • Cost – Purchasing an existing metal building shell is often much cheaper than constructing a new home from the ground up. You can save significantly on material and labor expenses.
  • Customization – The open interior allows you to customize the layout and design your perfect floor plan.
  • Durability – Metal structures are highly durable and stand up well to weather, bugs, mold, and fire.
  • Efficiency – Steel construction results in less heat transfer than wood framing, so your home can be more energy efficient.
  • Adaptability – Metal buildings come in a range of sizes, so you can usually find one that fits your space needs.
  • Speed – Converting an existing metal structure is often faster than building new.
  • Resale value – Unique metal homes tend to hold their value well compared to traditional construction.

What to Look for in a Metal Building

When evaluating a metal building to convert into a home, keep the following in mind:

  • Size – Make sure the dimensions meet your space requirements. It’s easier to work with a building that’s too large than one that’s too small.
  • Layout – Look for a clear span building without interior columns or posts to allow flexible room layouts.
  • Location – Choose a site with access to utilities and services.
  • Structure – Inspect the foundation, roof, walls, and connection points for soundness and code compliance.
  • Building age – Newer buildings will require less work than older, deteriorated structures.
  • Previous use – Avoid buildings with potential environmental contaminants from prior agricultural or industrial uses.
  • Zoning – Verify that residential use is permitted on the property.

When viewing potential metal buildings, take measurements and photographs of the interior and exterior to help inform your renovation plans.

How to Convert a Metal Building into a House

Converting an empty metal shell into a livable home takes careful planning, permits, and skilled tradespeople. Here are the key steps involved:

  1. Plan the layout – Map out how you will use the space based on room dimensions and metal frame locations. Determine which parts of the building will become bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, living areas, etc.
  2. Get permits – Check with your local building department on permit requirements for residential conversions and design to meet building codes.
  3. Hire contractors – You will likely need plumbers, electricians, HVAC professionals, carpenters, and drywall installers. Find licensed, insured contractors with metal building experience.
  4. Insulate – Add fiberglass batt or spray foam insulation with at least R-13 for walls and R-30 for ceilings.
  5. Install utilities – Extend water, sewer, gas, and electric services to the building if not already present.
  6. Partition walls – Frame interior walls with metal studs or wood framing and cut openings for windows and doors.
  7. Hang drywall – Screw sheets of drywall to the interior wall framing for fire protection and a finished look.
  8. Finish walls and ceilings – Tape drywall seams, apply joint compound, and add desired texture for painting.
  9. Add HVAC systems – Install heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment sized for the building.
  10. Install plumbing – Run supply lines, drains, vents, fixtures, and water heater.
  11. Add electrical – Run wiring, outlets, switches, lighting, and service panel with breakers.
  12. Install finishes – Choose and install flooring, cabinets, countertops, bathroom fixtures, interior doors, trim, and painting.
  13. Inspect and test systems – Verify all structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems function properly and safely.

Careful project management is key when renovating a metal building into a home. Planning and permitting can take 2-4 months. The conversion process may take 6-12 months depending on building size and the extent of renovations.

Cost to Convert a Metal Building into a House

Converting a metal building into a home costs $100-$200 per square foot on average. A 1,500 square foot metal building would therefore cost $150,000-$300,000 to convert.

However, costs vary considerably based on factors like:

  • Building size and layout
  • Permitting fees
  • Degree of renovation needed
  • Types of finishes and fixtures
  • Local labor and material rates
  • Specialty trades required

Here is a breakdown of typical conversion costs:

Conversion Step Average Cost
Plans, permits, fees $5,000 – $20,000
Framing labor $15,000 – $25,000
Insulation materials and installation $5,000 – $15,000
Plumbing system $15,000 – $30,000
HVAC system $15,000 – $30,000
Electrical system $15,000 – $30,000
Drywall materials and labor $15,000 – $30,000
Interior finishing (flooring, kitchen, bathrooms) $20,000 – $60,000
Total average cost $100,000 – $200,000

Getting contractor quotes for each stage of the conversion is the best way to estimate total costs. An experienced metal building contractor can help guide you through the process.

Carefully research costs and create a detailed budget before starting a metal building home conversion project.

Considerations for Converting a Metal Building into a House

Transforming a basic metal building into a nice home takes skill and proper planning. Keep the following tips in mind:

  • Hire an architect or draftsman to create thorough construction plans for permits.
  • Work with a knowledgeable metal building contractor familiar with residential conversions.
  • Get all necessary permits and conduct inspections at each stage.
  • Add plenty of insulation for soundproofing, temperature control, and fire resistance.
  • Install good ventilation systems to avoid moisture and humidity issues.
  • Use metal stud framing instead of wood to avoid termite and rot issues.
  • Choose durable finishes that minimize maintenance and match your style.
  • Pay attention to decorative details like crown molding, lighting, and hardware.
  • Consider radiant barriers and reflective insulation if you live in a hot climate.
  • Research and follow all local residential building code requirements.

Converting a metal building takes significant time, money, and effort. But with the right approach, you can cost-effectively create a high quality, customized home. The finished product will provide comfortable, durable, and energy-efficient living for many years to come.

Conclusion

Converting a metal building into a house is an involved yet achievable project for DIYers, contractors, and architects. With careful planning, design, budgeting, and skilled tradespeople, a basic steel structure can be transformed into a modern, stylish home. Metal buildings provide a unique opportunity to inexpensively build a durable, energy-efficient custom residence. Paying close attention to insulating, finishes, layout, and aesthetics allows metal construction to be adapted beautifully into livable housing. For those willing to take on the challenge, a metal home conversion delivers functionality, sustainability, and curb appeal.