What to Consider When Building a Barndominium in Ontario
Barndominiums – a blend of “barn” and “condominium” – are becoming increasingly popular across Canada, especially in Ontario. These stylish yet practical homes combine the rustic charm of a barn with the comforts of a modern home. But before jumping into construction, there are several important things to consider. This simple and detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know about building a barndominium in Ontario, from planning to construction – in easy words and clear steps.
1. What is a Barndominium?
A barndominium is a metal or wood-framed building that serves as both a home and a functional space (like a workshop, garage, or storage). They’re durable, cost-effective, and flexible in design. In rural areas of Ontario, barndominiums are an ideal option for families looking for spacious and affordable housing with a touch of countryside charm.
2. Zoning and Permits in Ontario
Before building, check if your land is zoned for residential construction. In Ontario, every municipality has its own building and zoning laws. You’ll need:
Zoning approval from your local municipality.
A building permit from the building department.
Site plan approval (in many cases). It’s smart to talk to your local city hall or building department early in the process to avoid delays later.
3. Choosing the Right Land
Not all land is ready for a barndominium. Choose a plot that is:
Easily accessible for vehicles and equipment.
Close to utilities like electricity, water, and septic systems.
Free from flooding risk or heavy rock that makes digging harder.
Also, make sure the soil is stable for foundation work. A soil test may be needed to confirm if the land is suitable for construction.
4. Design and Layout Planning
One of the biggest advantages of barndominiums is flexibility. You can design:
Open floor plans
High ceilings
Custom kitchen and bathroom spaces
Large garages or workshops
Think about your needs:
How many bedrooms and bathrooms?
Will it be a single or two-storey building?
Do you need an office or home gym?
You can hire an architect or use pre-made barndominium floor plans. Make sure the design meets Ontario Building Code requirements.
5. Foundation Work
Foundation is the base of your building – and it must be strong. In Ontario’s cold climate, you need a foundation that goes below the frost line to avoid damage from freeze-thaw cycles. Common foundation types include:
Slab-on-grade: Flat concrete foundation. Great for one-floor barndos.
Basement foundation: Adds extra space but costs more.
Crawl space: Slightly raised for easy access to plumbing and electrical systems.
You’ll need excavation work to prepare the land for your chosen foundation type. This step is crucial for a long-lasting structure.
6. Building Materials
Barndominiums are often built with:
Metal frames: Long-lasting, low maintenance, fire-resistant.
Wood frames: Easier to modify and insulate, but require regular care. For exterior and roofing, steel panels are popular. For interiors, drywall, insulation, and wood accents are common choices.
7. Insulation and Heating
Ontario winters are cold, so proper insulation is key. Spray foam or batt insulation can help keep your barndominium warm in winter and cool in summer. For heating, consider:
Radiant floor heating
Forced air furnaces
Wood or pellet stoves (for rustic charm)
Don’t forget to seal windows and doors properly to keep energy bills low.
8. Plumbing and Electrical Work
Barndominiums need all the basic home systems:
Water supply (well or municipal)
Septic system or sewer connection
Electrical wiring and outlets
Internet and cable (if needed)
It’s important to hire licensed professionals for this work to meet Ontario safety standards.
9. Budget and Costs
Barndominiums can be more affordable than traditional homes, but costs vary based on size, design, and finishes. In Ontario, expect to pay anywhere between \$150 – \$250 per square foot, depending on your choices.
Include these in your budget:
Land costs
Permits and fees
Foundation and excavation
Materials and labor
Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC
Interior finishes (floors, cabinets, etc.)
10. Timeline and Construction Phases
Here’s a typical timeline:
Planning and permits – 1 to 3 months
Excavation and foundation – 2 to 4 weeks
Framing and exterior – 1 to 2 months
Interior systems – 1 month
Finishing touches – 1 to 2 months
Weather and availability of materials may affect your timeline.
11. Benefits of Building a Barndominium
Affordability: Cheaper per square foot than traditional homes
Durability: Metal buildings resist fire, pests, and weather
Customizable: You control the layout and design
Multi-use space: Combine living and workspaces
12. Why You Need Professional Excavation Services
Excavation is the first and most important step of your construction. Poor excavation leads to problems later like uneven foundations, water drainage issues, and structural weakness.
A professional team ensures:
Proper leveling and grading
Safe digging for plumbing and septic systems
Reliable foundation preparation
If you're ready to start building your dream barndominium in Ontario, get expert help from the start.
Melo Excavation offers professional residential and commercial excavation services across Ontario. With a skilled team, modern equipment, and deep experience in foundation and site prep work, they ensure your project starts strong and finishes smoothly.
👉 Contact Melo Excavation today for a free estimate and expert guidance on your barndominium project.