Barndominium Foundations – Meeting Structural Needs
One of the most vital components underlying any lasting structure lies beneath the floors – the foundation. For barndominiums, using repurposed lumber from antique timber barns or built new, preparing proper base support proves pivotal. What key specs should owners expect for typical barndo foundation needs?
Most Prevalent Barndominium Foundations
Considering expansive clear spans and heavy load ratings required in pole barns and agriculture outbuildings, reinforced concrete slab foundations prove most prevalent for barndominiums. Benefits include:
• Supports heavier second floor load capacities if adding a future loft
• Simpler to build versus extensive excavation of perimeter footings
• More accessible construction for do-it-yourself builds
• Allows depression of slab for integrated radiant floor heating systems
Code Requirements and Typical Specifications
To meet residential occupancy regulations, most jurisdiction codes mandate:
• Minimum 5 inch thick slab thickness
• Reinforced with fiber additive or wire mesh for durability
• Anchored with j-bolts linked to integrated perimeter beam in slab
• Insulated underside sheet prior to pour to mitigate temperature transfer
• Moisture vapor barrier sheets beneath slab
• Gravel base fill for drainage below slab
• Thicker edges to prevent cracking from ground movement
Properly executed, an embedded perimeter beam concrete slab foundation formulated from high strength 5,000 PSI concrete mix designs provides ideal structural support for the tremendous clear spans and dynamic live loads generated over generations of family life within your barndo.
Consult local engineers or your floor plan designers to adapt critical specs suiting your region’s climate, soil types and codes for lasting foundations to hold your barndo for years to come.
