Post-Frame Barndominium Shells Explained: Premium Keystone Builds, Cost/Sq Ft Savings & Fast Dry-In

Описание: Post-frame barndominiums are exploding in popularity — but what actually makes a premium post-frame shell, and why are so many people choosing this method instead of a traditional stick-built home? In episode 3 of the Keystone Barndominium Podcast, we break down exactly what goes into a true barndominium shell, how fast Keystone can dry-in a home, and how much money you can save when you take on the finishing work yourself.

We also cover the real-world pros and cons of post-frame construction, shell pricing, cost-per-square-foot expectations, land-prep mistakes, septic perk tests, permitting delays, and why Keystone chooses not to offer turnkey builds — even though customers ask for it all the time.

Whether you’re planning a DIY barndominium build, comparing stick-built vs post-frame, or trying to understand the difference between a metal house and a real “barndo,” this episode gives you a clear and honest breakdown from industry professionals.


In This Episode:
• What a real barndominium is (post-frame vs metal-sided houses)
• Why shell construction saves major money vs turnkey
• Cost per sq. ft. expectations in Tennessee & Kentucky
• Why Keystone specializes in premium post-frame shells
• Dry-in timelines: How we get homes dried-in within 10 days
• Septic perks, permits, codes & delays most people don’t expect
• Land prep mistakes that cost homeowners thousands
• Why acting as your own general contractor can save 20%+
• The reality of coordinating subcontractors in today’s market
• How barndominiums differ from slab, crawlspace & stick-built homes

SHOW OUTLINE:
00:00 – Intro & Justin’s Background
01:20 – Distribution vs Construction
02:50 – “Controlled Chaos” in Building
04:05 – What a Real Barndominium Is
05:40 – Post-Frame vs Metal/Slab Homes
08:18 – What Keystone Specializes In
10:30 – Shell Cost Savings & DIY GC
11:45 – Why Keystone Isn’t Turnkey
12:20 – Cost-Plus Contracts Explained
13:50 – Getting Dried-In Fast
15:00 – Land Prep: Driveway, Utilities, Conduit
16:50 – Septic Perk Tests & Permits
18:20 – First-Time Builder Mistakes
19:50 – Realistic Barndominium Timelines
21:40 – Subcontractor Delays
23:30 – Change Orders = Big Delays
24:30 – Final Thoughts & Advice


Keystone Construction builds custom post-frame barndominiums, garages and shops across Western & Central Kentucky and Middle & West Tennessee.
If you’re looking at land, want a site visit, or need help understanding what’s buildable, our team is here to guide you.

We also provide free drawings with every build, and we offer plan-only packages if you’re still deciding.

📞 Contact us to schedule a site visit
📍 Serving KY + TN: barndominiums, garages, shops, metal buildings
🌐 keystonepostframes.com

Keystone Construction, LLC was started in 2005 by Christian and family man, Leon Leinbach. Since 2005 the Keystone Construction team has grown to provide post-frame buildings to all. We strive to glorify God in all we do while enjoying our work.

Enjoy this kind of content? Stick around and get to know who we are — a team built on God, People, Humility, a Growth Mindset, and Having Fun. Follow us on all our social platforms below!

CLICK here to Subscribe to Keystone Construction’s YouTube: http://bit.ly/4p8c0yf
CLICK here to Follow Keystone Construction on X/Twitter: https://tinyurl.com/zacaa4az
CLICK here to Follow Keystone Construction on Instagram: https://shorturl.at/aORP9
CLICK here to Follow Keystone Construction on TikTok: https://shorturl.at/ikgkY