Comparing Metal Red Barns To Traditional Wooden Structures

Early American farmers settled in New England, where they did not have excess money to spend on aesthetics like paint. During the late 1700s, popular paint recipes were made using skimmed milk, lime, and red iron oxide to create a protective layer on the wood. This gave the iconic red barn buildings their distinctive look.

With time and innovation in the agricultural sector, metal structures have become a more affordable and durable alternative to traditional barns. Here, we will compare red barn metal buildings to wooden ones and see their pros and cons. So, keep reading.

1. Durability

Structural steel is roughly 25 times stronger than the traditional material used in a red barn building. It is non-porous and dense and is not susceptible to moisture in the air due to changing seasons.

You don’t need to frequently repair and replacement of metal panels. Steel buildings retain their structural integrity with time. They are a long-lasting and robust material.

2. Construction Time

Most parts of a metal structure are manufactured in a factory setting. Moreover, metal is lightweight, easy to ship and carry around. At the construction site, installation takes less time and requires less labor.

Therefore, construction time is shorter, and labor costs are largely reduced. You can install a simple metal barn within a week.

3. Future Expansion

Expanding a wooden barn is a lot complex and requires many structural changes. With a red steel building, you can design for future expansion with your metal dealer. So, in the future, when you need expansion, you can remove the end walls, add more side wall panels, and place the end walls back. That’s easy!

4. Clear Span

A clean span is a design with no internal supporting beams obstructing the internal space. Wooden barns can’t be without columns for large structures as they need a load bearer. Red barn metal buildings can be made clear span up to 300 feet wide.

This will allow you to keep large and medium-sized farm machines, including tractors efficiently. Further, it can serve as a multi-purpose unit with 100% usable space.

5. Weather Resistant

Did you know red barn buildings can be designed to tolerate high-speed winds (up to 170 mph), bear snow loads (up to 40 lbs. per sq. ft. or more), and withstand earthquakes? This is one reason why steel buildings suit farmers and ranchers.

6. Pest & Fire Proof

Termites and other pests do not attack steel, as it is dense and hard to chew. Steel barns will keep your livestock healthy and crops safe from bacteria, harmful molds, and mildew. With proper fire retardant and insulation, the chances of a fire outbreak are minimal. Due to the metal’s high durability, you also get the advantage of insurance premiums that are up to 30% off.

In addition, metal structures are low maintenance and require cleaning once or twice a year.

7. Customizable

You can add custom features to your metal building to increase its functionality. Some of the customization features are as follows:

1. Large barn doors such as hinged doors, sliding doors, etc.
2. Extra windows on side walls or near the eave (known as clerestory windows)
3. Ridge vents, gravity/ wind turbines, etc., vents system for airflow inside
4. Artificial lights such as LEDs, gooseneck barn lights, sign lights, etc.
5. Gutter with a downspout and a deposition tank to collect rainwater for agricultural use

Red Steel Building: Cost

Note: If you are running tight on budget, fear not! Metal red barns are for sale. Call (704) 579-6966 for more info.

How Versatile Are Red Barn Metal Buildings?

There are plenty of uses for a red barn building. Here, we have listed some of the common ones:

1. Hale bale storage
2. Sheltering farm tools & vehicles
3. Clear span metal barn for crop dusters
4. Mezzanine red barn for a small office space above and grain sacks below
5. Livestock shelter
6. Horse riding arenas
7. Dairy farms

Various Types Of Red Barn Roof

Regular: It is suitable for small-size metal sheds or loafing sheds.

Box Eave | Horizontal: It is suitable for medium-sized barns in a moderate climate zone.

Standing Seam | Vertical: This type of red barn roof is best for harsh weather conditions, requires less cleaning, and is recommended for large barns. Although it costs slightly more than other types, you can get the best deals during online red barns for sale.

Get Your Free Quote Now!

End your hunt for the most durable, versatile, and long-lasting red barn metal building with Viking Barns. We offer the traditional red barn color along with 10+ color options for you to choose from. You can pick the color you need, the aesthetics, and the climatic zone. Additionally, we also provide our clients with matching colored screws for a seamless look. So, hurry, call now to get the best deal!