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Are you interested in those sheds that resemble good ole’ country barns? If so, you are at the right place!
Whether you are researching to find the right one or on the fence on whether a mini barn is a right fit for you, prepare to have your inquisitive fire quenched as we answer 9 crucial questions surrounding prefab small barns.
Enjoy discovering more about mini barns and how one can fit splendidly into your backyard.
Table of Contents
A prefab small barn is a shed that is built with a gambrel roof that slopes on both sides. This build results in a shed that looks like a traditional barn, however, a lot smaller. The small barn also holds the most space thanks to its gambrel style roof which allows for a loft (if desired) and greater overall roof height.
The answer really depends upon your storage or personal space goals and needs.
If you are looking for a simple storage solution for your lawn equipment or surplus household items, a mini barn is ideal. On the other hand, if you need plenty of storage space for a workshop, larger work equipment, or big household items, then a lofted barn might be the right fit for you.
Here is the low down on their main differences.
A mini barn does not include a loft so there is less headspace, and its available sizes run smaller than a lofted barn. A lofted barn includes a loft that provides more storage and headspace and its sizes run bigger than a mini barn.
To better differentiate between the two:
A Mini Barn:
| 8×8 | 10×10 | 12×12 |
| 8×10 | 10×12 | 12×14 |
| 8×12 | 10×14 | 12×16 |
| 8×16 | 10×16 | 12×20 |
| 10×20 | 12×24 |
A Lofted Barn:
| 8×8 | 10×10 | 12×12 | 12×28 |
| 8×10 | 10×12 | 12×14 | 12×30 |
| 8×12 | 10×14 | 12×16 | 12×32 |
| 8×14 | 10×16 | 12×18 | |
| 8×16 | 10×18 | 12×20 | |
| 10×20 | 12×24 |
There are three things that you should seriously consider when buying a new mini-barn or lofted barn.
Are you on a tighter budget? If so, a mini barn is the most economical choice. Download our price list (for free) to compare prices.
2. Space Needs
As mentioned earlier, carefully evaluate how much space you need or want to determine which size of a mini barn or lofted barn is right for you.
You can get a smaller lofted barn or a bigger mini barn, so if the price is no object, you have your pick. However, consider if you want lots of shelving, storage for tall items, a loft, or enough space for storage and creativity/work.
Plus, think about all the storage items you hope to organize inside your new small barn. A customer-proofed rule of thumb is to go one size bigger than the one you think will fit all your storage. It is amazing how quickly your shed will fill up.
3. Your Backyard’s Available Space
How much space does your backyard hold? Make sure to take a moment to evaluate where you want your shed and if that space is big enough for your desired small barn and size.
Proper foundation preparation is vital for ensuring your small barn lasts for decades to come.
The best way to prepare the ground for your small barn’s arrival is to have the gravel shed foundation ready and waiting. Gravel shed foundations are highly recommended for their time-tested reliability, easy installation, and affordability.
First, evaluate if the allotted ground of your future small barn needs leveling or if it is level enough. If it needs leveling, make sure to level it properly. Once you are sure the ground is level and all necessary excavating is complete, if desired, you can install a wooden perimeter around the shed base for a tidy and attractive look. Once that is complete, you can install landscape fabric (which helps keep weeds at bay and provides added stability). Finally, you can spread the gravel and level to ensure the foundation is perfectly set for your small barn.
For a step-by-step guide to installing your very own gravel small barn foundation, check out this incredible guide by Site Preps, How to Level the Ground for a Shed and How to Build a Gravel Foundation – The Complete Guide.
Also, if you plan on using your small barn as a living space such as a guest room or home office, a concrete foundation would also be a safe and effective route.
NOTE: Avoid setting your shed on just leveled dirt or just shed concrete blocks. Follow the link to find out why.
You will want to be careful not to place your small barn above your sewage tank or gas lines. It is also ideal if you can avoid placing your shed underneath old trees or ones prone to losing branches to prevent unwanted damage to your shed.
The best place to install your small barn shed would be on a sunny and easily accessible spot in your yard away from trees, underground sewage tanks, or gas lines. Sunshine is your free and best defense against moisture build-up which is why it is wise to prioritize setting your shed in a sunny backyard location.
If you are an experienced DIYer (owning plenty of necessary tools) with available time on your hands, then building your own small barn is the cheapest route. However, if you only have beginner to general construction knowledge and/or are pressed for time due to other work-related responsibilities, buying a small barn will save you time, headaches, and even money in the long run.
It is important to remember that building a small barn requires the following:
On the other hand, buying a small barn involves:
The following items are safe to store inside a mini barn:
Items to avoid storing inside a small barn are:
The culprits you are trying to keep from the items to avoid are humility and excessive heat or cold. However, if your small barn is finished inside with heating and AC, you can safely store all of the above.
Rent-To-Own is available as an alternative to paying for your mini or lofted barn all upfront. Rent-To-Own is a payment plan that allows you to pay monthly rent on your small barn and at the same time invest towards full ownership. This payment option offers you a great amount of flexibility and does not require a credit check.
Discover all the details by checking out What is Rent-To-Own? Plus, for even more details on the subject check out our complete guide on, How Do Rent-To- Own Sheds Work?
It is common for shed builders to offer a warranty on certain parts of the shed, like the roofing or siding. At Gold Star Buildings, we offer a 40-year warranty for our metal siding and metal roof and a limited lifetime warranty on our exterior treated wood.
So, if you choose metal siding for your mini or lofted barn, you can expect a 40-year warranty to be attached to this siding choice. Plus, if you choose a metal roof, another 40-year warranty is added to your shed. If you prefer the assurance of a warranty, definitely choose metal for your small barn’s siding and roof.
For more details or if you have any further questions about our available warranties for our mini or lofted barns, please contact us.
Are you ready to take the next step to own your very own small barn?
If so, get ready to enjoy the beauty and resiliency of this mini replica of a traditional barn as you revel in ordering and organizing your life with a new storage space of your own!
Nothing beats the feeling of pride and satisfaction that comes from stepping inside your new shed to set your prized tools in their place and then securely locking its door behind you as you prepare to head inside your home for some relaxation before you sleep.
Your ideal small barn awaits!
Enjoy the thrill of discovery and ownership!
Click on the buttons below to get a FREE quote or download our FREE Price List and Buying Guide. Find out what your storage shed, garage or cabin will cost. You'll receive detailed information on how we build and available options. We would be more than happy to help you determine if a Gold Star storage building is right for you!
