What Carolina Custom Barns Does (And Doesn’t Do): A Simple Guide for Property Owners
In North Carolina, pole barns (and barndominiums) are trending. And with ever-growing amounts of online content—positioning post-frame construction as a kind of miracle solution—it’s no wonder that property owners are eager to learn more.
However, in that process, many of these folks are discovering one simple fact. Not all pole barn builders offer the same services. And when we hear from property owners, most are in the dark about what goes into constructing a pole barn (or barndo) on their property.
To help clarify this process for you, this article explains the following:
- What Carolina Custom Barns builds
- What we don’t build, and…
- What that means for you
So give it a read. You’ll also find a breakdown on choosing the right construction type for your project (stud frame vs post frame), as well as how you can save up to 20% on the cost of your build.
Let’s go. ↓
What Types of Buildings Does Carolina Custom Barns Build?
Carolina Custom Barns specializes in durable, high-quality building shells and exteriors for residential, agricultural, and commercial post-frame and stud-frame structures.
When we say “shell,” we’re referring to all aspects of a building's exterior.
This includes:
- Exterior framing
- Siding
- Roofing
- Windows
- Doors
Our focus is on providing high-quality, weather-tight exteriors without the additional overhead of working with a general contractor (more on that in a bit).
These shells are perfect for:
- Pole barns
- Agricultural buildings (hay & equipment storage)
- Workshops and hobby barns
- Large garages (RVs, boats, etc.)
- Dual-purpose buildings (homes attached to a shop)
- Simple barndominium shells (both post-frame and stud-frame)
For a quick look at what your building might look like, swing by the Gallery Page.
What is the Purpose of Building My Shell Separately?
The reason for constructing your building’s shell with an independent contractor is simple: it’s cheaper.
For most applications, a high-quality, weather-tight shell is all that’s needed for a building that performs for decades into the future with minimal maintenance. This is especially true in the agricultural and commercial spaces.
However, some residential clients—particularly those interested in barndominiums—are looking for “turnkey” solutions. They want someone to build their entire home… And call them when it’s ready to move in.
Such a scenario requires working with a general contractor—someone you pay to handle everything from the initial design to project management and final completion of your home. The downside is that a GC raises your total build costs by an average of 15–20%.
This additional cost is worth it for many homeowners. That said, it’s totally unnecessary for simpler projects.
And even if you do want to build a primary residence, you can still hire your own subcontractors (and maybe even perform some interior work yourself) to get your building costs much lower.
What Doesn’t Carolina Custom Barns Do?
Simply put, we do not offer interior work or turnkey barndominiums. Additionally, our focus is on wood-framed buildings—and we don’t construct heavy-duty steel commercial buildings or red iron steel framing.
If you’re building a primary residence, each of the following will need to be completed either by yourself or another subcontractor. If you’d like to go this route, we can point you in the direction of some of our most trusted subcontractors in the area.
Your shell excludes:
- Interior framing/walls
- Floorplan designs (bathrooms, kitchens, etc.)
- Electrical wiring
- Flooring
- Plumbing
- Wells and septic
- Interior finishes like drywall, cabinets, etc.
What is the Difference Between Post-Frame and Stud-Frame Construction?
No two homes or businesses are alike—and your ultimate success relies on finding the best construction method suited to your end goals.
Therefore, we offer both post-frame and stud-frame buildings (aka “stick-built). Depending on your project scope, one or the other will provide the most economical solution.
Here’s a breakdown of the two and scenarios where each shines (something you can also learn with a quick phone call).
Post-frame buildings are made with large posts placed directly into the ground. The building’s exterior is then built around these posts, rather than on a traditional “skeleton” of stud-framing.
Post-frame buildings do not need a concrete foundation—making them more affordable for simple structures. Additionally, this framing style is ideal for creating large, open spaces that don’t need interior framed walls.
Buildings that can be built economically using post-frame construction include:
- Agricultural buildings (hay, feed, equipment storage)
- Workshops and mechanical spaces
- Residential hobby barns and garages
Stud-frame buildings, on the other hand, are built upon a concrete foundation or slab, with the entire building frame assembled on top with wooden studs (traditionally 2 x 4s for residential construction).
Stud frames are often ideal for creating residential living spaces and complex barndominium designs. There are a few reasons for this.
- No wood is set directly into the ground, reducing the risk of rot
- Interior drywall can be attached directly to framing*
* This drywall point is an important one. Since post-frame posts are often set 8–10 ft apart, additional framing needs to be added between them for interior finishes like rooms, drywall, electrical, and plumbing—meaning you’re paying for both the posts and the studs.
Does Carolina Custom Barns Help Design My Building?
Short answer: Yes. Exterior design is part of the building process—and the main contributing factor in you receiving a detailed, accurate quote before committing to your build.
Again, we don’t provide help with interior details like floorplan layouts, kitchens, bathrooms, etc., but will help you come up with all of the following:
- Overall dimensions based on goals and budget
- Window and door placement
- Siding and roofing materials and finishes
- Visual design options like color schemes, trim, porch overhangs, roofing styles, etc.
We also offer 3D renderings and models—so you can visualize the finished structure, refine any details before we break ground, and make sure you get a building you’re proud of for life.
For some inspiration, swing by the Gallery Page for a look at some recent projects.
Still Have Questions About Getting A Building You’re Proud Of?
Give us a call. Because at the end of the day, the best way to get your questions answered is to hop on the phone and speak with a friendly, knowledgeable builder specializing in post-frame construction in North Carolina.
So take the next step toward a building you’re proud of today—with a free quote and initial consultation today.