How to Insulate a Barndominium with Foam Insulation

Barndominiums – or “barndos” if you’re feeling casual – have taken center stage on HGTV and across the country, and for good reason.

They blend the rustic charm of a barn with the comfort of a home, giving homeowners the best of both worlds. But here’s the kicker: if you want to enjoy that cozy comfort year-round, insulation isn’t optional – it’s essential.

RetroFoam dealers across the country have been helping homeowners make their homes more energy-efficient and comfortable, regardless of their design. They work with all kinds of building structures and exteriors.

Enough about us; let’s get to business.

In this article, I’m breaking down how to insulate a barndominium, why foam insulation is the best insulation for barndominiums, and what you need to know whether you’re rehabbing an old barn or building your barndo from scratch.

Why Are Barndominiums So Popular?

Before we get into barndominium insulation, let’s talk about why people love these structures in the first place:

• Open floor plans: Barndos are basically a blank canvas for homeowners. Whether you want a wide-open great room or a massive kitchen, these structures make it easy.

• Faster builds: Barndominiums often go up quicker than traditional homes, especially if you’re using a metal frame or converting an existing barn.

• Energy efficiency: That same simplified construction actually helps when it comes to making the home energy efficient, especially when foam insulation is involved.

• Durability: Steel-framed barndos are resistant to pests, rot, and other maintenance headaches that come with traditional homes.

How Do You Insulate a Barndominium?

The way you insulate a barndominium depends on whether you’re working with a new build or an existing structure.

New Build Barndominiums

If you’re still in the construction phase and the drywall isn’t up yet, spray foam insulation is your best bet.

Spray foam is applied directly to the framing and sheathing, expanding to seal every nook and cranny.

• Open cell spray foam is great for interior spaces, offering flexibility and sound dampening.
  
  
• Closed cell spray foam adds structural support and is a solid choice for areas where moisture might be a concern.

Spray foam also works wonders on large barndominium doors – like sliding barn doors or garage-style entries. Just keep in mind, because closed cell doesn’t flex, it should be applied to each individual panel so it moves properly with the door.

Existing Barndominium Insulation

Working with an older structure? That’s where RetroFoam injection foam shines.

It’s perfect for retrofits because it can be installed without tearing down your walls.

Here’s what the install process looks like:

• Crews drill small holes into the exterior sheathing.
• Foam is injected into the wall cavities.
• Any potential blockages (like fire stops) are located to ensure complete coverage.
• After the foam is in place, holes are plugged, and the siding is replaced.

It’s quick, clean, and leaves your space ready for year-round comfort.

Barndominium Wall Construction: What to Watch For

Barndominium walls can vary quite a bit depending on how they were built.

Some have standard framed wall cavities, while others – especially rehabbed barns – might have extremely wide cavities that run the entire length of the wall.

This changes how the foam is installed. Your insulation contractor may need to:

• Drill in multiple spots vertically to ensure full coverage.
• Navigate unusual framing setups.
• Discuss wall height with you in advance – taller walls may require special installation techniques.

What is the Best Insulation for a Barndominium?

When it comes to the best insulation for a barndominium, foam insulation is at the top of the list.

Here’s why.

• Air sealing: Both spray and injection foam create an air seal that helps control indoor temperature and reduce energy use.

• Durability and longevity: Foam insulation doesn’t sag, settle, or degrade over time the way traditional insulation materials can.
  
  
• Sound control: Especially helpful in wide-open spaces where echoes can be a problem.

Whether you’re building new or updating an existing barndo, foam insulation gives you the best shot at a comfortable, efficient home.

Ready to Insulate Your Barndominium?

If you’re planning to build a barndominium or already live in one that needs insulation upgrades, RetroFoam dealers nationwide are here to help.

Visit our Find a Dealer page to connect with a local expert who can make your barndo the cozy, energy-efficient dream home you imagined.

Key Points:

• Barndominiums are popular for their open layouts, energy efficiency, and fast construction timelines.
• Foam insulation – either spray or injection, or both – is the best insulation for barndominiums.
• New builds benefit from spray foam before drywall goes up, while existing barndos can be insulated with spray foam in the open cavities and injection foam in the walls.
• Wall construction varies – some may have larger wall cavities requiring special attention during installation.
• Foam insulation provides an air seal, improves comfort, lowers energy bills, and enhances the durability of your structure.

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