The grain bin house is possibly the most intriguing of all the eco-friendly sustainable dwelling styles. It has a one-of-a-kind exterior and a saving option. Continue reading to learn more.
Sustainable housing is becoming increasingly popular in modern architecture and construction. We see all types of architectural marvels since they go hand in hand with new design trends. A-frame houses, repurposed shipping containers, prefab housing, and grain bin houses are all options.
What is it about a good old silo that makes you want to turn one into a home?
- It’s cheaper than most other framing materials
- Reusing materials is sustainable and eco-friendly
- The design shape has great visual appeal
A grain bin house is a structure made from an old grain bin (silo).
Grain bins are tall metal silos with conical roofs that are typically found on farms. Many of the older ones have been decommissioned. Rather just throwing them away, inventive architects have devised methods to incorporate them into construction projects.
Grain Bin Bar!
You’re not sure you want to create a whole house? Start small in your backyard with a little silo and a DIY project to make it into an outdoor bar (or an outdoor kitchen).
A backyard bar is ideal for entertaining guests, but few people have the financial wherewithal to invest in one. A grain bin can make it more affordable by providing a low-cost, ready-to-use structure in a matter of minutes.
How To Build One Of Your Own
In a nutshell, the following is the procedure for converting a grain bin into a house frame:
- Get a bin with enough space for the projected number of occupants.
- Dig up a concrete foundation and set the bin in place.
- Carve out the doors and windows.
- Add the framing if you plan a second or third level.
- Insulate the walls using closed-cell foam or spray insulation.
- Install the plumbing, electrical, heating, and cooling systems.
Check out other people’s floor plans if you don’t know where to start while designing your grain bin house. Look inside to see what they did and see if you can do the same with your silo.
If you want to build a two-story grain bin home, for example, look into it. You’ll find creative storage, layout, and spacing solutions. You’ll figure out how to jam everything in without feeling claustrophobic.
If you enjoyed this check out more of our home content HERE!
