If you’ve been in the post-frame building game a while, you already know, we’re not in the same business we were ten years ago. Heck, even five years back feels like a different world.
What used to be mostly barns and machine sheds has morphed into one of the most versatile and in-demand construction methods out there. Homes. Breweries. Retail. Fire stations. It’s everywhere.
Anyone remember the classic line from the 1980s Oldsmobile commercials: “This is not your father’s Oldsmobile”? This was a campaign designed to tell buyers changes were in the air and this is the new generation old Oldsmobile. I think it’s safe to say: This ain’t your father’s pole-barn anymore. Welcome to the new generation of post frame.
And guess what? The real opportunity is just starting to heat up.
If you’re still riding on the way things used to be, I’ll be blunt: You’re already behind. However, if you’ve got your boots strapped on, head on a swivel and your eyes forward, there is more opportunity now than I’ve seen in five decades of involvement.
Let’s break it down.
Barndominiums: From Barns to Dream Homes
What started decades ago on the farm now lives in folks’ visions of their dream home. Barndominiums are more than a trend; they’re a movement. Wide-open spaces. Tall ceilings. Quick builds. Flexible options.
If you’re in post-frame and ignoring residential builds, you’re missing one of the biggest shifts we’ve ever seen.
The smart players are leaning into:
• Custom Building:
Folks are begging for experienced builders who can deliver high-end post-frame homes. Are you in?
• Material Supply:
Homeowners don’t want the plain metal box anymore. They want premium finishes along with high-end doors and windows. Upgraded siding, roofing and insulation. If you’re still pushing the same catalog you had in 2015, you’re missing the mark.
• Design & Engineering:
More municipalities are tightening up codes. Engineered plans aren’t a bonus anymore — they’re expected. If you’re offering this, you’re in the sweet spot.
This wave isn’t slowing down any time soon.
Post-Frame Means Business — Literally
Drive through any booming area and what do you see? The continued growth and acceptance of post-frame buildings popping up in places they never used to be. Post-frame is now used to build:
• Auto shops
• Breweries
• Retail stores
• Fire stations
• Community centers.
Why? Because it goes up fast, can offer some cost efficiency and lasts. But there’s a catch—these customers expect a fit and finish that goes beyond ag basics. Well beyond.
Builders need to step up with HVAC integration, heating and plumbing, advanced insulation and fire-rated assemblies. Suppliers need to stock products that match commercial codes and the modern eye.
The biggest play here? Want to own this space in your market area? Turnkey. Be the one-stop shop. Design to build.
Don’t have the expertise to handle it all? Fear not my friends. Collaboration is key. Develop relationships with contractors in areas outside of your level of experience and foster a team approach. Don’t forget the financing part of the equation. With barndos reaching the level of visibility and acceptance they have, financing has become much more accessible. Become familiar with and partner up with banks so you can assist your buyer with this vital part of the project as well.
• • • • •
Ag Buildings Are Still Here… But They’ve Grown Up
Ag isn’t dead … far from it! But, it’s gotten smarter.
Today’s farmer is thinking long-term. They want:
• Bigger clear spans
• Better insulation
• Thoughtful ventilation
• Classy office finishes
• Energy efficiency built in.
No more cheap-and-done. They’re investing in buildings that work harder, last longer and look better.
If you’re still quoting ag like it’s 1998, someone else is going to eat your lunch.
Metal Roofing and Siding Are The Showpiece — Not the Afterthought
Metal used to be the practical choice. Now, it’s the premium one.
Metal roofing and siding have broken out of the “just for barns” mold. Developers, homeowners and commercial property owners all want it. And they want it to look good. And it does thanks to:
• Standing seam systems
• Hidden fasteners
• Exposed fasteners with long life heads
• Textured and matte finishes
• Large color palette
• New siding options such as board and batten.
You want margin? This is one place you will find it. If you’re not selling metal as an upgrade, you’re leaving cash on the table. Familiarity to all the myriad of panel options is paramount with today’s savvy buyers.
Marketing and Tech —Not Optional Anymore
This one separates the old dogs from the pros who learned new tricks.
Today’s customer doesn’t walk into a showroom first. They look you up online. Review your website. Watch your YouTube videos. Scroll your LinkedIn posts. Check you and your projects out on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. If you’re invisible there, you’re invisible—period.
Want to stay in the game?
• Show your work. Yard signs work well but online presence matters even more with today’s tech savvy consumers.
• Use modern tools such as virtual consults, 3D design and digital quotes. They’re not just for the “big guys” anymore.
• Play both sides. Be a HYBRID marketer. I feel you must present yourself simultaneously in-person and online. Handshakes and hashtags. You need both.
Remember this: Visibility = Opportunity.
So… Where’s This All Going?
Post-frame’s future is wide open. The demand for faster, smarter and better construction is growing like never before.
So here’s the truth:
• Builders who embrace residential and commercial? They’ll thrive.
• Suppliers with high-end, customizable products? They’ll grow.
• Companies using both boots-on-the-ground hustle and digital muscle? They’ll lead.
I’ve seen a lot of changes in my 50 years in this industry and one thing is for certain: With or without you, the industry’s moving forward at lightning speed.
Don’t run from it … lean into it. Be the one who adapts, adjusts and keeps moving. Comfort zones never closed a deal or built anything worth talking about. Growth lives just outside ‘easy’ so go meet it there.
So ask yourself: Are you clinging to the past, or building for what’s next?
Let’s Build!
