Anatomy of a Barn: Common Terms & Styles

Throughout the process of designing and building a barn, you will have to wade through a sea of barn terminology. While you don’t need to speak the language fluently, the more terminology you understand, the better you can communicate your dreams to us and builders. With this in mind, we have put together a guide to help you quickly learn the basics.

This guide is not exhaustive by any means but it will get you 80% of the way there. If there are any terms that you have heard that you don’t understand and aren’t on this guide, don’t hesitate to give us a call!

Roof Styles

We offer three major roof styles: Gable, Monitor (RCA) and the Gambrel. These are classic and timeless styles that will fit most needs.

Common Barn Exterior Terminology

There are many parts of the barn exterior that are customizable so understanding the common terms here is essential to achieving the look of the barn you want. You have to know these terms to communicate whether you want an extra dormer, stone lower siding or to add a shed roof.

Common Structural & Interior Terms

Take a look at some of these terms that also apply to many of our barns. Pay special attention to roof pitch and side wall height.

Speaking the Same Language

Now that we are speaking the same barn language, you will be able to communicate more clearly with us or a builder and describe exactly what you are looking for. This will also help mitigate any potential miscommunication down the road which might lead to errors or delays. If you are intimidated by all these terms, never fear! We will help guide you through the process the best we can so give us a call and get started today.