We are unclear as to how old this barn is, records for the property go before 1900. This barn is posing a dilemma for us, we don’t know wether to reuse to timbers for a new structure or try and salvage it... it’s falling down in the center, it’s dangerous for us to do the tear down or even repairs. I’ve called a few places but companies only want to remove it and the wood. We don’t want to do that... any help is appreciated!! idealy if salvageable we would love to convert the upper part into an art studio and the lower for a few animals and storage. please advise! Thanks!
Amy
Thanks, Amy, for the picture and your comments. Yes, your barn is in rough shape, but from what I can see, it is not beyond repair. The Indiana Barn Foundation does offer site visits, and we only charge for our mileage costs at a rate of $.54 per mile. If you would like such a visit, just send me your address and I will estimate the mileage costs for you and set up a time for one of us to look at your barn. We also have a grant program, information for which you can access on this site.
Your hopes for a studio/animal habitat are admirable, but clearly you would have to have a sound structural framework before completing such work. This might entail removal of all the siding, and perhaps the roofing, in order to repair and straighten the timber frame. Based on your photo, you also need foundation work. These kinds of repairs do not necessarily require the expertise of a timber framing expert, as many skilled carpenters would have the know-how to tackle such a job.
As you have found out, however, not all of those with the skills have an interest in tackling this kind of work. Many barn owners have expressed their frustration in attracting contractors to help with their barn repairs. We do have a contractor list on this website, but availability is limited. We are working to attract contractors to advertise on our website in order to be more helpful to barn owners like you, but have not as yet been able to meet the need. This is why I emphasize that owners concentrate on locating reputable, skilled carpenters who reside in the local or nearby community.
Please feel free to contact me directly at the email address above if you would like to arrange a visit or communicate further.