Another good roof option is a grain bin roof. Good quality grain bin roofs are typically maintenance free for decades, and a good choice for windy areas and hail zones. They are especially practical for those who live in agricultural areas and can buy the roofs separately from local grain bin suppliers. They’re also very practical for those short on time or where the building season is short. Order the size that will provide the appropriate roof overhang. Roof overhangs are important for protecting the walls and regulating solar gain. To install the roof, hoist the roof into place with a crane, bolt it down and you’re finished. Think of all the hours you’ll save on ladder work and climbing around on your hands and knees. Roofing is the most dangerous step of construction, so be careful out there.
Hobbit House Plan now available with three roof options
Photo credit: Hoosier Ag Today
Could you let me know of the different grain bin tops that I may use as roofs on buildings. I am thinking of building an earth bag home and a metal round roof may be the ticket. Your help is appreciated.
There are many manufacturers of grain bins. I suggest that you find local distributors of bins and compare costs and features. Finding local sources will save a lot of money on the shipping.
great idea- but where’s a good place to buy a grain bin roof?
Use Google to find grain bin dealers near you.
You can actually build entire homes out of grain bins, and I know one architect who has specialized in just that. See http://dreamgreenhomes.com/plans/bincabin.htm for an example of this. He nests two bins and puts insulation between the two, resulting in well-insulated, disaster-proof buildings.
Oh man, this is the thing for me. I love the sight of a thatch roof but this is practical.
Freakin’ genius. I love being able to converse with people who are smarter than I am. Unfortunately, it happens far too infrequently… ;-)