The Best A-Frame House Kits You Can Buy in The USA in 2024

A-frame houses have been a very popular residential option for people living in the United States of America. These modern houses are common in modern neighborhoods thanks to their immense benefits and affordability.

Building an A-frame cabin from scratch can be a daunting task, provided that you do not have expertise in construction and are in a hurry. In this case, A-frame house kits offer great flexibility and options to finish building your house with minimal effort and time.

In this article, we have listed small house kits for your A-frame house that provide effortless construction of an A-frame house on a budget.

What Are A-Frame House Kits?

An A-frame house is a building that resembles the letter "A." It is built using fixed giant frames to give a triangular building shape. A-frame houses offer a wide first-floor area with a slightly small second floor-and a tiny loft at the top.

These cabins are the best for structural integrity and affordability since fewer construction materials are used in making them. Prefab A-frame house kits USA is a complete package of all that you need for making an A-frame house, and it consists of house plans and construction materials needed in the building.

Benefits of A-Frame House Kits

A-frame house kits offer various benefits when it comes to cost-effectiveness and simplicity. First, these house kits come with no hassle considering the multiple house plan options and choosing compatible materials. The A-frame small house kits have proper house plans and materials, and it also comes with a step-by-step guide to help make construction easy for you.

Since A-frame house kits use limited materials without many customizations, they are affordable compared to traditional houses. They also offer a unique and stylish design due to their incredible "A" shape.

Most importantly, A-frame house kits are energy efficient and durable as they consist of large windows that allow natural sunlight and wind to pass through, reducing the cost of air conditioning. Moreover, the triangular design with the large base offers great structural integrity to the house.

Do You Need a Planning Permit to Build a Cabin?

A-frame homes offer many benefits regardless of what you want them for, but you need to make sure you can have one before paying for a kit or trying to build one yourself. We are talking about having the legal authorization to use A-frame house kits in your house or any other area, as not many know the requirements for it.

The first question people ask when they hear about A-frame house kits is if they need a planning permit for it. Something similar happens with backyard sheds and office pods since, permission-wise, both follow the same regulations, and you need the same permits to build them. 

Apart from the legal part, you need to consider many things when choosing A-frame homes in the U.S. Read this page to learn everything you need to know about A-frame homes! That will help you avoid having problems in the planning or construction process. You can go to the Autonomous website to read other blog posts related to A-frame homes or backyard sheds. 

The truth is that it depends on many factors, as some cabins need planning permits and others don’t. Based on what? That also depends on several things, but in this case, on the city where you want to build the cabin.

Not all states have the same regulations, and the cities within those states have different variations of those rules, so you always need to adapt to how things are in your hometown. Regardless of that, there are a few factors that always play an important role in whether you need a planning permit or not.

We’d say that the most important one is the size and design of the cabin. Smaller options don’t often need any kind of permit, even if we are talking about an A-frame kit. Generally, you don’t need a permit for structures between 6’x 8’ and 8’x 10’, but you should still check if you do need the document in your city.

When we talk about design, we refer to how the whole cabin will work including insulation and utility connections. Depending on how you want to run the cabin and what you want the cabin for, you may need a permit. The more complex the layout of your A-frame kit is the more likely it is that you’ll need permission from the local government to build it. 

Even if you don’t need a permit for prefab A-frame homes in your city, you still need to comply with local rules, such as zoning regulations and setback requirements. If you want to build the frame in a neighborhood with a HOA, you also need to ask the president of the association for permission. 

The best thing you can do to avoid having issues is to call a professional contractor to ask them all the rules you need to follow to get a cabin.

What Happens If I Don’t Get a Permit?

Many things can happen if you need a permit to build a cabin but make it without it anyway, though that also depends on the city where the cabin is. In the best-case scenario, you would just need to pay a fine and maybe the fees to get the permission. 

More severe cases end up with you taking the whole structure down if the cabin is too big, violates many regulations, or is too dangerous for you and the people around it. 

People often avoid getting planning permits either because they didn’t know they needed them in the first place or because they thought it was too much of a nuisance to do it. 

If you are one of the latter, we can assure you it’s way more time-consuming to go through all the legal problems you would have if you don’t get the permit, so call a licensed contractor to help you if you are planning on getting A-frame modular homes. 

What Should I Consider When Looking for an A-Frame Home in the U.S?

You need to take many things into account before getting prefab A-frame homes, and we are not only talking about the legal factor. Things such as looks and energy efficiency determine how much value the property will get in the future and the advantage you will be able to take from it.

We want to help you benefit the most you can from your A-frame kit, so here is a list of the key things you should consider when looking for one:

Location

The location of your new cabin is one of the most important factors to consider before picking one. We are not only talking about the city where you want to build it but also the exact place in that city. Even if it’s in your backyard, there are specific regulations you need to follow and requirements you have to meet.

You have zoning regulations that, for example, tell you how far from other facilities your cabin needs to be. In case you want to build the cabin somewhere outside your house, keep in mind that you still need to own the area to install any kind of structure. Let’s take the woods as an example. 

People can build A-frame homes in a forest, but they need to own the area of the forest where they will build the cabin. Apart from that, some localities have specific rules on the structures you can make in the woods and the purpose they can have, even if it’s on a place you own.

Size and Layout

As you read before, the size and layout of your cabin may determine if you need a planning permit for it or the other legal requirements you may need to meet to build it. However, we recommend you avoid kits bigger than the standard measure we gave you before. 

Buildings Codes and Regulations

Following the local building codes and regulations for building prefab A-frame homes is essential if you don’t want to get in trouble with the law in the future. It would be a shame to have to take down all the efforts you put into getting a new cabin just because you didn’t want to follow the regulations for it, so never forget to keep an eye on the legal part of everything.

Cost

The money you are willing to spend on A-frame house kits depends entirely on you and the budget you have planned for it, but that doesn’t mean you should make unwise financial decisions if you have the funds to do it. You should look for a property that has a decent cost-quality balance.

If you are going for an expensive kit, make sure that it has a lot of features and an amazing design to make up for that. On the other hand, people going for a more affordable option should still pick one with a good design and a fair number of functions despite its price.

Energy-Efficiency

Although building a new cabin can bring you many profits in the long term, it also means facing additional maintenance costs you need to be prepared for. One of them is energy bills since it means having a whole new structure that may use even more energy than your house, depending on how big it is and what you want the A-frame kit for.

Therefore, we think the best you can do is find a model that offers energy-efficiency features that help you make energy bills less expensive at the end of the month. Try to get A-frame homes with proper insulation and big windows. However, those are often more expensive than other options due to how difficult it is to install insulation in this type of roof.

Looks

You should never take the aesthetics of your new A-framed house for granted, even if you are not going to use it that much or if it’s not for you to live there. Regardless of what you want to do there, you will feel more motivated to do it if you do it in a place you visually like.

On the other hand, it may be exhausting to work in a place you don’t like. The same happens if you want to build a house to rent or use as a guest room; giving a bad impression is the last thing you want.

Resale Value

We know that you are not thinking about selling your new A-frame kit if you just bought it, but it’s something you should keep in mind. People often get a lot of profits from properties or buildings they bought in the past, but others don’t because they don’t think about the resale value of what they purchase before they do.

Get a prefab A-frame house that has enough features and preservation capabilities. If you do that and focus on maintenance, you will be able to sell it for a high price in the future. Additional features, such as proper insulation and built-in utilities, will add up to the final price of the structure.

Company Reputation

Regardless of how good a deal looks or the features an A-frame house promises, you should never buy anything blindfolded. Research the company or contractor selling that frame and read the reviews other users have made about its products. You could be at risk of falling for a scam anytime, so it’s better to do what you can to keep it from happening.

Personal Needs

It’s a good idea to make a list of the personal needs you want your new A-frame house to have. Maybe they are not things that will or must 100% be in a kit, but you can see if you find one with them to avoid spending money on adding them by yourself after you build the whole structure.

Best Prefab A-Frame House Kits to Buy in 2023

1. System 00

Imagine a wooden A-frame cabin in the middle of the snowy woods with dark lighting; System 00 is exactly that. The cabin is quite compact and only offers the essential items required for living. It is an ideal choice for those looking for a small office space to use besides their primary dwelling or someone looking for a small living space in the woods. Due to the small size of mere 10 by 10 feet, you won't find any attached bathroom or kitchen inside the cabin, but a shelf, desk, bed, and some storage will be there for your convenience.

The front end of the cabin is covered with glass windows and a door, which allows plenty of light to come inside. Moreover, no power tools or heavy machinery will be required during assembly, which makes it pretty convenient for those working under a tight budget. Three to four people traveling in this attractive small cabin would be able to set up the whole structure in less than a week. If you choose to buy this product right now, it would only cost you around 40,000-45000 USD.

Pros

• Less than a week is required to assemble 
• Budget-friendly
• No heavy machinery is required to assemble
• Attractive design

Cons

• Limited size options
• Limited customization options
• No bathroom or kitchen

2. Ayfraym Prefab A-Frame Cabin

If you are looking for guest house plans for a steel A-frame kit, Ayfraym is one of the best options. This luxurious house kit spans over 1,943 square feet of interior space, making it the perfect option for your family.

The prefab A-frame house kit features large windows that easily allow the passage of air and sunlight, stabilizing the inside temperature and making it cool to live in the scorching heat. The setup allows you to build two bedrooms and two bathrooms, and the arched ceilings make your rooms much more spacious. The kits come with a 4 and 6 months construction plan that you can choose from.

Pros

• Unique and stylish design
• Fast and easy assembly
• Durable and low-maintenance materials
• Energy-efficient features
• Versatile for various uses

Cons

• Limited customization options
• Higher upfront cost than some alternatives

3. Backcountry Hut Company A-Frame House Kits

This company is currently offering three backyard guest house A-frame kits to choose from. The best part about them is their unparalleled reach, and each A-frame house kit can be easily shipped pre-cut and flat-packed anywhere in North America. So there is no problem even if you live in a remote part of North America.

This kit has a step-by-step building guide, all the necessary materials, and the guest house plans you will need for your A-frame house. The simple yet captivating designs can be made from scratch to completion within a week with a good team at work.

Pros

• Sustainable materials and design
• Easy to assemble and customize
• Durable and low maintenance
• It can be used for a variety of purposes
• Affordable pricing

Cons

• Limited square footage
• Basic design options may not suit everyone's tastes

4. Den A-Frame Cabin Kit

We all have heard about wheels on the bus. But what do you think about wheels on an A-frame house? The Den A-frame house kit is exactly that. This futuristic modular ADU is a budget house that can be moved. It offers a comfortable living experience due to its premium choice of materials and big-sized windows for proper ventilation.

Pros

• Affordable price point
• Easy to assemble with pre-cut materials
• Movable with attached wheels
• Eco-friendly materials
• Ample natural light

Cons

• Limited customization options
• The smaller size may not suit larger families

5. Avrame DUO Series House Kits

The last prefab A-frame house kit on our list is the ultimate Avrame DUO series house kit. These metal A-frame house kits are highly environmental friendly, thanks to the sustainable materials used while building them. For shed house ideas that are modernistic and affordable at the same time, Avrame makes use of inexpensive materials and equipment.

The standard design offers a bathroom, kitchen, and living room. However, you can still modify the rooms and utilize the space as you wish. This prefab guest house can serve a full-sized family.

Pros

• Unique and modern design
• Quick and easy assembly
• Affordable pricing
• Energy-efficient features
• Versatile for different uses

Cons

• Limited customization options

6. M.A.D.I Home Flatpack

M.A.D.I home flatpack is an ideal A-Frame cabin for those who want a modular design with an easy installation process. Conventional A-Frame cabins require months to set up, but this one won't take more than 15-20 days. Its natural design can adapt to any environment or weather; however, we highly recommend you use it as a home base in the woods, where the whole setup sets perfect contrast with dense trees.

You can choose from three different design options – single, double, and triple units. For people traveling with family, a triple cabin would suit the best as the whole area extends to 104 square meters. Another benefit of using an M.A.D.I is that it provides you with space to install solar panels on the roof, making the whole frame energy independent.

Pros

• Adaptability
• Room for Solar panels
• Low setup time and cost
• Attractive design
• Three different size options to choose from

Cons

• Limited customization options

7. BIVVI A-Frame Cabin

BIVVI is another great A-Frame cabin brand for you to buy from. It is a great choice for people who want to build a modular home in a very limited space. With more than four decades of experience, the company claims to be one of the best interior designers for outdoor camps. Almost all of their products are targeted toward nature lovers, fort builders, hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and explorers.

One of their products is the base camp cabin, a small A-Frame home with wheels attached to the bottom for easy movement. The whole cabin takes up only 80 square feet of area and flexes its capability of blending in everything in such a small space. The interior of the cabin is made of wood panels, protected by the metal clad on the outside. The combination of metal and wood makes the cabin both durable and attractive. For ventilation, you will find triangular windows on the outside, allowing the air and sunlight to come in. Please note that the small space won’t let you place heavy furniture inside, which tests your creativity to set up some outdoor furniture with this cabin to elevate its beauty.

Pros

• Wheels for easy movement
• Durable and adaptable
• Attractive and smart design engineering
• Quick delivery

Cons

• Limited space options

8. Klein & Big A45 Tiny House

For people who want premium quality, design, and living experience, there is nothing better than Klein & Big A45 tiny houses. For all the features and living experience, the price the company asks for is quite reasonable, which makes it a perfect option for mid to high-budget travelers. The size of the tiny house is around 185 square feet, that can fit all of your necessary furniture.

Moreover, the house also has a bathroom with cedar panels and a floor-to-ceiling window for proper lighting. The best part of using this amazing product is the stylish black exterior made of sustainable materials, making it an environment-friendly and budget-friendly option.

The home also features a built-in kitchen for you to cook your favorite meals. There is a lot more to enjoy in this structural piece of art, as you can also get a ton of customizable options to choose from. Pine framing cork ceilings and Douglas fir flooring are some of the most common options that you should go for.

Pros

• Customizable options and add-ons
• Spacious and comfortable to live
• Extremely attractive and modern design
• Value to money
• Built-in bathroom and kitchen

Cons

•  Only one size option is available

9. Lushna Tiny A-Frame Green Cabin

Lushna tiny A-Frame Green Cabin is one of the best micro cabins from Lushna. The cabin offers you the opportunity to add plenty of modern amenities and customizations.

The Lushna prefab cabins feature the innovative WOODSMART® construction system, renowned for its exceptional eco-friendly qualities and efficient insulation. This system incorporates a strong, 120 mm layer of Eco wood fiber insulation, working in harmony with highly breathable membranes. This combination not only ensures significant energy savings but also provides remarkable comfort throughout all four seasons. The usage of natural materials and these breathable membranes not only offers excellent fire and sound protection but also creates a soothing and inviting living environment.

Pros

• Glassdoor for immersive viewing of the outside world
• Attached balcony
• Good customization options
• Good value for money

Cons

• Limited size options

Consider A-Frame House Kit Alternatives

Autonomous WorkPod

This A-frame house pod can serve as a versatile cabin that can be utilized for a wide range of activities. This soundproof workspace will allow you to focus and be productive. It is easy to construct and has an adjustable foundation, which means it can be installed in various locations, ensuring stability and safety. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to work, practice your workout routines, or enjoy some me-time without distractions, the Autonomous WorkPod is a spacious and modern cabin that best meets your needs.

WorkPod

74 reviews

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Autonomous WorkPod Versatile

The Autonomous WorkPod Versatile stands out as an excellent alternative to traditional A-frame house kits. Its modern and functional design not only provides a comfortable living space but also maximizes creativity in spatial utilization. With automated features and a flexible approach to harnessing natural light, WorkPod Versatile offers a unique living experience while promoting energy efficiency. It seamlessly blends contemporary aesthetics with utility, making the Autonomous WorkPod Versatile a superb choice for those seeking both comfort and effectiveness in constructing an A-frame home.

WorkPod Versatile

22 reviews

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Autonomous WorkPod mini

The Autonomous WorkPod mini emerges as a compelling alternative to conventional A-frame house kits. Its sleek and efficient design not only offers a functional workspace but also presents a stylish and versatile solution for modern living. The WorkPod mini is equipped with smart features and ergonomic considerations, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a contemporary and efficient living or working space. With its compact footprint and thoughtful design, the Autonomous WorkPod mini redefines the possibilities of A-frame living, providing a dynamic alternative for individuals looking to balance style and practicality in a compact structure.

WorkPod mini

2 reviews

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FAQs

Can I Rent Out My A-Frame Cabin on Airbnb?

As long as you are legally allowed to have the cabin, you can do almost anything you want with it, including renting it on Airbnb, as it’s similar to renting a room in your house. If you are planning on getting A-frame house kits to rent, you should check all the specific regulations residential places should have to serve this purpose.  

Buildings and smaller structures might have to meet different requirements depending on what you want to use them for. Hotels, for example, need to follow specific accessibility rules in a few cities. They include things such as installing a ramp for disabled people.  

Are A-Frame Cabins Energy Efficient?

Not all frame cabins are energy-efficient, but they can be. You can make your structure more energy-efficient if you install proper insulation and enough windows, and several prefab kits already include that in the initial building plan.   

Where Can I Build My A-Frame Cabin?

You can build your A-frame cabin almost anywhere you want as long as you own that piece of land. Nonetheless, beware of the setback requirements in your town since you still need to build your cabin in a place far enough from property lines, roads, or other structures.  

Although you can build a cabin anywhere if you own the piece of land where you want to make it and meet local setback requirements, you may need additional permits to use the cabin for specific purposes, such as a marketplace or service provider.   

Does an A-Frame Cabin Use Less Lumber Than a Stick-Framed House?

A-frame cabins generally use less lumber than stick-framed houses due to the design of the former. Its shape optimizes the use of its materials efficiently, as you don’t use as many walls as other buildings. This can change depending on the size of the structure, though. 

Conclusion

A-frame house kits are versatile, budget-friendly, and efficient choices for people looking for personalized stylish living space. All A-frame houses discussed in this post are made from premium quality materials, providing the ultimate living experience. Overall, they are affordable, durable, and easy to construct as compared to traditional houses, making them a popular choice for residents of the United States of America.

It’s okay to want to get your new A-frame house the fastest you can, but there’s no good in rushing things out. Make sure you take all the time you need to find A-frame house kits that check all the boxes you read on this page, and you won’t have many problems with them in the long run.  

Remember you can always get one of the Autonomous pods if you are looking for an alternative to A-frame homes. They comply with almost all legal regulations in the U.S., and they even come pre-wired, so you won’t have to spend much time setting up your utilities. The Autonomous website also has more blog posts like this one, so check them out now!