Episode 125: Finding a Niche in Post Frame Construction with RR Buildings, Kyle Stumpenhorst

Written By Greg Villafana

Live at the International Building Show, Brad speaks with Kyle Stumpenhorst, owner of Rural Renovators, which specializes in building custom post frame buildings for the residential, agricultural, and commercial sectors.

Kyle defines post frame construction as a surprisingly durable, time-tested building method that has even been utilized by the ancient Egyptians over two millennia ago. Post frame also results in savings on time and resources. A large, weather-proof structure can be built this way in a week, and interiors can then be brought in completely shielded from the elements.

Kyle’s personal goal is to “evolve post frame into something that is more than a barn” by promoting its advantages using his platform so that more people can see the potential of this often underappreciated method of construction.

He uses Instagram to address the myths and misconceptions surrounding post frame construction, and overall educate potential customers who are curious and open to learning more.

Says Kyle: “I just want to educate what sets us apart and what we’re doing so that people, on day one, will say, ‘I don’t have any questions for you.’”

Sponsors:

Topics Discussed:

  • [01:52] What is “post frame construction”?

  • [05:05] How post frame homes can be more energy efficient

  • [08:21] Why Kyle decided to specialize in post frame construction

  • [11:40] Post frame construction from the perspective of engineering

  • [13:20] Why Kyle uses social media to promote post frame construction

  • [16:24] How social media has impacted Rural Renovators’ business development arm

  • [18:25] Embracing your niche and core values

  • [22:07] Kyle’s favorite product

  • [27:17] Deciding which projects to feature on social media

  • [35:48] Communication between different parties as a general contractor

  • [38:18] Collaborating with high-quality vendors

  • [45:09] Kyle’s advice to those starting out in the industry

  • [48:47] The typical payment plan when working with Rural Renovators

  • [53:52] Rural Renovators’ business today compared to year one

  • [58:30] What Kyle does for fun

Connect with RR Buildings & Kyle Stumpenhorst:

Connect with Brad Leavitt:

Key Quotes by Kyle:

  • The engineering behind a post frame is legit. A lot of people look at them and think, “That’s just a barn. It’s going to blow away in the wind.” But, not when built and engineered properly.

  • In the market I’m in – Midwest, rural town – you can’t become the guy that’s overpriced. You can’t become the guy who appears to be overly successful. You have to be true to your ideals and who you are and your community.

  • You can’t take that short gain for something that you’re looking to do long-term.

  • Now that social media has become so prevalent, it’s given a voice to the contractor [to say] that we do care, that we love what we do.

  • With regards to content, no matter what you’re doing, show what you love. Show what excites you. That’s really all that matters.

Greg Villafana
Previous

Episode 126: House of Form: Design From the Heart & Soul to Achieve Quality Brand Expression with Dala Al-Fuwaires
Next

Episode 124: Kohler: 42 Years of Strategy, Innovation & Expanding Builder Segment with Wally Schwartz