Pole barns, also known as pole sheds, pole buildings, or post-frame buildings, are a type of outbuilding that has been around for centuries. They are commonly used for agricultural and industrial purposes, such as storage for equipment and animals, but can also be used as garages, and workshops. This article will take a closer look at pole barns and provide an overview of everything you need to know about them.
What is a Pole Barn?
A pole barn is a type of outbuilding that is constructed using poles as the main support structure. These poles are typically made of wood but can also be made of steel or concrete. The poles are dug into the ground, eliminating the need for a concrete foundation. The roof and walls of a pole barn can be made of various materials such as metal sheets, wood, or even plastic.
Pole barns are relatively easy and inexpensive to construct, making them a popular choice for agricultural and industrial buildings. They are also customizable and can be designed to suit your needs, including size, shape, and layout. The simplicity of their design also makes them relatively easy to maintain. Still, they require regular inspections to ensure that the poles are in good condition and that the roof and walls are adequately secured.
The History of Pole Barns
The history of pole barns dates back to the early 1800s when settlers in the United States began to construct outbuildings using poles as the main support structure. These early pole barns were used for the storage of hay and other farm equipment, as well as for housing animals.
Over time, pole barns evolved and became more versatile, and they began to be used for other purposes, such as garages and workshops. The design of pole barns also evolved, and today’s pole barns are much more advanced than their early counterparts. They are available in various sizes and styles and can be customized to suit specific needs.
Current State of Pole Barns
Today, pole barns are still a popular choice for outbuildings, particularly in rural areas. They are commonly used for agricultural and industrial purposes, such as storage for equipment and animals, but can also be used as garages, and workshops.
One of the main advantages of pole barns is that they are relatively easy and inexpensive to construct. They are also customizable and can be designed to suit your needs, including size, shape, and layout. Additionally, pole barns are relatively easy to maintain. Still, they require regular inspections to ensure that the poles are in good condition and that the roof and walls are adequately secured.
However, pole barns may not be as energy efficient as other types of buildings and may require additional insulation to maintain a comfortable temperature inside. But still, they offer a lot of versatility and can be used for many different purposes, such as storage, and workshops.
Advantages of Pole Barns
Pole barns have several advantages, including:
- They are relatively easy and inexpensive to construct.
- They are customizable and can be designed to suit your needs, including size, shape, and layout.
- They are relatively easy to maintain.
- They are durable and sustainable building options.
Designing and Building a Pole Barn
Designing and building a pole barn involves several steps, including:
- Determining the size and layout of the pole barn.
- Obtaining necessary permits and approvals.
- Clearing and leveling the building site.
- Installing the poles and other support structures.
- Installing the roof and walls.
- Finishing the interior and exterior of the pole barn.
When designing a pole barn, it’s essential to consider the intended use of the building and local building codes and regulations. It’s also important to work with a reputable contractor who has experience building pole barns and can guide you through the process.
Maintenance and Repair of Pole Barns
Proper maintenance and repair are essential to ensure the longevity and functionality of a pole barn. Regular inspections should be conducted to check for any signs of wear or damage, such as rotting or termite damage in the poles or leaks in the roof.
If any issues are found, they should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Basic maintenance tasks, such as repainting or re-staining the exterior, should also be performed to protect the wood and other materials from the elements.
Conclusion
Pole barns are a versatile and cost-effective option for outbuildings and have been used for centuries for various purposes. They are relatively easy and inexpensive to construct and can be customized to suit specific needs. However, they may not be as energy efficient as other types of buildings and require regular maintenance. Overall, pole barns offer a durable and sustainable building option with a relatively simple design that can be used for many different purposes, such as storage, and workshops.
FAQs
The most common sizes we get asked for are a 30′ x 40′ pole barn, 40′ x 60′ pole barn, or a 40′ x 40′ pole barn. It is important to keep it mind that it is typically most cost-effective to build in 8-, 9- or 10-feet increments because of the standard spacing options for pole barn posts.
What are the basics of a pole barn? ›
The steps to pole-building success are simple: Create a level base pad (if you want more than just the earth underfoot), set poles vertically into holes in the ground, connect them across the top with beams and braces, then put roof trusses on top. No need for a complicated foundation, either.
Is it cheaper to build a pole barn or metal building? ›
Customizable metal buildings are generally less expensive to build than a wooden pole barn, but that doesn't mean they are of lesser value. A stronger foundation, higher quality materials, and less required maintenance over the life of the metal building will save you money on all fronts.
Why not to build a pole barn house? ›
Pole barn homes can be more difficult to heat and cool than traditional homes. This is because the pole barn construction does not provide as much insulation as a traditional home. As a result, pole barn homeowners may see higher energy bills during both the winter and summer months.
How big is a 40x60 pole barn? ›
A 40×60 pole barn can be fully finished with individual offices that give your whole team a focused place for work. With 2,400 square feet, you'll be able to customize your office pole barn with a breakroom, conference room, and even a gym for your employees!
Which is better a wood or metal pole barn? ›
Comprised Strength & Durability
It cannot be stressed enough that the strength and durability of a wood pole barn does not come close in comparison to that of a metal or steel building. Wooden beams and poles come from different pieces of wood, meaning they're inconsistent in their strength.
Should pole barn posts be set in concrete? ›
Now, if you have really great digging conditions and the soil is very compacted, then drilling footers and holes and setting the posts in concrete would be the best and most cost-effective method.
How many years will a pole barn last? ›
The Common Lifespan
However, the most commonly cited timeline is 40-60 years. But, that doesn't mean that after 40-60 years your pole barn is guaranteed to lose function or no longer be standing. In fact, it is possible that with the proper care, pole barns could last upwards of 100 years.
How much does it cost to build a 40x60 stick-built shop? ›
Average 40x60 pole barn cost
A 40x60 pole barn costs $24,000 to $72,000 for the kit alone or $36,000 to $96,000 installed, not including the land, site prep, or a concrete foundation. Pole barn kit prices are $10 to $30 per square foot, while labor to build the barn costs $5 to $10 per square foot.
What are the disadvantages of a pole barn? ›
Disadvantages of Pole Barns
Though pole barns have a strong support system and construction method, this may leave less room for design creativity. The spacing between the posts and their size can limit design options because changing them may hurt the building's structural integrity.
30x40 buildings have a total floor area of 1,200 square feet (sq ft). The calculation to determine this is done by multiplying the width (30 feet) by the length (40 feet) of the structure.
What is the cheapest style barn to build? ›
A pole barn is the most simple barn design. You can build one yourself with just a little know-how in using tools.
Does a pole barn need a foundation? ›
Foundations are essential to any structure. Without them buildings would not have any stability or be able to stay square and true. Water causes erosion, while freezing temps and thawing causes the soil level to shift which in turn can cause foundation issues if not laid out professionally.
What is the difference between a pole barn and a stick build? ›
Since pole barns don't require a continuous foundation, you have more flexibility in terms of your site location. Also, unlike a stick-frame structure, a pole barn building may not need a completely flat foundation during construction. You can add interior gravel and do a final grade after the building is completed.
Can pole barns withstand high winds? ›
Wind can place tremendous stress on a pole barn, so you need to design your building to stand up to strong and sustained winds. If you don't, the structure could be weakened and it could possibly collapse. Code buildings are designed to be able to stand up to 90-mile-per-hour straight-line winds.
What is the cheapest type of barn to build? ›
Pole barns are among the simplest types of structures, which is why they are so cheap to build. In place of foundations, telegraph poles are hammered into the ground to support the roof. This roof is often made of metal corrugated sheets, again, to keep costs down.
How big should my pole barn be? ›
It differs from residential to commercial. The most common residential pole barn size is 24×24. This size is specifically designed for a garage or carport. The most common commercial pole barn size will be in the 30×40 range.
What is the most economical building size? ›
If you're searching for the most economical metal building size, you'll likely find that the 20x20, 24x26, and 30x30 structures stand out due to their balance of affordability and functionality. This makes them ideal for a wide variety of applications, and minimizes your overall material and labor costs.
