Can This Building Be Saved? Reader BRAYTON in NORTHEAST WASHINGTON writes: “I’ve been previewing your website and am glad I found it! Question: I have been contacted recently by a potential client who had a 40′ x 60′ pole building constructed. The original contractor walked off the job. This client wants me to fix the […]

Part of the mission of any good post frame (pole) building kit package supplier or contractor should be to save the client from making crucial design errors which they will later regret. Among the most often questions I answer in my “Ask the Pole Barn Guru” weekly column is in regards to the ability of […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the most economical way to insulate a pole barn style building, advice on ventilation, and the best column size for a building in Michigan. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello, I am looking at either building a pole barn style or hybrid Steel column, post and […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the possibilities of building a dog kennel with post frame construction, they type of foundation required for a post frame building, and what possible kennel designs Hansen has done. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: would it be possible to do a dog kennel in a pole […]

High Humidity in a Pole Barn Home Reader SAM writes: “I had a pole barn home built before pole barn homes became so popular. A concrete floor was poured around the 6×6 posts, and wooden trusses make up the roof. The pole barn walls have 2×6 purlins, and the roof has 2×4 purlins. Fiberglass insulation […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about adding tin sheets to the underside of trusses with insulation added, the use of glulaminated columns over rough sawn 6×6’s, and pros and cons of wood on grade vs concrete. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am looking at installing metal sheeting on the ceiling in […]

Beyond Code: Preventing Floor Vibration by Frank Woeste, P. E., and Dan Dolan, P. E Floor vibration, or bounce, is not a safety issue — it’s a performance issue, and one that’s likely to be impor- tant to homeowners. No one likes to hear the china rattling in the cabinet when they walk across the room. […]

This Thursday is another bonus ” ask the Guru” answering questions about proper air intake with no overhangs, replacing sliding door trolleys, and most cost effective footing solution. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am in preliminary stages of designing a post-frame building, that will serve a multitude of functions such as a home gym, work-shop, […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the possibility of a kit in Canada where the client would have columns potentially reaching the water table, if a permit is needed for a barn structure in a AG Zoned area in area of Lafayette County, Missouri, and any know where-a-bouts of skylight panels […]

This Tuesday is another bonus “ask the Guru” discussing questions about engineer sealed drawings, a materials list for a post frame garage with sideshed, and footing size questions. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Does it come with engineered Seal drawings as part of the cost? RON in OMAHA DEAR RON: Every building we provide comes with […]

This Thursday’s blog is another bonus “Ask the Guru” answering reader questions about Hansen Kits framing and materials, if a readers structural plans are viable, and whether the Guru thinks an old pole barn can be converted into a Barndo. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do your home kits come as a frame tight to the […]

This Wednesday the Pole barn Guru answers reader questions about adding OSB sheathing under new roof steel, as well as more trusses and carriers to support the new loads, a concern about the need for plywood under roof steel to make a building stronger, and if Hansen has a bracket to use with a helical […]

This Tuesday’s blog is a Bonus Ask the Guru discussing some mixed use ideas for a gallery and apartment, attaching a deck, and a flat roof design. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’m looking for a mixed used building, Large open plan space ground floor for an art gallery and two two bedroom apartments on second […]

a BONUS PBG for Friday, May 31st — Column Spacing, Raised Floors, and a Self-Build DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have spoken to my architect and he is saying to do my column spacing 8′ with truss every 4′. I have looked at your videos and several other videos. I noticed 10′ or 12′ Columns […]

A Bonus Ask the Guru for this Thursday’s blog for Insulation, Lean-To’s and a DIY  DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have a 30×40 pole barn with 6″ purloins mounted between the posts. I’m planning to add minimal insulation using closed cell panels. I’ve seen recommendations to cut the panels to fit between the purloins (would […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the feasibility of building in northern Japan, the possibility of raising an existing post frame building, what the best treatment for in-ground use on columns would be, and if post protectors are needed. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’m currently evaluating the feasibility of building a […]

Wall Insulation for a Hybrid Building Reader MASON in HILLSBOROUGH writes: “I read your blog often and I truly appreciate the wealth of knowledge you openly share. I am in the process of starting construction on a hybrid steel shop that will house a small apartment that the wife and I will move into once […]

a BONUS PBG for Monday, May 27th — Store Front Windows, Tornados, and Texas DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have a customer who is going to have 2×8 and 4×8 store front windows. These window frames need to be as close to the ground as possible. How do I need to build the bottom of […]

A BONUS PBG for Friday May, 24th — Alternative Siding, Basements, and Purlin Size DEAR POLE BARN GURU: In towns that disapprove of houses with rib steel siding, can traditional OSB sheathing on the bookshelf girts w/ vinyl cladding be substituted? Material prices seem similar and no huge difference in labor seems probable. But, will […]

Will I Have Issues With Post Frame Closed Cell Spray Foam Insulation? Reader HEATH in NACOGDOCHES writes: “I am building a pole barn that I do not plan to heat or cool initially, but would like to insulate due to condensation issues and our hot humid climate. Have there been issues with closed cell spf […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru discusses reader concerns about Florida approved board and batten panels for walls, the use of drip stop or condenstop in residential applications, and what the widest build without support poles could be. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I need a 4×8 siding material that has a Florida Product Approval Code. […]

Pole Barn Plans With Clerestory Roofs Reader BRENT in HUNTSVILLE writes: “Do you have any plans for pole barns with a Celestial Shed Roof? It seems like a great way to allow natural light into the building while being an aesthetic design.” By coincidence, I have a son named Brent! In architecture, a clerestory is […]

a BONUS PBG for Monday May, 20th — A DIY solution, a Clear Span, and a Crawl Space. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hi we are looking for something to live in that we can put together ourselves possibly convert to a living space unless you have something that is affordable that is already residential use. […]

A BONUS PBG for Friday May, 17th– Roof Insulation, Column Sizing, and a Moisture Issue. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hi Mike. I built a post and beam shop and am trying to figure out how to insulate the roof on the second floor. The bents are true sawn 6×6 on ten foot centers (building is […]

PEX and Rebar Hairpins Reader BRIAN in LEROY writes: “I want hydronic floor w/ PEX embedded into concrete slab on grade at MN-IA area. Blogs show rebar through holes in poles that are bent into the concrete at about 45 degree angles presumably to tie all elements of building envelope firmly together. In this area, […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about an I-Beam size for a lean too, plans for a county permit- included with purchase of a Hansen Building, and advice for use of insulation and barriers for new build. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hey Mike I’ve got a question for you, I recently just […]

The Advantages of Spray Foam Insulation in Pole Barns Spray foam insulation is an all-in-one solution that can effectively regulate temperature, reduce noise, and prevent moisture in your pole barn. Although all types of insulation minimize heat transfer, spray foam is the only material that can also seal against air leaks, potentially resulting in energy […]

To Vapor Barrier a Ceiling, or Not to Vapor Barrier a Ceiling. Reader RAY in LAPINE writes: “Hello, I live in Central Oregon, in climate zone #5. We are located in the High Desert at 4400 ft. The climate is dry with low humidity, occasional snow and cold in the winter. The summer temps are […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the possibility of raising a ceiling 4′ – 6′ for pickleball, the advice of whether or not to attempt to add a post frame building on top of an 8″ foundation wall– don’t, and the maximum clear span of an indoor riding barn. DEAR POLE […]

Challenges to Insulating an Existing Pole Building Reader TODD in STACY writes: “Hello, I am looking to insulate and heat an existing 30x40x12 pole building that was built in the mid 2000’s. It does not have soffits or ridge vents. The way it is now it gets condensation on the inside quite often just with […]

Questions From a Future Barndominium Owner Reader MATTHEW in MOUNT PLEASANT writes: “I am interested in and currently planning a barn-dominium as a future primary residence for myself. (Male, Single, 35, 1 Cat, 1 Dog) The questions i had for you were: For someone who is inexperienced in the realm of pole barn and construction […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru about building a wood frame basement with “daylight space,” the inside dimensions of a 40′ x 80′ structure, and a debate between steel vs wood construction. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’d like to build a post frame building with a daylight basement space. I’d been researching permanent wood foundations […]

MSR Lumber Producers Council  Today I am a MSR Lumber Producers Council presenter in Charlotte, North Carolina. Lumber grades take into account natural characteristics, including knots, splits, checks, shake, and wane. Lumber design values are assigned to lumber grades to provide a means for using this material in structural applications. These values are published in […]

Things Hansen Pole Buildings Does Better Than Any Other Post-Frame Building Provider To those of you who have read my previous 13 articles, this will serve as a recap. For you who have not, please peruse when you have an opportunity. STRONGEST GLULAM COLUMNS While manufactured from lumber 157% as strong as what is typically […]

13 Can Be Very Fortunate Thank you for participating (hopefully) in my past dozen articles about our “NEW” Hansen Pole Building. If not, I would greatly to encourage you to peruse them. I believe you will find them useful in being able to know you are getting greatest value for your hard-earned building dollars. In […]

Why it’s Critical to Understand Lumber Species Groups Originally published in SBCA Magazine January 6, 2024 For consumers of structurally graded lumber the two key elements of the lumber’s grade stamp are the assigned grade and the species or species group. These two elements establish what published design values should be referenced for that piece […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the need for a vapor barrier, the longevity of properly treated posts, and the better spray foam between open and closed cell. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello Sir, hoping you can help answer a question I cannot get a straight answer on. Currently building a […]

Wouldn’t Field Laminated Posts be Stronger and Possibly More Economical? Reader CHRIS in AIRVILLE writes: “Wouldn’t field laminated posts be stronger and possibly more economical? I have searched your previous blogs and found some information regarding this but they all seemed to refer to the laminated posts being ordered and pre-built. I would think that […]

Thru Screwed Steel Screws – Pull-Over and Pull-Out Hi, my name is Mike, and I am addicted to watching engineering disaster videos. No, there is not yet a 12 step program for this addiction. I have learned a few things from my addiction. When it comes to construction failures, most of them come down to […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about sourcing 4pc of 4x6x18′ treated columns, truss bracing in a custom cabin, and insulating a roof on a metal pole barn. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Looking for 4pcs 4x6x18 treated ground contact. JERRY in COATESVILLE DEAR JERRY: This one is going to be tough. Very […]

Under Slab Insulation XPS or EPS? Way back (okay, 2021 it just seems like it was long ago), I had extolled virtues of expanded polystyrene (EPS) for barndominium concrete slab insulation boards/ Full article can be read here: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2021/11/barndominium-concrete-slab-insulation-boards/. If there is one thing I have learned in my construction industry career, it is insulation […]

YouTube Design of a Post-Frame Mezzanine Reader CHERIE in MARYVILLE writes: “I am in the process of designing a post-frame building for my business. It is a 55x110x16′ building. I am moving my business to this new building and I already have a pallet rack supported mezzanine that I will install in the new building. […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building a basketball court within town height restrictions, building a “dog trot” and some advice on the proper way to insulate a red iron building. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have been on the pole barn Facebook group for over a year and was strongly […]

Introduction to Post-Frame Buildings Rather than me chewing up a portion of your life you will never get back, I am deferring to Chapter 1 of NFBA’s (National Frame Builders Association) Post Frame Design Manual. Here is my overview when it was first published: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2015/03/post-frame-building-3/ Please take a few moments to read this first chapter, […]

Security Innovations for Post-Frame Construction Sites Construction sites are a lucrative target for criminals. A perfect mix of high-value equipment and materials that are often left unguarded overnight or on weekends can make them a soft touch that promises a profitable payday. This is why all large-scale construction projects have comprehensive round-the-clock security measures in […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about ballpark figures to estimate costs of a barndominium, the costs for blueprints for a 40x60x20 building, and what the best way to stop condensation drip on a post frame building would be. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’ve got a very general question, hope you can […]

Concerns About Truss Sizes and Overhangs When Designing a Floor Plan Reader ART in EADS writes: “Hello Mike, my wife and I are making floor plans for a future pole barn house. We see that numerous companies offer buildings in common L x W x H dimensions as well as some customized sizes. We want […]

How Grading Agencies Establish Lumber Design Values Originally published in SBCA Magazine January 16, 2024 Nearly all roof trusses and floor trusses are created using cutting-edge software. Embedded in that software are engineering principles outlined in the National Design Specification, Design Values for Wood Construction (NDS), as well as published design values for the sizes […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru addresses reader questions about ventilation needed for a new attic with metal ceiling and blown-in insulation, a confirmation for endwall needing stitch screws for shear, and if adding sheathing to an existing pole building would add value. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I bought a house with a pole barn […]

What to do About Possible Roof Condensation? Reader JEFF in ADEL writes: “Hello, I am going to order Post Frame building materials and am working on details. The question about condensation is driving me nuts as this is a big project for me and I don’t want a wet building. It will be a 30x48x11 […]

Do You Provide a Service to Install the Kits? This question was asked by reader DAVID in HAMILTON. Your new Hansen Pole Building kit is designed for any average physically capable person, who can and will read and follow instructions, to successfully construct their own beautiful building shell, without extensive prior construction knowledge (and most […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about whether or not Hansen has sold a building in San Diego County, CA, a building with a design wind speed of 150mph, and a recommendation for use of PermaColumn wet set brackets. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Have you sold pole barns in  San Diego County, […]

Open Cell Spray Foam to Roof Steel – When Insulation is Done Wrong Reader JOSH in FARMINGTON writes: “I recently had a pole barn built and after doing a lot of research, went with 5″ of open cell under the roof and on the gables. I did not have any kind of vapor barrier, as […]

How to Best Insulate an All-Steel Building I know lots and lots about post frame buildings, however when it comes to all steel buildings (PEMBs – Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings aka Red Iron) I go to an expert. Today’s expert is John Lyle McInroe aka Mr Bee Happy, he has been in the building industry since […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about cleaning up rough cut lumber that has greyed from exposure to the elements, advice on house wrap and insulation, and the ability of flat purlins over trusses to carry a load in Kentucky. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: My barn project has been a long drawn […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about use of 6 mil plastic vapor barrier in Michigan, if Hansen provides the option of a precast concrete pier to keep columns out of the ground, build heights, and “if anything needed between interior PVC panels, closed cell spray foam and the exterior metal siding.” […]

NDS Size Factor (Cf) for Lumber Continuing explaining terms used in a decade old article of mine (https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2014/08/lumber-bending/) is Cf (size factor, also known as width adjustment factor). NDS (National Design Standards)design values for SYP (Southern Yellow Pine) are specified by size due to actual, physical in grade testing, whereas other lumber species’ design values […]

What Does JS 1000® Screw Plating Mean to You? Most post frame buildings have threw screwed steel roofing and siding. Industry standard #9 or #10 diameter screws are zinc plated and should resist 80 to 100 hours to red rust under salt spray. In other words, expect these screws to prematurely rust, compromising structural integrity […]

Help! Help! PEMB Insulation/Ventilation Reader JD in ANDERSON writes: “Dear Guru, I am finally ready to build my dream shop, rec space. Slab is poured. Will be 30x50x16 with (2) insulated panel 12×14 overhead doors in one of the 30ft ends. My question is about ventilation / insulation. To meet my budget, I chose a […]

In this Wednesday’s Ask the Guru, Mike answers reader questions about the use of bituthene to wrap the bottom of posts in addition to the treatment, the possibility of a two-story post frame building, and if one can convert an existing Hansen Building into a “barndominium” (residential unit). DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hi Mike, getting […]

Pole Barn on a Slope – Can I use ICFs? Reader NATHAN in WASHINGTON writes: “I am hoping to construct a pole barn with a garage with attic storage and an apartment on the back as well. I have a couple questions. First, the site is on a slope, so I think we need to […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about a village or township requiring you to put a full foundation in for a pole building, whether a pole building is “hurricane proof,” and the potential use of drill-set brackets to set 6×6 columns on an existing slab with thickened edge. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: […]

One End of My Pole Shed is Moving Up Reader JOEL in GULLY writes: “I have a question for you, I built a 24 x 30 foot pole shed with ten foot side walls about 30 years ago, I dug the poles down 60 inches and the building sat perfect for 25 years, then a […]

Roof Purlins for a U.K. Pole Barn Reader KEN in CHERTSEY, U.K. writes: “With 10.8′ truss spacing @ 19.64° slope and 39″ purlin spacing, would 2″ x 6″ purlins (on edge) be sufficient for steel clad roof unlikely to ever see more than 4″ snow for more than a few days?” I don’t often get […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru advises readers on adding 6″ fill to the site and the affect it would have on columns, the use of XPS insulation between the steel and framing of the building, and some thoughts on building a 3 bedroom, two bath house. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello, The site I […]

Structural Design of Stairs With Cutout Stringers Loading requirements for stair stringers are called out for in IBC (International Building Code) Table 1607.1. For one and two family dwellings, uniform live load is 40 psf (pounds per square foot) and 100 psf for all other occupancies. Although not expressly stated, one would assume one and […]

Avoiding Interior Ceiling Corners Cracking When a newer post frame home shows interior ceiling corner cracking signs at top floor in winter, this can normally be associated with truss uplift. Roof truss uplift occurs when truss bottom chord is exposed to significantly different moisture and/or temperature conditions than rest of roof truss. Truss bottom chords […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about what best installed between ceiling liner and trusses and insulation recommendations in a new shop, advice on sidewall column size for use with double trusses, and the structural stability of a pole barn second floor. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Just built a 40x60x11 pole barn […]

Sheathing Under Portion of Steel Roof Loyal and very kind reader JOSEPH in LaPORTE writes: “Good afternoon, let me start off by saying that I’m extremely appreciative of your content. The reason for my email is that I’ve been contracted to build several 30x180x9 post frame buildings and my plans are calling for 5/8” OSB […]

10 Important Things to Consider When Building a Pole Barn By Andi Croft. Andi Croft is a freelance writer whose main interests are topics related to home design, business, technology, and travel. This is brought about by her passion about going around the world, meeting people from all walks of life, and bringing along with […]

Post-Frame Building Utilities Reader MICKEY in LIVINGSTON writes: “How is the wiring and plumbing handled with a construction such as this?” Utilities for a post-frame building is no different than for any other wood framed structure. During your new post-frame building’s planning phase, you will need to incorporate all necessary considerations for utilities to meet […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about prevention of frost heave and rodents getting in to a post frame garage, advice for a storage/house combo in Oregon, and how some buildings can have “dead attic space.” DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am concerned about frost heave and rodents getting into a post […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru tackles questions regarding rafter size for a lean-to addition, adding a Lean-to to an existing building on a monolithic slab, and “the difference between a pole barn home and a barndominium?” DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am building a lean-to on an existing pole barn. It is 32′ long […]

Barndominium Bookshelf Wall Girt Ghosting Are you starting to see bookshelf wall girts through your barndominium’s gypsum wallboard (drywall)? If so, you are witnessing a phenomenon called wall ghosting. It occurs when condensation interacts with trapped dust and can have a couple of different causes. It results in shadowy-looking lines on your walls or ceilings. […]

Best Residential Pole Barn Foundation with Clay Soil and High Water Table Reader BOB in MOUNT PLEASANT writes: “What would be the best type of pole barn foundation for ground that is primarily clay, and has a water table that is generally as shallow as 24″? We are looking to build a residential pole barn […]

How to Prevent Existing 6×6 to Prevent Future Settling and Rotting Reader BARRY in FREDERICKTOWN writes: “I recently acquired some property with an existing pole barn “house” on it. It is an unfinished 20’x30′ room with corrugated steel siding, a trussed, steel covered roof and several doors and windows. It was built with a raised […]

Does 24 Gauge Steel Make Sense? Reader TED in INDIANAPOLIS writes: “In terms of longevity, long term resistance to weather damage and price difference, does a painted AZ50 galvalume R-panel with PBR-leg in 24 gauge (min. .0239″) make more sense than a 26 gauge panel?” Mike the Pole Barn Guru answers: In all reality, even […]

Here are some common first-time homebuyer programs: Down Payment Assistance Programs: These programs offer financial assistance to cover a down payment portion required to build a home. Down payments are typically a significant barrier for many first-time buyers, and these programs help reduce upfront costs, making homeownership more achievable. Low-Interest Mortgage Loans: First-time homebuyers may be eligible […]

Tax Credits for New Post Frame Homes and Barndominiums For aspiring homeowners, building a new home is an exciting venture. Besides creating your ideal dream home, there’s now an added incentive for those planning to embark on new home construction in 2023 and 2024. There are tax credits and tax breaks able to significantly reduce […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about guidance of adding to an existing structure, the practical use of light steel trusses for a pole barn home, what components are included in a Hansen Pole Building kit. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: If purchasing a kit from Hansen with installation instructions. Assuming it’s a […]

Bracing Site-Built Trusses For Lateral Loads Reader in SHINER writes: “I am building a gambrel style barn, 30×80, in two directions, in plan view, it looks like a cross. I am building the trusses based on an LSU publication, giving sizes of structural members, etc… I have built several structures before, not a gambrel style […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about the possibilities of post frame wall height with columns atop a concrete wall, interpreting client needs into engineer sealed drawings, and the scope of a barn to accommodate horses on the main level and an apartment above. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Could I build tall […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the best way to notch columns to support a header, nailing truss pairs when using a winch box, and financing of a post frame home. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I need to cut a 1/4″ out of my posts for the headers to set in […]

This week the Pole barn Guru answers reader questions regarding a 6ft attic space over a 30×44 pole barn, the most “cost effective” method to build, and the point at which a post increased from a 6×6 to a 6×8. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We want a decent-height (a bit over 6ft) attic space in […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru addresses reader questions about the average cost of “a 1200 sf 2 bed 1 bath 1 carport 1 small porch for a contractor in WA state?” If a person can build one structure for a garage with a dwelling unit, and if it would be beneficial to install commercial […]

Today the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about customizing the wall height to best “utilize sheet goods” on interior walls, what Hansen includes in a pole barn kit, and the practicality of using a drill set bracket for columns into an existing slab. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Once I save up the funds, I […]

What Building Code Applies to Post Frame Construction? Being a Plans Examiner in a Building Department would have to be one amongst this planet’s toughest jobs. Besides having to listen to clients who have their own ideas about how things should be built, there are volumes upon volumes of Building Code books and referenced texts. […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions regarding converting a section of an existing building into living space, concerns about condensation in an insulated wall, and a concern about setting trusses too soon following a concrete pour. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello! We have a pole barn already built, 60×80, and we’ve decided […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the type of foundation and uplift requirements there is for and RV cover and “what not,” building a home on a stem wall or with crawl space, and pluming for a building built on slab. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: For a 24 x40 x12 pole […]

Skillion Roof Question Reader WELLS in AIKEN writes: “I am building a 20′ x 24′ pole barn studio with a skillion roof. What size roof rafter to span the 20′ without any sagging? 2 x 8 or 2 x 10 or a more engineered rafter. I do not want any supporting poles on the interior […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about specific features for a new build, possible costs for concrete for a 60x150x12 red iron building, and installing a monolithic slab in an area with rocky soils. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I like a 35′ wide by 45′ deep 18′ high. Ridge running the depth […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru addresses reader questions about engineering drawings for a house– from a building inspector in Michigan, whether or not a post frame structure can be mounted on a basement, and if an ADU (accessory dwelling unit) can be constructed with post frame. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am looking for […]

Comparing Rockwool and Fiberglass Insulation   Fiberglass insulation has long been a popular option for slowing heat transmission through building walls and ceilings. While it may have an added benefit of creating a fire-resistant layer between interior and exterior walls, fiberglass still may not measure up to Rockwool’s natural abilities. Like fiberglass, Rockwool is an insulation […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about footing size for a twenty foot wall height, finding a builder for a post frame buildings, and if Hansen provides post frame home kits. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Can you achieve wall heights of 20 feet and if so what kind of footing requirement do […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about best way to insulate a vaulted ceiling, truss spacing, and the possibility of adding a small living quarter to a horse barn. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: With a vaulted ceiling, how do you insulate it if you plan to spray the tin roof with closed […]

Think About Barndominium Insulation BEFORE Building Regular readers are probably beginning to wonder why I have so many requests for information on how to insulate buildings AFTER they have been erected. Me, too. Insulation is crucial to your barndominium’s long term thermal performance. Doing it wrong can be expensive, both up front, as well as […]

A Baker’s Dozen Post-Frame Home Myths This article is so lengthy it will be fed to you in three installments. For your reading pleasure I present here Myths #1 through 3. MYTH #1. MOST JURISDICTIONS WILL NOT ALLOW POST-FRAME HOMES. Now this happens to be one of my favorite subjects.  If I believed in past […]

What is a Degree Day? In an article penned a year ago (https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2021/11/insulated-ceiling-vapor-barrier/), I referenced building scientist and founding principal of Building Science Corporation Joe Lstiburek. Joe stated, “Plastic vapor barriers should only be installed in vented attics in climates with more than 8,000 heating degree days.” However my bad was, I did not define […]

USDA First Time Homebuyer Barndominium Loans Reader AMBER in INGRAM writes: “Can these be purchased in conjunction with land under the USDA1st time homebuyer loan? I know mobile home companies do so I was unsure if y’all could.” I reached out to Amanda (Hansen Pole Buildings’ financing wizardress) who advised none of our lenders do […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about “barndo living” and the how to’s of post frame construction in Pagosa Springs, CO, bracing a roof only structure for working cattle, and if sheathing and housewrap are needed for a post frame building using wet-set brackets. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Have you ever constructed […]