Category Archives: Pole Barn Planning

Floor Plans vs. Structural Building Plans

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/26/2022
Floor Plans vs. Structural Building Plans

Floor Plans vs. Structural Building Plans Floor (architectural) plans and structural building plans are two completely different animals and should not be confused with each other. Architectural plans show what your home will look like, structural plans detail skeletal aspects and structural stability. In jurisdictions requiring structural plan reviews and inspections floor plans only will […]

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Price Per Square, Scissor Truss Spacing, and Column Spacing.

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/25/2022
Price Per Square, Scissor Truss Spacing, and Column Spacing.

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about our “best guess at price per square…” for a Hansen Building Kit, spacing for scissor trusses, and if there is a national code for post spacing in a barndominium. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What is your best guess at price per square foot range materials […]

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Finding Which Way is Up

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/24/2022
Finding Which Way is Up

Finding Which Way Is Up Avid reader DAVE in BLUFFDALE writes: “As I told Trey, I’ve been reading and reading and reading your blog posts until I don’t know which way is up!  Don’t get me wrong, you’ve done an amazing job with your blog posts, but it can be a bit overwhelming.  I think […]

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Running in Concrete Slab PEX Inside Large Tubing

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/19/2022
Running in Concrete Slab PEX Inside Large Tubing

Running in Concrete Slab PEX Inside Large Tubing Credit for writing this guest post goes to my friend and radiant floor heat expert Les Graham www.RadiantOutfitters.com. If you prefer your DIY radiant floor heat to be right, rather than cheap, call Les 1.320.212.0863. Question from Mike the Pole Barn Guru: Is it beneficial to place […]

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Roof Leaks, DIY or Hire Builder, and Building Width

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/18/2022
Roof Leaks, DIY or Hire Builder, and Building Width

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about on old roof that leaks due to nails used in attaching steel, a request for builder referrals, and if a Hansen Building is available in a 48′ width– yes, they are. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: My older metal barn complete with roofing nails, not screws, […]

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Responsibility for Collapsed Pole Buildings

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/17/2022
Responsibility for Collapsed Pole Buildings

Question Whether County is Responsible for Collapsed Pole BuildingsEllensburg’s (Washington) Daily Record published this letter from DAVE on March 5, 2022: “To the Editor: Anybody passing through the Nelson Siding area in the Upper County some seven miles west of Cle Elum, will notice collapsed pole buildings due to the snow we had in January. […]

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Questions from a Future Barndominium Owner

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/12/2022
Questions from a Future Barndominium Owner

Reader JASON in WINDSOR writes: “What are ways to avoid a stone base for slab to protrude under grade board using a post in the ground or pier with wet set brackets? We want grass to grow right up to the building’s base rather than stone around the perimeter or stone flower beds. I don’t […]

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Guidance on Diagonal Bracing on Long Span Trusses

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/10/2022
Guidance on Diagonal Bracing on Long Span Trusses

Guidance on Diagonal Bracing on Long Span Trusses A brief note from the Pole Barn Guru: Hansen Pole Buildings includes a copy of BSCI-B10 “Post Frame Truss Installation and Bracing” to our clients in our Construction Manual. Originally Published by: Frame Building News — December 16, 2021 SBCA appreciates your input; please email us if you have any comments […]

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Hart and Home YouTube Episode IV-The Final Chapter

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/05/2022
Hart and Home YouTube Episode IV-The Final Chapter

Hart and Home YouTube – Episode IV The Final Chapter If you missed our previous episodes, please go to bottom of this article, on left, and click on arrow thrice to go to Hart and Home YouTube – Episode I. Moving forward: While individual results may vary, our clients have generally had good experiences using […]

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Personal Storage, Additional Height, and Floor Plans

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/04/2022
Personal Storage, Additional Height, and Floor Plans

This week the Pole Barn Guru addresses a concern about personal items being ruined by storing them in an unfinished pole building, the need for an additional two feet of interior height, and floor plans for designing a post frame home. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello- not sure if you can answer this but hoping […]

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Hart and Home Youtube Episode III

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/03/2022
Hart and Home Youtube Episode III

Hart and Home YouTube – Episode III If you missed our previous episodes, please go to bottom of this article, on left, and click on arrow twice to go to Hart and Home YouTube – Episode I. Moving forward: For those following along at home: Some discussion will be made here about “allowable defects” in […]

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Hart and Home Youtube Episode II

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/28/2022
Hart and Home Youtube Episode II

Hart and Home YouTube – Episode II If you missed our previous episode, please go to bottom of this article, on left, and click on arrow to go to Hart and Home YouTube – Episode I. Moving forward: Planning and Consultation – our Building Design team will work with you, for as long as it […]

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Hart and Home YouTube Part I

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/26/2022
Hart and Home YouTube Part I

Is a barndominium in your future? Considering building D-I-Y to save tens of thousands of dollars, but afraid you might not be able to pull it off? You’ll want to watch Kevin and Whitney’s journey beginning at www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMUi9B78GDs. This series is truly excellently done. Today, I am going to skip forward months from their beginnings […]

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Truss Bracing Code Change

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/21/2022
Truss Bracing Code Change

How Truss Bracing Code Change Could Harm You Originally Published by: SBCA Magazine — April 12, 2022 SBCA appreciates your input; please email us if you have any comments or corrections to this article. There was a lot of interest and communications this past week regarding the two IRC code change proposals (RB245-22 & RB246-22) recently considered at the ICC Code […]

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Costs to Erect, A Water Leak, and Expansive Soils

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/20/2022
Costs to Erect, A Water Leak, and Expansive Soils

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about the costs of erecting a small metal barn, how to address leaks after moving a building, and building on expansive soils. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What is the cost to hire for installation of a small, 24 x 36, metal barn? JACKIE in CUMMINS DEAR JACKIE: […]

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Post Frame Building Doors-Coil or Sectional?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/19/2022
Post Frame Building Doors-Coil or Sectional?

Post Frame Building Doors – Coil or Sectional? In my 40 plus years of post frame buildings, I have provided tens of thousands of overhead steel sectional doors and not so many coil roll-up doors. Where we park our vehicles is pretty darn importantish for us Americans. Our garages and shops serve as a unique […]

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Overhead Door Opening Dimensions

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/14/2022
Overhead Door Opening Dimensions

Overhead Door Opening Dimensions I have probably been involved directly with somewhere around 50,000 sectional steel overhead doors in my career. One thing in common about all of these doors, they all require an opening. In my (and most door installers) ideal dream world, every overhead door opening is perfectly plumb on each side as […]

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Footings, Mechanical Plans, and Hay Ventilation

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/13/2022
Footings, Mechanical Plans, and Hay Ventilation

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about concrete footings for a lean-to addition, how to incorporate plumbing, electrical, and HVAC plans into to process, and proper ventilation for a hay barn. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We are putting a 10′ Lean-to on a Steel Framed Building. We will be using 4×6 posts […]

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Do You Do Longer Ones?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/12/2022
Do You Do Longer Ones?

Do You Do Longer Ones? Reader DANA in DEER LODGE writes: “Hello. We are looking at having a 4 door garage built but 2 of the spots will be turned into living space. I see the one you have with 3 garage doors. so you do longer ones? What would the price be to do […]

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Post Frame Barndo-castle?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/07/2022
Post Frame Barndo-castle?

Post Frame Barndo-castle? Reader STEVE in MILWAUKEE writes: “I think it would be neat to have 4 rectangular structures placed such that each is the side of a larger square, so that there is a courtyard in the middle of it. I see plans that show 2 structures in an L or 3 structures in […]

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Solar Panels, Concrete Free Slab, and Overhead Door Posts

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/06/2022
Solar Panels, Concrete Free Slab, and Overhead Door Posts

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru discusses the possibility of installing solar panels on a pole barn roof, use of a “concrete free” slab, and overhead door post sizes. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Can solar panels be installed on a pole barn roof? JAMES in GREER DEAR JAMES: Provided roof truss top chord and purlin […]

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How Are Funds Dispersed From a Construction Loan?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/05/2022
How Are Funds Dispersed From a Construction Loan?

How Are Funds Dispersed From a Construction Loan? Reader CASSANDRA in ROXBORO writes: “When applying for this construction loan as each job is done will the money be dispersed as each job is finished and inspected.? Do you know any in North Carolina that does the whole build or has turkey homes?” Mike the Pole […]

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Adding a Post Frame Gable Extension

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/31/2022
Adding a Post Frame Gable Extension

Adding a Post Frame Gable Extension A roof line extension off a post frame gable endwall is an affordable method to cover porches, patios, or even as a carport. As opposed to attaching a single sloping (shed style) roof, it will not reduce headroom or block line-of-sight. It is also easier to build as it […]

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Where We Ship, Raising Walls, and Bottom Chord Dead Loads

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/30/2022
Where We Ship, Raising Walls, and Bottom Chord Dead Loads

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about where we ship, whether or not trying to raise pre-assembled walls is a good idea, and the use of double or single trusses when applying drywall. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Where do you guys ship? Nationwide? SUZANNE in BROOKSVILLE DEAR SUZANNE: Hansen Pole Buildings is […]

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Town Orders Woman to Move Barn

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/29/2022
Town Orders Woman to Move Barn

Town Orders Woman to Move Barn it Granted Her a Permit to Build Article by Brett Davidsen at www.WHEC.com from February 24, 2022 RUSH, N.Y. (WHEC) — A woman from Rush has been ordered to tear down a brand new barn on her property because it violated the town’s zoning laws, but it was the town […]

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Pool Inside Pole Barn

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/24/2022
Pool Inside Pole Barn

Pool Inside Pole Barn Reader DOUG in SNOHOMISH writes: “I am just starting the process of having an inground swimming pool installed but due to weather and TREES in my area I have decided to build a Pole Barn to enclose the entire pool.  I have done a lot of research on Pools and Pole […]

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Condensation, Floor Plans, and Planning a House

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/23/2022
Condensation, Floor Plans, and Planning a House

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru discusses condensation issues in a metal pole barn a reader would like to convert to livable space, floor plans for a new post frame residence, and the steps to take to plan and build a new post frame house. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I just purchased a property with […]

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Frustrating Builder, Post Size, and Sliding Barn Doors?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/16/2022
Frustrating Builder, Post Size, and Sliding Barn Doors?

This week the Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about recourse against a builder that “never does what what he says,” a question about the necessary post size for an RV shelter, and the need for a structural engineer to answer the question, and advice for a reader whose doors blow out wondering if sliding […]

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Building Permit Makes It All OK? Think Again!

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/15/2022
Building Permit Makes It All OK? Think Again!

Building Permit Makes It All Okay? Think Again! This article “Town of Rush orders woman to move barn it granted her permit to build” by Brett Davidson was published at www.WHEC.com February 24,2022 A woman from Rush has been ordered to tear down a brand new barn on her property because it violated the town’s […]

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Post Frame Plywood Slab-on-grade

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/10/2022
Post Frame Plywood Slab-on-grade

Post Frame Plywood Slab-on-grade As concrete and excavation costs have increased steadily buildings are more frequently turning to slab-on-grade foundations. These assemblies require less concrete and labor than full basements and have a number of advantages over crawlspaces: better thermal performance, much lower risk for water and animal intrusion, and lower maintenance overall. Slab-on grade […]

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Building Over Existing Slab, Blueprints for House, and Pole Building Finance

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building over or on an existing slab or concrete, whether of not Hansen sells “just the blueprints” for a pole barn/house, and lending for a pole building set on foundation/footing/wall. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: In Arkansas, I want to build a pole barn (or similar) […]

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How Much Will My New Pole Barn Cost?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/08/2022
How Much Will My New Pole Barn Cost?

How Much Will My New Pole Barn Cost? Reader CLAUDIO in LEWIS writes: “Hello, I would like to know what would be the cost to build a pole barn building 25’x50′ with loft? Are the interior partitions and insulated walls and floors included? Is the permit application included? Is delivery and construction included in your […]

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Insulating a Partially Climate Controlled Building

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/03/2022
Insulating a Partially Climate Controlled Building

Insulating a Partially Climate Controlled Post Frame Self-Storage Building Reader KEVIN in HUMBOLDT writes: “ I’m designing a post frame building for self-storage that will have non climate control units around the perimeter of my building with climate controlled units in the center, accessed via a hallway down the center of the building. The entire […]

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Spray Foam, Second Floor, and Bending Posts

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/02/2022
Spray Foam, Second Floor, and Bending Posts

This week the Pole Barn Guru discusses a reader’s concern about “condensation leaks” when using spray foam, advice on costs of attic trusses vs traditional second floor, and how to stop posts from bending when the wind blows. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am building a 40×50 post frame building as my garage. It will […]

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When Barndominium Batman Light Illuminates

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/01/2022
When Barndominium Batman Light Illuminates

When Barndominium Batman Light Illuminates Dark Sky Loyal reader MARCO in EDINBURG brought a smile to my face when he wrote: “*Batman light illuminates dark sky* Pole barn guru! Help! I am building my pole barn house, Finally. This will be a DIY project with help of friends and family. I will more than likely […]

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Roof Purlins for a Bar Joisted Lean-To

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/17/2022
Roof Purlins for a Bar Joisted Lean-To

Roof Purlins for a Bar Joisted Lean-to Reader JIM in MOORESBURG writes: “First, I have spent the last 3 hours reading around your site and am impressed. I appreciate the manner you answer questions on your site”, respectful and factual with no hint of disrespect (even if deserved) in your replies. Professional and well done! […]

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Occupancy, a Single-Slope Residence, and Lean-to Addition

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/16/2022
Occupancy, a Single-Slope Residence, and Lean-to Addition

This week the Pole Barn Guru take care of reader questions about getting an occupancy permit in Victor ID, the size and scope of building a single-slope with a loft, and the addition of a lean-to to an existing structure. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I follow your posts and have seen some who question if […]

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Existing Foundation, “Home/Pool Combo” and HOA’s

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/09/2022
Existing Foundation, “Home/Pool Combo” and HOA’s

This week the Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about design ideas to build over or around an existing foundation, designing a “home/pool combo,” and design options for roofing and siding when dealing with an HOA. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We currently have foundation/basement that measures 14×66, with additional 26×26 room with ground level concrete. […]

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Batteries Not Included

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/01/2022
Batteries Not Included

Batteries Not Included Batteries Not Included is a 1987 American comic science fiction film starring Hume Cronyn, Jessica Tandy (winner of a Saturn Award for Best Actress for her performance) and Elisabeth Pena about small extraterrestrial living spaceships saving an apartment block under threat from property development. Reader AARON in NORTH VERNON queried: “Does your pricing also […]

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Will My Minnesota Shouse Require Frost Footings?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/25/2022
Will My Minnesota Shouse Require Frost Footings?

Will My Minnesota Shouse Require Frost Footings? Reader CHAD in JANESVILLE writes: “I am planning on building a shouse or barndominium some may call. I am doing 5″ cement with a heated floor throughout. My hope was not to bury any poles but to anchor them on top of the slap. Do you recommend front […]

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ZIP Sheathing

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/18/2022
ZIP Sheathing

ZIP Sheathing and Other Post Frame Thoughts Reader SPENCER in WINLOCK writes: “Hello, I’m in the planning phase and your roof purlin style and watching the “Hart and Home” youtube series have just about convinced me to go with Hansen buildings. I have a few general questions. 1. I have a tight driveway with a […]

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Engineer Andy Ponders Insulation and Condensation

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/13/2022
Engineer Andy Ponders Insulation and Condensation

Engineer Andy Ponders Insulation and Condensation Loyal (and prolific) blog reader ANDY in OXFORD writes: “First, THANK YOU for providing so much valuable information in your blog, free of charge. I’m an engineer, quite handy, with construction experience. But everything I know about post frame construction, I learned from you. I’ve been planning for over […]

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A Walk-Out, A Shouse, and Spray Foam Insulation

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/12/2022
A Walk-Out, A Shouse, and Spray Foam Insulation

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru addresses reader questions about the possibility of Hansen designing a walk-out basement, building a Shouse, and a consideration of spray foam insulation. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do you do walkout basement? DIANE in WARRENTON DEAR DIANE: Absolutely we can provide your barndominium with a walkout (daylight) basement: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2020/02/barndominium-on-a-daylight-basement/ We […]

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Planning a Post Frame Building Upon Sandstone

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/11/2022
Planning a Post Frame Building Upon Sandstone

Planning a Post Frame Building Upon Sandstone Reader GEORGE in FARMINGTON writes: “Mike, in the early stages of planning a pole barn 32’x48’x12′ on a newly acquired piece of property. We’ve cleared the land and found the area we want to erect the building is 100% sandstone. Everywhere we’d have to drill for poles is […]

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My Barndominium Attic Has Moisture Issues!

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/06/2022
My Barndominium Attic Has Moisture Issues!

My Barndominium Attic Has Moisture Issues! Reader DAVID in CHICAGO writes: “Greetings – I’ve got a pole barn style home that’s about 2.5 years old and I’m having moisture issues in the attic. Hoping I can talk with someone to get a consult or second opinion to resolve as quickly as possible. Let me know […]

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Framing Loads, Footing Pads, and a Pole Barn Home

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/05/2022
Framing Loads, Footing Pads, and a Pole Barn Home

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru kicks off 2022 with reader questions about framing loads using heavy duty steel roof trusses, a stone siding wainscot, and lap siding. Mike then addresses questions about footing pads, and finally creating a pole barn home. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am planning to build a pole barn 36×40 […]

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Worker Injured During Pole Project, Who Pays

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/30/2021
Worker Injured During Pole Project, Who Pays

Worker Injured During Pole Building Project – Who Pays? Disclaimer: this article is not to be construed as legal advice, please engage a qualified construction attorney prior to any construction project. If you don’t take steps to find out in advance whether workers on your new pole building are insured for injuries, you could end […]

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You Can Do It!

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/23/2021
You Can Do It!

You Can Do It! Screamed headlines of my first ever print display ad for pole barn kits in 1981! I have included below a snippet from one of my first blog posts from 10 years ago: “In the summer of 1979, home interest rates began to rise. Idaho had a usury limit, home mortgages stopped […]

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Moisture Management, Poor Steel Cutting, and Info Help

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/22/2021
Moisture Management, Poor Steel Cutting, and Info Help

Today’s “Ask the Guru” tackles reader questions about moisture management, poorly done steel cutting around windows and doors, and help “Looking for info” for Jack. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hi, I am framing out an animal barn (right now to be used for housing chickens and storing some feed and hay) inside of an existing […]

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A Basement Foundation, Vapor Barrier for Arena, and a Hansen Kit

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building a post frame building on a basement foundation, insulation vs a reflective radiant barrier, and a question about what is include in a Hansen Building kit. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Is it possible to erect one of the pole barn kits on a basement […]

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Storage Barn to Dwelling

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/14/2021
Storage Barn to Dwelling

Storage Barn to Dwelling Reader JD in FAIRPLAY writes: “I have read over your blogs & my head is spinning. However, you obviously know your stuff. My question is this, do you have a trusted company or guy who can help me design & build a 30x60x16 RV garage that will meet the requirements of […]

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Is Fiberglass Insulation a Carcinogen?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/09/2021
Is Fiberglass Insulation a Carcinogen?

Is Fiberglass Insulation a Carcinogen? We live in a world fraught with unseen perils (COVID-19 anyone?), however fiberglass building insulation is probably not one of them. When it comes to fully engineered post frame barndominiums and homes, we all just want our clients to be safe and happy. I went to an expert on this […]

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Hanging Single Hung Windows to Slide Horizontally

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/07/2021
Hanging Single Hung Windows to Slide Horizontally

Hanging Single-Hung Windows to Slide Horizontally You order a 4’ x 4’ sliding window for your new post frame building or barndominium. Depending upon your geographical location, you will assume this window opens up-and-down (Eastern U.S.) or side-to-side (Western U.S.). Well, we all know what happens when we assume. It is critical to clearly understand […]

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Barndominium Closed Cell Spray Foam

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/02/2021
Barndominium Closed Cell Spray Foam

Barndominium Closed Cell Spray Foam – and Rodents Closed cell spray foam applied directly to steel roofing and siding can be a great product for controlling condensation, achieving an air tight barndominium and at R-7 per inch is a great insulation solution. So good, I strongly encourage its use, especially for those buildings in Climate […]

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Insulation Prep, Foundation and Footing Prep, and USDA Programs

Today’s Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about plans to insulate and preparations ahead of insulating, recommendation for framing and footing an apartment to prevent movement, and if the PBG knows whether or not the USDA programs apply to post frame homes. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am currently constructing my Hansen provided pole building, […]

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How to Quit Your Job

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/30/2021
How to Quit Your Job

How To Quit Your Job & Build Your Home Full Time Hansen Pole Buildings’ DIY clients Kevin and Whitney Hart are today’s guest bloggers. Hey everyone! My wife and I have been building our barndominium since about March and have been documenting the whole thing on social media. The most commonly asked question that we […]

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Roof Insulation, a Riding Arena, and Closure Strips

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/24/2021
Roof Insulation, a Riding Arena, and Closure Strips

Today’s Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about insulating a roof to keep exposed trusses, the size limits for and equestrian riding arena, and whether or not to use closure strips between the gable (rake) trim and siding. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have a 30×40 post frame building with cathedral style trusses. I really […]

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Canada Facing Premature Decay of Pressure Treated Columns

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/23/2021
Canada Facing Premature Decay of Pressure Treated Columns

Canada Facing Premature Decay of Pressure Treated Columns Fear of properly pressure preservative treated wood decaying prematurely has been a continuing concern amongst potential post frame building owners. Key to this is “properly” and at issue how pressure treated wood is labeled and sold at the retail level. Canada uses AWPA’s (American Wood Protection Association) […]

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Barndominium Concrete Slab Insulation Boards

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/18/2021
Barndominium Concrete Slab Insulation Boards

Barndominium Concrete Slab Insulation Boards – XPS or EPS? Other than in Climate Zone’s 1 and 2 (think deep South), International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) requires perimeter and under slab continuous insulation for barndominiums. When it comes to concrete and insulation, contractors tend to be most familiar with extruded polystyrene (XPS). Yet, expanded polystyrene (EPS) […]

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Owner Barndominium Builder Construction Loans

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/16/2021
Owner Barndominium Builder Construction Loans

Owner-Barndominium Builder Construction Loans Qualifying for owner-barndominium builder construction loans can be a daunting task. Given 2007-2008’s housing market downturn, owner-builder construction loans are increasingly hard to get but not impossible. An owner-builder is a property owner who serves as general contractor on their own project. A General contractor coordinates everything from budget to hiring subcontractors. […]

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Designing to Withstand a Hurricane

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/11/2021
Designing to Withstand a Hurricane

Loyal blog reader and video watcher DANIEL in SULPHUR writes: “What practices are best for increasing wind rating of a post frame building? My goal is to build a post frame home to withstand 150+ mph winds. I live on the gulf coast and hurricanes are a serious threat, I know I can’t make my […]

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Switching Post Sizes, Structure Length, and Fire Damage

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/10/2021
Switching Post Sizes, Structure Length, and Fire Damage

This week’s ask the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about switching post sizes from a 6×6’s to 6×4’s, how long a structure can be built with 15 trusses with 2×4 chords, and if it is possible to rebuild on a slab that was part of a fire loss. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am […]

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Syracuse, Nebraska Approves Shouses!

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/04/2021
Syracuse, Nebraska Approves Shouses!

Syracuse, Nebraska Approves Shouses! Syracuse, Nebraska was laid out in 1869 when it was certain railroads would be extended to it. With a population of roughly 2000, Syracuse is pretty well smack dab centered in Nebraska, in Otoe county. While Syracuse might be small in numbers, they are forward thinking in following what is trending […]

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Convert to Residence, Insulation, and Truss Spans

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/03/2021
Convert to Residence, Insulation, and Truss Spans

Today’s Pole Barn Guru addresses reader questions about building upgrades to convert to a residential use, how to best insulate a monitor style building, and the possibility of trusses spanning 40′ to eliminate interior posts in a shop/storage building. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We bought a pole barn with no insulation, just studs and metal […]

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Insulated Ceiling Vapor Barrier

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/02/2021
Insulated Ceiling Vapor Barrier

Should a Vapor Barrier Be Installed in an Insulated Ceiling? Should you put a vapor barrier in an insulated ceiling or not? I build in a cold climate, where many longtime builders swear that you shouldn’t put a ceiling vapor barrier in. The reasons go something like, “Because you have to let the moisture escape,” […]

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How Do I Ventilate My Barn’s Attic?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/29/2021
How Do I Ventilate My Barn’s Attic?

How Do I Ventilate My Barn’s Attic? Right up there with curing condensation issues is how to properly ventilate a pole barn’s dead attic space. Reader CURTIS in TRENTON writes: “I have a 40’x60’ outbuilding that doesn’t have soffit vents for fresh air intake and the ridge cap has solid foam closures along the length […]

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Blown-In Fiberglass Attic Insulation

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/22/2021
Blown-In Fiberglass Attic Insulation

Blown-In Fiberglass Attic Insulation In Climate Zones 3 and higher blown-in fiberglass attic insulation is extremely popular due to lower investment cost and high performance. Looking for a best solution for your barndominium or post frame attic? It is inevitable an insulation contractor will warn you away from blown-in fiberglass due to a dated study […]

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Wire Mesh in Slabs on Concrete

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/20/2021
Wire Mesh in Slabs on Concrete

Many concrete finishers have switched to synthetic fiber mesh reinforcement for concrete slabs to help reduce surface cracking. In doing so, many of these finishers have completely eliminated traditional welded wire mesh (WWM). But while fiber mesh has advantages, it also comes with potentially costly drawbacks. This may sound surprising, given fiber mesh’s big appeal […]

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Additions, Notching Posts, and Stem Walls

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/18/2021
Additions, Notching Posts, and Stem Walls

This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about adding to an existing pole barn, the possibility of notching girts into posts, and use of a stem wall on an uneven site. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have an existing 36x36x12 pole barn and would like to do an additional 36-48 roof only build […]

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Aircrete for Post Frame Cladding

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/13/2021
Aircrete for Post Frame Cladding

Aircrete for Post Frame Cladding Reader KRISTOPHER in GARDINER writes: “Can I use pre-cast aircrete panel in lieu of metal siding for the walls and roof?” Mike the Pole Barn Guru responds: It may be possible to use aircrete in lieu of steel roofing and siding, however it would need to be strong enough in […]

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At What Temperature Can You Not Spray Foam Insulation?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/06/2021
At What Temperature Can You Not Spray Foam Insulation?

At What Temperature Can You Not Spray Foam Insulation? Reader DON in ELLSWIRTH asked this question. Mike the Pole Barn Guru responds: Ideally, spray foam insulation should be installed during warmer months. Once temperatures start dipping, spray foam insulation installation processes become a lot more challenging. For a successful spray foam insulation installation, application side […]

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Hand Winches, Mono Trusses, and a Post Frame Home

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/04/2021
Hand Winches, Mono Trusses, and a Post Frame Home

This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the use of hand winches to raise trusses, how to secure mono trusses built from complete trusses – DON’T- and the costs to build a small post frame home. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’m curious of the stability of wet set brackets during raising our […]

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Unheated Post Frame Building Slabs on Grade

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/01/2021
Unheated Post Frame Building Slabs on Grade

Are Unheated Post Frame Building Slabs on Grade Required to Be Frost Protected? Reader BILL in CLAYTON writes: “I’m in early planning for a post frame garage – just over 1000 sf but will reduce it if it solves a code problem for “private garages” in IBC. Ignoring that, where does the code permit a […]

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How to Pour a Slab on Grade

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/29/2021
How to Pour a Slab on Grade

How to Pour a Slab on Grade in an Existing Barndominium Reader PAUL writes: “I have an opportunity to purchase a barndominium that has the posts set in 20” wide 40” deep peers. Unfortunately the county where this is located does not require a footing. All city codes in this area require an 8”X 36” […]

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Floor Plans, Spray Foam for Condensation, and a Sill Issue

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/27/2021
Floor Plans, Spray Foam for Condensation, and a Sill Issue

Today the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about floor plans, adding spray foam to an existing structure for condensation control, and solutions for a sill at 18′ OHD opening. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What do you charge to take my floor plan and send me engineered drawings? SHANNON in JONESBOROUGH DEAR SHANNON: We only […]

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Cedar Boards, Repainting a Roof, and “Dummies”

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/20/2021
Cedar Boards, Repainting a Roof, and “Dummies”

This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about installing cedar boards on to a steel tubed hanger door, the best practice for painting a 30 year old steel roof, and “Pole Barns for Dummies?” DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Any tips on installing cedar board 1″ x 12″w with 1×3 batten on a 20’tall […]

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Building After a Burn Down

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/17/2021
Building After a Burn Down

Building After a Burn Down Western United States wildfires have been featured on network newscasts and seen in our air for months. My own Auntie Norma’s home was a victim of California’s 2018 Camp Fire – where she lost all of her worldly possessions. Reader MATHEW in RENO writes: “Greetings, I know I’m not the […]

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How to Insulate a Post Frame Shop

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/15/2021
How to Insulate a Post Frame Shop

How to Insulate a Post Frame Shop When No Advance Considerations Were Made I encourage clients to give some serious advance consideration when erecting new post frame (pole) buildings to any eventuality of future climate control and a need for insulation. Reader MAC in MILLVILLE writes: “40 x 30 want to insulate. It will be […]

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Proper Ventilation, Condensation Control, and Post Treatment

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/13/2021
Proper Ventilation, Condensation Control, and Post Treatment

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about ventilation, how to control condensation on fifteen year old building, and best practices for treated posts in ground or on specialty brackets. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have a barn that doesn’t have soffit vents but it does have a ridge vent. I installed reflective […]

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How to Properly Design a Barndominium Wood Floor Over a Crawl Space

How To Properly Design a Barndominium Wood Floor Over a Crawl Space Reader JERRY in HAWESVILLE writes: “If one were to build a post frame home on a crawlspace and the floor joists were sitting on a 3 ply 2×10 center beam on post spaced 8-10 feet apart, how does one support the joists at […]

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Vaulted Barndominium Ceilings

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/08/2021
Vaulted Barndominium Ceilings

I Like Vaulted Barndominium Ceilings When I built my first personal post frame shop/house, it had a 7/12 exterior roof slope, to match other buildings on the same property. Upper level of this building was designed as an area where we would potentially place a ping pong table. To allow for lobs, I had prefabricated […]

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Driver Bits, a Big Room, and Overhead Door Space

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/06/2021
Driver Bits, a Big Room, and Overhead Door Space

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about driver bits, the ability to build one big room, and the ability to place a 14′ tall overhead garage door in a building with 14′ sidewalls. DEAR POLE BARN GURU:   Just read a post you had in 2013 that Hansen supplier uses high quality screws. Getting […]

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Better Entry Level Barndominium Buyers

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/20/2021
Better Entry Level Barndominium Buyers

Better Entry-Level Barndominiums Thanks to John Burns Real Estate Consulting for providing content data. US’s largest age group today is 27 to 31 years old. My three adult children are now 31, 27 and 26, pretty well hitting right in there. With the median age of an entry-level buyer at 33 (according to National Association […]

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Barndominium Questions

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/18/2021
Barndominium Questions

Questions About a Pole Barndominium Reader PAYTON in CANTON writes: “I have a few questions regarding building a pole barn/barndominium. 1. Do you offer any model homes we can explore? 2. Can we set up a consultation to discuss our options as far as building/kits? 3. What is the lead time for purchasing a kit? […]

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Open Web Wood Floor Trusses

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/13/2021
Open Web Wood Floor Trusses

Prefabricated Open-Web Wood Floor Trusses in Your Future? Use of open-web floor trusses has steadily increased over this past decade, but there’s a lot of room to grow. Ed Huston from Home Innovation Research Labs (HIRL) recently shared some results from their April 2021 Builder Best Practice Reports on Structural Systems, containing survey results from […]

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Last of the Contract Terms

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/11/2021
Last of the Contract Terms

Disclaimer – this and subsequent articles on this subject are not intended to be legal advice, merely an example for discussions between you and your legal advisor. Please keep in mind, many of these terms are applicable towards post frame building kits and would require edits for cases where a builder is providing erection services […]

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Insulation Costs, A Pole Barn Home, and Wall Steel Options

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/09/2021
Insulation Costs, A Pole Barn Home, and Wall Steel Options

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about adding insulation to a quote, a quote for a pole barn home, and the use of standing seam steel on exterior walls. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I live in Jim Thorpe, PA and have ordered a 20×24 Pole Building. The quote didn’t include insulation. So […]

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Contract Scheduling and Terms

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/06/2021
Contract Scheduling and Terms

Disclaimer – this and subsequent articles on this subject are not intended to be legal advice, merely an example for discussions between you and your legal advisor. Please keep in mind, many of these terms are applicable towards post frame building kits and would require edits for cases where a builder is providing erection services […]

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Builder Warranty Example

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/04/2021
Builder Warranty Example

Example Builder Warranty Disclaimer – this and subsequent articles on this subject are not intended to be legal advice, merely an example for discussions between you and your legal advisor. I cannot express strongly enough how important to both builders and their clients to have a written warranty in any agreement.  WARRANTIES: There is no […]

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Home Addition, Combo Building, and Moisture Barriers

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/02/2021
Home Addition, Combo Building, and Moisture Barriers

This week the PBG answers reader questions about a post frame addition to a house, a combo business/residential building, and use of a vapor barrier. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We bought an older ranch house with a poorly done addition in the back. Since this dream property came with a house that prevents me building […]

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Contracts: Inspect It, Inventory It

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/30/2021
Contracts: Inspect It, Inventory It

Disclaimer – this and subsequent articles on this subject are not intended to be legal advice, merely an example for discussions between you and your legal advisor. Please keep in mind, many of these terms are applicable towards post frame building kits and would require edits for cases where a builder is providing erection services […]

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Contracts: Punch Lists for Erected Buildings

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/28/2021
Contracts: Punch Lists for Erected Buildings

Disclaimer – this and subsequent articles on this subject are not intended to be legal advice, merely an example for discussions between you and your legal advisor. ‘Punch lists’ give new building owners an opportunity to inspect their completed building and builders/erectors to be able to remedy non-conforming work, without it becoming an ongoing challenge.  […]

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Delivery Delays

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/23/2021
Delivery Delays

Disclaimer – this and subsequent articles on this subject are not intended to be legal advice, merely an example for discussions between you and your legal advisor. Please keep in mind, many of these terms are applicable towards post frame building kits and would require edits for cases where a builder is providing erection services […]

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You Have to Get It In

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/21/2021
You Have to Get It In

Disclaimer – this and subsequent articles on this subject are not intended to be legal advice, merely an example for discussions between you and your legal advisor. Please keep in mind, many of these terms are applicable towards post frame building kits and would require edits for cases where a builder is providing erection services […]

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Residential Building, I-Joist Purlins, and Post Proximity

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/19/2021
Residential Building, I-Joist Purlins, and Post Proximity

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about whether or not Hansen can provide a residential building kit in their area, if Mike advises the use of I-Joists as purlins, and post proximity– how close can two posts be to each other? DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do you build residential buildings in the […]

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Contractual Minimum Material Specifications

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/16/2021
Contractual Minimum Material Specifications

Disclaimer – this and subsequent articles on this subject are not intended to be legal advice, merely an example for discussions between you and your legal advisor. Please keep in mind, many of these terms are applicable towards post frame building kits and would require edits for cases where a builder is providing erection services […]

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Change Orders in Contracts

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/14/2021
Change Orders in Contracts

Disclaimer – this and subsequent articles on this subject are not intended to be legal advice, merely an example for discussions between you and your legal advisor. Please keep in mind, many of these terms are applicable towards post frame building kits and would require edits for cases where a builder is providing erection services […]

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Condensation Issues, Adding a Loft, and Metal Truss Load

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/12/2021
Condensation Issues, Adding a Loft, and Metal Truss Load

This week the Pole Barn Guru discusses issues with condensation in a new building, advice for adding a loft, and achieving a roof load for prefabricated metal trusses. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello, I have a new construction pole barn that I recently had put up. The building is used to primarily house animals. When […]

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Who is Responsible for Verifying Design Loads?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/09/2021
Who is Responsible for Verifying Design Loads?

Who is Responsible for Verifying Design Loads by Contract? Disclaimer – this and subsequent articles on this subject are not intended to be legal advice, merely an example for discussions between you and your legal advisor. Please keep in mind, many of these terms are applicable towards post frame building kits and would require edits […]

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Building Codes and Requirements in Contract Terms

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/07/2021
Building Codes and Requirements in Contract Terms

Building Codes and Requirements in Contract Terms Disclaimer – this and subsequent articles on this subject are not intended to be legal advice, merely an example for discussions between you and your legal advisor. Please keep in mind, many of these terms are applicable towards post frame building kits and would require edits for cases […]

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