Category Archives: Pole Barn Questions
Post Brackets, Cross Bracing, and Pressure Treated Wood
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/12/2021
This week the Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about a building set into a slope with use of post brackets, the possible use of “cross bracing” for wall girts, and understanding pressure treated wood. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I would like to build a 32′ x 48′ 2 story pole building where two of […]
Read moreSolving Horse Barn Condensation Challenges
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/09/2021
Solving Horse Barn Condensation Challenges Proper ventilation of horse barns is essential to good equine health. Reader DONN in LONGMONT writes: “Hi, last summer I added 8 more horse stalls to our existing horse barn. There was a lean-to already attached that I extended on to and enclosed. The horse stalls are approximately 12’x12′ and […]
Read moreHow Tall Are Barn Homes?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/07/2021
Reader CAROLYN in INDIANAPOLIS writes: “How tall are barn homes? I didn’t know what height to put in…I like tall ceilings …also do u build the homes also?” Fully engineered post frame homes and barndominiums (barn homes) are beautiful because they only limit your heights under Building Codes to three stories and a 40 foot […]
Read moreInsulation Addition, A Clear Span Monitor, and Post Frame Code
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/05/2021
This week the Pole Barn Guru discusses adding insulation to an existing building, building a monitor style building with a large clear span main level, and a building official misinforming a potential client. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I currently have a 30×50 Wick building on some property which I purchased last May. The building is […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Ventilation, Insulation, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, Workshop Buildings, Pole Barn Design, Building Department, Shouse, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Insulation, Building Codes, Building Officials, Moisture Barrier, Monitor Style Buildings
- 4 comments
Continuous Foundations, Column Spacing, and Inside Closures
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/02/2021
Let’s finish off the week with one more day of Ask the Pole Barn Guru. Today Mike takes on reader questions about connection with a continuous foundation, benefits of 10′ or 12′ column spacing, and replacing inside foam closures. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello. We are located in Ohio. We would like to build a […]
Read more- Categories: Concrete, Footings, Rebuilding Structures, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Roofing Materials, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Structure
- Tags: Columns Spacing, Embedded Posts, Footings, Inside Closures, Foam Closures, Embedded Columns, Post Spacing, Continuous Foundation
- No comments
Raise the Door, Plans, and Hangar Doors
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/31/2021
For a second day of Ask The Guru, Mike answers questions about “raising the door opening” on an existing pole barn, where to get plans for a pole building, and where to get a hangar door. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Is it possible to raise the door opening of a pole barn. The opening is […]
Read moreStamped Plans, Bottom Chord Loads, and Spray Foam Options
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/29/2021
This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about engineer stamped plans, hanging sheetrock of OSB from truss bottom chords, and the best choice for spray foam insulation in a post frame building. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Are your drawings engineer stamped to meet local municipality requirements? ERIK in LAS VEGAS DEAR ERIK: Yes, […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Questions, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Ventilation, Building Interior, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Bottom Chord Dead Load, Closed Cell Spray Foam, Engineer Stamped Plans, Insulation, BCDL, Sealed Plans, Spray Foam
- 2 comments
Financing, Vapor Barrier, and Boat Storage
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/26/2021
This Friday’s daily blog will feature three questions and answers from the Pole Barn Guru. First is a question about financing, followed by a question about a vapor barrier for an add-on lean-to, and then building a quite lengthy boat storage facility. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hi there. I’m looking to utilize a VA loan […]
Read moreInsulated Bookshelf Wall Girts
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/24/2021
While we United States residents like to think of ourselves as perhaps the center of our universe, post frame construction appears world wide. Reader JONATHAN in HALIFAX picked Alabama as his state when he filled out his online request for information when he wrote: “What insulation do you suggest between bookshelves of wall?” With so […]
Read moreCondensation Control, Mother/Daughter Addition, and Vapor Barrier for Roof
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/22/2021
Today the Pole Barn Guru answers readers questions about condensation control in a small garage with a gravel floor, the possibility of adding a “mother-daughter” unit to her house, and “ribbed vapor barrier” for a shed roof. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Recently purchased a metal garage kit, 24X26. No insulation. Two garaged doors. Gravel floor […]
Read moreMaking Everything Fit Under an Attached Lean-To
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/12/2021
Reader GEOFF in MILFORD has an often found potential challenge, he writes: “I am looking to build a 30×40 pole barn and want to also have a covered lean to for my camper that will run the length of the barn. In order to have the lean to tall enough for the camper how tall […]
Read more- Categories: Sheds, RV Storage, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Lean-to, Side Shed, Eave Height, Roof Slope, Lean-to Shed
- No comments
Post Frame Barndominium Exterior Wall
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/10/2021
Post Frame Barndominium Exterior Wall Questions Reader IAN in RIDGWAY writes: “I am looking for help understanding a couple of exterior wall questions. My county is enforcing the 2018 IECC for energy efficiency. In my region this requires R-20 cavity + R-5 exterior wall assembly. From everything I’ve read, this means a continuous layer of […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Pole Building Siding, Post Frame Home, Lumber, Barndominium, Insulation, Shouse, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Building How To Guides
- Tags: International Energy Conservation Code, 2018 IECC, BIBS Insulation, 1" Rigid Insulation, Post Frame Construction, Cuprinol #10, Unfaced Batt Insulation, Weather Resistant Barrier, Copper Naphthenate Solution, Roxul
- 2 comments
Bigger Options, Taller Options, and a “Rocking” Building
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/08/2021
This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about bigger options for the Charlotte 40×50 on the Home Depot site, Raymundo asks if a building can be made 2 ft. taller, and how to brace a building to stop it from “rocking” in the wind. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Good morning. I saw on […]
Read moreFire Separation When Living With Large Animals
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/03/2021
Fire Separation When Living With Large Animals While barndominiums and shop houses have become quite a rage, for years we have been providing fully engineered post frame buildings combining animals (most often horses) with living spaces (usually as a full or partial second floor). Along with this come some perhaps unexpected design considerations. Reader LISA […]
Read moreA Building Addition, A “Coverup,” and Advice for an Acquired Building
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/01/2021
Today the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about adding on to an existing pole barn with use of 24″ oc trusses, covering old wooden sliding doors with steel, and advice regarding erecting an acquired Cuckler steel building. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Trying to plan on a 36’x80’x12′ addition to an existing 30’x40’x10′ pole barn. […]
Read more- Categories: Trusses, Rebuilding Structures, Professional Engineer, Lumber, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Engineering, Sliding Door Parts, Building Addition, 24" O.C., Sheathing Steel, Door Trim, Cuckler Steel Building, Truss Spacing
- No comments
A Floor Raising Exercise: I Joists
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/26/2021
For some obscure reason people planning new buildings tend to scrimp on height. In most instances, designing a new fully engineered post frame building – whether for a barndominium, shop house (shouse), garage, shop, etc., just a little bit taller is a relatively inexpensive proposition and can save many more dollars and mental anguish than […]
Read moreAvoid Pex Tubing When Attaching Interior Walls
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/25/2021
Slabs on grade are highly popular for barndominiums, shop houses (aka shouses), post frame homes, garages and shops. Many (mine included) use radiant in slab heat, meaning there will be PEX tubes in the floor to be avoided when attaching framed interior walls. Reader STEVEN in AKRON writes: “My wife and I are looking to […]
Read moreWhy Self Engineering is Risky
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/24/2021
Reader MICHAEL in EAGLE POINT writes: “I want to span 18 feet on a shed roof with any pitch necessary should I nail two 2x 6 rafters together and place this in the center and use 9 foot 2×6 purlins. The shed will be 18 X 18. Do I need to nail two 2×6 together […]
Read moreGable Fan, Clay Soils, and Condensation Issues
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/22/2021
This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about use of a gable fan to prevent condensation, building with posts in clay soils, and addressing condensation issues in a three-stall garage. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have been reading some post on your site about gable vents. I have a 40×80 building with spray […]
Read moreLooking for a Place for a New Barndominium
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/19/2021
Looking for a Place for a New Barndominium Reader PATTI in MINNESOTA writes: “My husband and I are knocking around the idea of doing a Barndominium. We need a 4-5 car garage space and we can barely afford a traditional preloved home that has a 3-car garage which will require us to add another stall […]
Read more- Categories: Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Building Department, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Building Siding
- Tags: Barndominium, Post Frame Home, Cladding, Shouse, Setbacks, Single Family Home, Planning Department, Fully Engineered Post Frame Construction
- 2 comments
Blog Searches, Building Shapes, and a Stumper
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/15/2021
This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about blog searches for weather proofing in rainy states, what shapes of buildings are out there– such as an “L” shaped building, and one that stumped the Guru- A term he hadn’t heard and can’t find on google. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What are some words […]
Read moreStrange Claims of Entry Doors Moving
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/10/2021
Strange Claims of Entry Doors Moving When it comes to post frame (pole) buildings and barndominiums, stories being shared often sound like they originated in Twilight Zone episodes. Reader STEVE in MERCER writes: “Everyone I talk to recommends one side of the man door be a structural post but there is a 50/50 disagreement on […]
Read moreBuilding Code, “Barndos”, and Barn Doors
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/08/2021
This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about which building code applies to a residential “pole barn,” a “Barndo” for Betty, and stall doors for a horse barn. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Planning to build in Fremont County, CO. This will be a 2 bedroom residential cabin at 9400 ft. Which building code […]
Read moreVenting an Attic
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/02/2021
Saving Money When Venting An Attic? While some of you may think I have been doing post frame buildings since dinosaurs roamed our planet, I can assure you this is not true. Now my youngest son, when he was pre-school aged, did ask me (in all seriousness) what was it like watching space aliens build […]
Read moreSpray Foam, “Rat Guard” Trim Cutting, and Ceiling Support Spans
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/01/2021
This Monday the Pole Barn Guru takes reader questions about spray foam in an attic space, cutting “rat guard” trim, and ceiling joists for a 9′ span between trusses. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am in the process of completing my Hansen building and decided to spray foam the roof and gable ends above the […]
Read moreBarndominium on Expansive Soils
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/29/2021
Post Frame Barndominium Building on Expansive Soils. When I was a 1990’s post frame building contractor we trained our sales team to be diligent in looking at soil cuts near where our potential clients were considering erecting new post frame buildings. These cuts could tell us much about what was happening below the surface and […]
Read moreA Wood Purlin Design Question
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/28/2021
Chances are good if you have to ask a structural design question, then you are in over your head. Reader LARRY in DITTMER writes: “Can you 2 by 4 flat on an 8 foot span Truss” A few years ago, one of my neighbors bought a pole building kit from someone other than Hansen Pole […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Professional Engineer, Lumber
- Tags: Deflection, Live Loads, Wood Bending Calculations, Roof Purlin Design, Wind Load, Flat Roof Purlins, Roof Slope, Snow Load
- 4 comments
Choosing a Horse Riding Arena Structural System
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/27/2021
Having a horse (or horses) in many parts of America means you will spend a great deal of time riding in inclement weather, or enjoying your horse tucked away safely in a stall. First one isn’t much fun for riders, second doesn’t get any riding done at all. Reader (and new blog subscriber) DEBBIE in […]
Read more- Categories: Footings, Professional Engineer, Horse Riding Arena, Pole Barn Questions, About The Pole Barn Guru, Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure
- Tags: Pole Barn Horse Arena, PEMB, Horse Arena, Wind Shelter, Pole Barn Arena, Fabric Roof Arena, Wood Kick Walls, Polycarbonate Eavelights, Indoor Riding Arena
- No comments
Working a Shop Mezzanine in With Planning Department Height Restrictions
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/26/2021
Not every post frame building gets planned and constructed in areas where height limitations are not an issue. Reader AARON in BURLINGTON gets to deal with his Planning and Zoning Department placing height restrictions on what he can build. Aaron writes: “I am planning a 45×56 pole barn, with ~16ft deep mezzanine on the end […]
Read moreZero Lot Line Post Frame Construction
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/22/2021
There are occasions where the best location to place a building just happens to be right up to a lot line. Let’s face realities – if your site’s required setbacks without fire resistive construction are five feet, what is going to accumulate in this area? Most often it is either “stuff” or weeds, neither of […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Building Overhangs, Building Department
- Tags: Mineral Rock Wool Insulation, Green Board Drywall, Gutters, Base Trim, Snow Retention System, Weather Resistant Barrier, 5/8" Type X Drywall, Setbacks, Rat Guard
- No comments
Wide Clearspan Barndominium Floors
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/19/2021
Wide Clearspan Barndominium Floors Multi-story post frame barndominiums are embracing a great feature found in better stick framed homes – engineered prefabricated wood floor trusses. Loyal reader RICK in MONTICELLO writes: “First off, thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience in the blog and answering questions regarding post frame construction with us laymen! It is […]
Read moreCeiling Insulation, Drafting Capabilities, and 24″ On Center Framing
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/18/2021
This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about “ceiling insulation” for a roof rebuild, the capabilities of our drafting and proprietary pricing program, and “what percentage of pole buildings are 24″ on center?” DEAR POLE BARN GURU: The birds have destroyed the front half of the ceiling insulation in our 40 x 60 […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Building Styles and Designs, Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Planning, Rebuilding Structures, Lumber
- Tags: Drafting Capabilities, 24" On Center Framing, Framing Dimensions, Condensation Control, Ceiling Insulation, Drip Stop, Condenstop, Instant Pricing
- No comments
Concrete Slab-on-grade Reinforcement
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/15/2021
Long time readers will recall concrete finishing does not rank amongst my favorite building tasks. It is an art form with a gene I was not blessed with. Most pole barns, post frame buildings and barndominiums utilize slabs poured on grade. Reader KYLE in KAPLAN writes: “In your pole barns, do you typically use wire […]
Read moreSteeply Sloped Post Frame Roofs
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/14/2021
With fully engineered post frame buildings becoming a popular barndominium design solution, future home owners are looking for more variety in their builds. Loyal reader KEITH in MADISON is one of these and writes: “Thanks very much for all the work you do to make this website such a treasure trove of information! Online, I […]
Read moreA Hay Barn Challenge
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/12/2021
Seemingly every small town in America has one or more pole barn ‘builders’. Many of them are more jack-of-all-trades and masters of none. They frame a few houses, do a deck or two, maybe some interior remodels in winter months and along with this – a handful of pole barns. Sadly, in my humble opinion, […]
Read moreGable Rake Trim, 24″ oc Framing, and Lap Siding Options
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/11/2021
Today the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about cutting the rake trim at the gable end, Mike’s thoughts on 24″ oc framing for drywall, and types of lap siding options. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Can you advise me on how to cut sculpted rake trim at gable. Pitch is 4/12. This trim is a little […]
Read moreCellulose for a Pole Barn Attic
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/08/2021
Multiple options are available for insulating attics of post frame (pole barn) attics. Reader NATE in BURNHAM writes: “Hello! I have been doing some research all evening and I can’t seem to find an answer. I did take the time to read some various forums and blogs regarding this subject to no avail…having said that, […]
Read moreStretching Stick Frame Construction
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/07/2021
Post frame (pole building) construction is popular due to efficiencies of materials (ability to do more with less) and speed of construction. Reader RAYMOND in BARLING is trying to find a way to make stick framing cheaper, he writes: “24×64 pole barn in question. 4 pitch. I am just comparing the cost of alternate designs. […]
Read more- Categories: Concrete, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Building Comparisons, Building Department, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Engineered Building, Stud Walls, Ceiling Joists, Rafters, Concrete Slab On Grade, International Building Code, Roof Loads
- No comments
Adding Heated Space in a Pole Barn
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/06/2021
Adding Heated Space in a Pole Barn Reader THOM in COLRAIN writes: “ I’m creating a 20′ X 30′ heated shop space in the center of a 40′ X 70′ pole barn. One 20′ side is on an outside wall. The other three have 2 X 4 studs. I’m using rough-cut 1″ for the walls […]
Read moreShouse Dimensions, UK Plans, and Chance of Tear-out
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/04/2021
Kicking off 2021 Mike answers reader questions about standard dimensions of a shouse, pole barn plans in the UK, and the chances a building official will force buyer of a converted building to remove non-permitted work. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Was wondering if there are standard lengths/widths, such as 30 x 40 vs 36 x […]
Read moreDecisions, Decisions – Vapor Barrier for a Post Frame Steel Reroof
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/30/2020
Decisions, Decisions – Vapor Barrier for a Post Frame Steel Reroof There are few reasons to replace an existing post frame building’s steel roof, as properly installed it should last a lifetime. Among these reasons could be: Tired of Existing Color Old roofing was nailed on Tree fell through roof This last one actually occurred […]
Read morePost Rot Concerns, Floor Plan Adaptation, and a Net Zero House
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/28/2020
This Monday the Guru answers questions about post rot due to pouring quickcrete below the posts, adapting post frame to floor plans, and running plumbing and electrical a super insulated post frame house. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I just got done building a pole barn. A task that’s a lot harder than I thought. My […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Concrete, Footings, Building Interior, Columns
- Tags: Floor Plans, Post Frame House, Pot Rot, Quick Crete, Floorplans, Net Zero Home, Post Frame Home Mechanicals
- No comments
Tubular Skylights for Barndominiums
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/24/2020
Tube Skylights for Barndominiums Reader EMANUAL in SPRINGDALE writes: “Read your article about skylights, but what about Tube skylights?” Mike the Pole Barn Guru says: Bringing natural light into a post frame building is a relatively easy prospect, provided the room is adjacent to at least one exterior wall. Windows and glass doors have been […]
Read morePlanning Building Dimensions Around Width of Steel Panels
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/22/2020
Reader JON in KENNEWICK is working on planning for his new post frame building and writes: “My question is regarding the size of the steel wall panels. I was watching a pole barn building video on YouTube and the builder, RR Buildings, was talking about sizing the building to correspond with the size of the […]
Read moreWind Damage, Screw Piles, and Building on Stilts
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/21/2020
This week the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about repairing or replacing a wind damaged structure with help of a Registered Design Professional, the use if Screw Piles instead of embedded columns, and an inquiry about a post frame structure for home and shop built on “stilts.” DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I own a pole […]
Read moreFun With a Cheap Steel Truss Pole Building
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/18/2020
Most of our country is unfamiliar with low budget steel truss pole barns produced and sold primarily in Southeastern states. There is a reason these are prevalent where there is no snow – just in case you were wondering. Disclaimer, I have no issues at all with prefabricated light gauge steel trusses, provided they have […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Insulation, Budget, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Building Comparisons, Pole Building How To Guides, Trusses
- Tags: Attic, Foam Board, Steel Truss, Reflective Radiant Barrier, Steel Truss Pole Barn, Insulation, Monolithic Slab, Condensation, Monolithic Concrete Slab, Blow In Insulation
- No comments
Doesn’t Like Idea of Concrete Slab on Grade Foundation
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/17/2020
Doesn’t Like Idea of a Concrete Slab Foundation Loyal reader ASHLEY in KELSO writes: “I will be building in southwest Washington – Cowlitz County. We are wanting around a 2800 square foot home. I do not like the idea of a concrete slab “foundation”, we are going with crawl space (I read your blog on […]
Read more- Categories: Building Contractor, Concrete, Footings, Pole Barn Questions, Budget, About The Pole Barn Guru, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Structure, Barndominium
- Tags: Cowlitz County, General Contractor, Subcontractors, Stick Built Building, Crawl Space, Post Frame Building, Slab On Grade Foundation
- No comments
Question About a Pole Building Under Construction
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/16/2020
If you are like me, when you hire a professional to do professional work, you expect them to be experts and to do things correctly. Few things in life upset me more than when a builder gives a client a great price and then cuts corners in order to make a profit. Facebooker CHRIS in […]
Read morePitch a Roof, Up or Out, and a Site Prep Problem
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/14/2020
Today’s Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about a “way to put a pitch on a flat carport roof,” when building is is cheaper to go “up or out,” and “extra” costs associated with poor site prep. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What is the fastest, least expensive way to put a pitch on a flat […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Post Frame Home, Building Styles and Designs, Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Planning, Building Contractor, Trusses, Concrete, Rebuilding Structures, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Site Prep, Roof Pitch, Grade Changes, Building Footprint, Roof Modification, Up Or Out
- No comments
Hardi-Plank Siding, Adding a Loft, and Blower Testing
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/11/2020
Closing out the week with one more group of questions for the Pole Barn Guru. Today Mike answers questions about using Hardiplank on a pole building, the addition of a loft to an existing building, and performing a blower test for air leaks. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We are going to purchase an older house […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Structure, Ventilation, Alternate Siding, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Lofts, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Blower Test, Building Permit, Hardiplank, Engineering Loft, Siding Options, Energy Efficiency, Loft
- No comments
Wall Framing, a Sloped Build Site, and Engineering for Slab
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/10/2020
Continuing the week with more Pole Barn Guru, Mike discusses spacing of framing for wall steel, how to prepare a sloped build site, and if Hansen can provide engineering for slab on grade in Colorado. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: If you have 2×6’s for walls in pole building that are spaced 16 inches apart, and […]
Read moreSoffit, Framing Options, and Increasing Eave Height
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/09/2020
The Guru has had so many questions sent over email and social media, we thought we’d play catch-up for a few days. Today he answers questions about adding soffits or overhangs to a structure, options for framing a building with lap siding, and the feasibility of lifting a building to add to the eave height. […]
Read moreMust Do’s for a Worry Free Barndominium
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/08/2020
My Facebook friend RICK in MALDEN messaged me: “I have never built a building like this. I have seen many bad experiences with concrete, poor quality metal work and many more issues. I would just like to know if there is a list of things to make sure I get a quality home. I saw […]
Read more- Categories: Steel Roofing & Siding, Building Contractor, Ventilation, Insulation, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, About The Pole Barn Guru, Building Overhangs, Post Frame Home, Roofing Materials, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Curb Appeal, Walk-in Pantry, Bandominium, Overhangs, Slope Of Site, BIB Insulation, Integral Condensation Control, ADA Bathroom, Slab On Grade, Building Site Prep, Roll In Shower
- 2 comments
Build on a Slope, Joist Hangers, and the Future of Post Frame
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/07/2020
This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about building on a slope with use of embedded columns or brackets on piers, the proper installation of joist hangers, and the Guru’s vision of the future of post frame construction. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Because of the 16% slope, I will be using concrete piers & […]
Read moreDo You, or Anyone Else You Trust, Build In or Near (fill in the blank)?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/04/2020
This question was put forth by reader TARILYNN in FREEDOM. It (or a similar variant) also gets posted roughly 10 to 20 times daily in various social media groups. I spent most of a decade as a registered General Contractor in multiple states. At times we would have as many as 35 crews erecting buildings […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Building Contractor, Pole Barn Homes, Workshop Buildings, Pole Barn Questions, Post Frame Home, About The Pole Barn Guru, Barndominium, Shouse, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: 24" X 36" Blueprints, Step By Step Installation Manual, Construction Manual, Barndominium Plans, General Contractor, Blueprints, DIY Pole Buildings
- No comments
How Best to Use Metal Building Insulation
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/03/2020
How To Best Use Metal Building Insulation Loyal reader ANDY in SOUTH CAROLINA writes: “ I read with interest the article “What house wrap is good for” on your website and would like to include house wrap on a pole building I’m currently planning to build in the upstate of South Carolina. Typically builders in […]
Read more- Categories: Steel Roofing & Siding, Shouse, Pole Building Siding, Shouse, Insulation, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, RV Storage, Pole Building Comparisons, Building Department, Post Frame Home, Pole Building How To Guides, Barndominium
- Tags: Fiberglass Insulation, Faced Insulation, Metal Building Insulation, Condensation Control, House Wrap, Weather Resistant Barrier
- No comments
Textrafine Insulation, New Steel on Old Steel, and a Residential Conversion
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/30/2020
This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about wall insulation and moisture barrier choices, New Steel on top of old steel, and advice on how to find an engineer to convert an existing shop into a residence. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I wrapped my post frame with double bubble with silver foil on […]
Read moreAnswers for Brian’s Barndominium Builder
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/27/2020
Answers for Brian’s Barndominium Builder Should you have missed yesterday’s episode, please click back to it using link at bottom of this page – it will make more sense as well as being more entertaining! Hello Brian ~ My Father and his five brothers were all framing contractors, so I was raised in a world […]
Read more- Categories: Shouse, Ventilation, Budget, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Homes, About The Pole Barn Guru, Post Frame Home, Roofing Materials, Pole Building How To Guides, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Building Contractor
- Tags: Vertical Stud Walls, Stick Frame, Winch Boxes, Purlins And Ceiling Joists, Osb Sheathing, Stud Wall Frame, 5/8" CDX Plywood, Closed Cell Spray Foam, Plywood, Ice And Water Shield, Bookshelf Girts
- 2 comments
Our Builder Has a Few Questions
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/26/2020
Our Builder Has a Few Questions Not a surprising statement, as few stick frame (stud wall) builders are willing to learn a new structural system, and few post frame builders have actually erected barndominiums or shouses (shop/houses). I was a first group member (although willing to learn) and frankly lost my posterior financially erecting my […]
Read more- Categories: Constructing a Pole Building, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Building Contractor, Trusses, Ventilation, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials
- Tags: Trusses On 2' Centers, Spray Foam, Ventilation, Scissor Trusses, Drywall, OSB
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Designing a Dream Barndominium Loft
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/24/2020
Designing a Dream Barndominium Loft Reader BRIAN in PETOSKY writes: “ Hi Mike, Mindi told me to email you my lofted floor question for our project. To avoid messing with truss-support floors, we were planning to build a full 26×60 main barn with scissor trusses the full length. Then on one end, we would make […]
Read moreSplash Boards, Roof Loads, and Truss Spacing
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/23/2020
This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about shrinkage of splash boards installed wet, roof load capacity, and truss spacing for an RV storage building. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have two questions (related) regarding splash boards and concrete floor top. My splash boards have been in place for quite a while, and […]
Read moreSteel Roofs Are Not Meant to Be Weather Tight?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/20/2020
Once upon a time I was a post frame building contractor. With as many as 35 crews erecting buildings in six states, we erected thousands upon thousands of buildings. If we would ever have told a client, “Steel roofs are not meant to be weather tight” it might (and should) have been our last job! […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Steel Roofing & Siding, Building Contractor
- Tags: Post Frame Building Contractor, Ridge Cap, Closure Strip, Illinois Roofing Industry Licensing Act, Steel Roof, Vented Ridge Cap
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Vapor Barrier for a Ceiling
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/18/2020
Reader GEORGE in LOUISVILLE writes: “I am looking to install tin on the ceiling of my 54 X 75 pole shed. I was wondering if 6 mil plastic sheeting with all seams taped would work for a vapor barrier? My concern is not to have it rain in my building after the tin is up […]
Read moreA “Man Cave,” A Quote Request, and Snow Loads
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/16/2020
This Monday’s PBG discusses a “Man Cave” designed with SIP panels, a quote request from Texas, and what our snow loads are for our buildings. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Considering a monitor style pole building with RV storage in center and living quarters on one side (loft in rear of building only) When RV is […]
Read moreI Think I Have Made Some Errors!
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/13/2020
I Think I Have Made Some Errors! If you are a post frame building kit provider or a builder reading this article – please STOP SELLING ONLY ON A CHEAP PRICE. You are leaving dissatisfied clients in your wake and doing a disservice to our industry. Reader RICK in IDAHO writes: “Hello Sir! I think […]
Read moreIs #57 Crushed Gravel a Good Choice?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/11/2020
Thank you to reader KEN in BRECKSVILLE who writes: “How do you secure the posts in the ground when you have a steep slope requiring longer posts in the back? The rear of a 48′ deep pole barn has about a 6′ drop in ground level from the front end. A retaining wall and 57 […]
Read moreFloor Trusses, Plywood Floor, and Post Frame Conversion
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/09/2020
This week the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about building to FEMA Flood Code for a raised wood floor, use of a plywood floor instead of concrete pad, and finding a certified engineer to help with conversion of pole barn to a home. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have to build according to the current […]
Read moreRequired Bracing or Not?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/03/2020
When he was just a tyke (I considered adding in ‘little’ however he was 3’6” tall on his second birthday) my son Brent asked me in all seriousness what it was like to watch space aliens building pyramids. While I am not quite as old as Brent may have thought I was then, it has […]
Read moreInsulation Options, Building Plans, and a Swing Table
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/02/2020
This week Mike the Pole Barn Guru discusses about insulation options, building plans for a back yard pavilion, and steel gauge for a “swing table.” DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We are well on our way toward breaking ground. Our biggest concerns that we seem to keep going back to are these. We want a tight, […]
Read moreMy Pole Barn is Chilly
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/30/2020
Reader TIM from INVER GROVE HEIGHTS, MN has a chilling challenge, he writes: “Fabulous site, congrats. I have a 40×60 pole barn with 10ft ceiling to the bottom of the rafters. Last year I put a 150k btu heater in to try and take the chill out a bit. It didn’t work so well because […]
Read moreQuestionably Designed Steel Truss Pole Barns
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/28/2020
Being a member of numerous social media discussion groups, I see a plethora of photos of people’s new (or under construction) steel trussed post frame buildings. Most of these buildings are from Southeastern states where it appears structural building permits and plan checks are minimal or non-existent. This results in my receiving emails like this […]
Read moreSpan, Vapor Barriers, and Planning a Pole Barn
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/26/2020
This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the widest span a post frame building can be built, vapor barrier on a roof only structure, and the proper steps for planning a pole barn. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: How wide can you span? And approx cost per sq ft for an erected shell, […]
Read moreVehicle Lifts for Post Frame Buildings
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/21/2020
A trending garage accessory is an addition of a garage vehicle lift. Vehicle lifts provide many benefits for your post frame garage or shop than just being able to work on your vehicle. A vehicle lift for your garage is exactly what it sounds like, it will elevate your vehicle so you can either work on […]
Read moreBusting Post Frame Barndominium Myths
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/20/2020
Busting Post Frame Barndominium Myths Yep, I have been web surfing again and I came across a stick frame building contractor’s website who obviously either doesn’t understand fully engineered post frame construction, or just frankly doesn’t care to add it to his arsenal of design solutions. My comments are in italics. MYTH #1. MOST BANKS WON’T […]
Read more- Categories: Concrete, Footings, Shouse, Budget, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Design, Pole Building Comparisons, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses
- Tags: Concrete Piers, Double Trusses, Building Code Compliant, Steel Brackets, Barndominium, Footers, Post Frame Barndominium, Concrete Footers, Construction Loan
- 2 comments
Column Height, a Hangar Door, and Splash Plank Boards
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/19/2020
This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about column height for an eight foot one inch interior ceiling, what size bi-fold door for a hangar, and specific boards for a splash plank. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: New at this. If I am building a pole barn house and want 8 ft 1 inch […]
Read moreSeal Walls, Fill for Compaction, and Condensation Control
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/16/2020
Let’s close out the week with another installment of Ask the Pole Barn Guru! First up is a resolution to seal up a building, followed by assistance with compacted fill, and finally an alternative to spray foam to control condensation. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I purchased a pole building from you last year and there […]
Read moreSite Prep,
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/15/2020
Thursday’s edition will tackle three more reader questions. First up is about how level a site must be before erecting a shop, second is about pole barn homes and the many options available, and third is a question about the best method to fix an issue left by a previous builder. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: […]
Read moreTyvek, Truss Attachments, and Polycarbonate Panels
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/14/2020
Continuing to play catch-up with the Pole Barn Guru reader questions, Mike answers questions about adding Tyvek under wall steel, attaching trusses to header on sealed plans, and the use of polycarbonate panels for use on post frame building. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: About to start the build of a 36 x 50 pole barn. […]
Read moreDry Set Brackets, Snow Loads, and Winch Boxes
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/13/2020
The Pole Barn Guru continues to be inundated with reader questions, so we will be adding some mid-week PBG responses. First off is a questions about attaching posts to a square footing with dry set brackets, whether or not a Hansen Building can withstand a 40lb snow load (they most certainly can), and the use […]
Read morePosts and Collars, Girts, and Non-Vented Soffits
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/12/2020
This week’s edition of Pole Barn Guru visits the topics of post and footing sizes, bookshelf girts for drywall, and non-vented soffits for building with spray foam insulation. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am currently 68 but I built pole barns as a younger man the biggest being a hay barn 24′ eaves X 80 […]
Read moreAvoiding Being Driven Crazy With Barndominium Questions Part II
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/08/2020
Part II of a two part series. If you didn’t see Part I, go back one day. Mike’s answers are in italics. In each house at ends of the “L” layout, I plan to have 1/3 open plan at two stories, for our great room, with nice windows for great views. The other 2/3 areas […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Pole Barn Structure, Trusses, Concrete, Columns, Lumber, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: Clearspan Trusses, Type X Sheetrock, LVL Beams, Splash Plank, Pressure Preservative Treated Splash Plank, Bookshelf Girts, Toe-nailing, Clearspan
- 1 comments
Avoiding Oil Canning of Standing Seam Steel Roofing
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/06/2020
BRETT in CUMBERLAND FURNACE writes: “I was talking to a contractor and he really thinks it is a big mistake to use a 26 gauge thickness vs a 24 gauge. He is stating “I will have less issue with oil canning and it will look a lot better for the extra cost over the life […]
Read moreFloor Plan Ideas, An “L” Shaped Building, and Floor Insulation
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/05/2020
This Monday the Pole barn Guru answers questions about floor plan ideas for a monitor style building, plans for a “Zen Den” or “Party Barn” in an L shape, and whether or not it is worth adding reflective radian barrier under slab. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello, I am wondering if you have any floor […]
Read morePost Frame Shouse Column Options
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/30/2020
Post Frame Shouse Column Options – Risk vs. Reward Loyal readers will recall a recent post involving GREG in KENTWOOD (https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2020/09/dont-want-pressure-treated-columns-in-the-ground/). Our discussion continues and I share below: “Mike, Thanks for the quick response. If I was a sane man, not sure I am, if properly pressure treated lumber will last a few generations, why […]
Read moreLoading Gambrel Loft Space
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/29/2020
Loading Gambrel Loft Space Loyal reader ANDY in OXFORD writes: “Mike, First, thanks for providing so much useful information to all of us. I’ve read about 1,200 of your blog entries so far, and I’ve learned so much. I have already priced a 30X36X11 Gambrel Roof building from Hansen for a woodworking shop. I’m committed […]
Read moreA Future House, Eave Height, and Pricing for Horse Arena
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/28/2020
This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about an ideal pole barn to convert into a house, the height of the exterior wall with an 11′ interior ceiling height, how clear span affects the costs of a horse arena. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Good Morning, We just put in an offer on land in […]
Read moreInsulation, Spray Foam Issues, and Floor Plans
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/25/2020
Lets close out the week with a fifth installment of The Pole Barn Guru. Today he’ll answer questions about the best insulation for a building with steel roofing over a vapor barrier over plywood, potential issues installing spray foam, and a request for a floor plan example– we now have a third party provider of […]
Read moreDouble Doors, Insulation, and an Alaska Project?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/24/2020
We’ll continue this week with a third day of Bonus PBG’s! Today Mike take care of reader questions about adding “double doors” to the high side of a lean to, insulation to building in Climate Zone 4A with R-49, and the feasibility of building in Alaska. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hi Mike, I am looking […]
Read morePole Barn Guru Wednesday!
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/23/2020
Bonus Wednesday! The Pole Barn Guru has been inundated with questions. Let’s answer a few more. Move a hay barn? Building a Shouse, and the answer to “What all is in the pole barn kit?” DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I may move my 40 x 60 hay barn, wooden trusses, 6 x 6 poles. How […]
Read moreBonus Pole Barn Guru Tuesday
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/22/2020
Bonus Pole Barn Guru Tuesday- Today’s extra answers questions about cupolas, heating a monitor style building, and steep grade changes on a build site. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We are considering putting two cupolas on the roof. Can we run our drain waste vents through them instead of through the roof itself? BRANDON in CALVERT […]
Read moreBolt to Slab, Metal Distortion, and a Moisture Drip Issue
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/21/2020
This week the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about use of dry-set brackets to existing slab, spray foam distorting metal, and a problem with drip when temperature is just right. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: How thick does the edge of concrete need to be to support a pole barn if using the bolt on top […]
Read moreDon’t Want Pressure Treated Columns in the Ground?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/18/2020
Loyal reader GREG in KENTWOOD writes: “We plan to build a house next summer with basically (2) – 40’x60’ units connected at 90°, wife is still in the planning stage, 2 story. I feel that me and my sons should be able to erect a kit with directions from the supplier and tips. I like […]
Read moreSmall Pole Barns, Timber Screws for Purlins, and Turnkey Homes
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/14/2020
Today the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about what the smallest sized barn can be built, certifications for timber screws, and prices for “turn key” homes in Iowa. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do you build barns that are smaller than 24’ wide?? I want a 20×20 barn/shed DAVID in MILAN DEAR DAVID: We have provided […]
Read moreDIY Post Frame Construction and Winch Boxes
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/11/2020
Loyal reader and Hansen Pole Buildings’ client BOB in MOSINEE writes: “Hello Mike, This weekend I’m going to begin construction on my Hansen pole building. Very excited. You guys have been great to work with. I had originally planned to have one built by one of the bigger named companies, but after seeing what they […]
Read moreHelping a Student with His Post Frame Thesis
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/10/2020
Post frame buildings are becoming more relevant as a design solution for residential construction. I recently was contacted to assist a student and will let him tell his story: “My name is George xxxxxx, I am currently a thesis student at Auburn University’s Rural Studio, located in Hale County, Alabama. I am looking into pole […]
Read moreSearching for a Builder Embracing Hansen Building’s System
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/08/2020
Loyal reader RUSS in PIPERSVILLE writes: “We are in the process of having our floor plans and elevations done by Greg Hale. A pleasure to work with by the way. I’m wondering if you have any experience with pole frame builders in the east shore area of Maryland? We really want to purchase our building […]
Read more- Categories: Building Contractor, Building Interior, Budget, Pole Barn Questions, Building Department, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Elevation Drawings, Hansen Buildings, Blueprints, Floor Plans, Hansen Buildings Construction Manual, Greg Hale, Hansen Pole Buildings Designer
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SIP Floor Panels, Stack-able Hanger Doors, and Sliding Door Installation
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/07/2020
This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about installing a SIP floor instead of concrete, stack-able hanger doors for addition, and rough cuts on some sliding door lateral braces. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am considering installing SIP floor in my pole barn instead of a concrete floor (the barn will be a […]
Read moreInstalling Steel Liner Panels in an Existing Pole Barn
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/02/2020
Installing Steel Liner Panels in an Existing Pole Barn Reader JASON in WHITEHOUSE STATION writes: “ Hello! I have a post frame 30X40 Pole Barn that was built prior to me owning the house. Currently, the shop is not insulated. I would really like to insulate it, as it’s quite unbearable in the summer and […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: Closed Cell Spray Foam Insulation, Gable Vents, Ridge Vent, Thermal Break, Registered Professional Engineer, Radiant Reflective Barrier, Soffit Vents
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Taking the Bow Out of a Glulaminated Column
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/01/2020
Taking the Bow Out of a Glulaminated Column Glulaminated post frame building columns are touted by their producers as being able to withstand warping and twisting. On occasion, however, they will bow. Hansen Pole Buildings’ client JOSH is self-building in SALMON, Idaho and wrote: “Good Morning Mike, Thought I would check with you, but probably […]
Read moreTop Chord Repair, Little Voices, and Building Use
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/31/2020
Today the Pole Barn Guru tackles questions about repairing a rotted top chord of an existing truss, a little voice in a contractor’s head, and the use of an existing building on newly purchased parcel. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: When we bought our property the pole barn on it already had a rotting roof with […]
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