Category Archives: Building Interior
Sourcing Treated Columns, Truss Bracing, and Insulating a Roof
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/03/27 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about sourcing 4pc of 4x6x18′ treated columns, truss bracing in a custom cabin, and insulating a roof on a metal pole barn. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Looking for 4pcs 4x6x18 treated ground contact. JERRY in COATESVILLE DEAR JERRY: This one is going to be tough. Very […]
Read more- Categories: Building Interior, Lumber, Budget, Insulation, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Spray Foam, Treated Columns, Sourcing Columns, Insulation, King Post Truss, Condensation, Paper Backed Insulation, Truss Bracing
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YouTube Design of a Post-Frame Mezzanine
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/03/21 @ 8:00YouTube Design of a Post-Frame Mezzanine Reader CHERIE in MARYVILLE writes: “I am in the process of designing a post-frame building for my business. It is a 55x110x16′ building. I am moving my business to this new building and I already have a pallet rack supported mezzanine that I will install in the new building. […]
Read moreA Basketball Court, A “Dog Trot” and Proper Insulation
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/03/20 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building a basketball court within town height restrictions, building a “dog trot” and some advice on the proper way to insulate a red iron building. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have been on the pole barn Facebook group for over a year and was strongly […]
Read more- Categories: Building Interior, Budget, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Ventilation
- Tags: Dogtrot, Scissor Trusses, Dogtrot Barndominium, Insulation, Rock Wool Insulation, Post Frame Basketball Court, Height Restrictions
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Attic Ventilation, Shearwall Stitch Screws, and Adding Sheathing
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/03/06 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru addresses reader questions about ventilation needed for a new attic with metal ceiling and blown-in insulation, a confirmation for endwall needing stitch screws for shear, and if adding sheathing to an existing pole building would add value. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I bought a house with a pole barn […]
Read more- Categories: Uncategorized, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Fasteners, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Building Siding, Barndominium, Ventilation
- Tags: Ventilation, Gable Vents, Osb Sheathing, Steel Sheathing, Sheathing, Stitch Screws, Attic Space Ventilation, Moisture Control, Shearwall
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What to do About Possible Roof Condensation?
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/03/05 @ 8:00What to do About Possible Roof Condensation? Reader JEFF in ADEL writes: “Hello, I am going to order Post Frame building materials and am working on details. The question about condensation is driving me nuts as this is a big project for me and I don’t want a wet building. It will be a 30x48x11 […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Building Overhangs, Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Trusses
- Tags: Ventilation, Condensation Control, Roof Condensation, House Wrap, Drip Stop, Condenstop, Condensation
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Open Cell Spray Foam to Roof Steel – When Insulation is Done Wrong
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/02/27 @ 8:00Open Cell Spray Foam to Roof Steel – When Insulation is Done Wrong Reader JOSH in FARMINGTON writes: “I recently had a pole barn built and after doing a lot of research, went with 5″ of open cell under the roof and on the gables. I did not have any kind of vapor barrier, as […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Pole Barn Structure, Uncategorized, Ventilation, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Open Cell Spray Foam, Condensation, Spray Foam, Roof Insulation, Spray Foam Insulation, Roof Steel, Moisture Barrier
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Greyed Lumber, Insulation, and Flat Purlins over Trusses
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/02/21 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about cleaning up rough cut lumber that has greyed from exposure to the elements, advice on house wrap and insulation, and the ability of flat purlins over trusses to carry a load in Kentucky. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: My barn project has been a long drawn […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation, Uncategorized, Building Interior, Lumber, Insulation, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, purlins
- Tags: Grey Lumber, Insulation, Gray Lumber, Spray Foam, Rough Cut Lumber, Moldy Lumber, Purlins, Kentucky Building, Flat Purlins, House Wrap
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Help – My Hobby Shop Has Wall Condensation
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/02/15 @ 8:00Help – My Hobby Shop Has Wall Condensation Reader EVAN in PHILADELPHIA writes: “Hi there, I recently constructed a small 20x20x10 pole barn for use as a hobby shop (woodworking, etc.). The eaves have vented soffit and the roof has a ridge vent. On the interior I did a metal ceiling with blown in R-C38 […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Heating, Uncategorized, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: Insulation, Vapor Barrier, Housewrap, Condensation, Tyvek, Hobby Shop
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Plastic Vapor Barrier, PermaColumn, and a Fire Resistant Barrier
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/02/14 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about use of 6 mil plastic vapor barrier in Michigan, if Hansen provides the option of a precast concrete pier to keep columns out of the ground, build heights, and “if anything needed between interior PVC panels, closed cell spray foam and the exterior metal siding.” […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Uncategorized, Concrete, Lumber, Footings, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium
- Tags: Fire Resistance, 6 Mil Plastic, Climate Zone 5A, Fire Resistant Barrier, PVC, Blown In Insulation, Insulation, Precast Concrete, Vapor Barrier, Spray Foam, Permacolumn, Eave Height
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Rain Country, A High Water Table, and Door Options
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/02/07 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about any added features for “rain country” like western Washington, use of UC-4B pressure preservative treated columns in a high water table area, and the options of a sliding door vs a sectional overhead door in an RV storage building. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do many […]
Read more- Categories: Budget, Pole Barn Design, Columns, Pole Building How To Guides, RV Storage, Pole Barn Planning, Sectional Doors, Concrete, Footings, Pole Barn holes, Building Drainage, Building Interior, Uncategorized, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: Pressure Preservative Treatment, Site Prep, Sliding Doors, Weather Barrier, Condensation Control, UC-4B Pressurem Preservative Treated Columns, Water Table, Sectional Overhead Door, Overhead Doors, Rain Country
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Housewrap, Roof Insulation, and Ceiling Fasteners
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/01/31 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about a home owner asking builder to install housewrap on the roof, the best solution to insulate underside of roof, and what the best fastener for screwing steel to ceiling or roof trusses would be. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Pole Barn Guru, thank you for your […]
Read more- Categories: Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Heating, Roofing Materials, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Post Frame Home, Ventilation, Uncategorized, Insulation
- Tags: Drip Stop, Condenstop, Screws, Housewrap, Rock Wool, Spray Foam, Ceiling Steel Fasteners, Roof Insulation, Condensation Control
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Help! Help! PEMB Insulation/Ventilation
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/01/25 @ 8:00Help! Help! PEMB Insulation/Ventilation Reader JD in ANDERSON writes: “Dear Guru, I am finally ready to build my dream shop, rec space. Slab is poured. Will be 30x50x16 with (2) insulated panel 12×14 overhead doors in one of the 30ft ends. My question is about ventilation / insulation. To meet my budget, I chose a […]
Read more- Categories: Budget, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Design, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Ventilation, Building Interior
- Tags: Prodex, Reflective Radiant Barrier, Closed Cell Spray Foam, Insulation, PEMB, Spray Foam, Rock Wool Insulation, Ventilation
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To Wrap Posts, Two-Story, Barndominium Conversion
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/01/24 @ 8:00In this Wednesday’s Ask the Guru, Mike answers reader questions about the use of bituthene to wrap the bottom of posts in addition to the treatment, the possibility of a two-story post frame building, and if one can convert an existing Hansen Building into a “barndominium” (residential unit). DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hi Mike, getting […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Planning, Post Frame Home, Footings, Barndominium, Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior, floorplans, Professional Engineer, Columns, Uncategorized, Lofts, Lumber, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: UC-4B, Two-story Building, Loft, UC-4B Pressurem Preservative Treated Columns, Bituthene, Post Wrap
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Structural Design of Stairs With Cutout Stringers
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/01/09 @ 8:00Structural Design of Stairs With Cutout Stringers Loading requirements for stair stringers are called out for in IBC (International Building Code) Table 1607.1. For one and two family dwellings, uniform live load is 40 psf (pounds per square foot) and 100 psf for all other occupancies. Although not expressly stated, one would assume one and […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes, Barndominium, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Loading Requirements, IBC, Stair Stringers, Cut Out Stair Stringers, Structural Design Of Stair Stringers
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Ceiling Liner, Double trusses, and a Second floor
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/01/03 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about what best installed between ceiling liner and trusses and insulation recommendations in a new shop, advice on sidewall column size for use with double trusses, and the structural stability of a pole barn second floor. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Just built a 40x60x11 pole barn […]
Read more- Categories: Building Interior, Shouse, Insulation, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Lofts, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Trusses, Ventilation, Barndominium
- Tags: Attic Insulation, Double Truss, Post Frame Second Floor, Double Truss System, Column Size, Barrier, Insulation, Second Floor, Liner Panels
- 2 comments
Spray Foam Insulation on Interior Surfaces of Metal Panels
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/12/28 @ 8:00Spray Foam Insulation on Interior Surfaces of Metal Panels Information excerpted from MBCI.com When it comes to insulating a building envelope, there are various methods that can be used depending on the building’s purpose and the required level of insulation. However, combining metal roof and wall panels with spray polyurethane foam insulation (SPF) is widely […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Uncategorized, Building Interior, Insulation, Budget, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Spray Foam, Condensation Control, Moisture Barrier, Pole Building Spray Foam, Insulation, Vapor Barrier
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10 Important Things to Consider When Building a Pole Barn
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/12/26 @ 8:0010 Important Things to Consider When Building a Pole Barn By Andi Croft. Andi Croft is a freelance writer whose main interests are topics related to home design, business, technology, and travel. This is brought about by her passion about going around the world, meeting people from all walks of life, and bringing along with […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Building Styles and Designs, floorplans, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Building Interior, Uncategorized, Barndominium
- Tags: Constructing Pole Building, Pole Building Design, Pole Building, Pole Building Planning
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What Size Fresh Air Intakes Do I Need?
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/12/21 @ 8:00What Size Fresh Air Intakes Do I Need? Reader BOB in GRAHAM writes: “I have a 40 x 60 pole building. There is a ridge vent along the 60′. I recently installed Sheetrock on the ceiling and blew in insulation. My question is what size fresh air intake vents do they need to keep the […]
Read moreWhat Bubble Insulation Brand do you Recommend, if Any?
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/12/19 @ 8:00What Bubble Insulation Brand do you Recommend? Reader ERICA in WEST COLUMBIA writes: “Is there a specific bubble insulation brand you recommend? We will be using this as our vapor barrier in the roof. I’ve seen posts about this type of insulation disintegrating, so I’m wondering if the claims are exaggerated or if in fact […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Heating, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, purlins, Uncategorized, Ventilation, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: Moisture Barrier, Wood Purlins, Rock Wool Batts, Vapor Barrier, Bubble Insulation, Batt Insulation, Spray Foam, Metal Trusses
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Attic Ventilation With Trusscore Wall and Ceiling Panels
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/12/07 @ 8:00Attic Ventilation With Trusscore Wall and Ceiling Panels Reader STACY in NEW BERG wrties: “Hi, I have a pole building 28’x48′ 16′ high eave height. It’s used as a shop and RV storage. I’m insulating it and planning on heating it with a pellet stove. I’ve read your posts in many instances about (NOT) using […]
Read more- Categories: Building Interior, Budget, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Heating, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Ventilation
- Tags: Ventilation, Attic Ventilation, Trusscore Panels, Wall And Ceiling Panels, Vapor Barrier
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Post-Frame Building Utilities
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/11/30 @ 8:00Post-Frame Building Utilities Reader MICKEY in LIVINGSTON writes: “How is the wiring and plumbing handled with a construction such as this?” Utilities for a post-frame building is no different than for any other wood framed structure. During your new post-frame building’s planning phase, you will need to incorporate all necessary considerations for utilities to meet […]
Read more- Categories: Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Building Interior, Pole Barn Heating, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, floorplans, Pole Barn Design, Building Department
- Tags: Outlets, Post Frame Were System, Electrical Plan, Post Frame Buildings HVAC, Temperature Control, Post Frame Utilities, Lighting
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Frost Heave and Rodents, a Storage/House Combo, and Dead Attic Space
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/11/29 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about prevention of frost heave and rodents getting in to a post frame garage, advice for a storage/house combo in Oregon, and how some buildings can have “dead attic space.” DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am concerned about frost heave and rodents getting into a post […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Structure, Ventilation, Building Interior, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Equipment Storage, Frost Heave, Hay Storage, Fire Separation, Snow Loads, Rodents, Shouse
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How to Clearspan a 60’ Wide Monitor Barn Including a Loft
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/11/28 @ 8:00How to Clearspan a 60’ Wide Monitor Barn Including a Loft Reader DANIEL in HADLEY writes: “ I am really liking the Monitor style barn. I however find the support posts for the raised portion very in the way for what I want. I am looking to have an open floor on a 60 x […]
Read moreBarndominium Bookshelf Wall Girt Ghosting
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/11/07 @ 8:00Barndominium Bookshelf Wall Girt Ghosting Are you starting to see bookshelf wall girts through your barndominium’s gypsum wallboard (drywall)? If so, you are witnessing a phenomenon called wall ghosting. It occurs when condensation interacts with trapped dust and can have a couple of different causes. It results in shadowy-looking lines on your walls or ceilings. […]
Read morePole Barn Pricing, Idaho, and a Pole Barn Addition Moisture
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/11/01 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru pricing of a pole barn with a link to a full blog regarding costs of various sizes, whether or not Hansen Buildings ships kits to Idaho- YES! and moisture control on a new post frame addition. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Quick question 30′ x 40/50′ x 14′ high Garage. […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation, Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior, Insulation
- Tags: Post Frame Addition, Moisture Control, Pole Barn Pricing, Idaho, Ship To Idaho, Pole Barns In Idaho, Condensation Control, Pole Barn Costs
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Lots of Bad Advice for Retrofitting Roof Insulation
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/10/26 @ 8:00Lots of Bad Advice for Retrofitting Roof Insulation Reader DAVE in GALES CREEK writes: “I’m desperate, or I wouldn’t be bugging you with this. We have a 38×48 pole barn / shop with concrete pad that was on our property when we bought it. There are 4 sections between trusses, and one of those has […]
Read morePost Frame Footings, Delivery Limitations, and Foundation Types
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/10/25 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru addresses reader questions about common gable post frame footings, weight limitations for a building delivery and the possible solutions, and what types of foundations Hansen Buildings can design for in Weld County Colorado. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What is a common gable post footing compared to a main truss […]
Read more- Categories: Building Interior, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Building Department, Pole Barn holes, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Concrete, Footings
- Tags: Materials Weight, Jobsite Restrictions, Foundations, Crawl Space, Slab On Grade, Column Footings, Post Frame Footings, Footing Thickness, Materials Deliveries
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Clip-Lock Standing Seam, Adding a Ceiling, and Knee Brace Issues
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/10/11 @ 8:00This week Mike the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about replacing roofing with clip-lock standing seam and what the PBG recommends in the scenario, creating a wood shop in an existing structure and wondering if ceiling weight can be held, the possibility of removing knee braces in order to install a ceiling. DEAR POLE […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Pole Buildings History, Trusses, Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Roof Load, Clip-lock Standing Seam, Knee Braces, Ceiling Load Trusses, Ceiling Joists, Standing Seam Roofing, Standing Seam
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Termite Barriers and Wind Speed, Hidden Fasteners, and Truss Modifications
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/10/04 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about termites that can destroy treated lumber in an area wind 80mph winds, if one can install a roof with hidden fasteners over trusses or if it needs an underlayment, and the possibility of modifying a truss chord in order to accommodate a overhead door operator. […]
Read more- Categories: Trusses, Footings, Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior, Budget, Lumber, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Fasteners, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Structure
- Tags: Termites, Vult Wind Speed, ACQ Treated Lumber, Standing Seam Roofing, Hidden Fasteners, Truss Modification, Wind Speed, Treated Columns, Osb Under Steel
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A 100×100 Pole Building, Shingles to Steel, and Double-Bubble
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/09/27 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the possibility of a 100′ x 100′ pole building, the consideration of switching from asphalt shingles to steel roofing, and if one can reuse the “double-bubble” when replacing roof steel. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Can I build a 100 ft X 100 ft. pole building? […]
Read more- Categories: Columns, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Insulation, Ventilation, Pole Barn Questions, Alternate Siding, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Building Interior, Roofing Materials
- Tags: Double Bubble, Double Bubble Radiant Barrier, A1V, Pole Building Span, Steel Roof, Interior Columns, Asphalt Shingles, Condensation Control
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Additional Guidance, Steel Trusses, and Kit Inclusions
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/09/13 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about guidance of adding to an existing structure, the practical use of light steel trusses for a pole barn home, what components are included in a Hansen Pole Building kit. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: If purchasing a kit from Hansen with installation instructions. Assuming it’s a […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, Barndominium, Pole Building How To Guides, floorplans, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Building Interior, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Steel Trusses, Engineered Building Plans, Post Frame Home, Post Frame Addition, Technical Support
- 2 comments
Pole Building Condos
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/09/05 @ 8:006 Advantages of Post-Frame Construction for Condos Due to its adaptability and affordability, post-frame architecture, often known as pole barn construction, has grown in popularity in recent years. It has recently been employed in residential construction, including condos, after first being used mostly for commercial and agricultural structures. There are six advantages of post-frame construction […]
Read morePost Frame Possibilities, Engineer Sealed Plans in Canada, and Horse Barn Apartment
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/08/30 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about the possibilities of post frame wall height with columns atop a concrete wall, interpreting client needs into engineer sealed drawings, and the scope of a barn to accommodate horses on the main level and an apartment above. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Could I build tall […]
Read more- Categories: Concrete, Footings, Barndominium, floorplans, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Columns, Lofts, Pole Barn Questions, Horse Riding Arena, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Apartments
- Tags: Brackets, Horse Barn, Engineer Drawings, Post Frame Possibilities, Post Frame Wall Height, Horse Barn And House, Living Above Horse Barn, Post Brackets, Engineer Sealed Plans
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Conditioning and Insulating a Shop/House in Spokane (Climate Zone 5B)
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/08/24 @ 8:00Conditioning and Insulating a Shop/House in Spokane (Climate Zone 5B) My Social Media friend TYLER in SPOKANE writes: “Hello Mr. Guru, I am planning to build a 48′ x 60′ post frame shop with a 48’x20′ finished living space inside and the remaining to be insulated and climate controlled shop space. I’m planning for 14′ […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Heating, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Building Interior, Lofts
- Tags: Radiant Outfitters, Raised Heel Roof Trusses, Vapor Barrier, Unfaced Rockwool Batts, Housewrap, Climate Zone 5B, Bookshelf Girts, Heated Slabs Of Concrete, Blow-in R-60 Insulation, Geothermal
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Insulation/Envelope, Egress Window in Gable, and Ribbed Steel Testing
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/08/23 @ 8:00Today’s Ask the Guru tackles reader questions about how to best insulate/envelope a pole barn shop in AZ, if the Guru has “an engineered work around for gable ends so I could replace the vent with an egress window,” and trying to find out if pole barn ribbed siding is tested under NFPA275 to be […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building Siding, Ventilation, Windows, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Heating, Building Styles and Designs, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Insulation, Building Envelope, Gable End Egress, Egress Window, NFPA 275, Fire Retardant Steel, UL 790, Adding Insulation, Fire Retardant, Climate Zone 3A, Envelope
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Notching Columns, Use of Winch Box, and Financing
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/08/16 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the best way to notch columns to support a header, nailing truss pairs when using a winch box, and financing of a post frame home. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I need to cut a 1/4″ out of my posts for the headers to set in […]
Read moreRetrofitting for an Interior Workshop
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/08/15 @ 8:00Retrofitting for an Interior Workshop Loyal reader LAURI in NORTH BRANCH writes: “Thank you ahead of time for your generous gift of answering these questions. I love your blog. I have a 40 x 60 pole barn and doing an interior workshop of 25 x 40. Exterior walls (only in workshop area) have no vapor […]
Read moreBuilder Placed no Vapor Barrier Between Purlins and Roof Steel
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/08/08 @ 8:00Builder Placed no Vapor Barrier Between Purlins and Roof Steel Almost client ALEX in CLINTON writes: “I recently had a pole barn home built and after we moved in we discovered our roof does not have any form of vapor barrier, just metal right on top of the purlins. Our contractor stated the entire attic […]
Read moreRoof Replacement, the next Steps, and Hurricane Codes
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/08/02 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about replacement of a roof damaged from snow loads, gravel and concrete steps, and what measures are taken in Florida to prepare for hurricanes. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We have a 24’Wx52’L pole barn in Northern California and the 2022 winter snow load compromised the roof […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Building Contractor, Concrete, Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Roofing Materials, Professional Engineer, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Pole Barn Floor, Rebuild, Florida Codes, Roof Replacement, Snow Loads, Hurricane, Concrete Steps
- No comments
Attic Space, Cost Effective Size, and Column Sizing
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/07/19 @ 8:00This week the Pole barn Guru answers reader questions regarding a 6ft attic space over a 30×44 pole barn, the most “cost effective” method to build, and the point at which a post increased from a 6×6 to a 6×8. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We want a decent-height (a bit over 6ft) attic space in […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Post Frame Home, Trusses, Barndominium, Building Interior, floorplans, Professional Engineer, Lumber, Columns, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: Floor Trusses, Post Size, Cost Effective Design Solution, Column Size, Attic Space, Second Floor, Bonus Room, Pole Barn Basement
- 1 comments
Average Cost in WA State, Garage with Dwelling Unit, and Combo Girts
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/07/12 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru addresses reader questions about the average cost of “a 1200 sf 2 bed 1 bath 1 carport 1 small porch for a contractor in WA state?” If a person can build one structure for a garage with a dwelling unit, and if it would be beneficial to install commercial […]
Read more- Categories: RV Storage, Pole Barn Questions, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, Building Styles and Designs, Constructing a Pole Building, Shouse, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Building Interior
- Tags: Barndominium, Post Frame House, Shouse, Post Frame Costs, Average Costs Of Post Frame, Girts
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Looking for Advice on Insulating My Pole Barn Walls
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/07/06 @ 8:00Looking for Advice on Insulating My Pole Barn Walls MATTHEW in CENTRAL ILLINOIS writes: “Hello! I am a member of the Facebook pole barns and buildings page and see your post with advice often. I honor your opinions. I am wondering if you can help me out. I have a 30×48 pole barn in central […]
Read moreWall Height, What’s Included? and Drill Set Bracket Usage
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/07/05 @ 8:00Today the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about customizing the wall height to best “utilize sheet goods” on interior walls, what Hansen includes in a pole barn kit, and the practicality of using a drill set bracket for columns into an existing slab. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Once I save up the funds, I […]
Read more- Categories: Concrete, Footings, Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Budget, Pole Barn Design, Columns, Building Styles and Designs, Pole Building How To Guides, Barndominium, Pole Barn Structure
- Tags: Eave Height, Drywall Length, Post Frame Kit, Existing Slab, Drill Set Brackets, Pole Building Kit, Wall Height
- 2 comments
Wide and Tall, Building on Slope, and a Condensation Issue
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/06/28 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about the potential wide and tall a pole building can be designed, if a pole building can be building on a slope, and how to mitigate condensation in an existing ‘horse barn’ with an open metal roof. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: How wide and tall can […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Trusses, Ventilation, Building Drainage, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Roofing Materials, Horse Riding Arena, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides
- Tags: Pole Building Truss Span, Build On Slope, Condensation, Uneven Slope Site, Horse Barn Moisture, Pole Building Height, Sloped Site, Pole Building Width
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Pole Barn Conversion, Condensation Concerns, and Setting Trusses
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/06/21 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions regarding converting a section of an existing building into living space, concerns about condensation in an insulated wall, and a concern about setting trusses too soon following a concrete pour. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello! We have a pole barn already built, 60×80, and we’ve decided […]
Read more- Categories: Barndominium, Concrete, Footings, Insulation, Rebuilding Structures, Constructing a Pole Building, Building Interior, Pole Barn Planning, Professional Engineer, Columns, Lofts, Pole Barn Homes, Trusses, Post Frame Home, Ventilation
- Tags: R-1, Pole Barn Conversion, Residential Addition, R-III, Concrete Pour, Insulation, Vapor Barrier, Condensation, Setting Trusses, Occupancy Classification
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Foundation Requirements, Stem Walls, and Building on Slab
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/06/14 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the type of foundation and uplift requirements there is for and RV cover and “what not,” building a home on a stem wall or with crawl space, and pluming for a building built on slab. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: For a 24 x40 x12 pole […]
Read more- Categories: Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Concrete, floorplans, Footings, Building Interior
- Tags: Pole Barn Foundation, Post Frame Stem Wall, Concrete On Grade, Building Uplift, Uplift, Crawl Space, Wet Set Brackets, Post Frame Plumbing, Post Frame Design Loads
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Pool Insulation, Span Tables for Floor Joists, and Post Brackets
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/05/17 @ 8:00Today the Pole barn Guru addresses reader questions about the use of 2″ Dow Styrofoam sheets to help insulate and above ground pool, advice for a structurally sound 20×40 room with a loft in a building, and if post can be set onto a cinderblock wall. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I live in Minnesota and […]
Read moreDead Air as an Insulator
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/05/04 @ 8:00Dead Air as an Insulator Are you considering building a climate controlled post-frame building? If so, then proper insulation is (or should be) at the top of your list. If you have not seen ridiculous claims of double digit R-values from reflective radiant barriers yet (aka ‘bubble wrap insulation”) you will. Read more about these […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Building Interior, Insulation, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Sheet Insulation, Ventilation, Thermal Bridging, Thermal Break, Cladding, Radiant Barrier, Insulation, Gypsum Wall Board, Vapor Barrier, Convection, Condensation, Climate Controlled, Batt Insulation, Cold Cladding
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Condensation Challenge, Adding a Garage Door, and Barn Movers
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/04/26 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about likely condensation challenges with a closed envelope in coastal South Carolina, an addition of a 16′ wide garage door to an existing building, and if the Guru knows any pole barn movers in central Illinois. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I want to keep my building […]
Read more- Categories: Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior, Insulation, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Heating, Constructing a Pole Building, Overhead Doors, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Building Doors, Ventilation
- Tags: Pole Barn Movers, Moving A Pole Barn, Closed Cell Spray Foam, Moisture Control, Condensation, Closed Envelope, Overhead Garage Door, Garage Door
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Updates to Make to Your Pole Barn in 2023
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/04/11 @ 8:00Updates to Make to Your Pole Barn in 2023 Entering the new year comes with resolutions, and while some may be personal, there are plenty that end up becoming a part of your to-do list. Starting with a clean slate means you can really hone in on what improvements you may need, or what you […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Building Interior, Uncategorized, Skylights, Insulation, RV Storage, Building Overhangs, Post Frame Home, Roofing Materials, Shouse, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Insulation, Pole Barn, Fire Resistance, Resolution, Recreational
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Comparing Rockwool and Fiberglass Insulation
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/04/06 @ 8:00Comparing Rockwool and Fiberglass Insulation Fiberglass insulation has long been a popular option for slowing heat transmission through building walls and ceilings. While it may have an added benefit of creating a fire-resistant layer between interior and exterior walls, fiberglass still may not measure up to Rockwool’s natural abilities. Like fiberglass, Rockwool is an insulation […]
Read moreFinancing, Ventilation for Metal Trussed Shed, and Concrete Costs
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/03/22 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about what financing is available for a post frame building, a question about ventilation for a metal trusses pole barn, and a comparison of concrete costs for post frame vs red iron buildings. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’m looking to build a 25′ x 50′ pole […]
Read more- Categories: Concrete, Footings, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Design, Columns, Pole Building Comparisons, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Ventilation
- Tags: Ventilation, Ceiling Ventilation, Post Frame Concrete, Financing, Concrete Costs, Construction Loan, Post Frame Financing
- 2 comments
Questions About Post Frame Interior Concrete Slabs
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/03/14 @ 8:00Questions About Post-Frame Interior Concrete Slabs Reader KYLE in SALEM writes: Hello again, Mike! I hope this finds you well. Setting the stage (some of the following details are merely to paint the broader picture or for interest although perhaps not all will be relevant to my following questions ;-): I built a 48’ x […]
Read moreKnee Bracing, Flying Gable Trim, and Ventilation Needs
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/02/22 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the removal of knee bracing to install interior ceiling and wall steel, a question about a special rake trim for a flying gable, and the possibility of adding ceiling liner panels to a structure and the need for a vapor barrier and proper ventilation. DEAR […]
Read more- Categories: Trusses, Ventilation, Insulation, Building Drainage, Pole Barn Questions, Building Interior, Pole Barn Design, Building Overhangs, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Expandable Closures, Vapor Barrier, Knee Bracing, Flying Gable Rake Trim, Ventilation, Vented Soffit, Rake Trim, Vented Ridge, Liner Panels
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Condensation Control, Load Requirements, and A Sloped Site
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/02/15 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about condensation control in Spokane, WA, the availability of a hipped roof design to meet wind and snow loads, and planning for a post frame build on a sloped site. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’m in Spokane, WA– a semi-arid region, and I had a question […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Post Frame Home, Steel Roofing & Siding, Ventilation, Building Interior, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Roofing Materials, Pole Building How To Guides, RV Storage
- Tags: Hipped Roof, Condensation Barrier, A1V, Sloped Site, Wind Loads, Purlin Spacing, Dropstop Condensation Control, Snow Loads
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Scissor Trusses, Attaching a Shouse, Attic Truss Space
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/02/08 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about possibility of installing scissor trusses in upstate NY where there is a heavy snow load (80psf), a recommendation of whether of not to build a shouse and attach it to an aquaponic greenhouse, what the size of space an attic truss might provide with certain […]
Read moreFraming for Sheetrock, Exterior Stairs, and Board & Batten Siding
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/02/01 @ 8:00This Wednesday, the Pole Barn Guru addresses hanging of sheetrock on horizontal girts compared to conventional framing, the best method to install or add stairs to a structure to comply with building codes, and proper installation for board and batten siding. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have read about the benefits of hanging sheetrock on […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Pole Building Siding, Concrete, Alternate Siding, Building Interior, Fasteners, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Board And Batten, 2018 IBC, Alternative Siding, Sheetrock Framing, Horizontal Framing, Exterior Stairs
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Wall Height and Footing size, Builders, and Post Frame Home Kits
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/01/25 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about footing size for a twenty foot wall height, finding a builder for a post frame buildings, and if Hansen provides post frame home kits. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Can you achieve wall heights of 20 feet and if so what kind of footing requirement do […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, floorplans, Footings, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Barndominium Plans, Pole Barn Builders, Post Frame Wall Heights, Post Frame Footing Size, Post Frame Permit, Post Frame Home
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Help! My Barndominium Vaulted Ceiling Drips
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/01/10 @ 8:00Help – My Barndominium Vaulted Ceiling Drips Reader HOMER in PIEDMONT writes: “I called in today and was referenced to send an email – I have come across your website and have gained a vast amount of knowledge – I was hoping to get some more information on my situation – I also understand that […]
Read moreDoes My Pole Barn Need a Vapor Barrier?
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/01/03 @ 8:00Does My Pole Barn Need a Vapor Barrier Above the Metal Ceiling? Reader DAVID in BALDWINSVILLE writes: “I have a new pole barn with bubble vapor barrier under roof metal. I am installing a metal ceiling with R-38 cellulose in the attic. Do I need a vapor barrier above the metal ceiling? The barn will […]
Read moreCeiling Addition, Drywall Orientation, Ridge Vent Replacement
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/11/30 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru addresses reader questions regarding the ability to hang a ceiling addition in a Hansen Building, if it is better to hang drywall parallel or perpendicular to framing, and if Hansen can replace a ridge vent in Buffalo, NY DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I purchased a 25′ x 35′ kit […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Ventilation, Building Interior, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Ceiling Load Trusses, Vented Ridge, Ceiling, Vented Closure, Bottom Chord Deal Load, Hanging Drywall, Drywall
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Corner Trim, Metal Roof Install Issue, and Insulation Solutions
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/11/16 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about what trim to use on building corners, an issue of installing metal to roof that is extremely out of square, and best options to insulate a building. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Good afternoon! Looking to see what trim to use on the corners? https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2015/10/horizon-steel-siding/ Sincerely, KYLEIGH DEAR […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building Siding, Ventilation, Building Interior, Insulation, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Install Roof Steel, Vapor Barrier, Ventilation, Square Roof, Corner Trims, Unfaced Rock Wool Batts, Metal Trims, Insulation
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Why Pre-cut Studs are 92-5/8″ Long
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/10/04 @ 8:00Why Pre-cut Studs are 92-5/8” Long Growing up with my Father and six framing contractor uncles (my Dad’s five brothers and Auntie Darlene’s husband Vern) all of us male Momb cousins (myself, brother Mark, Kim, Randy and Scott) eventually became M.E.I. (Momb Enterprises, Inc.) teenage slaves. My beloved Uncle Gil even has on his Facebook […]
Read moreSnow Load, Clear Span Scissor Trusses, and a Window Replacement
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/09/14 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about whether or not a 30 year old building correct snow load, the possibility of clear spanning scissor trusses to eighty feet, and assistance with the replacement (or repair) of a window in a Hansen Building from 2014. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: How do I figure […]
Read moreWeather Resistant Barriers, LVL Notches, and Design Ideas
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/09/07 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about weather resistant barriers, a caution to not attempt to notch LVL rafters, and a recommended design solution for a new build. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We are in process of designing our barndominium with hoping to start building next spring. Do you have a recommendation […]
Read more- Categories: Trusses, Ventilation, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Design, Building Overhangs, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Pole Barn Structure
- Tags: Standing Seam, Truss Spacing, LVL, Notching Rafters, Spray Foam, Overhangs, Weather Resistant Barriers, Design Solutions
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Can No Longer Afford Spray Foam for a PEMB
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/08/25 @ 8:00Can no Longer Afford Spray Foam for a PEMB Loyal reader CINDY in TYLER writes: “I had a steel building (20×18) built with steel frame and metal exterior. This is going to be my house. It will have a loft that is half the size of the building. Originally the builder talked me into spray […]
Read morePolycarbonate Frame, Concrete Thickness, and Insulation
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/08/17 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the use of a hard-sided (polycarbonate) frame, how thick a concrete pads has to be to house an RV, and insulation options for a vacation home. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Can a pole structure be built as a hard-sided (polycarbonate) frame 20 feet wide, without […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Pole Building Grow House, Shouse, Ventilation, Concrete, Building Interior, Columns, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Homes, Constructing a Pole Building, RV Storage
- Tags: Insulation, Greenhouse, Concrete Thickness, Polycarbonate, RV Storage, Rebar
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An Innovation to Attach Tops of Interior Walls
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/07/28 @ 8:00An Innovation to Attach Tops of Interior Walls Roof and/or floor trusses should not be fixed attached to tops of non-load bearing interior walls. In a previous article, I discussed a possible solution to this challenge (please read: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2016/01/attaching-interior-walls-to-trusses/). Those brilliant engineering type folks at Simpson may just have invented a better mouse trap for […]
Read moreInsulation and Ventilation, Straw Bales, and Double Bubble
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/07/20 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about using cardboard and heavy plastic to vent and insulate a pole building, use of straw bales an insulator, and best way to ventilate and reduce roof noise. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: On my 42×63 2 story pole building (heated first floor) I have trusses 9’ […]
Read moreBuilding Codes, Site Prep, and Heating & Cooling Efficiency
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/07/13 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about whether or not a Hansen Building meets Florida/Dade building codes + a few others, optimal materials for site prep on a grade, and heating & cooling efficiency in a long, narrow structure. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: A few questions:- Do your products meet Miami/Dade building […]
Read more- Categories: floorplans, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Building Code, Zoo, Telephone Poles, Animal Habitat, Soil Compaction, Floor Plans Heating And Cooling Efficiency, Site Prep, Grade Change
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Drilling Electrical Holes Through Glu-laminated Posts
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/06/21 @ 8:00Drilling Electrical Holes Through Glu-laminated Post Frame Building Columns Reader and Hansen Pole Buildings DIY client AARON in SALEM writes: “I am trying to find the best way to run in wall wires (6/3, 8/3 & 10/2 romex) past columns on the “braced wall panel” bays in my building. My building has a 20′ eave […]
Read moreCondensation Control, a Bottom Track, and New Steel
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/06/15 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about adding condensation control to an existing structure, the installation of the “bottom track” of a sliding door, and how to finish an existing structure with wrap and steel. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: hello – I just bought a large Amish shed for a workshop, and […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building Siding, Pole Building Doors, Ventilation, Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Sliding Doors, Roofing Materials
- Tags: Housewrap, Siding Door Brackets, Bottom Bracket, Spray Foam, Condensation Control, Steel Siding And Roofing, Steel Over OSB
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Basement Addition, Gambrel Modification, and a New Home
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/06/08 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the addition of a basement to an existing pole barn, the possibility of modifying an existing gambrel style horse barn, and the connection of a house and garage. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am considering building a partial basement under my existing Pole Barn Building […]
Read more- Categories: Concrete, Post Frame Home, Footings, Barndominium, Building Interior, Shouse, Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Homes, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Structure, Gambrel, Trusses
- Tags: Basement, Soils Report, Horse Barn, Basement Addition, Engineer Soils Report, Gambrel, Attached Garage, Post Frame House
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Floor Plans vs. Structural Building Plans
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/05/26 @ 8:00Floor 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Barndominium, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, floorplans, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: International Residential Code, Barndominium Plans, Elevation Drawings, Floor Plans; Structural Building Plans, Registered Design Professional, Architect
- 2 comments
Moisture Control, Insulating Existing Structure, and a Post Rot Fix
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/05/11 @ 8:00Today the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about moisture control, insulating a building with a ridge vent, and a solution for replacing posts that have rotted out. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Thanks for the abundance of technical information you provide your readers. Like many of them, I inherited a pole barn with the same […]
Read morePersonal Storage, Additional Height, and Floor Plans
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/05/04 @ 8:00This 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Building Interior, floorplans, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Homes, Building Styles and Designs, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Ventilation, Shouse, Rebuilding Structures, Shouse
- Tags: Pole Barn Storage, Floor Plans, Personal Storage, Interior Height, Post Frame Home, Post Frame House, Registered Design Professional
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Footings, Mechanical Plans, and Hay Ventilation
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/04/13 @ 8:00This 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 […]
Read more- Categories: floorplans, Concrete, Footings, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation
- Tags: Ventilation, Mechanical Plans, Hay Barn Ventilation, Pole Barn Footings, Concrete Footings, Pole Barn Foundation, Floor Plans, Hay Barn, Electrical/plumbing/mechanical
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Solar Panels, Concrete Free Slab, and Overhead Door Posts
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/04/06 @ 8:00This 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Building Doors, Concrete, Building Interior, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Design, Sectional Doors, Building Styles and Designs, Overhead Doors
- Tags: Overhead Door Posts, Rooftop Solar, Rooftop Solar Panels, Concrete Free Slab, Solar Panels, Concrete Free, Door Columns
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Where We Ship, Raising Walls, and Bottom Chord Dead Loads
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/30 @ 8:00This 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Pole Barn Structure, Trusses, Concrete, Building Interior, tools, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: Drywall Ceiling, Hansen Locations, Hansen Shipping, Hanging Trusses, Double Trusses, Building Walls, Pre-assembled Walls, Bottom Chord Dead Load, Shipping
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Pool Inside Pole Barn
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/24 @ 8:00Pool 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 […]
Read moreSpray Foam, Second Floor, and Bending Posts
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/02 @ 8:00This 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Building Interior, Insulation, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Building Styles and Designs, Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Ventilation
- Tags: Attic Trusses, Floor Trusses, Post Size, Condensation Barrier, Spray Foam, Two Story Post Frame, Wind Load, Engineered Post Frame Plans, Condensation Control
- 2 comments
Existing Foundation, “Home/Pool Combo” and HOA’s
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/02/09 @ 8:00This 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. […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Homes, Roofing Materials, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Pole Building Siding, Concrete, Alternate Siding, Vinyl Siding, Building Interior
- Tags: HOA, HOA Rules, Existing Slab, Existing Foundation, Home And Pool Combo Building, Roof Over Pool, Roofing And Siding, Alternative Roofing And Siding
- 2 comments
Retro Installing Windows in a Spray Foamed Post Frame Building
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/02/08 @ 8:00Retro Installing Windows in a Spray Foamed Post Frame Wall Reader JOEY in PRINCETON writes: “Good Evening Pole Barn Guru! We need to add picture (9) and slider (3) windows to an existing 3-year old Sherman Pole Building Post frame building where we are converting part into living quarters. The building was spray foamed by […]
Read more- Categories: Budget, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, Post Frame Home, About The Pole Barn Guru, Pole Building How To Guides, Barndominium, Steel Roofing & Siding, Shouse, Windows, Building Interior
- Tags: J Channel, Closed Cell Spray Foam, Spray Foam, Sherman Pole Building, Gas Filled Low E Windows, J Trim Attached
- No comments
Rock Solid, Living Quarters, and Better Get an RDP
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/02/02 @ 8:00Today the Pole Barn Guru responds to readers questions regarding assistance in designing that is “rock solid for generations to come” using the reader’s own sawn lumber, a questions about adding a living quarter to an insulated building, and advice in bracing a post frame building better suited for a registered design professional. DEAR POLE […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Building Interior, Lumber, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Heating, Building Department, Constructing a Pole Building, Shouse, Pole Barn Structure
- Tags: U-brackets, Structural Design, Registered Design Professional, Moisture Barrier, Rough-sawn Lumber, Own Lumber, Insulation
- No comments
Being a Fan Fan
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/01/27 @ 8:00Being a Fan Fan Reader TOM in MACOMB writes: “Hello, I have a 24 x 40 pole barn built last summer. It has a base layer of 10” of sand and 4’ of crushed concrete on top. This sat exposed for several months until the building was erected,it was a wet summer. The building was […]
Read moreA Walk-Out, A Shouse, and Spray Foam Insulation
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/01/12 @ 8:00This 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Ventilation, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Questions, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Shouse
- Tags: Spray Foam, Shop House, Walkout Basement, Heated Shop, Post Frame Home, Shouse
- No comments
Hansen (J.A.), the Insides, and Ceiling Liner Panels
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/12/29 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru responds to reader questions about “Hansen” and the person behind the name, what the inside of a building might look like, and the possibility of adding ceiling liner panels to scissor trusses spaced 4 feet apart. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: How long has Hansen (the man himself) been building […]
Read moreA Basement Foundation, a Leaky Roof, and Raising Bays
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/11/17 @ 8:00Today’s “Ask the Guru” tackles reader questions about erecting a kit on a basement foundation, how to find and repair a leaky roof, and some advice on raising bays to add height to a structure. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Is it possible to erect one of the pole barn kits on a basement foundation? LUCAS […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Structure, Steel Roofing & Siding, Trusses, Concrete, Footings, Rebuilding Structures, Pole Barn Questions, Building Interior, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Professional Engineer, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Post Frame Foundation, Basement, Foundation, Raise Building, Roof Repair, Leaky Roof, EPDM Screws, Add Height To Building, Basement Foundation
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Switching Post Sizes, Structure Length, and Fire Damage
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/11/10 @ 8:00This 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Concrete, Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Columns
- Tags: 6x6 Columns, Building Length, Post Sizes, Alternative Post Sizes, Trusses, Fire Damage, Rebuilding Structure, Slab Damage
- No comments
Convert to Residence, Insulation, and Truss Spans
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/11/03 @ 8:00Today’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 […]
Read moreCupola Sizes, Insulation for a Ceiling, and Structural Pieces
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/10/25 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about cupola sizes, the proper way to insulate a shed ceiling, and a structural materials question. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What base size and height is correct for a cupolas for a 32’ wide by 36’ long by 35-40’ high with a 10 over 12 pitch […]
Read more- Categories: Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Professional Engineer, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Structure, Lumber, Insulation, Trusses, Pole Barn Questions, Ventilation, Pole Barn Design, Building Interior, Building Styles and Designs
- Tags: Roof Condensation, Cupola, Trusses, Cupola Sizes, Cupola Base, Insulation, Steel Rolls, Condensation, Roll Form, Ceiling Insulation
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At What Temperature Can You Not Spray Foam Insulation?
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/10/06 @ 8:00At 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 […]
Read moreFloor Plans, Spray Foam for Condensation, and a Sill Issue
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/09/27 @ 8:00Today 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 […]
Read moreVaulted Barndominium Ceilings
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/09/08 @ 8:00I 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, About The Pole Barn Guru, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Trusses, Building Interior
- Tags: Scissor Trusses, Barndominium, Vaulted Ceiling, Tray Ceiling, Second Story Space, Standard Room Framing, Ranch Rambler
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Barndominium Spray Foam Insulation
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/09/03 @ 8:00What Amount of Barndominium Spray Foam Insulation is Adequate? Reader DON in LAKE CHARLES writes: “Building new pole barn. Would using closed cell foam in roof and walls be adequate?” Lake Charles is in climate zone 2A. 2018’s International Energy Conservation Code prescriptively mandates (for your zone) a minimum R-38 value for ceilings and R-13 […]
Read more- Categories: Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Structure, Building Interior, Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home, Insulation, Barndominium
- Tags: International Energy Conservation Code, Rockwool, Fiberglass Insulation, REScheck, International Building Code, HERS Index, Cellulose Insulation, International Residential Code, Closed Cell Insulation
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Raised Floor in Flood Area, Drywall Framing, and Water in Holes
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/08/16 @ 8:00This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about post frame with a raised floor use in a flood area, framing for drywall in a post frame house, and post holes full of water could be bigger soil issue. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do you have a kit that can be used in a […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Homes, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn holes, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Post Frame Home, Footings, Building Drainage, Building Interior, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Concrete Collars, Post Frame Home, Post Holes, Drywall Ready, Commercial Bookshelf Girts, Raised Floor, Stilt House
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Home Addition, Combo Building, and Moisture Barriers
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/08/02 @ 8:00This 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 […]
Read moreResidential Building, I-Joist Purlins, and Post Proximity
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/07/19 @ 8:00This 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 […]
Read moreCondensation Issues, Adding a Loft, and Metal Truss Load
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/07/12 @ 8:00This 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 […]
Read moreAttic Truss Lofts, Wall Switch Heights, and A Shouse
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/06/14 @ 8:00Today the Pole Barn Guru responds to reader questions about an attic truss loft, whether or not wall switches and outlet heights are different for post frame, and building a shouse– garage with living space above (Shop/House). DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Is it possible to have a loft in a 30 x 50 x 8 […]
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