Category Archives: Footings
NEW Hansen Pole Building Columns in Brackets
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/04/10 @ 8:00NEW Hansen Pole Building Columns in Brackets Even though our glu-laminated columns are pressure preservative treated entirely through, there are some people who are just not convinced of longevity of properly pressure preservative treated wood in ground. We have a solution for you. There is only one commercially available with any significant moment (bending) resisting […]
Read moreYouTube 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 moreSan Diego County, Wind Speeds, and Wet Set Column Brackets
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/02/28 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about whether or not Hansen has sold a building in San Diego County, CA, a building with a design wind speed of 150mph, and a recommendation for use of PermaColumn wet set brackets. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Have you sold pole barns in San Diego County, […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn holes, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Concrete, Footings, floorplans, Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: Post Brackets, Wet Set Brackets, Hansen Locations, Permacolumn, Wind Loads, San Diego County, Engineered Buildings, Wind Speed
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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: Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Ventilation, Uncategorized, Concrete, Lumber, Footings, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Heating
- Tags: Blown In Insulation, Insulation, Precast Concrete, Vapor Barrier, Spray Foam, Permacolumn, Eave Height, Fire Resistance, 6 Mil Plastic, Climate Zone 5A, Fire Resistant Barrier, PVC
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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: Building Drainage, Building Interior, Uncategorized, Pole Barn Questions, Budget, Pole Barn Design, Columns, Pole Building How To Guides, RV Storage, Pole Barn Planning, Sectional Doors, Concrete, Footings, Pole Barn holes
- Tags: Condensation Control, UC-4B Pressurem Preservative Treated Columns, Water Table, Sectional Overhead Door, Overhead Doors, Rain Country, Pressure Preservative Treatment, Site Prep, Sliding Doors, Weather Barrier
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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: floorplans, Professional Engineer, Columns, Uncategorized, Lofts, Lumber, Pole Barn Homes, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Planning, Post Frame Home, Footings, Barndominium, Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior
- Tags: Bituthene, Post Wrap, UC-4B, Two-story Building, Loft, UC-4B Pressurem Preservative Treated Columns
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Pole Barn on a Slope – Can I use ICFs?
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/01/23 @ 8:00Pole Barn on a Slope – Can I use ICFs? Reader NATHAN in WASHINGTON writes: “I am hoping to construct a pole barn with a garage with attic storage and an apartment on the back as well. I have a couple questions. First, the site is on a slope, so I think we need to […]
Read morePost Footing and Site Leveling
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/01/18 @ 8:00Post Footing and Site Leveling Reader KEVIN in PAOLA writes: “I’ve been working with Cory on my building design and had a question regarding leveling my site and setting my posts. The plan is a 40′ x 60′ building with a 17′ eave height. On the south side, there will be a 12′ attached shed […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Footings, Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn holes, Uncategorized, Pole Barn Design, Pole Building How To Guides
- Tags: Post Footing, Site Leveling, Post Frame Foundation, Site Prep, Geotechnical Engineer, Modified Proctor Density, Site Slope
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Full Foundation, Hurricane Proof, and Drill-Set Brackets on Slab
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/01/17 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about a village or township requiring you to put a full foundation in for a pole building, whether a pole building is “hurricane proof,” and the potential use of drill-set brackets to set 6×6 columns on an existing slab with thickened edge. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Structure, Concrete, Footings, Columns, Uncategorized, Pole Barn holes, Lumber, Pole Barn Questions, Barndominium, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Mono-slab, Foundation, Moment Bending Loads, Post Frame Foundation, Embedded Columns, Drill Set Brackets, Hurricane Proof
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One End of My Pole Shed is Moving Up
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/01/16 @ 8:00One End of My Pole Shed is Moving Up Reader JOEL in GULLY writes: “I have a question for you, I built a 24 x 30 foot pole shed with ten foot side walls about 30 years ago, I dug the poles down 60 inches and the building sat perfect for 25 years, then a […]
Read more- Categories: Barndominium, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Structure, Concrete, Footings, Building Drainage, Professional Engineer, Columns, Uncategorized, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: Trench Drains, French Drains, Reservoir, Shed Moving Up, Underground Water, Dry Creek, Dry Wells, Building Uplift, Uplift, Site Grading
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Fill to Grade, XPS Between Steel and Framing, and a Post Frame Home
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/01/10 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru advises readers on adding 6″ fill to the site and the affect it would have on columns, the use of XPS insulation between the steel and framing of the building, and some thoughts on building a 3 bedroom, two bath house. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello, The site I […]
Read morePosts Out of Ground, Brackets Wrong Orientation, and a Rebuild
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/12/27 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru delves into reader concerns over use of a thickened edge with brackets instead of embedded columns in and area of northern Minnesota with heavy snow loads and lots of rain, the issues with wet set brackets set in the wrong orientation, and the prospect of rebuilding over current slab […]
Read morePost Too Deep, Termite Treatment, and Column Treatment
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/12/20 @ 8:00This week Mike the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about adding length to endwall post set too deep into ground in order to attach to end trusses, how to best prevent termites after slab and skirt have been poured, and if a UC-4B treatment would suffice on a “half wall” RV storage unit. DEAR […]
Read moreTrying to Add a Carport on a Social Security Budget Reader
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/12/12 @ 8:00Trying to Add a Carport on a Social Security Budget Reader BRIAN in WHITE CLOUD writes: “I am planning (hopefully as funds exists) a free standing 24 x 24 x 8 sidewall carport that will butt up to the front of our existing garage. I am planning to use 6×6 treated posts sunk to 48″ […]
Read more- Categories: Budget, Columns, Pole Barn Design, purlins, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Trusses, Concrete, Footings
- Tags: Carport, UC-4B Pressurem Preservative Treated Columns, Attached Carport, Freestanding Carport, Site-built Trusses, Budget Friendly
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Allowable Variations in Concrete Slabs on Grade
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/11/09 @ 8:00Allowable Variations in Concrete Slabs on Grade Growing up, I witnessed my Father forming and pouring four foot squares of concrete for our backyard patio. He would alternate them between smooth finish and exposed aggregate to create a variation in appearance. Oh how he made it look all so easy. Me – I know very […]
Read moreRafter Size, Lean-to on Slab, and “Barndominium?”
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/11/08 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru tackles questions regarding rafter size for a lean-to addition, adding a Lean-to to an existing building on a monolithic slab, and “the difference between a pole barn home and a barndominium?” DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am building a lean-to on an existing pole barn. It is 32′ long […]
Read more- Categories: Footings, Columns, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Constructing a Pole Building, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Concrete
- Tags: Rafter Size, Barndominium, Lean-to, Post Frame Home, Slab, Pole Barn Home, Monolithic Slab, Rafter
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Post 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: Trusses, Concrete, Footings, 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
- Tags: Post Frame Footings, Footing Thickness, Materials Deliveries, Materials Weight, Jobsite Restrictions, Foundations, Crawl Space, Slab On Grade, Column Footings
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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: 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, Trusses
- Tags: Vult Wind Speed, ACQ Treated Lumber, Standing Seam Roofing, Hidden Fasteners, Truss Modification, Wind Speed, Treated Columns, Osb Under Steel, Termites
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How to Prevent Existing 6×6 Columns From Future Settling and Rotting
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/10/03 @ 8:00How to Prevent Existing 6×6 to Prevent Future Settling and Rotting Reader BARRY in FREDERICKTOWN writes: “I recently acquired some property with an existing pole barn “house” on it. It is an unfinished 20’x30′ room with corrugated steel siding, a trussed, steel covered roof and several doors and windows. It was built with a raised […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn holes, Pole Barn Questions, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Concrete, Barndominium, Footings, Budget, Columns, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Premix Concrete, Silicone Caulking, Temporary Bracing, Galvanized Rebar, Brown Rot Fungi, Rebar, Premature Post Decay, Hairpin Rebar
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Adding a Slab, Code Requirements, and Getting Started
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/09/20 @ 8:00Today’s Ask the Guru takes on reader questions about adding a slab to a pole barn with a dirt floor, and how that might transfer pressure to the columns, whether or not Hansen Buildings packages meet “2018 International Building Code and all codes adopted by Pennsylvania for commercial construction,” and landowners looking to get started […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Pole Building How To Guides, Concrete, Footings, Professional Engineer, Uncategorized, Columns, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: Concrete To Pole Barn, Concrete To Columns, Getting Starting, Building Codes, Concrete Slab, Pole Barn Planning, 2018 IBC
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Post 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: Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Apartments, Concrete, Footings, Barndominium, floorplans, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Columns, Lofts, Pole Barn Questions, Horse Riding Arena
- Tags: Post Brackets, Engineer Sealed Plans, Brackets, Horse Barn, Engineer Drawings, Post Frame Possibilities, Post Frame Wall Height, Horse Barn And House, Living Above Horse Barn
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Pier Insulation, Hold Up Distances, and Site Prep
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/08/09 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about insulating around outside of post piers, the hold-up distance of any non-treated lumber or wall sheathing, and if laying gravel prior to drilling and setting columns would be best order of building. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Kind of a 2 parter. I am trenching 4′ […]
Read more- Categories: Lumber, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Building Siding, Concrete, Footings, Alternate Siding, Building Drainage, Columns
- Tags: OSB, Alternative Siding, Gravel Pad, Foundation Insulation, Building Site Prep, Level Build Site, Insulated Piers, OSB Hold Up, Non-treated Lumber
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Wall 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
Load Duration Factor for Wood
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/07/04 @ 8:00Load Duration Factor for Wood Load Duration Factor, or LDF, is based on wood’s ability to recover after a reasonable load has been applied for a given time. Wood is a stiff material but it is not completely rigid. Wood will flex under load, and once load has been removed, wood member will rebound or […]
Read moreAdding a Second Floor to an Existing Pole Barn
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/06/29 @ 8:00Adding a Second Floor in an Existing Pole Barn Reader ROBERT in HOLLIS writes: “I have a 24′ x 32′ pole barn with enough roof pitch and headroom to frame out the 2nd floor. Floor joists spanning 24′ with no support columns (clear span) is too expensive and 2×14 joists would take up precious headroom […]
Read morePole 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: 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, Barndominium, Concrete
- Tags: Pole Barn Conversion, Residential Addition, R-III, Concrete Pour, Insulation, Vapor Barrier, Condensation, Setting Trusses, Occupancy Classification, R-1
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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: 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, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Concrete On Grade, Building Uplift, Uplift, Crawl Space, Wet Set Brackets, Post Frame Plumbing, Post Frame Design Loads, Pole Barn Foundation, Post Frame Stem Wall
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Why Post Frame Columns Need Adequate Footings
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/06/06 @ 8:02Why Post-Frame Columns Need Adequate Footings Reader STEVE in GRANTS PASS writes: “Dear Pole Barn Guru, height of the post for my RV pole barn have moved. What is the best way to raise and support the header so that I can replace and or place concrete footings with Simpsons? Hopefully these are better pics. […]
Read moreNew Build Features, Concrete Costs, and a Monolithic Slab
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/05/31 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about specific features for a new build, possible costs for concrete for a 60x150x12 red iron building, and installing a monolithic slab in an area with rocky soils. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I like a 35′ wide by 45′ deep 18′ high. Ridge running the depth […]
Read moreAdding a New Lean-to
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/05/23 @ 8:00Adding a Lean-To Shed on an Existing Pole Barn Reader SAM in CANNON FALLS writes: “Hello I am looking to add a lean-to to the side of my pole building on the eave side. I was looking to use a mono truss at with a 2/12 pitch and 8′ to the bottom of the truss/ […]
Read moreConverting a Traditional Framing Plan to Post-Frame
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/05/09 @ 8:00Converting a Traditional Framing Plan to Post-Frame Hansen Pole Buildings’ client SHAYNA in PHILADELPHIA writes: “Hello, I am looking to convert my traditional; framing plan to post-frame framing to get my walls up quicker. I would like to know what requirements need to be followed. The information I already have is that it’s best for […]
Read moreEndwall Overhangs, Foundation Insulation, and Sloping Ground
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/04/19 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about setting trusses on a Hansen Building with endwall overhangs, a solution for an insulation question, and the possibility of building on steep sloping ground with some exposed columns. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Are all trusses set at the same height are the end trusses lower […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Concrete, Pole Barn Questions, Footings, Pole Barn Design, Columns, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Post Frame Home, Trusses
- Tags: Endwall Overhangs, Sloping Site, Stem Wall, Trusses, Stilt Construction, Insulation, Foundation Insulation, Sloped Ground, Truss Installation
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HOA Restrictions, Plans Only Option (sorry, no) and Site Prep
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/04/12 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru addresses reader questions about the possibility of adding a brick exterior to a pole building to satisfy HOA restrictions, if Hansen provides a sealed plans only option so a reader can reuse parts of current building, and geotechnical concerns about site prep and dirt for post frame construction. DEAR […]
Read more- Categories: Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Pole Building Siding, Footings, Alternate Siding, Rebuilding Structures
- Tags: HOA, Blueprints, Plans, HOA Regulations, Site Prep, Engineer Sealed Plans, Geotechnical Study, Dirt Work, Brick Siding
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Financing, 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: 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, Concrete
- Tags: Post Frame Concrete, Financing, Concrete Costs, Construction Loan, Post Frame Financing, Ventilation, Ceiling Ventilation
- 2 comments
You Have Questions
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/03/09 @ 8:00You Have Questions, We Have Answers Long time readers are aware I will answer any questions – even when they become highly technical. Loyal reader CORY in NEBRASKA will be a fantastic client, because he wants to know how everything works, in advance – leaving nothing to chance. He writes (in italics): “I would really […]
Read moreDragging Panels, Code Compliance, and “Some Assembly Required”
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/03/01 @ 8:00Today’s “ask the Pole Barn Guru” addresses reader questions about dragging steel panels over one another during installation, and the effects on the panels, a recommendation to consult a registered design professional in Michigan regarding footings, and if a Hansen Building is a “some assembly required” type of kit. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: So I […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building Siding, Insulation, Footings, Pole Barn Questions, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Design, Columns, Building Department, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Some Assembly Required, RDP, Registered Design Professional, Roof Steel Installation, Perma-column, DIY, Dragging Panels, Scratched Steel
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Answers to Questions Unable to Find on Website
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/02/21 @ 8:00Answers to Questions Unable to Find on Website or Learning Info Even having penned over 2000 articles on post-frame design, there are always more topics to cover and questions to be answered. Luckily, we have potential clients who want to know – as informed clients are happy clients! Reader CARY in RAYMOND writes: “Raymond Nebraska, […]
Read moreWall 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: Footings, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, floorplans
- Tags: Post Frame Footing Size, Post Frame Permit, Post Frame Home, Barndominium Plans, Pole Barn Builders, Post Frame Wall Heights
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Sealed Plans, Column Brackets, and Plans for Engineering Project
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/01/04 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about Hansen Buildings providing engineer sealed plans, use of Simpson Strong-Tie column brackets in post frame, and plans of a Hansen Building for use in an independent building project for an engineering student. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do you sell just the plans for pole barns? […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, floorplans, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Footings, Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn Homes, Lumber, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: Strudi-wall Brackets, Column Brackets, Engineering Project, Sealed Plans, Engineering Student Project, Post Brackets, Engineer Sealed Plans
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Replacing Panels, Rebar in Column, and Wholesale Purchases(?)
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/12/21 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about replacing old steel panels and adding an overhead garage door, if rebar is needed in the column to collar connection of the footing, and the ability to buy rock wool insulation wholesale. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’m purchasing a small farm in rural Missouri. It […]
Read moreConcrete, Steel Gauges, and Skylights
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/12/07 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about volume of concrete needed to support a 300lb sign, pros and cons of both 26 gauge and 29 gauge steel, and replacing skylight panels. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I need to know how to calculate how much concrete would support this sign at 10ft with […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Footings, Rebuilding Structures, Professional Engineer, Skylights
- Tags: Skylight, Concrete Design, Concrete Load, Steel Comparison, 26 Gauge Steel, Sky Light Panels, 29 Gauge Steel, Concrete
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Blown-In Insulation, Uplift Plates, and Truss Spacing
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/11/23 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about better blown-in insulation on 3/12 pitch ceiling, a reader with uplift issues and how to prevent them, and some concerns about truss spacing at 8′ oc. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello, I have a 30×48 pole barn with scissor trusses 6/12 outer pitch 3/12 inside […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Structure, Trusses, Ventilation, Footings, Insulation, Rebuilding Structures, Pole Barn Questions, Building Styles and Designs, Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Truss Spacing, Insulation, Blown In Fiberglass Insulation, Uplift, Pole Barn Truss Spacing, Uplift Plates
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Hurricane Straps, a Loft Floor Truss, and Site Specific Engineering
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/10/26 @ 8:00This Wednesday, the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about use of hurricane straps to anchor 8×8 posts to sill plate, the possibility of adding a beam to old a loft for open concept, and if we do site specific engineering for Panama City Florida- yes. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hey I’m on the starting […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Post Frame Home, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Concrete, Footings, Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: LVL, Hurricane Straps, Floor Truss, Wet Set Brackets, Site Specific Engineering, Engineering
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Preventing Radon Issues
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/10/06 @ 8:00Preventing Radon Issues in Slab-On-Grade Barndominiums I grew up in what is now Spokane Valley, Washington. Little did any of us know, back then, it turns out Spokane County is one of six counties in Washington State requiring radon mitigation measures in newly-constructed residences and residential additions. Radon is a natural in ground radioactive gas. […]
Read more- Categories: Barndominium, Shouse, About The Pole Barn Guru, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation, Concrete, Footings
- Tags: Passive Radon Mitigation System, Radon Fan, Radon, Radon Resistant, Vapor Barrier, Radon Gas Permeable Layer, Radon Collection Point, #40 PVC Pipe Stub, Sump Pump Cover, Barndominium
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Meeting IRC Slab Edge Thermal Breaks With Post Frame
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/09/27 @ 8:00Meeting IRC Slab Edge Thermal Breaks With Post Frame Reader CHUCK in MUNCIE writes: “Morning sir, I read your link in your post about post frame buildings for barn houses… one thing I am wondering, is how does the building pass energy code for residential construction, plus the IRC talks about a building being used […]
Read more- Categories: Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Building Comparisons, Pole Barn Planning, Footings
- Tags: Post Frame Construction, Moisture Resistance, Rigid Foam Insulation, Thermal Resistance, Thermal Break, Stick Frame Construction, Climate Zone, XPS, EPS, Energy Code, Polymeric Laminate Facer
- 1 comments
Insulation Options for an Idaho Barndominium
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/09/22 @ 8:00Insulation Options for an Idaho Mountain Post Frame Barndominium Loyal reader LORISTON in NAMPA writes: “We are in the initial phase of preparing for our residential post frame home and are excited to partner with Hansen Buildings when ready. Thank you for all the amazing information and supporting your clients. Question: I am targeting a […]
Read more- Categories: Barndominium, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Steel Roofing & Siding, Ventilation, Footings, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Roofing Materials
- Tags: Concrete Piers, Rock Wool Insulation, Wet Set Brackets, Extruded Polystyrene, Spray Foam, R-10 EPS, Bookshelf Girts, Pressure Preservative Treated Columns, Closed Cell Spray Foam Insulation
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Rubble Trench Foundations
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/09/13 @ 8:00Rubble Trench Foundations for Post Frame Homes? My social media friend and loyal reader TRENT in NAMPA writes: “Hi Mike, Ii would like your thoughts on some foundation ideas I have for post frame homes. The main purpose I am trying to achieve is to have perimeter concrete at the base of the building while […]
Read moreFull Frost Foundation?
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/09/06 @ 8:00Full Frost Wall Foundation? Reader AARON in ROSEVILLE writes: “Assuming (not yet verified) that I don’t need a full frost wall foundation for my barndo, wondering about the pros/cons for full frost wall vs pier footings in southern MN. Obviously there is the cost difference, but when it comes to building performance(in the winter), would […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Footings, Pole Barn Homes, Barndominium
- Tags: IECC, Climate Zone, Full Frost Wall, Full Frost Wall Foundation, Insulation Requirements, Splash Plank, R-10 Insulation, Concrete Foundation Wall, Insulating Piers, ICC, Pressure Preservative Splash Plank
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Uneven Ground, Granting Wishes, and Recommendations
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/08/24 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru discusses foundation for a uneven ground with 4-5′ “fall” in the back, granting three wishes, and recommendations for building/footing/slab. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hey thank you for time. I am wanting to build a 50×100′ shop. I have uneven ground and about a 4-5′ fall in the back. What […]
Read more- Categories: Concrete, Footings, Lumber, Insulation, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Building Contractor
- Tags: Contractors, DIY Building, Slabs, Footings, Columns, Foundations, Builder Referrals, Post-Frame, Site Slope, Uneven Ground, Sloped Site
- No comments
A House on a Hill, Slab on Grade, and Post Brackets
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/08/10 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building a house on a hill lakeside, building a slab on grade instead or embedded posts due to rocky soil, and use of dry set brackets. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hey. We have a lot on the lake that is on a hill (not super […]
Read moreInspecting an Existing Barndominium
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/07/21 @ 8:00Inspecting an Existing Barndominium Reader STEPHANIE in BATES CITY writes: “We are in the process of buying an existing barndo and will be finishing it out with additional living space. The barndo was built by the current owner, along with his dad, 13 years ago.my question comes from a discovery during inspection on Monday. The […]
Read morePermit Problem, OSB Wall Sheathing, and a Flat Roof Slope
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/07/06 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about a permit problem for building the reader would now need a permit for, whether or not OSB wall sheathing is necessary for an addition, and if a 12′ peak to 10′ eave will appear flat. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I built a pole barn in […]
Read more- Categories: Footings, Rebuilding Structures, Pole Barn Questions, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Design, Columns, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Concrete, Concrete Cookie
- Tags: Roof Slope, Treated Columns, OSB, Wet Set Brackets, Permit, Registered Design Professional, OSB Wall Sheathing
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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: Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Homes, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Structure, Gambrel, Trusses, Concrete, Post Frame Home, Footings, Barndominium, Building Interior, Shouse, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Engineer Soils Report, Gambrel, Attached Garage, Post Frame House, Basement, Soils Report, Horse Barn, Basement Addition
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Questions from a Future Barndominium Owner
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/05/12 @ 8:00Reader JASON in WINDSOR writes: “What are ways to avoid a stone base for slab to protrude under grade board using a post in the ground or pier with wet set brackets? We want grass to grow right up to the building’s base rather than stone around the perimeter or stone flower beds. I don’t […]
Read more- Categories: Footings, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Building Overhangs, Roofing Materials, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Fascia L Trim, Splash Plank, Closed Cell Spray Foam, UC-4A, Plasti-skirt, Closed Cell Spray Foam Insulation, Expanded Polystyrene, International Energy Conservation Code, R-10 Rigid Insulation, Rigid Board EPS
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Costs to Erect, A Water Leak, and Expansive Soils
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/04/20 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about the costs of erecting a small metal barn, how to address leaks after moving a building, and building on expansive soils. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What is the cost to hire for installation of a small, 24 x 36, metal barn? JACKIE in CUMMINS DEAR JACKIE: […]
Read moreFootings, 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: Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation, floorplans, Concrete, Footings, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Electrical/plumbing/mechanical, Ventilation, Mechanical Plans, Hay Barn Ventilation, Pole Barn Footings, Concrete Footings, Pole Barn Foundation, Floor Plans, Hay Barn
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Adding a Post Frame Gable Extension
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/31 @ 8:00Adding a Post Frame Gable Extension A roof line extension off a post frame gable endwall is an affordable method to cover porches, patios, or even as a carport. As opposed to attaching a single sloping (shed style) roof, it will not reduce headroom or block line-of-sight. It is also easier to build as it […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Concrete, Footings, Porches, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Columns
- Tags: Carport, Gable Endwall, Gable Extension, Registered Professional, UC-4B Treated Columns, Porches, Architect, Engineer
- No comments
Building Over Existing Slab, Blueprints for House, and Pole Building Finance
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/09 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building over or on an existing slab or concrete, whether of not Hansen sells “just the blueprints” for a pole barn/house, and lending for a pole building set on foundation/footing/wall. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: In Arkansas, I want to build a pole barn (or similar) […]
Read more- Categories: Building Department, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Concrete, Shouse, Footings, floorplans, Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Existing Slab, Shouse, Construction Loan, Pole Barn Financing, Motor Home Storage, Blueprints, Floor Plans
- No comments
Will My Minnesota Shouse Require Frost Footings?
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/01/25 @ 8:00Will My Minnesota Shouse Require Frost Footings? Reader CHAD in JANESVILLE writes: “I am planning on building a shouse or barndominium some may call. I am doing 5″ cement with a heated floor throughout. My hope was not to bury any poles but to anchor them on top of the slap. Do you recommend front […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Concrete, Shouse, Footings, Shouse, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Post Frame House, Frost Protected Shallow Foundation, Wet Set Brackets, Shouse, Insulation R Value, Concrete Piers, Frost Line, Barndominium
- 3 comments
Framing Loads, Footing Pads, and a Pole Barn Home
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/01/05 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru kicks off 2022 with reader questions about framing loads using heavy duty steel roof trusses, a stone siding wainscot, and lap siding. Mike then addresses questions about footing pads, and finally creating a pole barn home. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am planning to build a pole barn 36×40 […]
Read more- Categories: Concrete Cookie, Footings, Alternate Siding, Pole Barn Questions, Building Styles and Designs, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Planning, Post Frame Home, Trusses, Barndominium, Concrete
- Tags: Footing Pads, Steel Trusses, Footings, Concrete Collars, Post Frame Home, Trusses, Framing Loads
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A Basement Foundation, Vapor Barrier for Arena, and a Hansen Kit
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/12/15 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building a post frame building on a basement foundation, insulation vs a reflective radiant barrier, and a question about what is include in a Hansen Building kit. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Is it possible to erect one of the pole barn kits on a basement […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Concrete, Lumber, Footings, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Professional Engineer, Roofing Materials, Horse Riding Arena, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Heating
- Tags: Basement Foundation, Insulation, Engineer Sealed Plans, Vapor Barrier, Reflective Radiant Barrier, Sealed Plans, Materials Kit, Wet Set Brackets, Post Frame Basement
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Insulation Prep, Foundation and Footing Prep, and USDA Programs
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/12/01 @ 8:00Today’s Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about plans to insulate and preparations ahead of insulating, recommendation for framing and footing an apartment to prevent movement, and if the PBG knows whether or not the USDA programs apply to post frame homes. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am currently constructing my Hansen provided pole building, […]
Read more- Categories: Concrete, Footings, Professional Engineer, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse
- Tags: Loans, Frost Heave, USDA Loans, Footings, House Wrap, Weather Resistant Barrier, Foundation, Building Movement, Insulation
- 4 comments
Barndominium Concrete Slab Insulation Boards
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/11/18 @ 8:00Barndominium Concrete Slab Insulation Boards – XPS or EPS? Other than in Climate Zone’s 1 and 2 (think deep South), International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) requires perimeter and under slab continuous insulation for barndominiums. When it comes to concrete and insulation, contractors tend to be most familiar with extruded polystyrene (XPS). Yet, expanded polystyrene (EPS) […]
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: Steel Roofing & Siding, Trusses, Concrete, Footings, Rebuilding Structures, Pole Barn Questions, Building Interior, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Professional Engineer, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Structure
- Tags: Roof Repair, Leaky Roof, EPDM Screws, Add Height To Building, Basement Foundation, Post Frame Foundation, Basement, Foundation, Raise Building
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Additions, Notching Posts, and Stem Walls
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/10/18 @ 8:00This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about adding to an existing pole barn, the possibility of notching girts into posts, and use of a stem wall on an uneven site. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have an existing 36x36x12 pole barn and would like to do an additional 36-48 roof only build […]
Read moreUnheated Post Frame Building Slabs on Grade
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/10/01 @ 8:00Are Unheated Post Frame Building Slabs on Grade Required to Be Frost Protected? Reader BILL in CLAYTON writes: “I’m in early planning for a post frame garage – just over 1000 sf but will reduce it if it solves a code problem for “private garages” in IBC. Ignoring that, where does the code permit a […]
Read more- Categories: Building Department, Shouse, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Concrete, Footings, Pole Barn Homes, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: Frost Protected, Detached Accessory Building, Wet Set Brackets, International Energy Code, International Building Code, Slab On Grade, Risk Category II, Concrete Piers
- No comments
Proper Ventilation, Condensation Control, and Post Treatment
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/09/13 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about ventilation, how to control condensation on fifteen year old building, and best practices for treated posts in ground or on specialty brackets. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have a barn that doesn’t have soffit vents but it does have a ridge vent. I installed reflective […]
Read moreA Conventional Foundation, Weather Resistant Barrier, and Moisture Issues
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/08/30 @ 8:00Today the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building a “conventional” foundation, drainage between steel and shiplap siding, and potential moisture issues of stick built vs post frame foundations. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am building a 24X48 pole barn, but instead of using a slab, I would like to have a conventional foundation. […]
Read moreMounting Door Tracks, A Post Frame Inquiry, and Floor Options
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/08/23 @ 8:00This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about where to mount the vertical tracks for his overhead garage door, a batch of questions for a possible DIY’er, and a question about flooring options. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do my tracks for garage door mount directly to the 6×6 posts, or is there a 2×6 […]
Read more- Categories: Lofts, Pole Barn holes, Overhead Doors, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Concrete, Footings, Budget
- Tags: DIY, Door Jambs, Existing Slab, Raised Floor, Overhead Door Tracks, Overhead Door Track Mount, Flooring Options
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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 Building How To Guides, Post Frame Home, Footings, Building Drainage, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn holes, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Commercial Bookshelf Girts, Raised Floor, Stilt House, Concrete Collars, Post Frame Home, Post Holes, Drywall Ready
- 2 comments
Uneven Ground, Greatest Strength, and Post Spacing
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/06/28 @ 8:00This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building a pole barn on uneven ground, if spray foam adds the greatest strength, and post spacing for a roof only porch. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We were potentially looking to build. We were investigating our options and I came across pole barns. My potential […]
Read moreA Crawl Space, Building Size Options, and An Addition
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/06/07 @ 8:00This Monday the Pole Barn Guru discusses building a post frame building over a crawl space, whether one should build up or out, and if it is possible to build on to an existing building with a post frame structure. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: When building a post frame on a crawl space with post […]
Read moreConcrete Slabs on Grade for Cold Climates
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/05/26 @ 8:00Concrete Slabs on Grade for Cold Climates My lovely bride and I have a shouse (shop/house) in Northeast South Dakota, where it can tend to get chilly in Winter. Reader TERRI in DULUTH is in a similar situation and writes: “What type of slab for cold climates do you recommend?” Well Terri, thank you for […]
Read more- Categories: Footings, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn holes, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Concrete
- Tags: Climate Zone, Building Site Preparation, Insulation Minimum R-Values, Engineered Building Plans, Ask The Pole Barn Guru, Site Preparation, International Energy Conservation Code, IECC
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Foam Boards, Foundations, and Rat Walls
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/05/24 @ 8:00Today the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about adding kraft-backed insulation to rigid foam boards, if posts go in the ground or a foundation system, and if a pole building needs a “rat wall” poured. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have an existing pole barn, the front portion being 30×30 with 11′ walls. The […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Footings, Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Post Frame Foundation, Bracket Mounted Columns, Wet Set Brackets, Foam Boards, Kraft Backed Insulation, Rat Wall, Bracket Mounted Posts, Rigid Foam Insulation
- 2 comments
Post Brackets, Cross Bracing, and Pressure Treated Wood
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/04/12 @ 8:00This 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 moreContinuous Foundations, Column Spacing, and Inside Closures
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/04/02 @ 8:00Let’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: Roofing Materials, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Structure, Concrete, Footings, Rebuilding Structures, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Columns
- Tags: Inside Closures, Foam Closures, Embedded Columns, Post Spacing, Continuous Foundation, Columns Spacing, Embedded Posts, Footings
- No comments
Choosing a Horse Riding Arena Structural System
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/01/27 @ 8:00Having 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: About The Pole Barn Guru, Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Footings, Professional Engineer, Horse Riding Arena, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: PEMB, Horse Arena, Wind Shelter, Pole Barn Arena, Fabric Roof Arena, Wood Kick Walls, Polycarbonate Eavelights, Indoor Riding Arena, Pole Barn Horse Arena
- No comments
Concrete Slab-on-grade Reinforcement
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/01/15 @ 8:00Long 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 moreA Hay Barn Challenge
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/01/12 @ 8:00Seemingly 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 morePost Rot Concerns, Floor Plan Adaptation, and a Net Zero House
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/12/28 @ 8:00This 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: Footings, Building Interior, Columns, 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
- Tags: Floorplans, Net Zero Home, Post Frame Home Mechanicals, Floor Plans, Post Frame House, Pot Rot, Quick Crete
- No comments
Wind Damage, Screw Piles, and Building on Stilts
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/12/21 @ 8:00This 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 moreDoesn’t Like Idea of Concrete Slab on Grade Foundation
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/12/17 @ 8:00Doesn’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: Pole Barn Planning, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Structure, Barndominium, Building Contractor, Concrete, Footings, Pole Barn Questions, Budget, About The Pole Barn Guru, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Building How To Guides
- Tags: Post Frame Building, Slab On Grade Foundation, Cowlitz County, General Contractor, Subcontractors, Stick Built Building, Crawl Space
- No comments
Question About a Pole Building Under Construction
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/12/16 @ 8:00If 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 moreWall Framing, a Sloped Build Site, and Engineering for Slab
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/12/10 @ 8:00Continuing 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 moreBuild on a Slope, Joist Hangers, and the Future of Post Frame
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/12/07 @ 8:00This 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 moreBusting Post Frame Barndominium Myths
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/10/20 @ 8:00Busting 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: Trusses, Concrete, Footings, Shouse, Budget, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Design, Pole Building Comparisons, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Concrete Footers, Construction Loan, Concrete Piers, Double Trusses, Building Code Compliant, Steel Brackets, Barndominium, Footers, Post Frame Barndominium
- 2 comments
Column Height, a Hangar Door, and Splash Plank Boards
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/10/19 @ 8:00This 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 moreDry Set Brackets, Snow Loads, and Winch Boxes
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/10/13 @ 8:00The 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 polebarnguru on 20/10/12 @ 8:00This 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 morePost Frame Home Zero Barrier Entry Over a Crawl Space
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/10/02 @ 8:00Post Frame Home Zero Barrier Entry Over a Crawl Space Reader MARC in AUBURN writes: “I am asking what might be an odd question, but I need to ask it to see if it is even an option. Is it possible to build a post frame home with part of it having a concrete floor […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Barndominium, About The Pole Barn Guru, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Concrete, Footings, Building Drainage, Pole Barn Homes, Lumber, Post Frame Home
- Tags: Zero Barrier Entry, Wood Foundation Walls, All-weather Wood Foundations, Treated Wood Foundations, Treated Wood Foundation, Post Frame Home, Crawl Space
- No comments
Rock Letters
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/07/17 @ 8:00Hansen Pole Buildings’ Designer Doug recently sent this message to company owner Eric and me: “I’m getting the question regarding rock letters from Clients and builders in central and eastern Oregon. Have we, or do we ever send the building department a rock letter regarding buildings where optimum post hole depth is not achievable?” When […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn holes, Pole Barn Questions, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Footings, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Sonotube, Rock Letter, Steel Stake, Jackhammer, Ram Hoe, Skid Loader, Minimal Hydraulic Pressure Spike, Wet Set Brackets, Trapezoidal Shock Wave, Engineered Solution
- 1 comments
Barndominium Building on Expansive Soils
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/07/08 @ 8:00Barndominium Building on Expansive Soils Expansive soils in many United States areas pose a significant hazard to foundations for barndominiums. Swelling clays derived from residual soils can exert uplift pressures of as much as 5,500 PSF (pounds per square foot) and can do considerable damage to barndominiums, shouses and post frame homes. Insurance companies pay […]
Read moreConcrete Piers, RV Carport, a Wedding Venue
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/06/29 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about building with concrete piers, design of storage for an RV, and how wide a venue for weddings can be built. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I will start with the biggest question I have. Can you design a Pole Barn building 40x60x14 Gable roof 5/12 to be […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Footings, Pole Barn Homes, Venues, Shouse, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: Concrete Piers, RV Shed, Open Carport
- No comments
Pouring Concrete into Holes With a High Water Table
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/06/16 @ 8:00Back in my general contractor days we would run into building sites where water would fill up some or all of our hole depth. While this seemed highly problematic then it was actually far less of an issue than originally presumed. Reader RACHEL in CLARK writes: “We are looking to put up a 24′ X […]
Read moreIsolating Heated and Unheated Barndominium Concrete Floors
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/05/22 @ 8:00Isolating Heated and Unheated Barndominium Concrete Floors Loyal reader MIKE in COUPEVILLE writes: “I see you recently posted a detailed drawing on insulating the perimeter of a pole barn, very helpful. https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2020/03/meeting-barndominium-slab-requirements/ I’m currently looking at purchasing a large pole barn, it will be 84’x42′ with posts 12′ apart. I plan to make 2 of […]
Read more- Categories: Concrete, Footings, Pole Barn Heating, Insulation, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Concrete Slab, Radiant Heat, Pex-Al-Pex Tubing, Concrete Slab Insulation, Concrete Zone Heating, Rigid Insulation
- 1 comments
“One-Pour Post Frame Concrete Footings
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/05/21 @ 8:00“One-pour” Post Frame Concrete Footings and Bottom Collars As originally engineered Hansen Pole Buildings’ column encasement design, had pressure preservative columns placed to the bottom of an augured hole. Pre-mix concrete was then poured around each column’s lower 16-18 inches to form a bottom collar. Concrete to wood’s bond strength was sufficient to enable this […]
Read moreAdding to a Floating Slab Building
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/05/19 @ 8:00Adding to a Floating Slab Building Most buildings need foundations to transfer the structure’s weight as well as roof and floor loads into the ground. Small sheds and backyard structures like gazebos and pergolas may not need elaborate foundations because they are so light. But, for any building over about 150 square feet, a strong […]
Read moreWhere to Stop Metal, Installing a Sliding Door, and Footings
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/05/18 @ 8:00This week’s Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about where to stop metal in relation to concrete, installing a sliding door to a repurposed building, and the proper depth of footings. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Where do I stop my metal in relation to my grade board/ bottom stringer. I’ve set the bottom of my […]
Read moreFootings, Payments, and Financing
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/05/11 @ 8:00Today the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about a requirement for “continuous footings” in South Carolina, lump sim or payments for a building purchase, and finance options. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Are continuous footings required for a pole barn in Dorchester County South Carolina. Size is 24 x 32 M KELLY in SUMMERVILLE DEAR […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Planning, Concrete, Footings
- Tags: Continuous Footings, Payments, Footings, Financing
- 2 comments
My New Barndominium
Posted by polebarnguru on 20/04/30 @ 8:00Reader RENE in MICHIGAN is one of a growing tide of Americans looking to build a barndominium. She writes: “I would like to build a barn with living quarters but I do have unanswered questions! My property is in Riverside WA 98849 and therefore the first question is whether you service this area? I have […]
Read more- Categories: Post Frame Home, Insulation, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Building Comparisons, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Footings, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Pre-engineered Metal Buildings, PEMB Building, Wood Construction, Post Frame Insulation, Metal Buildings
- 2 comments