Category Archives: Pole Barn Design
NEW Hansen Pole Buildings’ Shed and Wing Rafters
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/04/19 @ 8:00NEW Hansen Pole Buildings’ Shed and Wing Rafters For most people, provided their main building eave height is adequate, placing an attached shed roof on one or both sides seems to be a simple task. With monitor (also known as raised center) style rooflines, shed (wing) roofs are placed on each sidewall, with high end […]
Read moreNEW Hansen Pole Buildings’ Ceiling Joists
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/04/18 @ 8:00NEW Hansen Pole Buildings’ Ceiling Joists Because Hansen Pole Buildings provides true double trusses to eliminate possibilities of a single truss failing due to loads beyond design (read more about double trusses here: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2018/09/true-double-trusses/), for ceiling applications, joists must be placed between roof truss bottom chords. For those of you who question reliability of widely […]
Read moreNEW Hansen Pole Buildings Roof Purlins and Connections
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/04/17 @ 8:00NEW Hansen Pole Buildings Roof Purlins and Connections Hansen Pole Buildings has always utilized what is known as recessed roof purlins, where purlins are placed between roof truss top chords. Top of roof purlins and top of trusses are at same height and purlins were connected with typical standard joist hangers. This resulted in clients […]
Read moreNEW Hansen Pole Buildings’ Wall Girts
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/04/15 @ 8:00NEW Hansen Pole Buildings’ Wall Girts Clients (actually usually their choice of building erectors), have voiced concerns about our use of bookshelf wall girts. These concerns are from one or more of these areas: Too time consuming, spacing, too hard to hit with a screw, girts sag, too much thermal transfer. I have previously addressed […]
Read moreNEW Hansen Pole Buildings Connections
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/04/12 @ 8:00NEW Hansen Pole Buildings Connections For decades wood-to-wood connections for post-frame building construction have been with nails. Usually lots of nails, or (for non-engineered construction) not nearly enough. Hansen Pole Buildings’ engineers have always specified 10d common hot-dipped galvanized nails for connecting 1-1/2” thick wood members to other framing members. Great part for strength, yet […]
Read moreNEW 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 moreNEW Hansen Pole Building Roof Supporting COLUMNS
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/04/09 @ 8:00NEW Hansen Pole Building Roof Supporting COLUMNS Since Hansen Pole Buildings’ inception we have primarily provided solid-sawn timbers for roof supporting columns. Due to cost and availability challenges, we have only included true glu-laminated columns, when required by structural necessity or as a request from our clients. Now solid-sawn columns have not come without their […]
Read moreSPECIAL REPORT: Building in 2024? Then YOU have to read this!
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/04/08 @ 9:06SPECIAL REPORT: Building in 2024? Then YOU have to read this! For over 20 years Hansen Pole Buildings thrived based upon a fairly simple model – provide large quantities of fully engineered custom designed post-frame buildings, making a small profit, lots of times. We outsourced most components to wholesalers who would deliver jobsite direct, also […]
Read moreWhy it’s Critical to Understand Lumber Species Groups
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/04/04 @ 8:00Why it’s Critical to Understand Lumber Species Groups Originally published in SBCA Magazine January 6, 2024 For consumers of structurally graded lumber the two key elements of the lumber’s grade stamp are the assigned grade and the species or species group. These two elements establish what published design values should be referenced for that piece […]
Read moreVapor Barriers, Post Longevity, and Spray Foam
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/04/03 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the need for a vapor barrier, the longevity of properly treated posts, and the better spray foam between open and closed cell. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello Sir, hoping you can help answer a question I cannot get a straight answer on. Currently building a […]
Read more- Categories: Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Ventilation, Building Interior, Lumber, Columns, Insulation, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: Open Cell Spray Foam Insulation, Closed Cell Spray Foam Insulation, Vapor Barrier, Spray Foam, UC-4B Pressurem Preservative Treated Columns, Steel Roof Moisture Barrier, Moisture Barrier, UC-4B
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Wouldn’t Field Laminated Posts be Stronger and Possibly More Economical?
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/04/02 @ 8:00Wouldn’t Field Laminated Posts be Stronger and Possibly More Economical? Reader CHRIS in AIRVILLE writes: “Wouldn’t field laminated posts be stronger and possibly more economical? I have searched your previous blogs and found some information regarding this but they all seemed to refer to the laminated posts being ordered and pre-built. I would think that […]
Read more- Categories: Budget, Columns, Barndominium, Lumber, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Glulam Posts, Post Frame Columns, CCA Pressure Preservative Treating, Field Laminated Posts, Gluing 2x Boards, Resorcinol Waterproof Glue
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Thru Screwed Steel Screws – Pull-Over and Pull-Out
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/03/28 @ 8:00Thru Screwed Steel Screws – Pull-Over and Pull-Out Hi, my name is Mike, and I am addicted to watching engineering disaster videos. No, there is not yet a 12 step program for this addiction. I have learned a few things from my addiction. When it comes to construction failures, most of them come down to […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Pole Building Comparisons, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Powder Coated Screws, Fasteners, Barndominium
- Tags: JS1000 Diaphragm Screws, Leland Screws, Pull Out Values, Screw Pullout Values, Post Frame Screws, Diaphragm Screws
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Under Slab Insulation XPS or EPS?
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/03/26 @ 8:00Under Slab Insulation XPS or EPS? Way back (okay, 2021 it just seems like it was long ago), I had extolled virtues of expanded polystyrene (EPS) for barndominium concrete slab insulation boards/ Full article can be read here: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2021/11/barndominium-concrete-slab-insulation-boards/. If there is one thing I have learned in my construction industry career, it is insulation […]
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 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: Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Ventilation, Building Interior, Budget, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: Dogtrot Barndominium, Insulation, Rock Wool Insulation, Post Frame Basketball Court, Height Restrictions, Dogtrot, Scissor Trusses
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Introduction to Post-Frame Buildings
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/03/19 @ 8:00Introduction to Post-Frame Buildings Rather than me chewing up a portion of your life you will never get back, I am deferring to Chapter 1 of NFBA’s (National Frame Builders Association) Post Frame Design Manual. Here is my overview when it was first published: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2015/03/post-frame-building-3/ Please take a few moments to read this first chapter, […]
Read moreBallpark Figures, Blueprint Costs, and Condensation Drip
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/03/13 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about ballpark figures to estimate costs of a barndominium, the costs for blueprints for a 40x60x20 building, and what the best way to stop condensation drip on a post frame building would be. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’ve got a very general question, hope you can […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Porches, Pole Barn Design, Building Overhangs, Pole Barn Heating, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, floorplans, Ventilation, Budget
- Tags: Pole Barn Costs, Blueprints, Engineer Sealed Plans, Close Cell Spray Foam, Condensation, Spray Foam, Estimating A Barndominium, Engineered Post Frame Home
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Concerns About Truss Sizes and Overhangs When Designing a Floor Plan
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/03/12 @ 8:00Concerns About Truss Sizes and Overhangs When Designing a Floor Plan Reader ART in EADS writes: “Hello Mike, my wife and I are making floor plans for a future pole barn house. We see that numerous companies offer buildings in common L x W x H dimensions as well as some customized sizes. We want […]
Read more- Categories: Building Styles and Designs, Pole Barn Homes, Building Overhangs, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, floorplans, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Trusses, Lumber, Ventilation, Insulation, Budget, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: Floor Plans, Custom Buildings, Truss Sizes, Truss Design, Truss Building, Overhangs
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How Grading Agencies Establish Lumber Design Values
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/03/07 @ 8:00How Grading Agencies Establish Lumber Design Values Originally published in SBCA Magazine January 16, 2024 Nearly all roof trusses and floor trusses are created using cutting-edge software. Embedded in that software are engineering principles outlined in the National Design Specification, Design Values for Wood Construction (NDS), as well as published design values for the sizes […]
Read moreAttic 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: Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Building Siding, Barndominium, Ventilation, Uncategorized, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Fasteners
- Tags: Sheathing, Stitch Screws, Attic Space Ventilation, Moisture Control, Shearwall, Ventilation, Gable Vents, Osb Sheathing, Steel Sheathing
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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: Building Overhangs, Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Trusses, Ventilation, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: House Wrap, Drip Stop, Condenstop, Condensation, Ventilation, Condensation Control, Roof Condensation
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San 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: Concrete, Footings, floorplans, Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn holes, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium
- Tags: Wet Set Brackets, Hansen Locations, Permacolumn, Wind Loads, San Diego County, Engineered Buildings, Wind Speed, Post Brackets
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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: Uncategorized, Ventilation, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Pole Barn Structure
- Tags: Spray Foam Insulation, Roof Steel, Moisture Barrier, Open Cell Spray Foam, Condensation, Spray Foam, Roof Insulation
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How to Best Insulate an All-Steel Building
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/02/22 @ 8:00How to Best Insulate an All-Steel Building I know lots and lots about post frame buildings, however when it comes to all steel buildings (PEMBs – Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings aka Red Iron) I go to an expert. Today’s expert is John Lyle McInroe aka Mr Bee Happy, he has been in the building industry since […]
Read moreGreyed 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: Lumber, Insulation, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, purlins, Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation, Uncategorized, Building Interior
- Tags: Flat Purlins, House Wrap, Grey Lumber, Insulation, Gray Lumber, Spray Foam, Rough Cut Lumber, Moldy Lumber, Purlins, Kentucky Building
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Best Source of Off-grid Power
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/02/20 @ 8:00Best Source of Off-grid Power Reader CONNIE in WAUKESHA writes: “When you’re off grid 1. What is the best source of power 2. Is there any window and door window grates to keep bears out?” Solar power jumps to mind for most of us when it comes to off-grid energy. This sun-powered option, including photovoltaic […]
Read morePlastic 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 Heating, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Ventilation, Uncategorized, Concrete, Lumber, Footings, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design
- 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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Flat Use Factor (Cfu) for Dimensional Lumber
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/02/08 @ 8:00Flat Use Factor (Cfu) for Dimensional Lumber For those who have not had their eyes glaze over from my recent articles on S (or Sm) Section Modulus or Cf (size factor adjustments), I bring, in all its glory, Cfu (Flat Use Factor). Although produced in a factory environment (a saw mill), wood is a non-uniform […]
Read moreRain 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: Sliding Doors, Weather Barrier, Condensation Control, UC-4B Pressurem Preservative Treated Columns, Water Table, Sectional Overhead Door, Overhead Doors, Rain Country, Pressure Preservative Treatment, Site Prep
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Section Modulus (Sm) for Lumber
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/02/01 @ 8:00Section Modulus (Sm) for Lumber Nearly a decade ago I penned an article explaining lumber bending stress: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2014/08/lumber-bending/ After 10 years, a reader nicely told me I did not explain where some terms in this article come from. One of these is Section Modulus (S or Sm in calculations). Let us take a visit to […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Professional Engineer, Uncategorized, Lumber, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: International Building Code, Section Modulus (Sm) For Lumber, Bending Stress, International ResidentialCode, Rectangular Beam Cross Sections
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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: Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Heating, Roofing Materials, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Post Frame Home, Ventilation, Uncategorized, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: Drip Stop, Condenstop, Screws, Housewrap, Rock Wool, Spray Foam, Ceiling Steel Fasteners, Roof Insulation, Condensation Control
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What Does JS 1000® Screw Plating Mean to You?
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/01/30 @ 8:00What Does JS 1000® Screw Plating Mean to You? Most post frame buildings have threw screwed steel roofing and siding. Industry standard #9 or #10 diameter screws are zinc plated and should resist 80 to 100 hours to red rust under salt spray. In other words, expect these screws to prematurely rust, compromising structural integrity […]
Read moreHelp! 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: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Design, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Ventilation, Building Interior, Budget, Insulation
- Tags: Reflective Radiant Barrier, Closed Cell Spray Foam, Insulation, PEMB, Spray Foam, Rock Wool Insulation, Ventilation, Prodex
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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: 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, Insulation
- Tags: Two-story Building, Loft, UC-4B Pressurem Preservative Treated Columns, Bituthene, Post Wrap, UC-4B
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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: Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn holes, Uncategorized, Pole Barn Design, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Footings
- Tags: Post Frame Foundation, Site Prep, Geotechnical Engineer, Modified Proctor Density, Site Slope, Post Footing, Site Leveling
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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: Columns, Uncategorized, Pole Barn holes, Lumber, Pole Barn Questions, Barndominium, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Concrete, Footings
- Tags: Post Frame Foundation, Embedded Columns, Drill Set Brackets, Hurricane Proof, Mono-slab, Foundation, Moment Bending Loads
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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: Footings, Building Drainage, Professional Engineer, Columns, Uncategorized, Pole Barn Questions, Barndominium, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Structure, Concrete
- Tags: Shed Moving Up, Underground Water, Dry Creek, Dry Wells, Building Uplift, Uplift, Site Grading, Trench Drains, French Drains, Reservoir
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Roof Purlins for a U.K. Pole Barn
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/01/11 @ 8:00Roof Purlins for a U.K. Pole Barn Reader KEN in CHERTSEY, U.K. writes: “With 10.8′ truss spacing @ 19.64° slope and 39″ purlin spacing, would 2″ x 6″ purlins (on edge) be sufficient for steel clad roof unlikely to ever see more than 4″ snow for more than a few days?” I don’t often get […]
Read moreFill 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 moreStructural 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: Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes, Barndominium, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: Structural Design Of Stair Stringers, Loading Requirements, IBC, Stair Stringers, Cut Out Stair Stringers
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Avoiding Interior Ceiling Corners Cracking
Posted by polebarnguru on 24/01/04 @ 8:00Avoiding Interior Ceiling Corners Cracking When a newer post frame home shows interior ceiling corner cracking signs at top floor in winter, this can normally be associated with truss uplift. Roof truss uplift occurs when truss bottom chord is exposed to significantly different moisture and/or temperature conditions than rest of roof truss. Truss bottom chords […]
Read moreCeiling 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: Trusses, Ventilation, Barndominium, 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
- Tags: Liner Panels, Attic Insulation, Double Truss, Post Frame Second Floor, Double Truss System, Column Size, Barrier, Insulation, Second Floor
- 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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Posts 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 more10 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 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: Uncategorized, Ventilation, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Heating, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, purlins
- Tags: Metal Trusses, Moisture Barrier, Wood Purlins, Rock Wool Batts, Vapor Barrier, Bubble Insulation, Batt Insulation, Spray Foam
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Plywood – Nominal vs. Actual Thickness
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/12/14 @ 8:00Plywood – Nominal vs. Actual Thickness My long-time former wife was a R.N. (Registered Nurse) for decades. In medicine, measures are exact – a cc is a cc. Patients do not receive about a dose of something and a pulse of 60 bpm (beats per minute) is not actually 45. Explaining lumber sizes to her […]
Read moreSteel to Plywood, Carport Over Tiny House, and Drip Edge at Fasia
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/12/13 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the possibility of adding steel roofing on top of existing plywood, some thoughts on a small metal carport over a tiny house, and the use of two-piece trims for fascia. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: My garage has plywood on it already can I just put […]
Read more- Categories: Steel Roofing & Siding, Alternate Siding, Rebuilding Structures, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Building Overhangs, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure
- Tags: Carport, Drip Edge, Steel To Plywood, Steel Roofing For Existing Roof, Steel To Flat 2x4's, Tiny House, Two-piece Fascia Trim
- 2 comments
Trying 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
- No comments
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: 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, Building Interior, Budget
- Tags: Attic Ventilation, Trusscore Panels, Wall And Ceiling Panels, Vapor Barrier, Ventilation
- No comments
Electrical Poles, Adding an Awning, and Sliding Door “Overlap”
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/12/06 @ 8:00This week Mike the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the practical use of “electrical poles” for the addition of a lean-to to a garage, adding a door awning to a pole barn kit, and how much overlap a sliding door will have around the perimeter. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: If I add a […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Pole Building Doors, Rebuilding Structures, Porches, Sliding Doors, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: Electric Poles, Awning, Eyebrow, Sliding Door Framing, Utility Poles, Pole Barn Sliding Door Opening, Sliding Door, Lean-to, Pole Barn Addition
- No comments
Ice and Water Shield with Threw Screwed Steel Roofing
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/12/05 @ 8:00Ice and Water Shield with Threw Screwed Steel Roofing Making sense of Building Codes can be a daunting task, even for Building Officials. Post-frame construction is vaguely mentioned, at best, within Building Codes, leading to at best head scratching and at worst total confusion. Ice and water shield is a waterproof membrane used to protect […]
Read more- Categories: Steel Roofing & Siding, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Building Department, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: IBC, Moisture Barrier, Ice And Water Shield, Roof Decking, Steel Substrate, Ice Shield, Water Shield, Steel Roof Panels, Threw Screwed Steel Roofing
- 1 comments
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: Pole Barn Design, Building Department, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Building Interior, Pole Barn Heating, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, floorplans
- Tags: Post Frame Utilities, Lighting, Outlets, Post Frame Were System, Electrical Plan, Post Frame Buildings HVAC, Temperature Control
- No comments
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: Ventilation, Building Interior, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure
- Tags: Hay Storage, Fire Separation, Snow Loads, Rodents, Shouse, Equipment Storage, Frost Heave
- No comments
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 moreInsulation and Vapor Barrier, Rich-e Board Insulation, and a Tear-Off
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/11/22 @ 8:00Today’s “ask the Guru” answers reader questions about best applications of insulation and vapor barriers, the Guru’s experience with Rich-e Board insulation, and how to avoid a “tear-off” of a roof by adding layer of framing and insulation on top of old roof. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello, I am building a pole building in […]
Read moreSteel Posts, a Pole Barn Conversion, and Column Size
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/11/15 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the use of steel posts for a lean-to, converting an existing pole barn with an open wall into a one-bedroom tiny home, and columns for a post frame remodel and addition. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’m building a lean to up against my 40′ high […]
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: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Constructing a Pole Building, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Concrete, Footings, Columns, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Post Frame Home, Slab, Pole Barn Home, Monolithic Slab, Rafter, Rafter Size, Barndominium, Lean-to
- No comments
Pole 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: Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation
- Tags: Condensation Control, Pole Barn Costs, Post Frame Addition, Moisture Control, Pole Barn Pricing, Idaho, Ship To Idaho, Pole Barns In Idaho
- No comments
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: Pole Barn holes, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Concrete, Footings, Building Interior, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Building Department
- Tags: Slab On Grade, Column Footings, Post Frame Footings, Footing Thickness, Materials Deliveries, Materials Weight, Jobsite Restrictions, Foundations, Crawl Space
- No comments
How Far Can a 2×6 Purlin Span?
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/10/19 @ 8:00How Far Can a 2×6 Purlin Span? Reader WILL in COMFORT writes: “How far can a 2×6 purlin on a 6:12 sloped roof span?” The following describes 2×6 SYP #2 purlins spanning a 14′ bay, with an on-center spacing of 24″ (sf). Purlins are recessed between rafters with their top edges flush with rafter top edges. […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Structure, purlins, Pole Barn Design, About The Pole Barn Guru, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: 2x6 SYP #2 Purlins, Wind Load, Purlin Density, Snow Load, Live Load, Dead Load, Purlin, American Building Components, 6-12 Roof Slope, Simpson Joist Hangers, Beam Span Length
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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: Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Buildings History, Trusses, Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior
- Tags: Knee Braces, Ceiling Load Trusses, Ceiling Joists, Standing Seam Roofing, Standing Seam, Roof Load, Clip-lock Standing Seam
- No comments
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: Lumber, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Fasteners, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Structure, Trusses, Footings, Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior, Budget
- Tags: Hidden Fasteners, Truss Modification, Wind Speed, Treated Columns, Osb Under Steel, Termites, Vult Wind Speed, ACQ Treated Lumber, Standing Seam Roofing
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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: Trusses, Insulation, Ventilation, Pole Barn Questions, Alternate Siding, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Building Interior, Roofing Materials, Columns, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Asphalt Shingles, Condensation Control, Double Bubble, Double Bubble Radiant Barrier, A1V, Pole Building Span, Steel Roof, Interior Columns
- No comments
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 Building How To Guides, Concrete, Footings, Professional Engineer, Uncategorized, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs
- Tags: Getting Starting, Building Codes, Concrete Slab, Pole Barn Planning, 2018 IBC, Concrete To Pole Barn, Concrete To Columns
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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: Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, Barndominium, Pole Building How To Guides, floorplans, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Building Interior
- Tags: Steel Trusses, Engineered Building Plans, Post Frame Home, Post Frame Addition, Technical Support
- 2 comments
Bracing Site-Built Trusses for Lateral Loads
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/09/07 @ 8:00Bracing Site-Built Trusses For Lateral Loads Reader in SHINER writes: “I am building a gambrel style barn, 30×80, in two directions, in plan view, it looks like a cross. I am building the trusses based on an LSU publication, giving sizes of structural members, etc… I have built several structures before, not a gambrel style […]
Read more- Categories: Building Department, Pole Barn Structure, Trusses, Lofts, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: United States Department Of Agriculture, Design Roof Loads, Construction Codes, Wind Loads, Gambrel Trusses, LSU Publication, LSU Agricultural Center, Midwest Plan Service
- No comments
Eave Light Replacement, Base Drip Edge Height, and Two-Hour Fire Wall Design
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/09/06 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about eave light panel replacement for panels used for solar warming, base drip edge height related to concrete height, and drawing for two-hour fire wall design. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have a south wall on shed built 40 years ago which was set up for […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Building Siding, Concrete, Alternate Siding, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Solar Warming, Eave Light, Base Drip Edge, Base Drip Edge Height, Fire Wall, Two-hour Fire Wall, Fire Wall Design, Drip Edge, Eave Light Panels
- No comments
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 Apartments, 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
- 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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Can I Draw Up My Own Building Plans and Have an Engineer Stamp Them?
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/08/29 @ 8:00Can I Draw Up My Own Building Plans and Have an Engineer Stamp Them? This became a rather heated topic in a recent social media discussion. Question posed was could an individual draw their own post-frame building plans, take them to an engineer, and have the engineer stamp them. A professional engineer’s role in signing […]
Read moreInsulation/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 Barn Design, Pole Barn Heating, Building Styles and Designs, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Building Siding, Ventilation, Windows, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Professional Engineer
- Tags: UL 790, Adding Insulation, Fire Retardant, Climate Zone 3A, Envelope, Insulation, Building Envelope, Gable End Egress, Egress Window, NFPA 275, Fire Retardant Steel
- No comments
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 moreEngineering an Open Pavilion
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/08/10 @ 8:00Engineering an Open Pavilion Professional Engineer KEN in AIRVILLE writes: “Working on engineering a post frame equipment open pavilion 28×48. Only has 2 posts on the front wall and big ass flat girder for a header. See attached plans. I have done them all different ways before I a structural engineer who grew up at […]
Read more- Categories: Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, About The Pole Barn Guru, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Building Plans, Knee Braces, Embedded Posts, UC-4B, Professional Registered Engineer, Prefabricated Wood Truss, Sturdi-walls Plus Brackets, Mono Trusses
- No comments
Roof Truss Costs, Moisture Barriers, and Integrated Condensation Control
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/07/26 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru addresses reader questions about “the most cost effective length to procure, transport and install of a Post Frame Roof Truss 4/12 Pitch; 36′, 40′ or 50′?” a suitable moisture barrier for a shed, and Integrated condensation controls. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Typically, what is the most cost effective length […]
Read moreTruss Notch Locations and Heel Height
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/07/20 @ 8:00Truss Notch Locations and Heel Height vs. Purlin Dimensions on Overhang End Hansen Pole Buildings’ DIY clients BENJAMIN and COURTNEY in DEER LODGE write: “Hello, I’m trying to understand the difference of a quarter inch between my end wall overhang purlins and my heel heights. My interior truss has a heel of 19 3/8” and […]
Read moreAttic 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: 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, Pole Barn Design
- 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: Post Frame House, Shouse, Post Frame Costs, Average Costs Of Post Frame, Girts, Barndominium
- No comments
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: Barndominium, Pole Barn Structure, Concrete, Footings, Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Budget, Pole Barn Design, Columns, Building Styles and Designs, Pole Building How To Guides
- Tags: Drill Set Brackets, Pole Building Kit, Wall Height, Eave Height, Drywall Length, Post Frame Kit, Existing Slab
- 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 moreAlaska Pole Barn with Actual Poles
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/06/27 @ 8:00Alaska Pole Barn With Actual Poles Reader DOUGLAS in FAIRBANKS writes: “Hello, I’m planning to build a 40×36 pole barn using 12 surplus power poles (3 rows of 4 poles) that are in good condition. They will be placed 6′ deep by a digger truck as a normal utility pole would be. The ground is […]
Read moreWhat Building Code Applies to Post Frame Construction?
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/06/22 @ 8:00What Building Code Applies to Post Frame Construction? Being a Plans Examiner in a Building Department would have to be one amongst this planet’s toughest jobs. Besides having to listen to clients who have their own ideas about how things should be built, there are volumes upon volumes of Building Code books and referenced texts. […]
Read moreFoundation 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: Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Concrete, floorplans, Footings, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Wet Set Brackets, Post Frame Plumbing, Post Frame Design Loads, Pole Barn Foundation, Post Frame Stem Wall, Concrete On Grade, Building Uplift, Uplift, Crawl Space
- No comments
Post Frame Knee Bracing in Ohio
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/05/30 @ 8:00Post-Frame Knee Bracing in Ohio Reader DON in TALLMADGE writes: “I recently purchased plans for a 32×32 pole building and the trusses are 2×4 and the building supplier did not include knee bracing included in the original plans but the county said they need to be added. Are these really a benefit and do I […]
Read moreWill I Need to Use Double Trusses?
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/05/11 @ 8:00Will I Need to Use Double Trusses? Reader DALE in TOMPKINSVILLE writes: “On an open front 5 bay tool shed, roof length 60 feet, width 40 foot, height of 10 foot, 12foot, trusses on 6×6 columns, 12/4 pitch located in southern Kentucky zone 6 will I need to double the trusses?” Need and want are […]
Read moreStructural Framing, the Cost of a Building, and “Base Supports”
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/05/10 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers questions from a Project Architect about the structural framing of a Hansen building, the cost of building plans with engineering, and if the Pole Barn Guru has advice for “base supports” for a wood floor in a Tube Canopy. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am a Project Architect […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Post Frame Home, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Structure, Steel Roofing & Siding, Trusses, Lumber, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Project Engineer, Structural Framing, Tube Canopy, Design Loads, Sealed Plans, Engineered Plans
- No comments
Tornado Safety, Garage Additions, and Utilities in Post Frame
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/05/03 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the safety of a pole barn in the event of a tornado, whether a new post frame garage can be added to an existing home, and the standards to run utility wires and pipes through posts. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: How safe are pole barn […]
Read more- Categories: Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Pole Building Siding, Vinyl Siding
- Tags: Wind Speed, Alternative Siding, Post Frame Addition, Tornado Safety, EF4 Wind, Water Lines, Post Frame Wiring, Post Frame Water Pipes
- No comments
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
- No comments
Endwall 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: Trusses, 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
- Tags: Foundation Insulation, Sloped Ground, Truss Installation, Endwall Overhangs, Sloping Site, Stem Wall, Trusses, Stilt Construction, Insulation
- No comments
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: Footings, Alternate Siding, Rebuilding Structures, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Pole Building Siding
- Tags: Dirt Work, Brick Siding, HOA, Blueprints, Plans, HOA Regulations, Site Prep, Engineer Sealed Plans, Geotechnical Study
- No comments
Installers, Clear Span Timber Frame, and Raising Existing Building
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/04/05 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about installers in Detroit, how wide of a clear span a timber frame building can be built, and if one can raise the height of an existing building. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do you install and/or can you recommend installers in Detroit? Thanks! MARIANNE in DETROIT DEAR […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Building Contractor, Trusses, Rebuilding Structures, Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Post Frame Contractors, Clear Span Timber Frame, Raise Structure, Lengthen Columns, Clear Span Building, Lift Building, Post Frame Builders, Installers
- No comments
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: Pole Building Comparisons, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Ventilation, Concrete, Footings, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Design, Columns
- Tags: Financing, Concrete Costs, Construction Loan, Post Frame Financing, Ventilation, Ceiling Ventilation, Post Frame Concrete
- 2 comments
Insulation, Truss Spans, and Pit Material
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/03/15 @ 8:00Today’s Ask the Pole Barn Guru discusses reader questions about an option to layer insulation between purlins, the actual building width for 36′ trusses, and the recommendation against the use pit material when performing site prep. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hi, I have the traditional roll type insulation with the white backing. My question is […]
Read moreQuestions 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 moreYou 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 moreBuilding Clientele, Design Plans for Canada, and Cabin Materials Questions
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/03/08 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building clientele as a contractor looking to build pole barns, if Hansen Buildings has any design plans for Prince Edward Island, CA, and a few questions about what materials are used in different Hansen Building components for a cabin. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: How to […]
Read more- Categories: Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Building Contractor, Columns, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, floorplans, Building Styles and Designs
- Tags: Prince Edward Island, Canada, Post Frame Materials, Building Clientele, Contractor, Post Frame Columns, Post Frame Builder, Post Frame Erector
- No comments
Dragging 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 Barn Questions, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Design, Columns, Building Department, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Building Siding, Insulation, Footings
- Tags: Perma-column, DIY, Dragging Panels, Scratched Steel, Some Assembly Required, RDP, Registered Design Professional, Roof Steel Installation
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Restore or Rebuild?
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/02/23 @ 8:00Restore or Rebuild? While it was not a post frame building, back in 1990 I began restoration (and adding onto) my family’s then over 80 year-old hillside lake cabin. If it was not for our sentimental attachment and some amazing existing stonework, it would have been far less expensive to have nuked it all and […]
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: Insulation, Building Drainage, Pole Barn Questions, Building Interior, Pole Barn Design, Building Overhangs, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Ventilation
- Tags: Ventilation, Vented Soffit, Rake Trim, Vented Ridge, Liner Panels, Expandable Closures, Vapor Barrier, Knee Bracing, Flying Gable Rake Trim
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How to Insulate My Pole Barn Roof
Posted by polebarnguru on 23/02/16 @ 8:00How to Insulate My Pole Barn Roof Reader JEREMY in GREENBRIER writes: “Looking at building a 50x60x15 pole barn 20 miles north of Nashville, TN. I’m needing recommendations for the best way to insulate. I’m using scissor trusses with no ceiling and I’m planning metal panels on the inside walls. I’m thinking 2×4 girts on […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Budget, Insulation
- Tags: Roof Truss Bottom Chords, International Energy Conservation Code, Rock Wool Batts, Integrated Condensation Control, Insulation, Spray Foam Insulation, Closed Cell Insulation, Raised Heel Trusses
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