Today’s “ask the Guru” answers reader questions about the “rat guard” around the perimeter of slab, if Hansen Pole Building erects structures in the Portland area, and if we provide aftermarket wainscotting for an existing building.

DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello, I’m curious about the 2×8 “rat guard” around perimeter of slab. Is it OK to place concrete/gravel/soil against the rat guard to a certain height – if so, how deep is typical? Or are you trying to keep the entire rat guard exposed? Thanks in advance! ED in WEST RICHLAND

DEAR ED: In our post frame industry, we are likely exceptions, as we have splash planks pressure preservative treated to structural in ground use requirements (UC-4B). Most providers use lesser degrees of treatment either UC-4A (good for touching ground, but not buried in it) or UC-3 (above ground use only). Unless you are certain what you have meets UC-4B treatment specifications, you should leave it entirely exposed.

DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do you erect the buildings as well in our area? Thank you! DANA in PORTLAND

DEAR DANA: Thank you for your interest in a new Hansen Pole Building. While we ourselves are not building erectors, we do have an extensive network of independent contractors, one or more of whom should be able to service your needs. Please complete information at bottom of this page: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/builder-terms-conditions/

DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do you sell wainscoting on its own? We already have a pole barn. TISHA in BEND

DEAR TISHA: We typically do not provide individual components for buildings. You will be best served to reach out to whatever steel roll forming company provided your building’s steel siding.