Category Archives: Barndominium

Barndominium homes are gaining in popularity as homeowners embrace the rustic yet modern style of open floor plans, gambrel or gable rooflines, and repurposed pole barn buildings. If you’re interested in barndominium info ranging from insulation options to how to obtain a barndominium loan, the Pole Barn Guru blog is the place to get all the details you need. In these blogs, you’ll get valuable ideas, professional advice, and in-depth knowledge of the art of pole buildings and how to build barndominiums.

So what is a barndominium? This style of building is a pole barn home that’s quick and easy to construct, similar to a barn, but with the comfortable utility of a condominium. Barndominiums have an open floor plan with spacious and light interiors, giving the home a bright and airy quality. This seamless feeling, making it easy for your family and guests to flow between the kitchen, dining room, and living room, is one of the reasons barndominiums are popular with those who like open space and entertaining loved ones.

The Hansen Pole Buildings Pole Barn Guru blog gives you barndominium ideas, floor plans that resonate with your lifestyle, types of windows and doors that complement your pole building, advice on building codes, and instructions on how to assemble the pole building. You can even pose questions to the Pole Barn Guru to get advice on your pole building needs. Our team of professionals will answer your questions, guide you on the proper dimensions and materials, and help you decide whether it’s better to order a pre-made kit or have our designers make a custom floor plan for you.

Avoiding Interior Ceiling Corners Cracking

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/04/2024
Avoiding Interior Ceiling Corners Cracking

Avoiding 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 […]

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Ceiling Liner, Double trusses, and a Second floor

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/03/2024
Ceiling Liner, Double trusses, and a Second floor

This 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 […]

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Sheathing Under Portion of Steel Roof

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/02/2024
Sheathing Under Portion of Steel Roof

Sheathing Under Portion of Steel Roof Loyal and very kind reader JOSEPH in LaPORTE writes: “Good afternoon, let me start off by saying that I’m extremely appreciative of your content. The reason for my email is that I’ve been contracted to build several 30x180x9 post frame buildings and my plans are calling for 5/8” OSB […]

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10 Important Things to Consider When Building a Pole Barn

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/26/2023
10 Important Things to Consider When Building a Pole Barn

10 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 […]

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Post-Frame Building Utilities

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/30/2023
Post-Frame Building Utilities

Post-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 […]

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Frost Heave and Rodents, a Storage/House Combo, and Dead Attic Space

This 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 […]

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Rafter Size, Lean-to on Slab, and “Barndominium?”

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/08/2023
Rafter Size, Lean-to on Slab, and “Barndominium?”

This 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 […]

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Barndominium Bookshelf Wall Girt Ghosting

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/07/2023
Barndominium Bookshelf Wall Girt Ghosting

Barndominium Bookshelf Wall Girt Ghosting Are you starting to see bookshelf wall girts through your barndominium’s gypsum wallboard (drywall)? If so, you are witnessing a phenomenon called wall ghosting. It occurs when condensation interacts with trapped dust and can have a couple of different causes. It results in shadowy-looking lines on your walls or ceilings. […]

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Residential Pole Barn Foundation With Clay Soil

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/24/2023
Residential Pole Barn Foundation With Clay Soil

Best Residential Pole Barn Foundation with Clay Soil and High Water Table Reader BOB in MOUNT PLEASANT writes: “What would be the best type of pole barn foundation for ground that is primarily clay, and has a water table that is generally as shallow as 24″? We are looking to build a residential pole barn […]

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How to Prevent Existing 6×6 Columns From Future Settling and Rotting

How 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 […]

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Does 24 Gauge Steel Make Sense?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/26/2023
Does 24 Gauge Steel Make Sense?

Does 24 Gauge Steel Make Sense? Reader TED in INDIANAPOLIS writes: “In terms of longevity, long term resistance to weather damage and price difference, does a painted AZ50 galvalume R-panel with PBR-leg in 24 gauge (min. .0239″) make more sense than a 26 gauge panel?” Mike the Pole Barn Guru answers: In all reality, even […]

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Tax Credits for First-Time Post Frame Home Buyers Part II

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/21/2023
Tax Credits for First-Time Post Frame Home Buyers Part II

Here are some common first-time homebuyer programs: Down Payment Assistance Programs: These programs offer financial assistance to cover a down payment portion required to build a home. Down payments are typically a significant barrier for many first-time buyers, and these programs help reduce upfront costs, making homeownership more achievable. Low-Interest Mortgage Loans: First-time homebuyers may be eligible […]

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Tax Credits for New Post Fame Homes Part I

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/19/2023
Tax Credits for New Post Fame Homes Part I

Tax Credits for New Post Frame Homes and Barndominiums For aspiring homeowners, building a new home is an exciting venture. Besides creating your ideal dream home, there’s now an added incentive for those planning to embark on new home construction in 2023 and 2024. There are tax credits and tax breaks able to significantly reduce […]

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Additional Guidance, Steel Trusses, and Kit Inclusions

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/13/2023
Additional Guidance, Steel Trusses, and Kit Inclusions

This 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 […]

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Bracing Site-Built Trusses for Lateral Loads

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/07/2023
Bracing Site-Built Trusses for Lateral Loads

Bracing 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 […]

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Post Frame Possibilities, Engineer Sealed Plans in Canada, and Horse Barn Apartment

This 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 […]

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Notching Columns, Use of Winch Box, and Financing

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/16/2023
Notching Columns, Use of Winch Box, and Financing

This 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 […]

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Attic Space, Cost Effective Size, and Column Sizing

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/19/2023
Attic Space, Cost Effective Size, and Column Sizing

This 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 […]

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Average Cost in WA State, Garage with Dwelling Unit, and Combo Girts

This 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 […]

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Wall Height, What’s Included? and Drill Set Bracket Usage

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/05/2023
Wall Height, What’s Included? and Drill Set Bracket Usage

Today 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 […]

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What Building Code Applies to Post Frame Construction?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/22/2023
What Building Code Applies to Post Frame Construction?

What 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. […]

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Pole Barn Conversion, Condensation Concerns, and Setting Trusses

This 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 […]

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Foundation Requirements, Stem Walls, and Building on Slab

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/14/2023
Foundation Requirements, Stem Walls, and Building on Slab

This 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 […]

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Skillion Roofs

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/01/2023
Skillion Roofs

Skillion Roof Question Reader WELLS in AIKEN writes: “I am building a 20′ x 24′ pole barn studio with a skillion roof. What size roof rafter to span the 20′ without any sagging? 2 x 8 or 2 x 10 or a more engineered rafter. I do not want any supporting poles on the interior […]

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New Build Features, Concrete Costs, and a Monolithic Slab

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/31/2023
New Build Features, Concrete Costs, and a Monolithic Slab

This 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 […]

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Engineer Drawings, Build on a Basement, and an ADU

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/24/2023
Engineer Drawings, Build on a Basement, and an ADU

This week the Pole Barn Guru addresses reader questions about engineering drawings for a house– from a building inspector in Michigan, whether or not a post frame structure can be mounted on a basement, and if an ADU (accessory dwelling unit) can be constructed with post frame. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am looking for […]

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Comparing Rockwool and Fiberglass Insulation

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/06/2023
Comparing Rockwool and Fiberglass Insulation

Comparing Rockwool and Fiberglass Insulation   Fiberglass insulation has long been a popular option for slowing heat transmission through building walls and ceilings. While it may have an added benefit of creating a fire-resistant layer between interior and exterior walls, fiberglass still may not measure up to Rockwool’s natural abilities. Like fiberglass, Rockwool is an insulation […]

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Wall Height and Footing size, Builders, and Post Frame Home Kits

This 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 […]

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Ceiling Insulation, Truss Spacing, and Custom Multi-use Barn

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/14/2022
Ceiling Insulation, Truss Spacing, and Custom Multi-use Barn

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about best way to insulate a vaulted ceiling, truss spacing, and the possibility of adding a small living quarter to a horse barn. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: With a vaulted ceiling, how do you insulate it if you plan to spray the tin roof with closed […]

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Think About Barndominium Insulation BEFORE Building

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/13/2022
Think About Barndominium Insulation BEFORE Building

Think About Barndominium Insulation BEFORE Building Regular readers are probably beginning to wonder why I have so many requests for information on how to insulate buildings AFTER they have been erected. Me, too. Insulation is crucial to your barndominium’s long term thermal performance. Doing it wrong can be expensive, both up front, as well as […]

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A Baker’s Dozen Post Frame Home Myths Part I

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/15/2022
A Baker’s Dozen Post Frame Home Myths Part I

A Baker’s Dozen Post-Frame Home Myths This article is so lengthy it will be fed to you in three installments. For your reading pleasure I present here Myths #1 through 3. MYTH #1. MOST JURISDICTIONS WILL NOT ALLOW POST-FRAME HOMES. Now this happens to be one of my favorite subjects.  If I believed in past […]

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What is Degree Day?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/10/2022
What is Degree Day?

What is a Degree Day? In an article penned a year ago (https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2021/11/insulated-ceiling-vapor-barrier/), I referenced building scientist and founding principal of Building Science Corporation Joe Lstiburek. Joe stated, “Plastic vapor barriers should only be installed in vented attics in climates with more than 8,000 heating degree days.” However my bad was, I did not define […]

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USDA First Time Homebuyer Barndominium Loans

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/08/2022
USDA First Time Homebuyer Barndominium Loans

USDA First Time Homebuyer Barndominium Loans Reader AMBER in INGRAM writes: “Can these be purchased in conjunction with land under the USDA1st time homebuyer loan? I know mobile home companies do so I was unsure if y’all could.” I reached out to Amanda (Hansen Pole Buildings’ financing wizardress) who advised none of our lenders do […]

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Barndo Living, Bracing a Roof Only, and Housewrap

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/19/2022
Barndo Living, Bracing a Roof Only, and Housewrap

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about “barndo living” and the how to’s of post frame construction in Pagosa Springs, CO, bracing a roof only structure for working cattle, and if sheathing and housewrap are needed for a post frame building using wet-set brackets. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Have you ever constructed […]

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Converting a Stick Framer

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/18/2022
Converting a Stick Framer

Converting a Stick Framer As my long term followers may remember, I grew up stick framing houses, apartments and commercial buildings working for my Father and his framing contractor brothers. While our (myself and my male cousins) education was focused far more on “do” as opposed to “why we were doing” we all got a […]

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Cellulose Post Frame Attic Insulation

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/13/2022
Cellulose Post Frame Attic Insulation

Cellulose Post Frame Attic Insulation I was a really great son-in-law. Now, gentle reader, you might ask what this has to do with cellulose post frame attic insulation? Grab a popcorn bag and follow along…. Back in 1981 I lived in a rental with my young wife and our two small children in Salem, Oregon. […]

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Preventing Radon Issues

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/06/2022
Preventing Radon Issues

Preventing 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.  […]

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Site Prep, Proper Sheathing for home, and Jamb Latch Details

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/28/2022
Site Prep, Proper Sheathing for home, and Jamb Latch Details

Today the Pole Barn Guru addresses reader questions about site preparation for a post frame building, reflective radiant barrier or sheathing needed for a post frame home, and a detail for a jamb latch on a sliding door. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I been watching a lot of your videos on YouTube, I wish you […]

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Meeting IRC Slab Edge Thermal Breaks With Post Frame

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/27/2022
Meeting IRC Slab Edge Thermal Breaks With Post Frame

Meeting 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 […]

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Insulation Options for an Idaho Barndominium

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/22/2022
Insulation Options for an Idaho Barndominium

Insulation 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 […]

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Is a Two Story Barndominium Possible?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/15/2022
Is a Two Story Barndominium Possible?

Is a Two Story Barndominium Possible? Reader BROGEN from HOUGHTON LAKE writes: “I’m looking to build a 40×60 pole barn dominium with the whole downstairs being a garage space except 10 foot off the back wall making the total garage space a 40×50 and having a 10×40 space walled in for stairs and a storage/mud […]

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Rubble Trench Foundations

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/13/2022
Rubble Trench Foundations

Rubble 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 […]

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Weather Resistant Barriers, LVL Notches, and Design Ideas

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/07/2022
Weather Resistant Barriers, LVL Notches, and Design Ideas

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about weather resistant barriers, a caution to not attempt to notch LVL rafters, and a recommended design solution for a new build. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We are in process of designing our barndominium with hoping to start building next spring. Do you have a recommendation […]

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Full Frost Foundation?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/06/2022
Full Frost Foundation?

Full 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 […]

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Adding Solar to Your Barndominium

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/01/2022
Adding Solar to Your Barndominium

Benefits of Adding Solar To Your Barndominium Solar energy is taking off in a big way, both here and worldwide. There are around 2.7 million residential solar panels installed in the United States, and solar trends continue to grow as people become more interested in energy alternatives. If you’re considering building a post frame barndominium […]

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Information on Codes and Shouses

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/30/2022
Information on Codes and Shouses

Information on Codes and Shouses I have to admit it was rather flattering to have Southwest Iowa’s Planning Council reach out to me regarding information on Codes and Shouses recently. “Hello. My name is Ashley and I’m a community development specialist with Southwest Iowa Planning Council out of Atlantic, IA. I am currently working on […]

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Can I Turn an Existing Pole Barn into a Barndominium

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/23/2022
Can I Turn an Existing Pole Barn into a Barndominium

Can I Turn an Existing Pole Barn into a Barndominium? Reader MICHELLE in GALLATIN writes: “Hi Mike, my name is Michelle and I live in Nashville Tennessee. I am under contract on an existing pole barn (30′ x 60′) that I am going to turn into a Barndominium. (Picture attached) Today we had the structural […]

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Tube Framed Metal Buildings

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/16/2022
Tube Framed Metal Buildings

Tube Framed Metal Buildings Tube framed metal buildings are framed with hollow metal tubes. Most tubes are square, but round and rectangular are also options. They typically have steel siding mounted horizontally as they do not have wall girts to allow for vertical siding installations. Tube framed metal buildings do have some advantages. They are […]

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Inspecting an Existing Barndominium

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/21/2022
Inspecting an Existing Barndominium

Inspecting 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 […]

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Calculate the Basic Stats

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/19/2022
Calculate the Basic Stats

Calculate The Basic Stats: by Mike Momb, Technical Director, Hansen Pole Buildings, LLC Basic Stats for Post-Frame Home Floor Plans If there is a single commonality among us humans, it is this – we are dimensionally challenged. This situation is even more so crucial when it comes to planning your new post-frame home.   Here […]

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Sharkskin Ultra

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/05/2022
Sharkskin Ultra

Sharkskin Ultra® Sharkskin Ultra® is a high-performance roof underlayment for all steel roofing applications over solid decking (OSB – Oriented Strand Board or plywood).   https://sharkskinroof.com/sharkskin-products/sharkskin-ultra/ Construction professionals know how important a quality roof system is. This is why so much research, time and effort goes into specifying and installing right roofing products for every […]

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Wind Exposure and Confusion Part III

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/30/2022
Wind Exposure and Confusion Part III

Cliff Notes for Wind Exposure Been following along reading my articles on wind exposure? OK – so here is my “Cliff Notes” version – in generalized, simple terms: Wind Exposure B is a site protected from wind in all four directions, within 1500 feet, by trees, hills or other single-family home sized buildings. This would […]

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Wind Exposure and Confusion Part II

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/28/2022
Wind Exposure and Confusion Part II

WIND EXPOSURE & CONFUSION – Part Deux For those of you who needed an energy drink to survive Part I…. To get the information needed, glance over IBC Section 1609.4.2‐‐Surface Roughness Categories. “A ground surface roughness within each 45-degree sector shall be determined for a distance upwind of the site as defined in Section 1609.4.3 […]

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Drilling Electrical Holes Through Glu-laminated Posts

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/21/2022
Drilling Electrical Holes Through Glu-laminated Posts

Drilling Electrical Holes Through Glu-laminated Post Frame Building Columns Reader and Hansen Pole Buildings DIY client AARON in SALEM writes: “I am trying to find the best way to run in wall wires (6/3, 8/3 & 10/2 romex) past columns on the “braced wall panel” bays in my building. My building has a 20′ eave […]

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You Can’t Build it Here Part II

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/16/2022
You Can’t Build it Here Part II

You Can’t Build It Here Part II If you missed part I, go back two days to find it. Continuing on… Post frame homes can save thousands of dollars in excavation, footing and foundation forming and concrete costs inherent to stick framing. This is due to use of isolated widely spaced wood columns either embedded […]

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You Can’t Build it Here Part I

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/14/2022
You Can’t Build it Here Part I

You Can’t Build It Here When I first began selling pole barn kits in Oregon, back in 1980, they were almost universally no permit required farm buildings. As our service area expanded into states such as California and Nevada, engineering was required in most instances, however there was never a concern about a pole building […]

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Basement Addition, Gambrel Modification, and a New Home

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/08/2022
Basement Addition, Gambrel Modification, and a New Home

This 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 […]

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Insulating an Apartment in a Steel Truss Pole Barn

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/02/2022
Insulating an Apartment in a Steel Truss Pole Barn

Insulating an Apartment in a Steel Truss Pole Barn Reader JONATHAN in AUGUSTA writes: “First of all, thank you for having a wonderful resource put together in one place for fellow DIYers such as myself. I am currently in the process of constructing a 30x60x11 pole barn. So far I have the roof put up; […]

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Condensation Prevention, Sound Proofing, and Snow Loads

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/01/2022
Condensation Prevention, Sound Proofing, and Snow Loads

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about condensation prevention by placing foam board over the top of 2×4 purlins, options for sound proofing a post frame home, and if 2×4 flat purlins can hold a specific snow load. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am planning a pole barn; the roof will have […]

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Barndominium Plans Before Land?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/31/2022
Barndominium Plans Before Land?

Barndominium Plans Before Land? Unlike chicken or egg coming first, barndominium floor plans should come second, after a place to build has been determined. Reader STEVE in MILWAUKEE writes: “I am interested in developing plans for the barndo-square with internal courtyard. I don’t have the land for it bought yet, so is it a waste […]

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Floor Plans vs. Structural Building Plans

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/26/2022
Floor Plans vs. Structural Building Plans

Floor Plans vs. Structural Building Plans Floor (architectural) plans and structural building plans are two completely different animals and should not be confused with each other. Architectural plans show what your home will look like, structural plans detail skeletal aspects and structural stability. In jurisdictions requiring structural plan reviews and inspections floor plans only will […]

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Price Per Square, Scissor Truss Spacing, and Column Spacing.

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/25/2022
Price Per Square, Scissor Truss Spacing, and Column Spacing.

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about our “best guess at price per square…” for a Hansen Building Kit, spacing for scissor trusses, and if there is a national code for post spacing in a barndominium. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What is your best guess at price per square foot range materials […]

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Running in Concrete Slab PEX Inside Large Tubing

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/19/2022
Running in Concrete Slab PEX Inside Large Tubing

Running in Concrete Slab PEX Inside Large Tubing Credit for writing this guest post goes to my friend and radiant floor heat expert Les Graham www.RadiantOutfitters.com. If you prefer your DIY radiant floor heat to be right, rather than cheap, call Les 1.320.212.0863. Question from Mike the Pole Barn Guru: Is it beneficial to place […]

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Hart and Home YouTube Episode IV-The Final Chapter

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/05/2022
Hart and Home YouTube Episode IV-The Final Chapter

Hart and Home YouTube – Episode IV The Final Chapter If you missed our previous episodes, please go to bottom of this article, on left, and click on arrow thrice to go to Hart and Home YouTube – Episode I. Moving forward: While individual results may vary, our clients have generally had good experiences using […]

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Personal Storage, Additional Height, and Floor Plans

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/04/2022
Personal Storage, Additional Height, and Floor Plans

This week the Pole Barn Guru addresses a concern about personal items being ruined by storing them in an unfinished pole building, the need for an additional two feet of interior height, and floor plans for designing a post frame home. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello- not sure if you can answer this but hoping […]

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Hart and Home Youtube Episode III

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/03/2022
Hart and Home Youtube Episode III

Hart and Home YouTube – Episode III If you missed our previous episodes, please go to bottom of this article, on left, and click on arrow twice to go to Hart and Home YouTube – Episode I. Moving forward: For those following along at home: Some discussion will be made here about “allowable defects” in […]

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Hart and Home Youtube Episode II

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/28/2022
Hart and Home Youtube Episode II

Hart and Home YouTube – Episode II If you missed our previous episode, please go to bottom of this article, on left, and click on arrow to go to Hart and Home YouTube – Episode I. Moving forward: Planning and Consultation – our Building Design team will work with you, for as long as it […]

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Post Frame Building Doors-Coil or Sectional?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/19/2022
Post Frame Building Doors-Coil or Sectional?

Post Frame Building Doors – Coil or Sectional? In my 40 plus years of post frame buildings, I have provided tens of thousands of overhead steel sectional doors and not so many coil roll-up doors. Where we park our vehicles is pretty darn importantish for us Americans. Our garages and shops serve as a unique […]

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Do You Do Longer Ones?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/12/2022
Do You Do Longer Ones?

Do You Do Longer Ones? Reader DANA in DEER LODGE writes: “Hello. We are looking at having a 4 door garage built but 2 of the spots will be turned into living space. I see the one you have with 3 garage doors. so you do longer ones? What would the price be to do […]

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How Are Funds Dispersed From a Construction Loan?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/05/2022
How Are Funds Dispersed From a Construction Loan?

How Are Funds Dispersed From a Construction Loan? Reader CASSANDRA in ROXBORO writes: “When applying for this construction loan as each job is done will the money be dispersed as each job is finished and inspected.? Do you know any in North Carolina that does the whole build or has turkey homes?” Mike the Pole […]

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Where We Ship, Raising Walls, and Bottom Chord Dead Loads

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/30/2022
Where We Ship, Raising Walls, and Bottom Chord Dead Loads

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about where we ship, whether or not trying to raise pre-assembled walls is a good idea, and the use of double or single trusses when applying drywall. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Where do you guys ship? Nationwide? SUZANNE in BROOKSVILLE DEAR SUZANNE: Hansen Pole Buildings is […]

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Condensation, Floor Plans, and Planning a House

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/23/2022
Condensation, Floor Plans, and Planning a House

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru discusses condensation issues in a metal pole barn a reader would like to convert to livable space, floor plans for a new post frame residence, and the steps to take to plan and build a new post frame house. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I just purchased a property with […]

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Post Frame Plywood Slab-on-grade

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/10/2022
Post Frame Plywood Slab-on-grade

Post Frame Plywood Slab-on-grade As concrete and excavation costs have increased steadily buildings are more frequently turning to slab-on-grade foundations. These assemblies require less concrete and labor than full basements and have a number of advantages over crawlspaces: better thermal performance, much lower risk for water and animal intrusion, and lower maintenance overall. Slab-on grade […]

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How Much Will My New Pole Barn Cost?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/08/2022
How Much Will My New Pole Barn Cost?

How Much Will My New Pole Barn Cost? Reader CLAUDIO in LEWIS writes: “Hello, I would like to know what would be the cost to build a pole barn building 25’x50′ with loft? Are the interior partitions and insulated walls and floors included? Is the permit application included? Is delivery and construction included in your […]

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When Barndominium Batman Light Illuminates

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/01/2022
When Barndominium Batman Light Illuminates

When Barndominium Batman Light Illuminates Dark Sky Loyal reader MARCO in EDINBURG brought a smile to my face when he wrote: “*Batman light illuminates dark sky* Pole barn guru! Help! I am building my pole barn house, Finally. This will be a DIY project with help of friends and family. I will more than likely […]

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Occupancy, a Single-Slope Residence, and Lean-to Addition

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/16/2022
Occupancy, a Single-Slope Residence, and Lean-to Addition

This week the Pole Barn Guru take care of reader questions about getting an occupancy permit in Victor ID, the size and scope of building a single-slope with a loft, and the addition of a lean-to to an existing structure. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I follow your posts and have seen some who question if […]

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Existing Foundation, “Home/Pool Combo” and HOA’s

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/09/2022
Existing Foundation, “Home/Pool Combo” and HOA’s

This week the Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about design ideas to build over or around an existing foundation, designing a “home/pool combo,” and design options for roofing and siding when dealing with an HOA. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We currently have foundation/basement that measures 14×66, with additional 26×26 room with ground level concrete. […]

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Retro Installing Windows in a Spray Foamed Post Frame Building

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/08/2022
Retro Installing Windows in a Spray Foamed Post Frame Building

Retro Installing Windows in a Spray Foamed Post Frame Wall Reader JOEY in PRINCETON writes: “Good Evening Pole Barn Guru! We need to add picture (9) and slider (3) windows to an existing 3-year old Sherman Pole Building Post frame building where we are converting part into living quarters. The building was spray foamed by […]

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Boral Steel Stone Coated Roofing

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/03/2022
Boral Steel Stone Coated Roofing

Boral Steel® Stone Coated Roofing Boral Steel® Stone Coated Roofing is manufactured from Galvalume® steel, then coated with stone granules applied with acrylic polymer adhesives. Result is a lightweight (1.5 psf – pounds per square foot) durable and cost-effective roofing system offering superior strength of steel and is ideal for new post frame barndominium or […]

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Batteries Not Included

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/01/2022
Batteries Not Included

Batteries Not Included Batteries Not Included is a 1987 American comic science fiction film starring Hume Cronyn, Jessica Tandy (winner of a Saturn Award for Best Actress for her performance) and Elisabeth Pena about small extraterrestrial living spaceships saving an apartment block under threat from property development. Reader AARON in NORTH VERNON queried: “Does your pricing also […]

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Will My Minnesota Shouse Require Frost Footings?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/25/2022
Will My Minnesota Shouse Require Frost Footings?

Will 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 […]

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My Barndominium Attic Has Moisture Issues!

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/06/2022
My Barndominium Attic Has Moisture Issues!

My Barndominium Attic Has Moisture Issues! Reader DAVID in CHICAGO writes: “Greetings – I’ve got a pole barn style home that’s about 2.5 years old and I’m having moisture issues in the attic. Hoping I can talk with someone to get a consult or second opinion to resolve as quickly as possible. Let me know […]

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Framing Loads, Footing Pads, and a Pole Barn Home

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/05/2022
Framing Loads, Footing Pads, and a Pole Barn Home

This 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 […]

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Why Your New Barndominium Should Be Post Frame

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/04/2022
Why Your New Barndominium Should Be Post Frame

Why Your New Barndominium Should Be Post Frame For those who follow me – you know I am all about people loving their end results. As long as one has a fully engineered building they love, I couldn’t be more pleased, regardless of the structural system. In My Humble Opinion – fully engineered post frame […]

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Worker Injured During Pole Project, Who Pays

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/30/2021
Worker Injured During Pole Project, Who Pays

Worker Injured During Pole Building Project – Who Pays? Disclaimer: this article is not to be construed as legal advice, please engage a qualified construction attorney prior to any construction project. If you don’t take steps to find out in advance whether workers on your new pole building are insured for injuries, you could end […]

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You Can Do It!

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/23/2021
You Can Do It!

You Can Do It! Screamed headlines of my first ever print display ad for pole barn kits in 1981! I have included below a snippet from one of my first blog posts from 10 years ago: “In the summer of 1979, home interest rates began to rise. Idaho had a usury limit, home mortgages stopped […]

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Help! My Barndominium Roof is Dripping!

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/16/2021
Help! My Barndominium Roof is Dripping!

Help! My Barndominium Roof Is Dripping! Reader TIMM in WHITEFISH writes: “Thanks for taking my question. I recently built a barndominium in NW Montana. I tried to find someone to build it for me, but the demand and cost in the area had gone up so much that I had to do almost all the […]

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Storage Barn to Dwelling

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/14/2021
Storage Barn to Dwelling

Storage Barn to Dwelling Reader JD in FAIRPLAY writes: “I have read over your blogs & my head is spinning. However, you obviously know your stuff. My question is this, do you have a trusted company or guy who can help me design & build a 30x60x16 RV garage that will meet the requirements of […]

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Is Fiberglass Insulation a Carcinogen?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/09/2021
Is Fiberglass Insulation a Carcinogen?

Is Fiberglass Insulation a Carcinogen? We live in a world fraught with unseen perils (COVID-19 anyone?), however fiberglass building insulation is probably not one of them. When it comes to fully engineered post frame barndominiums and homes, we all just want our clients to be safe and happy. I went to an expert on this […]

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Hanging Single Hung Windows to Slide Horizontally

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/07/2021
Hanging Single Hung Windows to Slide Horizontally

Hanging Single-Hung Windows to Slide Horizontally You order a 4’ x 4’ sliding window for your new post frame building or barndominium. Depending upon your geographical location, you will assume this window opens up-and-down (Eastern U.S.) or side-to-side (Western U.S.). Well, we all know what happens when we assume. It is critical to clearly understand […]

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Barndominium Closed Cell Spray Foam

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/02/2021
Barndominium Closed Cell Spray Foam

Barndominium Closed Cell Spray Foam – and Rodents Closed cell spray foam applied directly to steel roofing and siding can be a great product for controlling condensation, achieving an air tight barndominium and at R-7 per inch is a great insulation solution. So good, I strongly encourage its use, especially for those buildings in Climate […]

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How to Quit Your Job

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/30/2021
How to Quit Your Job

How To Quit Your Job & Build Your Home Full Time Hansen Pole Buildings’ DIY clients Kevin and Whitney Hart are today’s guest bloggers. Hey everyone! My wife and I have been building our barndominium since about March and have been documenting the whole thing on social media. The most commonly asked question that we […]

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Barndominium Concrete Slab Insulation Boards

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/18/2021
Barndominium Concrete Slab Insulation Boards

Barndominium 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) […]

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Owner Barndominium Builder Construction Loans

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/16/2021
Owner Barndominium Builder Construction Loans

Owner-Barndominium Builder Construction Loans Qualifying for owner-barndominium builder construction loans can be a daunting task. Given 2007-2008’s housing market downturn, owner-builder construction loans are increasingly hard to get but not impossible. An owner-builder is a property owner who serves as general contractor on their own project. A General contractor coordinates everything from budget to hiring subcontractors. […]

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Designing to Withstand a Hurricane

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/11/2021
Designing to Withstand a Hurricane

Loyal blog reader and video watcher DANIEL in SULPHUR writes: “What practices are best for increasing wind rating of a post frame building? My goal is to build a post frame home to withstand 150+ mph winds. I live on the gulf coast and hurricanes are a serious threat, I know I can’t make my […]

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A Barndominium Challenge

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/09/2021
A Barndominium Challenge

A Barndominium HVAC Challenge My now dear friend (thanks to his barndominium) LONNIE in COLORADO SPRINGS writes: “Hi Mike, I’m still around and still working on the house and making some slow but constant progress so I thank you all for your help and support. I have run into an issue (it’s not related to […]

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Syracuse, Nebraska Approves Shouses!

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/04/2021
Syracuse, Nebraska Approves Shouses!

Syracuse, Nebraska Approves Shouses! Syracuse, Nebraska was laid out in 1869 when it was certain railroads would be extended to it. With a population of roughly 2000, Syracuse is pretty well smack dab centered in Nebraska, in Otoe county. While Syracuse might be small in numbers, they are forward thinking in following what is trending […]

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Blown-In Fiberglass Attic Insulation

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/22/2021
Blown-In Fiberglass Attic Insulation

Blown-In Fiberglass Attic Insulation In Climate Zones 3 and higher blown-in fiberglass attic insulation is extremely popular due to lower investment cost and high performance. Looking for a best solution for your barndominium or post frame attic? It is inevitable an insulation contractor will warn you away from blown-in fiberglass due to a dated study […]

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Hand Winches, Mono Trusses, and a Post Frame Home

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/04/2021
Hand Winches, Mono Trusses, and a Post Frame Home

This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the use of hand winches to raise trusses, how to secure mono trusses built from complete trusses – DON’T- and the costs to build a small post frame home. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’m curious of the stability of wet set brackets during raising our […]

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How to Pour a Slab on Grade

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/29/2021
How to Pour a Slab on Grade

How to Pour a Slab on Grade in an Existing Barndominium Reader PAUL writes: “I have an opportunity to purchase a barndominium that has the posts set in 20” wide 40” deep peers. Unfortunately the county where this is located does not require a footing. All city codes in this area require an 8”X 36” […]

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