Category Archives: Building Department

A Stand Alone Building, Drip Stop in High Dust, and Sliding Door Replacement

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the pitfalls of trying to build a stand alone building within a steel building, drip stop use in high dust environments, and the replacement of two sliding doors in Lester Prairie. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Good evening, I’m at my wits end. We have had […]

Read more

Adding a Lean-to aka Side Shed

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/08/2024
Adding a Lean-to aka Side Shed

Adding a Lean-to aka Side Shed Reader PATRICK in REDMOND writes: “I have an existing pole barn that was built in 1999 that I would like to add a lean-to onto. I read your previous blogs about verifying the footing that supports the existing poles – but how do you verify that? Is there a […]

Read more

Sloppy Construction or a Structural Integrity Issue?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/05/2024
Sloppy Construction or a Structural Integrity Issue?

Sloppy Construction or a Structural Integrity Issue? Reader BRISHA in EARLY BRANCH writes: “This is a barndo that will be our home. Is it acceptable to have metal trusses not come completely together (see pic)? Also, multiple (MANY) screws in the wood that trusses connected to are in at an angle? Is this just sloppy […]

Read more

The Shell or Interior, an Old Barn Fix, and Ventilation

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/04/2024
The Shell or Interior, an Old Barn Fix, and Ventilation

Today’s Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about inclusions of a Hansen Building Kit, some guidance with the renovation of an old barn, and how many sq inches of NFVA do foam enclosures have? DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What does it include? Just the shell or interior also? ASHLEY in MONROE DEAR ASHLEY: We typically […]

Read more

Code Requirements for Residential Roof Trusses

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/03/2024
Code Requirements for Residential Roof Trusses

Code Requirements for Residential Roof Trusses Reprinted from a March 2019 article in Structure Magazine authored by Brent Maxfield, P.E. Part 3 of 3: Implementation 1. Building Officials, Contractors, Owners, and Building Designers should be cognizant of and enforce the requirement that the Contractor and the Building Designer review the Truss Submittal Package prior to […]

Read more

Code Requirements for Residential Roof Trusses

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/29/2024
Code Requirements for Residential Roof Trusses

Code Requirements for Residential Roof Trusses Part 2 of 3: The following is a summary of the IRC requirements for wood Trusses (capitalized terms are defined by ANSI/TPI 1-2014, National Design Standard for Metal Plate Connected Wood Truss Construction, Section 2.2, published by the Truss Plate Institute (TPI)): · Wood Trusses shall be designed in […]

Read more

Code Requirements for Residential Roof Trusses

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/27/2024
Code Requirements for Residential Roof Trusses

Code Requirements for Residential Roof Trusses Reprinted from a March 2019 article in Structure Magazine authored by Brent Maxfield, P.E. Part 1 of 3: There are many roles played in the design and delivery of residential wood roof trusses. Engineers can play various roles in this process, and it is essential to understand which role […]

Read more
Column Depth in Canada, Permit for AG Zoned Land, and Skylight Panels

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the possibility of a kit in Canada where the client would have columns potentially reaching the water table, if a permit is needed for a barn structure in a AG Zoned area in area of Lafayette County, Missouri, and any know where-a-bouts of skylight panels […]

Read more

Mixed Use Building, Attaching a Deck, and a Flat Roof

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/04/2024
Mixed Use Building, Attaching a Deck, and a Flat Roof

This Tuesday’s blog is a Bonus Ask the Guru discussing some mixed use ideas for a gallery and apartment, attaching a deck, and a flat roof design. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’m looking for a mixed used building, Large open plan space ground floor for an art gallery and two two bedroom apartments on second […]

Read more
a BONUS PBG for Friday, May 31st — Column Spacing, Raised Floors, and a Self-Build

a BONUS PBG for Friday, May 31st — Column Spacing, Raised Floors, and a Self-Build DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have spoken to my architect and he is saying to do my column spacing 8′ with truss every 4′. I have looked at your videos and several other videos. I noticed 10′ or 12′ Columns […]

Read more
a BONUS PBG for Monday, May 27th — Store Front Windows, Tornados, and Texas

a BONUS PBG for Monday, May 27th — Store Front Windows, Tornados, and Texas DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have a customer who is going to have 2×8 and 4×8 store front windows. These window frames need to be as close to the ground as possible. How do I need to build the bottom of […]

Read more
A BONUS PBG for Friday May, 24th — Alternative Siding, Basements, and Purlin Size

A BONUS PBG for Friday May, 24th — Alternative Siding, Basements, and Purlin Size DEAR POLE BARN GURU: In towns that disapprove of houses with rib steel siding, can traditional OSB sheathing on the bookshelf girts w/ vinyl cladding be substituted? Material prices seem similar and no huge difference in labor seems probable. But, will […]

Read more

An I-Beam Size, Plans for Permit, and Moisture Control

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/15/2024
An I-Beam Size, Plans for Permit, and Moisture Control

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about an I-Beam size for a lean too, plans for a county permit- included with purchase of a Hansen Building, and advice for use of insulation and barriers for new build. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hey Mike I’ve got a question for you, I recently just […]

Read more

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 […]

Read more

Ice and Water Shield with Threw Screwed Steel Roofing

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/05/2023
Ice and Water Shield with Threw Screwed Steel Roofing

Ice 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

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 […]

Read more
Post Frame Footings, Delivery Limitations, and Foundation Types

This 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

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 […]

Read more

Knee Braces in Post-Frame Buildings

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/12/2023
Knee Braces in Post-Frame Buildings

Knee Braces in Post-Frame Buildings With Diaphragm-Action Design Long time readers will recall several articles by me in regards to knee bracing, including this one: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2012/01/post-frame-construction-knee-braces/ May 2023’s Frame Builder magazine (official NFBA magazine) published an article by Dimitry Reznik, P.E. and Dr. Kifle Gebremedhin specifically regarding knee braces in post-frame buildings with diaphragm action […]

Read more

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 […]

Read more

Can I Purchase Just Plans?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/03/2023
Can I Purchase Just Plans?

Can I Purchase Just Plans?  writes: “I live in NC, and love the building pictured on your website–can I purchase just the plans? I’m attaching the picture for reference, and thank you so much for your time & assistance!” Mike the Pole Barn Guru responds: Thank you for your kind words in regards to this […]

Read more

Alaska Pole Barn with Actual Poles

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/27/2023
Alaska Pole Barn with Actual Poles

Alaska 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 more

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. […]

Read more

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 […]

Read more

Converting a Traditional Framing Plan to Post-Frame

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/09/2023
Converting a Traditional Framing Plan to Post-Frame

Converting a Traditional Framing Plan to Post-Frame Hansen Pole Buildings’ client SHAYNA in PHILADELPHIA writes: “Hello, I am looking to convert my traditional; framing plan to post-frame framing to get my walls up quicker. I would like to know what requirements need to be followed. The information I already have is that it’s best for […]

Read more

Code Official Questions Post Frame Slab Edge Insulation

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/13/2023
Code Official Questions Post Frame Slab Edge Insulation

Code Official Questions Post Frame Slab Edge Insulation Code Official MATT in PIERRE writes: “As a code official, I have approved pole barns for storage/garage use. they have not been conditioned. a new person wants to build one as a residence, how do the slab edges typically get treated? Would they need to extend to […]

Read more
Dragging Panels, Code Compliance, and “Some Assembly Required”

Today’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

Rethinking Ways to Encourage Permanent Truss Bracing

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/09/2023
Rethinking Ways to Encourage Permanent Truss Bracing

Rethinking Ways to Encourage Permanent Truss Bracing Part I Today’s article is authored by my post frame construction structural mentor. I will mention here, Hansen Pole Buildings takes both temporary and permanent truss bracing quite seriously. Every building we provide includes an engineered permanent truss bracing plan and our Construction Manual has an entire chapter […]

Read more

Under Construction Barn Collapse Close to Home

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/02/2023
Under Construction Barn Collapse Close to Home

Under Construction Barn Collapse Close to Home Summit, South Dakota is within an hour’s drive of Hansen Pole Buildings’ headquarters in Roberts County. In September 2022, this dairy barn (under construction) collapsed, sending 10 people to hospitals with injuries. Many states, South Dakota included, allow agricultural buildings to be erected not only without being engineered, […]

Read more

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 […]

Read more

Insulate a Building, Truss Carrier Bolts, and Code Standards

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/09/2022
Insulate a Building, Truss Carrier Bolts, and Code Standards

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the proper way to insulate the walls of a metal building, advice on bolting truss carriers, and advice about, “building code standards for the horizontal infill framing” on a post frame building. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I would like to insulate the interior walls of […]

Read more

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 […]

Read more

Fireblocking and Firestops

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/02/2022
Fireblocking and Firestops

Fireblocking and Firestops Hansen Pole Buildings’ Designer Rachel was recently quoting a project for a governmental entity where the contractor requested her to include all provisions for fireblocking and firestops. This led to my deep dive into International Building and Residential Codes (IBC and IRC respectively). Both have established a means to control fire spread […]

Read more

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 […]

Read more

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 […]

Read more

Wind Exposure and Confusion

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/23/2022
Wind Exposure and Confusion

WIND EXPOSURE AND CONFUSION If you are a registered design professional, or a building official, then you are trying to make sense out of this subject on a daily basis. Most people who are selling buildings (either constructed or kit packages), tend to ignore wind exposure, or pretend it somehow doesn’t exist. What adds into […]

Read more

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 […]

Read more

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 […]

Read more

Responsibility for Collapsed Pole Buildings

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/17/2022
Responsibility for Collapsed Pole Buildings

Question Whether County is Responsible for Collapsed Pole BuildingsEllensburg’s (Washington) Daily Record published this letter from DAVE on March 5, 2022: “To the Editor: Anybody passing through the Nelson Siding area in the Upper County some seven miles west of Cle Elum, will notice collapsed pole buildings due to the snow we had in January. […]

Read more

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 […]

Read more

Town Orders Woman to Move Barn

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/29/2022
Town Orders Woman to Move Barn

Town Orders Woman to Move Barn it Granted Her a Permit to Build Article by Brett Davidsen at www.WHEC.com from February 24, 2022 RUSH, N.Y. (WHEC) — A woman from Rush has been ordered to tear down a brand new barn on her property because it violated the town’s zoning laws, but it was the town […]

Read more

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 […]

Read more

Frustrating Builder, Post Size, and Sliding Barn Doors?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/16/2022
Frustrating Builder, Post Size, and Sliding Barn Doors?

This week the Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about recourse against a builder that “never does what what he says,” a question about the necessary post size for an RV shelter, and the need for a structural engineer to answer the question, and advice for a reader whose doors blow out wondering if sliding […]

Read more

Building Permit Makes It All OK? Think Again!

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/15/2022
Building Permit Makes It All OK? Think Again!

Building Permit Makes It All Okay? Think Again! This article “Town of Rush orders woman to move barn it granted her permit to build” by Brett Davidson was published at www.WHEC.com February 24,2022 A woman from Rush has been ordered to tear down a brand new barn on her property because it violated the town’s […]

Read more
Building Over Existing Slab, Blueprints for House, and Pole Building Finance

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building over or on an existing slab or concrete, whether of not Hansen sells “just the blueprints” for a pole barn/house, and lending for a pole building set on foundation/footing/wall. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: In Arkansas, I want to build a pole barn (or similar) […]

Read more

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 […]

Read more

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 […]

Read more

Rock Solid, Living Quarters, and Better Get an RDP

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/02/2022
Rock Solid, Living Quarters, and Better Get an RDP

Today the Pole Barn Guru responds to readers questions regarding assistance in designing that is “rock solid for generations to come” using the reader’s own sawn lumber, a questions about adding a living quarter to an insulated building, and advice in bracing a post frame building better suited for a registered design professional. DEAR POLE […]

Read more

Canada Facing Premature Decay of Pressure Treated Columns

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/23/2021
Canada Facing Premature Decay of Pressure Treated Columns

Canada Facing Premature Decay of Pressure Treated Columns Fear of properly pressure preservative treated wood decaying prematurely has been a continuing concern amongst potential post frame building owners. Key to this is “properly” and at issue how pressure treated wood is labeled and sold at the retail level. Canada uses AWPA’s (American Wood Protection Association) […]

Read more

Unheated Post Frame Building Slabs on Grade

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/01/2021
Unheated Post Frame Building Slabs on Grade

Are Unheated Post Frame Building Slabs on Grade Required to Be Frost Protected? Reader BILL in CLAYTON writes: “I’m in early planning for a post frame garage – just over 1000 sf but will reduce it if it solves a code problem for “private garages” in IBC. Ignoring that, where does the code permit a […]

Read more

Barndominium Questions

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/18/2021
Barndominium Questions

Questions About a Pole Barndominium Reader PAYTON in CANTON writes: “I have a few questions regarding building a pole barn/barndominium. 1. Do you offer any model homes we can explore? 2. Can we set up a consultation to discuss our options as far as building/kits? 3. What is the lead time for purchasing a kit? […]

Read more

Open Web Wood Floor Trusses

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/13/2021
Open Web Wood Floor Trusses

Prefabricated Open-Web Wood Floor Trusses in Your Future? Use of open-web floor trusses has steadily increased over this past decade, but there’s a lot of room to grow. Ed Huston from Home Innovation Research Labs (HIRL) recently shared some results from their April 2021 Builder Best Practice Reports on Structural Systems, containing survey results from […]

Read more

You Have to Get It In

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/21/2021
You Have to Get It In

Disclaimer – this and subsequent articles on this subject are not intended to be legal advice, merely an example for discussions between you and your legal advisor. Please keep in mind, many of these terms are applicable towards post frame building kits and would require edits for cases where a builder is providing erection services […]

Read more

Change Orders in Contracts

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/14/2021
Change Orders in Contracts

Disclaimer – this and subsequent articles on this subject are not intended to be legal advice, merely an example for discussions between you and your legal advisor. Please keep in mind, many of these terms are applicable towards post frame building kits and would require edits for cases where a builder is providing erection services […]

Read more

Who is Responsible for Verifying Design Loads?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/09/2021
Who is Responsible for Verifying Design Loads?

Who is Responsible for Verifying Design Loads by Contract? Disclaimer – this and subsequent articles on this subject are not intended to be legal advice, merely an example for discussions between you and your legal advisor. Please keep in mind, many of these terms are applicable towards post frame building kits and would require edits […]

Read more

Building Codes and Requirements in Contract Terms

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/07/2021
Building Codes and Requirements in Contract Terms

Building Codes and Requirements in Contract Terms Disclaimer – this and subsequent articles on this subject are not intended to be legal advice, merely an example for discussions between you and your legal advisor. Please keep in mind, many of these terms are applicable towards post frame building kits and would require edits for cases […]

Read more

Buildings Designed/Built to Code

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/16/2021
Buildings Designed/Built to Code

Designed / Built to Code Sounds pretty impressive to think you are going to be investing in a new building designed and/or built to “Code”. Right? Well – maybe not so much. To begin with “Code” happens to be bare minimum requirements to adequately protect public health, safety and welfare. This does not mean a […]

Read more

Contracts Are Boring…Until You Go To Court

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/09/2021
Contracts Are Boring…Until You Go To Court

I have one goal – for people to end up with structurally sound buildings they love. Follow these guidelines and you are far more likely to love your new building. Your work starts before you sign a contract. ASSUME YOUR PROJECT WILL END IN COURT ASSUME YOUR BUILDING PROVIDER/CONTRACTOR IS UNTRUTHFUL ASSUME YOUR PROJECT WILL […]

Read more

Human Habitation Prohibited

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/14/2021
Human Habitation Prohibited

Human Habitation Prohibited “Please be aware that the Land Development Code and adopted Building Codes prohibit the human occupancy of any Accessory Building. This means that buildings such as metal buildings, pole barns, tool sheds, garages, or any other accessory structures shall not be constructed or used for human occupancy. Accessory Buildings are not constructed […]

Read more

Where Should You Place Your Pole Building?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/16/2021
Where Should You Place Your Pole Building?

Where Should You Place Your Pole Building? Today’s guest blog comes from an expert in pole buildings, Lauren Groff. Pole buildings are perfect for so many applications, from sheltering animals to housing your very own hobby shop. Whatever you want to use it for, you need just the right place for it. There’s more to […]

Read more

Insulation Addition, A Clear Span Monitor, and Post Frame Code

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/05/2021
Insulation Addition, A Clear Span Monitor, and Post Frame Code

This week the Pole Barn Guru discusses adding insulation to an existing building, building a monitor style building with a large clear span main level, and a building official misinforming a potential client. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I currently have a 30×50 Wick building on some property which I purchased last May. The building is […]

Read more

Why Self Engineering is Risky

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/24/2021
Why Self Engineering is Risky

Reader MICHAEL in EAGLE POINT writes: “I want to span 18 feet on a shed roof with any pitch necessary should I nail two 2x 6 rafters together and place this in the center and use 9 foot 2×6 purlins. The shed will be 18 X 18. Do I need to nail two 2×6 together […]

Read more

Looking for a Place for a New Barndominium

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/19/2021
Looking for a Place for a New Barndominium

Looking for a Place for a New Barndominium Reader PATTI in MINNESOTA writes: “My husband and I are knocking around the idea of doing a Barndominium.  We need a 4-5 car garage space and we can barely afford a traditional preloved home that has a 3-car garage which will require us to add another stall […]

Read more
Working a Shop Mezzanine in With Planning Department Height Restrictions

Not every post frame building gets planned and constructed in areas where height limitations are not an issue. Reader AARON in BURLINGTON gets to deal with his Planning and Zoning Department placing height restrictions on what he can build. Aaron writes: “I am planning a 45×56 pole barn, with ~16ft deep mezzanine on the end […]

Read more

Zero Lot Line Post Frame Construction

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/22/2021
Zero Lot Line Post Frame Construction

There are occasions where the best location to place a building just happens to be right up to a lot line. Let’s face realities – if your site’s required setbacks without fire resistive construction are five feet, what is going to accumulate in this area? Most often it is either “stuff” or weeds, neither of […]

Read more

Enforcing Updated Building Codes Saves Money

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/20/2021
Enforcing Updated Building Codes Saves Money

Enforcing Updated Building Codes Saves Money As a member of most every active barndominium group in the social media world, I read all too often how new or prospective barndominium owners proudly proclaim they are or will be building where Building Codes are not enforced. Long time followers of my column may be tired of […]

Read more

Stretching Stick Frame Construction

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/07/2021
Stretching Stick Frame Construction

Post frame (pole building) construction is popular due to efficiencies of materials (ability to do more with less) and speed of construction. Reader RAYMOND in BARLING is trying to find a way to make stick framing cheaper, he writes: “24×64 pole barn in question. 4 pitch.  I am just comparing the cost of alternate designs. […]

Read more

Wall Framing, a Sloped Build Site, and Engineering for Slab

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/10/2020
Wall Framing, a Sloped Build Site, and Engineering for Slab

Continuing the week with more Pole Barn Guru, Mike discusses spacing of framing for wall steel, how to prepare a sloped build site, and if Hansen can provide engineering for slab on grade in Colorado. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: If you have 2×6’s for walls in pole building that are spaced 16 inches apart, and […]

Read more

How Best to Use Metal Building Insulation

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/03/2020
How Best to Use Metal Building Insulation

How To Best Use Metal Building Insulation Loyal reader ANDY in SOUTH CAROLINA writes: “ I read with interest the article “What house wrap is good for” on your website and would like to include house wrap on a pole building I’m currently planning to build in the upstate of South Carolina.  Typically builders in […]

Read more
What Hansen Pole Buildings Offers for Prospective Barndominium Owners

What Hansen Pole Buildings Offers for Prospective Barndominium Owners If you are considering building a barndominium or shouse (shop/house), whether DIY or with a contractor’s involvement, there is one very important question to ask: “Do you personally live in a barndominium?” If you do not receive a resounding, “YES” for an answer, you may want […]

Read more

Minimum Steel Substrate Coating

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/04/2020
Minimum Steel Substrate Coating

Minimum Steel Substrate Coating for Residential Steel Roof Panels When it comes to residential buildings – whether your barndominium or shouse (shop/house) is stick frame (stud walls), post frame, PEMB (pre-engineered metal building) or some other structural system with a steel roof, there is one import aspect of this roofing material frequently overlooked. Substrates Most […]

Read more

Arnold Puts Moratorium on Barndominiums

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/29/2020
Arnold Puts Moratorium on Barndominiums

Arnold puts moratorium on ‘barndominiums’ This article by Tony Krausz appeared in the Jefferson County, MO “Leader” October 25, 2020 An example of a barndominium. The city of Arnold has temporarily prohibited the construction of “barndominiums,” which typically are metal barn-like structures that include living quarters. City Council members voted 5-0 last month to place […]

Read more

Questionably Designed Steel Truss Pole Barns

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/28/2020
Questionably Designed Steel Truss Pole Barns

Being a member of numerous social media discussion groups, I see a plethora of photos of people’s new (or under construction) steel trussed post frame buildings. Most of these buildings are from Southeastern states where it appears structural building permits and plan checks are minimal or non-existent. This results in my receiving emails like this […]

Read more

Blower Door Testing Your New Barndominium Part II

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/23/2020
Blower Door Testing Your New Barndominium Part II

Continued from yesterday’s blog; Aside from code compliance or indoor air quality concerns, another reason to get a blower door test is to properly size your furnace or air conditioner. How leaky or tight your barndominium is can change how much heating/humidification or cooling/dehumidification you need. This then ties into how carefully your mechanical system […]

Read more

Loading Gambrel Loft Space

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/29/2020
Loading Gambrel Loft Space

Loading Gambrel Loft Space Loyal reader ANDY in OXFORD writes: “Mike, First, thanks for providing so much useful information to all of us. I’ve read about 1,200 of your blog entries so far, and I’ve learned so much. I have already priced a 30X36X11 Gambrel Roof building from Hansen for a woodworking shop. I’m committed […]

Read more

Searching for a Builder Embracing Hansen Building’s System

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/08/2020
Searching for a Builder Embracing Hansen Building’s System

Loyal reader RUSS in PIPERSVILLE writes: “We are in the process of having our floor plans and elevations done by Greg Hale. A pleasure to work with by the way. I’m wondering if you have any experience with pole frame builders in the east shore area of Maryland? We really want to purchase our building […]

Read more

New Zealand Eases Permit Requirements for Pole Buildings

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/04/2020
New Zealand Eases Permit Requirements for Pole Buildings

In our North American centric world we sometimes lose sight of post frame buildings being used all across our globe. Acquiring Building permits (consents in New Zealand) can be time consuming and expensive. New Zealand has made some policy changes to ease this process – especially for single story pole sheds (pole or post frame […]

Read more

Steel Roofing and Siding Over Purlins

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/27/2020
Steel Roofing and Siding Over Purlins

There is just plain a lot of bad (and scary) information floating around out there on the internet. For whatever reason, people will believe a random unqualified answer from a stranger, rather than going to a highly educated expert (e.g. Registered Professional Engineer). Reader DYLAN in BEDFORD writes: “I am building a 50×60 using 2×6 […]

Read more

Building Department Checklist 2020 Part II

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/26/2020
Building Department Checklist 2020 Part II

Yesterday I covered seven of what I feel are 14 most important questions to ask your local building department.  This not only will smooth your way through permitting processes, but also ensures a solid and safe building structure. Let’s talk about these last seven…. #8 What is accepted Allowable Soil Bearing Capacity? This will be […]

Read more

Building Department Checklist Part I

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/25/2020
Building Department Checklist Part I

BUILDING DEPARTMENT CHECKLIST 2020 PART I I Can Build, I Can Build! Whoa there Nellie…..before getting all carried away, there are 14 essential questions to have on your Building Department Checklist, in order to ensure structural portions of your new building process goes off without a hitch.  I will cover the first seven today, finishing […]

Read more

Struggles to Define What a House Should Look Like

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/20/2020
Struggles to Define What a House Should Look Like

With barndominiums, shouses and post frame homes rising in popularity, jurisdictions are struggling to define what a house should look like. To follow is an article by Arielle Breen in August 13, 2020’s Manistee, Michigan News Advocate detailing their city’s challenges. “Does the building plan look like a pole barn or a house? The answer […]

Read more

Stick Frame and Some Limitations

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/06/2020
Stick Frame and Some Limitations

Stick Frame and Some Limitations Perhaps stick built construction’s biggest advantage is builders and tradespeople are very comfortable working in and around stick framing. All registered architects and most building inspectors are very familiar with stick framing. The International Residential Code (IRC) provides a prescriptive ‘cook book’ to follow for adequate structural assembly, within certain limitations. […]

Read more

Steel Roofing Over Living Areas

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/21/2020
Steel Roofing Over Living Areas

 Steel Roofing Over Living Areas Requires Solid Decking? Barndominiums, shouses and post frame homes have become a recent and trendy rage. Seemingly everyone wants one, at least as gauged by hundreds of weekly requests received by Hansen Pole Buildings would attest to. Reader STEVEN in BOONE writes: “I visited with the building inspector with your […]

Read more

Lofty Barndominium Ambitions

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/16/2020
Lofty Barndominium Ambitions

Lofts and mezzanines (https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2020/03/a-mezzanine-for-your-barndominium/) are popular inclusions in barndominiums. Even though my lovely bride and I have a mezzanine in our South Dakota shouse, they are not often truly practical from an accessibility or economics stance. Reader Devin in Porun writes: “I’m designing and building a 42’x50′ pole barn home with 10′ exterior walls. Viewing […]

Read more

An Architect’s Guide to Drawing Your Own Barndominium Plans

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/04/2020
An Architect’s Guide to Drawing Your Own Barndominium Plans

An Architect’s Guide to Drawing Your Own Barndominium Plans Architect David Ludwig (www.LudwigDesign.com) has over 50 years of construction and design experience. A frequent contributor to assisting those interested in barndominiums, but without knowledge to create their own plans, David has offered his sage advice: 1. Draw to scale. Use 1/4” graph paper. Make each […]

Read more

Adding to a Floating Slab Building

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/19/2020
Adding to a Floating Slab Building

Adding to a Floating Slab Building Most buildings need foundations to transfer the structure’s weight as well as roof and floor loads into the ground. Small sheds and backyard structures like gazebos and pergolas may not need elaborate foundations because they are so light. But, for any building over about 150 square feet, a strong […]

Read more

Do You Own the Land Your Barndominium Will Be Built On?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/14/2020
Do You Own the Land Your Barndominium Will Be Built On?

Do You Own the Land Your Barndominium Will Be Built On? Barndominiums, shouses and post frame homes are not only a current rage, they may be America’s future home of choice. Pinterest has literally hundreds of photos of barndominiums. DIY network’s “Texas Flip-n-Move” feature a rusty old barn made into a beautiful home in Episode […]

Read more

Prescriptive Structural Requirements for Post Frame Buildings

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/07/2020
Prescriptive Structural Requirements for Post Frame Buildings

In a misguided effort to make things “easier” for potential building owners and builders, some Building Departments have prescriptive requirements for non-engineered pole buildings. This means if someone walks in their Building Department’s door and wants to construct a post frame building, as long as the building owner (or builder) agrees to build to match […]

Read more

Load Duration Factor in Wood Design

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/26/2020
Load Duration Factor in Wood Design

Load Duration Factor in Wood Design Considering a barndominium, shouse or other post frame (pole) building with wood framing? While this article is somewhat technical, you (as a future building owner) can use it to determine if who (builder or supplier) really knows what they are talking about when it comes to structural design. And […]

Read more

A Post Frame House Photo

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/19/2020
A Post Frame House Photo

A Post Frame House Photo – and More Post frame buildings are amazing, after four decades in this industry I am still amazed at what can be accomplished with them. We are just now barely scuffing surfaces of a burgeoning residential housing market! I will begin with a disclaimer, this is not a Hansen Pole […]

Read more

Fire Separation Requirements for Barndominiums

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/18/2020
Fire Separation Requirements for Barndominiums

Fire Separation Requirements for Barndominiums and Shouses Loyal reader CHUCK in MERINO timed asking this question perfectly, as fire separation requirements for barndominiums, shouses and post frame houses had just made it to my list of subjects to research and comment upon. Chuck writes: “I was wondering if you could pen your interpretation of the […]

Read more

Overhead Door Opening, Boat Storage, and Transfer of Plans

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/09/2020
Overhead Door Opening, Boat Storage, and Transfer of Plans

This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about the required height of an overhead door opening for an Airstream Trailer, options for a boat storage barn, and plans for a previous project transferred without consent of EOR. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Airstream trailer – 2020 Globetrotter https://www.usadventurerv.com/product/new-2020-airstream-rv-globetrotter-23fb-954672-29 Width – 8 ft Height – 9 […]

Read more

Getting the Best Deal on Your New Post Frame Building

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/18/2020
Getting the Best Deal on Your New Post Frame Building

A price quote is merely a number without a complete understanding of exactly what is or is not included in said quote. You have requested quotes for your new post frame building from a dozen or more providers and actually gotten four back, even after having to hound all of them for pricing! Frustrating when […]

Read more

Building Codes Apply to Shouses

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/05/2020
Building Codes Apply to Shouses

Building Codes Apply to Shouses Recently I shared with you, my faithful readers, a Park Rapids Enterprise article penned by Lorie R. Skarpness as Nevis, Minnesota attempts to deal with a shouse. https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2019/12/a-shouse-in-the-news/ Below is Lorie’s update from January 18, 2020: “The discussion of a proposed shouse (a word that means a shop with living […]

Read more

Barndominium Brick Wainscot

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/04/2020
Barndominium Brick Wainscot

Actual Brick Considerations for Barndominium Wainscot With post frame buildings becoming a ‘rage’ for use as homes, barndominiums and shouse (shop/houses) alternatives to dress them up are quickly arising. Amongst these options are clients looking to have actual brick wainscot, as opposed to using a different color of steel siding, thin brick, or other cultured […]

Read more

Your Barndominium’s Planning Department

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/29/2020
Your Barndominium’s Planning Department

In most parts of our country (and probably most other developed countries), it will be a necessity to acquire a building permit in order to construct a new barndominium, shouse (shop/house) or post frame home. Easiest way to find out is to contact your local authorities to find out if indeed this is your case. […]

Read more

Putting Everything Under One Post Frame Roof

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/15/2020
Putting Everything Under One Post Frame Roof

Putting Everything Under One Post Frame Roof I have been an advocate of one larger roof, rather than an enclosed building with a roof only side shed for years. This allows for greater headroom in ‘shed’ area without having to deal with pitch breaks (transition from a steeper slope main roof to a flatter shed […]

Read more

Remodel or Not?

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/01/2020
Remodel or Not?

Remodel or Build New? I am as guilty as most – my initial reaction is always to remodel, rather than build new. Even when it makes no practical or economic sense. Reader JIM in LAWTON is working through one of these situations. He writes:  “I have a 30 x 40 pole barn 32 years old. […]

Read more

Spray Foam for Barndominiums

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/20/2019
Spray Foam for Barndominiums

Spray Foam for Barndominiums – Is a Thermal or Ignition Barrier Required? Although it’s certainly not used in every green building project, spray foam insulation has become a popular way to build an air-tight (https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2019/11/airtight-post-frame-homes-and-barndominiums/) barndominium, shouse (shop/house) or even just a well-insulated post frame building. Early on building codes hadn’t caught up with how […]

Read more

Building Permits, Building Changes, and Frost Protection

Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/16/2019
Building Permits, Building Changes, and Frost Protection

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about ability to “build … without any problems…” permitting, adding wall skirting to an open building, and appropriate frost protection. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Can I build my pole barn in Hernando County without any problems from the county for permitting which is located in Brooksville, Florida? […]

Read more