Category Archives: Building Styles and Designs

Concerns About Truss Sizes and Overhangs When Designing a Floor Plan

Concerns About Truss Sizes and Overhangs When Designing a Floor Plan Reader ART in EADS writes: “Hello Mike, my wife and I are making floor plans for a future pole barn house. We see that numerous companies offer buildings in common L x W x H dimensions as well as some customized sizes. We want […]

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10 Important Things to Consider When Building a Pole Barn

Posted by polebarnguru on 23/12/26 @ 8:00
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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How to Clearspan a 60’ Wide Monitor Barn Including a Loft

Posted by polebarnguru on 23/11/28 @ 8:00
How to Clearspan a 60’ Wide Monitor Barn Including a Loft

How to Clearspan a 60’ Wide Monitor Barn Including a Loft Reader DANIEL in HADLEY writes: “ I am really liking the Monitor style barn. I however find the support posts for the raised portion very in the way for what I want. I am looking to have an open floor on a 60 x […]

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Steel Posts, a Pole Barn Conversion, and Column Size

Posted by polebarnguru on 23/11/15 @ 8:00
Steel Posts, a Pole Barn Conversion, and Column Size

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the use of steel posts for a lean-to, converting an existing pole barn with an open wall into a one-bedroom tiny home, and columns for a post frame remodel and addition. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’m building a lean to up against my 40′ high […]

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

Posted by polebarnguru on 23/11/08 @ 8:00
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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How to Cut Shed Rafters

Posted by polebarnguru on 23/10/17 @ 8:00
How to Cut Shed Rafters

How to Cut Shed Rafters Reader MICHAEL in MILACA writes: “Building a Loafing type pole shed, I have a question how to cut the rafters? I am building a 24 x90 loafing shed and I am using a 1-3/4″ x 24″ wide x 28 foot long LVL for the rafters. I do I figure the […]

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A 100×100 Pole Building, Shingles to Steel, and Double-Bubble

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the possibility of a 100′ x 100′ pole building, the consideration of switching from asphalt shingles to steel roofing, and if one can reuse the “double-bubble” when replacing roof steel. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Can I build a 100 ft X 100 ft. pole building? […]

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Adding a Slab, Code Requirements, and Getting Started

Posted by polebarnguru on 23/09/20 @ 8:00
Adding a Slab, Code Requirements, and Getting Started

Today’s Ask the Guru takes on reader questions about adding a slab to a pole barn with a dirt floor, and how that might transfer pressure to the columns, whether or not Hansen Buildings packages meet “2018 International Building Code and all codes adopted by Pennsylvania for commercial construction,” and landowners looking to get started […]

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Pole Building Condos

Posted by polebarnguru on 23/09/05 @ 8:00
Pole Building Condos

6 Advantages of Post-Frame Construction for Condos Due to its adaptability and affordability, post-frame architecture, often known as pole barn construction, has grown in popularity in recent years. It has recently been employed in residential construction, including condos, after first being used mostly for commercial and agricultural structures.  There are six advantages of post-frame construction […]

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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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Conditioning and Insulating a Shop/House in Spokane (Climate Zone 5B)

Conditioning and Insulating a Shop/House in Spokane (Climate Zone 5B) My Social Media friend TYLER in SPOKANE writes: “Hello Mr. Guru, I am planning to build a 48′ x 60′ post frame shop with a 48’x20′ finished living space inside and the remaining to be insulated and climate controlled shop space. I’m planning for 14′ […]

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Insulation/Envelope, Egress Window in Gable, and Ribbed Steel Testing

Today’s Ask the Guru tackles reader questions about how to best insulate/envelope a pole barn shop in AZ, if the Guru has “an engineered work around for gable ends so I could replace the vent with an egress window,” and trying to find out if pole barn ribbed siding is tested under NFPA275 to be […]

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Attic Space, Cost Effective Size, and Column Sizing

Posted by polebarnguru on 23/07/19 @ 8:00
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 polebarnguru on 23/07/05 @ 8:00
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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Foundation Requirements, Stem Walls, and Building on Slab

Posted by polebarnguru on 23/06/14 @ 8:00
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 polebarnguru on 23/06/01 @ 8:00
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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Engineer Drawings, Build on a Basement, and an ADU

Posted by polebarnguru on 23/05/24 @ 8:00
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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Adding a New Lean-to

Posted by polebarnguru on 23/05/23 @ 8:00
Adding a New Lean-to

Adding a Lean-To Shed on an Existing Pole Barn Reader SAM in CANNON FALLS writes: “Hello I am looking to add a lean-to to the side of my pole building on the eave side. I was looking to use a mono truss at with a 2/12 pitch and 8′ to the bottom of the truss/ […]

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Tornado Safety, Garage Additions, and Utilities in Post Frame

Posted by polebarnguru on 23/05/03 @ 8:00
Tornado Safety, Garage Additions, and Utilities in Post Frame

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the safety of a pole barn in the event of a tornado, whether a new post frame garage can be added to an existing home, and the standards to run utility wires and pipes through posts. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: How safe are pole barn […]

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Post Frame Bank Barns

Posted by polebarnguru on 23/04/18 @ 8:00
Post Frame Bank Barns

TERESA in BEDFORD writes: “Can you build a pole barn in a bank barn style?” Mike the Pole Barn Guru answers: A bank barn is a style of barn noted for its accessibility, at ground level, on two separate levels. Often built into hill sides or banks, upper and lower floors could be accessed from […]

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Comparing Rockwool and Fiberglass Insulation

Posted by polebarnguru on 23/04/06 @ 8:00
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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Adding a Pool, Gambrel for Processing, and Square Footage

Posted by polebarnguru on 23/03/29 @ 8:00
Adding a Pool, Gambrel for Processing, and Square Footage

This week Mike the Pole Barn Guru discusses reader questions about the practicality of adding a pool to an existing pole barn, if the trusses in a gambrel might hold the load of a deer while processing, and what square footage might give the best “bang for the bunk?” DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am […]

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Doggie Day Care

Posted by polebarnguru on 23/03/28 @ 8:00
Doggie Day Care

Hi Guru, I Need Your Guidance Reader CHRISTINA in MILFORD writes: “Hi guru, I need your guidance. I am looking to build a 30x135x14 commercial building for dog daycare. I have no experience in building/ordering a pole barn and want to get it right. Bullet points: I need 4000 sq ft. broken down: 3000 for […]

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Building Clientele, Design Plans for Canada, and Cabin Materials Questions

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building clientele as a contractor looking to build pole barns, if Hansen Buildings has any design plans for Prince Edward Island, CA, and a few questions about what materials are used in different Hansen Building components for a cabin. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: How to […]

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Rethinking Ways to Encourage Permanent Truss Bracing

Posted by polebarnguru on 23/02/14 @ 8:00
Rethinking Ways to Encourage Permanent Truss Bracing

Today’s blog comes from Hansen Pole Building’s guest, Frank Woeste, P.E. Rethinking Ways to Encourage Permanent Truss Bracing Part II Truss Bracing Background The purpose of permanent truss bracing is to satisfy the design assumptions of the truss designer such that the truss system will safely support design loads through the design life of the structure. Early […]

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Edge Dimples, Metal Truss Spacing, and Monitor Buildings

Posted by polebarnguru on 23/01/11 @ 8:00
Edge Dimples, Metal Truss Spacing, and Monitor Buildings

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru discusses reader questions regarding panels with “edge wave/dimples,” metal truss spacing for an ag building, and monitor building widths. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Good afternoon, on a few jobs we’ve had installed the lap leg on it has had edge wave/dimples along the panel, with no rhyme or reason […]

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Blown-In Insulation, Uplift Plates, and Truss Spacing

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/11/23 @ 8:00
Blown-In Insulation, Uplift Plates, and Truss Spacing

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about better blown-in insulation on 3/12 pitch ceiling, a reader with uplift issues and how to prevent them, and some concerns about truss spacing at 8′ oc. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello, I have a 30×48 pole barn with scissor trusses 6/12 outer pitch 3/12 inside […]

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Is a Two Story Barndominium Possible?

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/09/15 @ 8:00
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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Adding Solar to Your Barndominium

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/09/01 @ 8:00
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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Porches, Post Savers, and Airplane Hangars

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/08/31 @ 8:00
Porches, Post Savers, and Airplane Hangars

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the “least expensive” option for porches, the performance or ground contact poles when using a “Postsaver” and discussion of options for an airplane hangar. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Which is least expensive: house and porches under one roof or house under one roof and porches […]

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Information on Codes and Shouses

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/08/30 @ 8:00
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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Polycarbonate Frame, Concrete Thickness, and Insulation

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/08/17 @ 8:00
Polycarbonate Frame, Concrete Thickness, and Insulation

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the use of a hard-sided (polycarbonate) frame, how thick a concrete pads has to be to house an RV, and insulation options for a vacation home. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Can a pole structure be built as a hard-sided (polycarbonate) frame 20 feet wide, without […]

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Radiant Floor Heat, UC-4B Post Treatment, and Button Staples

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/07/27 @ 8:00
Radiant Floor Heat, UC-4B Post Treatment, and Button Staples

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the use of radiant floor heat for a post frame building, post treatment that will not rot, and whether or not button staples can be used for housewrap on a post frame house. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am researching my build. I wanted to […]

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Skylight Width, Gable Fans, and Post Spacing

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/06/22 @ 8:00
Skylight Width, Gable Fans, and Post Spacing

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the standard width of a skylight, gable fans for ventilation, and post spacing for a roof only building. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What is the standard width of a skylight on a pole building? ROBERTA in DAKOTA DEAR ROBERTA: In most instances pole building skylights […]

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You Can’t Build it Here Part II

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/06/16 @ 8:00
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 polebarnguru on 22/06/14 @ 8:00
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 polebarnguru on 22/06/08 @ 8:00
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 polebarnguru on 22/06/02 @ 8:00
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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Personal Storage, Additional Height, and Floor Plans

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/05/04 @ 8:00
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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Do You Do Longer Ones?

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/04/12 @ 8:00
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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Solar Panels, Concrete Free Slab, and Overhead Door Posts

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/04/06 @ 8:00
Solar Panels, Concrete Free Slab, and Overhead Door Posts

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru discusses the possibility of installing solar panels on a pole barn roof, use of a “concrete free” slab, and overhead door post sizes. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Can solar panels be installed on a pole barn roof? JAMES in GREER DEAR JAMES: Provided roof truss top chord and purlin […]

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Condensation, Floor Plans, and Planning a House

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/23 @ 8:00
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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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) […]

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Spray Foam, Second Floor, and Bending Posts

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/02 @ 8:00
Spray Foam, Second Floor, and Bending Posts

This week the Pole Barn Guru discusses a reader’s concern about “condensation leaks” when using spray foam, advice on costs of attic trusses vs traditional second floor, and how to stop posts from bending when the wind blows. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am building a 40×50 post frame building as my garage. It will […]

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

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/02/16 @ 8:00
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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Boral Steel Stone Coated Roofing

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/02/03 @ 8:00
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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Will My Minnesota Shouse Require Frost Footings?

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/01/25 @ 8:00
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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A Walk-Out, A Shouse, and Spray Foam Insulation

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/01/12 @ 8:00
A Walk-Out, A Shouse, and Spray Foam Insulation

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru addresses reader questions about the possibility of Hansen designing a walk-out basement, building a Shouse, and a consideration of spray foam insulation. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do you do walkout basement? DIANE in WARRENTON DEAR DIANE: Absolutely we can provide your barndominium with a walkout (daylight) basement: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2020/02/barndominium-on-a-daylight-basement/ We […]

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Framing Loads, Footing Pads, and a Pole Barn Home

Posted by polebarnguru on 22/01/05 @ 8:00
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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Hansen (J.A.), the Insides, and Ceiling Liner Panels

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/12/29 @ 8:00
Hansen (J.A.), the Insides, and Ceiling Liner Panels

This week the Pole Barn Guru responds to reader questions about “Hansen” and the person behind the name, what the inside of a building might look like, and the possibility of adding ceiling liner panels to scissor trusses spaced 4 feet apart. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: How long has Hansen (the man himself) been building […]

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Storage Barn to Dwelling

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/12/14 @ 8:03
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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Insulation Prep, Foundation and Footing Prep, and USDA Programs

Today’s Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about plans to insulate and preparations ahead of insulating, recommendation for framing and footing an apartment to prevent movement, and if the PBG knows whether or not the USDA programs apply to post frame homes. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am currently constructing my Hansen provided pole building, […]

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Syracuse, Nebraska Approves Shouses!

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/11/04 @ 8:00
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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Cupola Sizes, Insulation for a Ceiling, and Structural Pieces

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/10/25 @ 8:00
Cupola Sizes, Insulation for a Ceiling, and Structural Pieces

This week the Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about cupola sizes, the proper way to insulate a shed ceiling, and a structural materials question. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What base size and height is correct for a cupolas for a 32’ wide by 36’ long by 35-40’ high with a 10 over 12 pitch […]

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Vaulted Barndominium Ceilings

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/09/08 @ 8:00
Vaulted Barndominium Ceilings

I Like Vaulted Barndominium Ceilings When I built my first personal post frame shop/house, it had a 7/12 exterior roof slope, to match other buildings on the same property. Upper level of this building was designed as an area where we would potentially place a ping pong table. To allow for lobs, I had prefabricated […]

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Driver Bits, a Big Room, and Overhead Door Space

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/09/06 @ 8:00
Driver Bits, a Big Room, and Overhead Door Space

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about driver bits, the ability to build one big room, and the ability to place a 14′ tall overhead garage door in a building with 14′ sidewalls. DEAR POLE BARN GURU:   Just read a post you had in 2013 that Hansen supplier uses high quality screws. Getting […]

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A Conventional Foundation, Weather Resistant Barrier, and Moisture Issues

Today the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building a “conventional” foundation, drainage between steel and shiplap siding, and potential moisture issues of stick built vs post frame foundations. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am building a 24X48 pole barn, but instead of using a slab, I would like to have a conventional foundation. […]

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Pole Barn House Roof Styles

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/08/27 @ 8:00
Pole Barn House Roof Styles

POLE BARN HOUSE ROOF STYLES: WHICH ONE IS THE RIGHT FIT FOR YOU?  Today’s guest blogger is John Hamlin, an industrial manufacturing writer with a passion for technology. Having a background in construction and a keen interest in engineering, John has slowly made his way into becoming a major contributor to many online publications. The […]

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Contract Scheduling and Terms

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/08/06 @ 8:00
Contract Scheduling and 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 where a builder is providing erection services […]

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Home Addition, Combo Building, and Moisture Barriers

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/08/02 @ 8:00
Home Addition, Combo Building, and Moisture Barriers

This week the PBG answers reader questions about a post frame addition to a house, a combo business/residential building, and use of a vapor barrier. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We bought an older ranch house with a poorly done addition in the back. Since this dream property came with a house that prevents me building […]

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Hay Barn Loft Removal, Screw vs Nails, and Find a Builder

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/07/26 @ 8:00
Hay Barn Loft Removal, Screw vs Nails, and Find a Builder

Today’s “ask the Pole Barn Guru” visits questions about the stability of a hay barn once the loft floor is removed, what screws can be used as a substitute for nails, and if Hansen could assist in finding a builder to erect a garage. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have a very old gothic arch […]

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Uneven Ground, Greatest Strength, and Post Spacing

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/06/28 @ 8:00
Uneven Ground, Greatest Strength, and Post Spacing

This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building a pole barn on uneven ground, if spray foam adds the greatest strength, and post spacing for a roof only porch. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We were potentially looking to build. We were investigating our options and I came across pole barns. My potential […]

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Attic Truss Lofts, Wall Switch Heights, and A Shouse

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/06/14 @ 8:00
Attic Truss Lofts, Wall Switch Heights, and A Shouse

Today the Pole Barn Guru responds to reader questions about an attic truss loft, whether or not wall switches and outlet heights are different for post frame, and building a shouse– garage with living space above (Shop/House). DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Is it possible to have a loft in a 30 x 50 x 8 […]

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Things You Want to See On a Building Proposal

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/06/11 @ 1:00
Things You Want to See On a Building Proposal

Things You Want to See on a Building Proposal/Contract Maybe you (as a soon to be building owner, building contractor or provider) are satisfied with being overly vague when it comes to what you are buying or selling. From a contractor/provider standpoint, this gives you lots of leeway to add ‘extra dealer margin’ by providing […]

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Post Frame Homes

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/05/21 @ 8:00
Post Frame Homes

Post Frame Homes – Coming Soon to a Neighborhood Near You After providing or building post frame (pole) buildings for over 40 years, one might think there would be very few things coming as a surprise to me. Well…..SURPRISE! Barndominiums and shop houses are no surprise to me at all. I first built one for […]

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Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Home Financing, and Insulation Assistance

This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about pole barn homes, help with finding a lender for a post frame home, and an insulation solution for a gambrel style building. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello, do you have any information on your pole barn homes? Looking to build in lower Michigan. HOLLY in […]

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Financing, Vapor Barrier, and Boat Storage

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/03/26 @ 8:00
Financing, Vapor Barrier, and Boat Storage

This Friday’s daily blog will feature three questions and answers from the Pole Barn Guru. First is a question about financing, followed by a question about a vapor barrier for an add-on lean-to, and then building a quite lengthy boat storage facility. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hi there. I’m looking to utilize a VA loan […]

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Making Everything Fit Under an Attached Lean-To

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/03/12 @ 8:00
Making Everything Fit Under an Attached Lean-To

Reader GEOFF in MILFORD has an often found potential challenge, he writes: “I am looking to build a 30×40 pole barn and want to also have a covered lean to for my camper that will run the length of the barn. In order to have the lean to tall enough for the camper how tall […]

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Thoughts When Considering Building a Barndominium

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/03/05 @ 8:00
Thoughts When Considering Building a Barndominium

Thoughts When Considering Building a Barndominium If you are reading this, you are probably somewhere between, “Living in a barndominium would be really cool” and “I wish I would have done…..” This is not meant to be a 100% comprehensive list, but may give some food for thought. The Importance of Location When it comes […]

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Why Self Engineering is Risky

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/02/24 @ 8:00
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 […]

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Blog Searches, Building Shapes, and a Stumper

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/02/15 @ 8:00
Blog Searches, Building Shapes, and a Stumper

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about blog searches for weather proofing in rainy states, what shapes of buildings are out there– such as an “L” shaped building, and one that stumped the Guru- A term he hadn’t heard and can’t find on google. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What are some words […]

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Barndominium on Expansive Soils

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/01/29 @ 8:00
Barndominium on Expansive Soils

Post Frame Barndominium Building on Expansive Soils. When I was a 1990’s post frame building contractor we trained our sales team to be diligent in looking at soil cuts near where our potential clients were considering erecting new post frame buildings. These cuts could tell us much about what was happening below the surface and […]

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Wide Clearspan Barndominium Floors

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/01/19 @ 8:00
Wide Clearspan Barndominium Floors

Wide Clearspan Barndominium Floors Multi-story post frame barndominiums are embracing a great feature found in better stick framed homes – engineered prefabricated wood floor trusses. Loyal reader RICK in MONTICELLO writes: “First off, thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience in the blog and answering questions regarding post frame construction with us laymen! It is […]

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Ceiling Insulation, Drafting Capabilities, and 24″ On Center Framing

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about “ceiling insulation” for a roof rebuild, the capabilities of our drafting and proprietary pricing program, and “what percentage of pole buildings are 24″ on center?” DEAR POLE BARN GURU: The birds have destroyed the front half of the ceiling insulation in our 40 x 60 […]

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Shouse Dimensions, UK Plans, and Chance of Tear-out

Posted by polebarnguru on 21/01/04 @ 8:00
Shouse Dimensions, UK Plans, and Chance of Tear-out

Kicking off 2021 Mike answers reader questions about standard dimensions of a shouse, pole barn plans in the UK, and the chances a building official will force buyer of a converted building to remove non-permitted work. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Was wondering if there are standard lengths/widths, such as 30 x 40 vs 36 x […]

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How a Realtor Can Participate With Post-frame Barndominiums

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/12/31 @ 8:00
How a Realtor Can Participate With Post-frame Barndominiums

Reader (and Realtor) JIM in NEW PALISTINE writes: “How can I participate in the post-frame industry as a Realtor?   How do people develop their custom residential interior designs?   How are residential pole barn projects coordinated A-Z? Okay, that was three.  Can you help me, please?” Mike the Pole Barn Guru responds: Post frame […]

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Post Rot Concerns, Floor Plan Adaptation, and a Net Zero House

This Monday the Guru answers questions about post rot due to pouring quickcrete below the posts, adapting post frame to floor plans, and running plumbing and electrical a super insulated post frame house. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I just got done building a pole barn. A task that’s a lot harder than I thought. My […]

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How Much is the White Gambrel Barn?

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/12/23 @ 8:00
How Much is the White Gambrel Barn?

How Much is the White Gambrel Barn? Reader ALLISON in SALIDA writes: “I’m wondering what it would cost to build the large white gambrel style barn that’s on your website.  Thanks!” This building has been featured in places like covers of NFBA’s post frame building design manual and Rural Builder magazine. It is truly a […]

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Pitch a Roof, Up or Out, and a Site Prep Problem

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/12/14 @ 8:00
Pitch a Roof, Up or Out, and a Site Prep Problem

Today’s Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about a “way to put a pitch on a flat carport roof,” when building is is cheaper to go “up or out,” and “extra” costs associated with poor site prep. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What is the fastest, least expensive way to put a pitch on a flat […]

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How Best to Use Metal Building Insulation

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/12/03 @ 8:00
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 […]

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Minimum Steel Substrate Coating

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/11/04 @ 8:00
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 […]

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Insulation Options, Building Plans, and a Swing Table

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/11/02 @ 8:00
Insulation Options, Building Plans, and a Swing Table

This week Mike the Pole Barn Guru discusses about insulation options, building plans for a back yard pavilion, and steel gauge for a “swing table.” DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We are well on our way toward breaking ground. Our biggest concerns that we seem to keep going back to are these. We want a tight, […]

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Span, Vapor Barriers, and Planning a Pole Barn

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/10/26 @ 8:00
Span, Vapor Barriers, and Planning a Pole Barn

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the widest span a post frame building can be built, vapor barrier on a roof only structure, and the proper steps for planning a pole barn. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: How wide can you span? And approx cost per sq ft for an erected shell, […]

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Blower Door Testing Your New Barndominium Part II

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/10/23 @ 8:00
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 […]

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Vehicle Lifts for Post Frame Buildings

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/10/21 @ 8:00
Vehicle Lifts for Post Frame Buildings

A trending garage accessory is an addition of a garage vehicle lift. Vehicle lifts provide many benefits for your post frame garage or shop than just being able to work on your vehicle. A vehicle lift for your garage is exactly what it sounds like, it will elevate your vehicle so you can either work on […]

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Column Height, a Hangar Door, and Splash Plank Boards

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/10/19 @ 8:00
Column Height, a Hangar Door, and Splash Plank Boards

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about column height for an eight foot one inch interior ceiling, what size bi-fold door for a hangar, and specific boards for a splash plank. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: New at this. If I am building a pole barn house and want 8 ft 1 inch […]

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Site Prep,

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/10/15 @ 8:00
Site Prep,

Thursday’s edition will tackle three more reader questions. First up is about how level a site must be before erecting a shop, second is about pole barn homes and the many options available, and third is a question about the best method to fix an issue left by a previous builder. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: […]

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Floor Plan Ideas, An “L” Shaped Building, and Floor Insulation

This Monday the Pole barn Guru answers questions about floor plan ideas for a monitor style building, plans for a “Zen Den” or “Party Barn” in an L shape, and whether or not it is worth adding reflective radian barrier under slab. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello, I am wondering if you have any floor […]

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Post Frame Shouse Column Options

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/09/30 @ 8:00
Post Frame Shouse Column Options

Post Frame Shouse Column Options – Risk vs. Reward Loyal readers will recall a recent post involving GREG in KENTWOOD (https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2020/09/dont-want-pressure-treated-columns-in-the-ground/). Our discussion continues and I share below: “Mike, Thanks for the quick response.    If I was a sane man, not sure I am, if properly pressure treated lumber will last a few generations, why […]

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Loading Gambrel Loft Space

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/09/29 @ 8:00
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 […]

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A Future House, Eave Height, and Pricing for Horse Arena

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/09/28 @ 8:00
A Future House, Eave Height, and Pricing for Horse Arena

This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about an ideal pole barn to convert into a house, the height of the exterior wall with an 11′ interior ceiling height, how clear span affects the costs of a horse arena. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Good Morning, We just put in an offer on land in […]

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Double Doors, Insulation, and an Alaska Project?

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/09/24 @ 8:00
Double Doors, Insulation, and an Alaska Project?

We’ll continue this week with a third day of Bonus PBG’s! Today Mike take care of reader questions about adding “double doors” to the high side of a lean to, insulation to building in Climate Zone 4A with R-49, and the feasibility of building in Alaska. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hi Mike, I am looking […]

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Pole Barn Guru Wednesday!

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/09/23 @ 8:00
Pole Barn Guru Wednesday!

Bonus Wednesday! The Pole Barn Guru has been inundated with questions. Let’s answer a few more. Move a hay barn? Building a Shouse, and the answer to “What all is in the pole barn kit?” DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I may move my 40 x 60 hay barn, wooden trusses, 6 x 6 poles. How […]

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New Zealand Eases Permit Requirements for Pole Buildings

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/09/04 @ 8:00
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 […]

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Struggles to Define What a House Should Look Like

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/08/20 @ 8:00
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 […]

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Financing a Shouse, Drawings, and Roofing advice

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/07/20 @ 8:00
Financing a Shouse, Drawings, and Roofing advice

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about financing a Shouse, a timeline for plans to build a large pole barn, advice for roofing with standing seam steel. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We are in the process of selling our home and buying a piece of property to build on. We want to build […]

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Connecting Structures, Help with Connections, and a New Home

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/07/13 @ 8:00
Connecting Structures, Help with Connections, and a New Home

Today’s Pole Barn Guru answers questions about connecting structures, connections for a DIY project, and help with information to build a new home. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What is the easiest way to connect 30x50x16 to 30x50x16? JACK in CARDWELL DEAR JACK: Connected end-to-end will be easiest. Your overall “new building” will need to be […]

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Planning Interior Accessibility in Barndominiums

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/07/09 @ 8:00
Planning Interior Accessibility in Barndominiums

Good Morning! This is Mike the Pole Barn Guru’s wife filling in for him as he takes a couple of well deserved days off from writing. Not too long ago Mike wrote a blog discussing how to plan the interior of your new barndominium or shouse (shop/house). He had some good ideas but there are […]

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Barndominium Building on Expansive Soils

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/07/08 @ 8:00
Barndominium Building on Expansive Soils

Barndominium Building on Expansive Soils Expansive soils in many United States areas pose a significant hazard to foundations for barndominiums. Swelling clays derived from residual soils can exert uplift pressures of as much as 5,500 PSF (pounds per square foot) and can do considerable damage to barndominiums, shouses and post frame homes. Insurance companies pay […]

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