Category Archives: Concrete

Splash Boards, Roof Loads, and Truss Spacing

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/11/23 @ 8:00
Splash Boards, Roof Loads, and Truss Spacing

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about shrinkage of splash boards installed wet, roof load capacity, and truss spacing for an RV storage building. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have two questions (related) regarding splash boards and concrete floor top. My splash boards have been in place for quite a while, and […]

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Vapor Barrier for a Ceiling

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/11/18 @ 8:00
Vapor Barrier for a Ceiling

Reader GEORGE in LOUISVILLE writes: “I am looking to install tin on the ceiling of my 54 X 75 pole shed. I was wondering if 6 mil plastic sheeting with all seams taped would work for a vapor barrier? My concern is not to have it rain in my building after the tin is up […]

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Busting Post Frame Barndominium Myths

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/10/20 @ 8:00
Busting Post Frame Barndominium Myths

Busting Post Frame Barndominium Myths Yep, I have been web surfing again and I came across a stick frame building contractor’s website who obviously either doesn’t understand fully engineered post frame construction, or just frankly doesn’t care to add it to his arsenal of design solutions. My comments are in italics. MYTH #1. MOST BANKS WON’T […]

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Seal Walls, Fill for Compaction, and Condensation Control

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/10/16 @ 8:00
Seal Walls, Fill for Compaction, and Condensation Control

Let’s close out the week with another installment of Ask the Pole Barn Guru! First up is a resolution to seal up a building, followed by assistance with compacted fill, and finally an alternative to spray foam to control condensation. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I purchased a pole building from you last year and there […]

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Posts and Collars, Girts, and Non-Vented Soffits

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/10/12 @ 8:00
Posts and Collars, Girts, and Non-Vented Soffits

This week’s edition of Pole Barn Guru visits the topics of post and footing sizes, bookshelf girts for drywall, and non-vented soffits for building with spray foam insulation. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am currently 68 but I built pole barns as a younger man the biggest being a hay barn 24′ eaves X 80 […]

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Avoiding Being Driven Crazy With Barndominium Questions Part II

Part II of a two part series. If you didn’t see Part I, go back one day. Mike’s answers are in italics.  In each house at ends of the “L” layout, I plan to have 1/3 open plan at two stories, for our great room, with nice windows for great views. The other 2/3 areas […]

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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 Home Zero Barrier Entry Over a Crawl Space

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/10/02 @ 8:00
Post Frame Home Zero Barrier Entry Over a Crawl Space

Post Frame Home Zero Barrier Entry Over a Crawl Space Reader MARC in AUBURN writes: “I am asking what might be an odd question, but I need to ask it to see if it is even an option. Is it possible to build a post frame home with part of it having a concrete floor […]

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Bolt to Slab, Metal Distortion, and a Moisture Drip Issue

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/09/21 @ 8:00
Bolt to Slab, Metal Distortion, and a Moisture Drip Issue

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about use of dry-set brackets to existing slab, spray foam distorting metal, and a problem with drip when temperature is just right. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: How thick does the edge of concrete need to be to support a pole barn if using the bolt on top […]

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SIP Floor Panels, Stack-able Hanger Doors, and Sliding Door Installation

This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about installing a SIP floor instead of concrete, stack-able hanger doors for addition, and rough cuts on some sliding door lateral braces. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am considering installing SIP floor in my pole barn instead of a concrete floor (the barn will be a […]

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Top Chord Repair, Little Voices, and Building Use

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/08/31 @ 8:00
Top Chord Repair, Little Voices, and Building Use

Today the Pole Barn Guru tackles questions about repairing a rotted top chord of an existing truss, a little voice in a contractor’s head, and the use of an existing building on newly purchased parcel. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: When we bought our property the pole barn on it already had a rotting roof with […]

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Final Inspection, Framing Lumber, and Trusses

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/08/21 @ 8:00
Final Inspection, Framing Lumber, and Trusses

This Friday’s blog include some extra Pole Barn Guru reader’s questions about a final inspection, materials needs for a building, and the quantity of trusses for another. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: In a pole barn the inspector will not pass final inspection with a crushed concrete floor for storage of any kind of vehicle inside […]

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A Frustrated Shopper, Sealant Around Posts, and Vapor Barriers

Today’s Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about a frustrating shopping experience, use of a sealant around embedded posts, and best method for a vapor barrier under concrete. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello my husband and I have been pre-approved to finance a pole barn and I am becoming very FRUSTRATED. We have called “Oscar […]

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Attic Venting, Moisture Reduction, and a Vapor Barrier

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/07/06 @ 8:00
Attic Venting, Moisture Reduction, and a Vapor Barrier

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about ventilation for an attic space, what type of insulation to use for the reduction or elimination of moisture, and to place a vapor barrier under the concrete slab. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I know you have answered a few questions regarding attic venting so I […]

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Pouring Concrete into Holes With a High Water Table

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/06/16 @ 8:00
Pouring Concrete into Holes With a High Water Table

Back in my general contractor days we would run into building sites where water would fill up some or all of our hole depth. While this seemed highly problematic then it was actually far less of an issue than originally presumed. Reader RACHEL in CLARK writes: “We are looking to put up a 24′ X […]

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Slab or Crawl, Insulation, and Building by a Leach Field

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/05/25 @ 8:00
Slab or Crawl, Insulation, and Building by a Leach Field

This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building on a slab or with a crawl space, insulation for a shop, and if a person is able to build near a leach field. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I appreciate the building technology used when building a residential pole barn. I am not yet […]

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Isolating Heated and Unheated Barndominium Concrete Floors

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/05/22 @ 8:00
Isolating Heated and Unheated Barndominium Concrete Floors

Isolating Heated and Unheated Barndominium Concrete Floors Loyal reader MIKE in COUPEVILLE writes: “I see you recently posted a detailed drawing on insulating the perimeter of a pole barn, very helpful.  https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2020/03/meeting-barndominium-slab-requirements/ I’m currently looking at purchasing a large pole barn, it will be 84’x42′ with posts 12′ apart.  I plan to make 2 of […]

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“One-Pour Post Frame Concrete Footings

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/05/21 @ 8:00
“One-Pour Post Frame Concrete Footings

“One-pour” Post Frame Concrete Footings and Bottom Collars As originally engineered Hansen Pole Buildings’ column encasement design, had pressure preservative columns placed to the bottom of an augured hole. Pre-mix concrete was then poured around each column’s lower 16-18 inches to form a bottom collar. Concrete to wood’s bond strength was sufficient to enable this […]

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Adding to a Floating Slab Building

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/05/19 @ 8:00
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 […]

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Where to Stop Metal, Installing a Sliding Door, and Footings

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/05/18 @ 8:00
Where to Stop Metal, Installing a Sliding Door, and Footings

This week’s Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about where to stop metal in relation to concrete, installing a sliding door to a repurposed building, and the proper depth of footings. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Where do I stop my metal in relation to my grade board/ bottom stringer. I’ve set the bottom of my […]

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Footings, Payments, and Financing

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/05/11 @ 8:00
Footings, Payments, and Financing

Today the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about a requirement for “continuous footings” in South Carolina, lump sim or payments for a building purchase, and finance options. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Are continuous footings required for a pole barn in Dorchester County South Carolina. Size is 24 x 32 M KELLY in SUMMERVILLE DEAR […]

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Footers, Building Over Old Pool, and Home Made Glu-Lams

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/04/27 @ 8:00
Footers, Building Over Old Pool, and Home Made Glu-Lams

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about need for a “footer,” building over an old pool, and the efficacy or viability of building ones own glulaminated posts. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: You have most likely answered this question before. I don’t seem to be able to find it. I am thinking about building a […]

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Meeting Barndominium Perimeter Slab Insulation Requirements

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/03/24 @ 8:00
Meeting Barndominium Perimeter Slab Insulation Requirements

Meeting Barndominium Perimeter Slab Insulation Requirements Our world (at least my world) of post frame buildings has evolved quickly into residential construction of barndominiums, shouses (shop/houses) and post frame homes. Having built two shouses for myself, I have learned a lot about what to do and not to do, as well as receiving helpful contributions […]

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Beginning a Shouse Journey in Washington State Part I

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/03/11 @ 8:00
Beginning a Shouse Journey in Washington State Part I

A shouse (shop/house), barndominium or post frame house project may seem daunting, however by doing lots of reading, research and asking questions, an average individual can craft for themselves a home they love, tailored to meet their family’s wants and needs. Loyal reader ROBERT in OLYMPIA writes: “Hello to the Pole Barn Guru or whoever […]

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Where Your Barndominium Dollars Go

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/03/04 @ 8:00
Where Your Barndominium Dollars Go

Where Your Barndominium Dollars Go Recently published by NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) was their 2019 Cost of Construction Survey. I will work from their ‘average numbers’ to breakdown costs so you can get a feel for where your barndominium, shouse or post frame home dollars go. Please use this as a reference only, […]

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Condensation Above Metal Building Roof Insulation

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/03/03 @ 8:00
Condensation Above Metal Building Roof Insulation

Condensation Above Metal Building Roof Insulation Only those few long time readers or those who had time on their hands and have read every blog I ever wrote will recall this story about my adventures with metal building roof insulation: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2011/11/metal-building-insulation-in-pole-buildings-part-i/. Reader JOSH in CORVALLIS is having issues with how metal building insulation is (or […]

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Barndominium: One Story or Two?

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/02/21 @ 8:00
Barndominium: One Story or Two?

Barndominium: One Floor or Two? Welcome to an ongoing debate about whether it is more cost effective to build a one story or two story barndominium. Commonly I read people advising two stories is less expensive than a single story. Reader TODD in HENNING put me to work when he wrote: “I’m curious why “Going […]

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Top of Barndominium Slab

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/01/31 @ 8:00
Top of Barndominium Slab

Where Should the Top of Barndominium Slab Be? Loyal reader DANIEL in OWENSVILLE writes: “Mike, First I want to say thanks for all that I have learned from your Blog. I am confused on a couple of points you made concerning floor height… “Occasionally we have clients who ask why they can’t run the concrete […]

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Barndominium Warrantees

Posted by polebarnguru on 20/01/22 @ 8:00
Barndominium Warrantees

Barndominium Warrantees Regular readers of my articles are aware I have joined and regularly read and contribute to every Facebook and Linkedin group about barndominiums and post frame buildings I possibly can find. My goal always is for people to get their best possible value for their investment, even should they somehow decide Hansen Pole […]

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Bare Splash Planks

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/12/31 @ 8:00
Bare Splash Planks

Oh What to do About Bare Splash Planks Most people rarely notice or pay attention to splash planks (skirt boards) below their post frame (pole building) siding. They are so far below eye level frankly most people just do not notice them! Reader TOOD in SPRINGFIELD worries about them. He writes: “Hi there,  I called […]

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Column Types, SW Missouri, and Site Preparation

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/12/30 @ 8:00
Column Types, SW Missouri, and Site Preparation

Today’s Pole Barn Guru discusses reader questions about types of columns used in Hansen Pole Buildings, what type of car for a small 2 story barn, and the best site preparation. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Good morning. I was just running through your website looking at the different materials you guys use for your buildings […]

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A Workshop, A Sliding Door, and A Metal Gauge of a Beverage Can

This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about a new a heated floor in a new workshop, adding a large sliding door to a building, and the metal gauge of a beverage can. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello, New fan of your site 🙂   We are designing a 40×80 pole building workshop for heavy equipment, […]

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Concrete: Cured or Dried?

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/12/19 @ 8:00
Concrete: Cured or Dried?

Concrete: Cured or Dried? Recently I posted an article in regards to finishing a concrete slab-on-grade. I admit to knowing slightly more about concrete than I do about plumbing. Muy poquito – one of the few Spanish terms I can actually pronounce (and have used all too frequently when visiting South America). For those of […]

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Building Permits, Building Changes, and Frost Protection

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/12/16 @ 8:00
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? […]

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Barndominium Flooring Over Radiant Heat

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/12/13 @ 8:01
Barndominium Flooring Over Radiant Heat

Our shouse (shop/house) has radiant in floor heat on its lower level and we love it! (read about it here: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2012/08/radiant-floor-heating/) I encourage anyone who is building a barndominium, shouse, post frame home or even a garage or shop to at least have Pex-Al-Pex tubing placed in any slab-on-grade concrete floors (research Pex-Al-Pex here: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2019/05/pex-al-pex-tubing-for-post-frame-concrete-slabs/). […]

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How to Finish a Concrete Slab on Grade

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/12/10 @ 8:00
How to Finish a Concrete Slab on Grade

How to Finish a Concrete Slab on Grade Concrete is not my friend, it ranks right there with my ability to do plumbing.  My Dad was awesome, he could do either of these with ease. Neither of these tasks, done by me personally, have given me results I am pleased with. So I hire professionals. […]

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Rebar for Post Frame Concrete Slabs on Grade

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/11/29 @ 8:00
Rebar for Post Frame Concrete Slabs on Grade

Building with concrete involves many steps to achieve best results, including grading, forming, placing and finishing. One crucial step is placing reinforcing bars (rebar) correctly. An engineer should do technical design work and provide specific information regarding sizes, configuration and placement of rebar. Slabs-on-grade for post frame buildings do not usually carry building loads, these […]

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Ag Exemptions, Truss Spacing, and Concrete Vapor Barriers

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/10/28 @ 8:00
Ag Exemptions, Truss Spacing, and Concrete Vapor Barriers

This week the Pole Barn Guru discusses ag exemptions for building permits, the effect of spacing trusses at 12′ or more, and concrete vapor barriers. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do I have to have a permit to build one poll barn on Ag land? DANIEL in PIERSON DEAR DANIEL: Many jurisdictions nationwide exempt true agricultural […]

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Overhead Door Install Without Concrete Floor

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/10/16 @ 8:00
Overhead Door Install Without Concrete Floor

Overhead Door Install Without a Concrete Floor Reader WILLIE in SHELBYVILLE writes: “ I am building a pole barn and I am not going to pour concrete on the floor just a rock base and I am going to install an overhead door. My question is what do I need to stop the door from […]

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Roof Trusses 4′ o.c., Condensation Issues, and a Sliding Door

This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about roof trusses at 4′ o.c., ways to solve condensation issues, and sliding door options. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: My question is I just purchased some roof trusses that are 32 feet long heel to heel they are constructed with 2 by 4s can I put these […]

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Barn Conversions, Raising a Building, and Pole Barns on Concrete Slabs

Today’s Pole Barn Guru discusses a possible conversion of an old pole barn, raising a building, and how site preparation helps with concrete slabs. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Have a 40’ x 100’, 2 sides enclosed, pole barn I would like to convert to a house / garage combo. Columns are 20’ on center in […]

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Tipping Up Post Frame Walls

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/10/04 @ 8:00
Tipping Up Post Frame Walls

Reader JIMMY in ROCK HILL writes: “I want to get your opinion on the pole barn building method seen in the linked video. (RR buildings) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVwUl4cm8fQ I am impressed at the built in efficiency of his process. Is there a benefit to his post ground connection, (i am aware that his method will use lots […]

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Yet Another Case for Engineered Buildings

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/09/19 @ 8:00
Yet Another Case for Engineered Buildings

Yet Another Case for Engineered Buildings (The six photos at https://www.hudsonvalley360.com/article/construction-resumes-following-barn-collapse are essential to this story) In case you are wondering why I rail so loudly about building permit agricultural exemptions for buildings, these photos (look at bases of columns) should quell any wonderment. https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2011/12/exempt-agricultural-buildings/ From a September 2, 2019 article by Amanda Purcell at […]

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Vapor Barrier, Replacement Skylights, and Frost Heave

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/08/05 @ 8:00
Vapor Barrier, Replacement Skylights, and Frost Heave

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about vapor barrier, a solution for skylights, and how to reduce frost heave. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Vapor barrier under roof metal or under trusses with insulation on top? I find never-ending opinions about where to place vapor barrier in a post frame building. If the space […]

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More Thoughts on Polyurethane Foam

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/07/25 @ 8:00
More Thoughts on Polyurethane Foam

More Thoughts on High Density Polyurethane Foam for Column Backfill Reader STEPHEN contributes a question regarding high density polyurethane foam for column backfill: “Hello, I have this question I would like to pass along to the “pole barn Guru” to be answered, I doubt I will get the answer I need in the time frame, […]

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One Pour Pole Barn Post Installation

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/07/17 @ 8:00
One Pour Pole Barn Post Installation

Reader AARON from CARTHAGE writes: “Curious to see your thoughts on the Pro-footer one pour bracket. Would attaching these brackets to the post compromise the pressure treating leading to a chance of rot? I’ve seen their footer cages and their uplift brackets but these seem to be a better choice provided they don’t compromise the […]

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Stilt Post Frame on Permafrost

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/05/24 @ 8:00
Stilt Post Frame on Permafrost

I have written previously about post frame design involving concrete slabs on grade in areas of permafrost: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2018/04/post-frame-permafrost/. Today we will venture into a land where “stilts” are a design solution. Permafrost is loosely defined as soil and/or rock remaining frozen for more than two years. Big trees do not guarantee an absence of permafrost; […]

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Self-Designed Pole Buildings

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/05/17 @ 8:00
Self-Designed Pole Buildings

Spring, When a Young Man’s Heart Turns to Self-Designing Pole Buildings For some obscure reason a plethora of otherwise intelligent people have an idea. This idea being they can structurally design a building to be adequate to resist applied climactic loads, without any actually engineering background. Given an under designed building can lead to failure, […]

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Pre-Drilling, Housewrap, and Concrete Footings

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/05/13 @ 8:00
Pre-Drilling, Housewrap, and Concrete Footings

Today the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about pre-drilling steel panels, the proper use of house-wrap and weather resistant barriers, as well as concern for the effectiveness or fresh concretes ability to withstand compression. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What size hole should I predrill in panels for the #12 diaphragm screws? Thanks! JOSEPH in […]

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Sturdi-Wall Plus Concrete Brackets

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/05/08 @ 8:00
Sturdi-Wall Plus Concrete Brackets

Sturdi-Wall Plus Concrete Brackets Long time readers will recall a previous article regarding Sturdi-Wall Plus concrete brackets: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2012/09/concrete-brackets-2/ Sturdi-Wall Plus brackets are a heavy-duty engineered anchoring system for attaching wood columns to concrete foundations and are generally used in post-frame buildings but have other applications as well. These brackets are made with ¼ “steel plate […]

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PEX-AL-PEX Tubing for Post Frame Concrete Slabs

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/05/03 @ 8:00
PEX-AL-PEX Tubing for Post Frame Concrete Slabs

PEX-AL-PEX Tubing For Post Frame Concrete Slabs Long time readers will recall my prior article on PEX tubing for post frame concrete slabs: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2016/08/pex-tubing/. I caught up with my friend Les Graham of Radiant Outfitters at the recent NFBA (National Frame Building Association) Expo in Louisville, who I volunteered to do a nice video in […]

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The Case of the Frost Heave and a Pole Barn Porch

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/04/02 @ 8:00
The Case of the Frost Heave and a Pole Barn Porch

Allow me to preface this post about a frost heaved porch with a reference to Sherlock Holmes. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Holmes and Watson solved fictional criminal dilemmas with deductive reasoning. In my cases, nearly 40 years of experience (plus knowing and relying upon input from many brilliant engineers) allows me to recommend solutions with […]

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How to Wire a Winch, Floor Vapor Barrier, and Floor Sealant

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/04/01 @ 8:00
How to Wire a Winch, Floor Vapor Barrier, and Floor Sealant

Today the Pole Barn Guru assists reader with wiring a winch, vapor barriers for a floor, and floor sealant. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do you know how to wire ATV warn winch to make electric winch boxes? MAX in SPOKANE DEAR MAX: Thanks to magical miracles of internet and Google here is where you can […]

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Slab on Grade or Crawl Space?

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/03/29 @ 8:00
Slab on Grade or Crawl Space?

Slab on Grade or Crawlspace? Long-time readers of this column recall seeing a profuse number of articles written in regards to crawl spaces. These articles have been on a gradual increase since this first one six years ago: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2013/03/crawl-space/. With residential post frame construction becoming rapidly more popular as more people discover this system’s benefits, […]

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Participating in Rick’s Post Frame Cabin Planning

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/03/26 @ 8:01
Participating in Rick’s Post Frame Cabin Planning

Participating in Rick’s Post Frame Cabin Planning Happy readers have been following Hansen Pole Buildings’ Designer Rick’s journey towards constructing a new cabin. Rick has graciously asked me to jump in with sage advice (yep, Rick and I are both old guys), as well as answering some questions he has posed. Rick mentions using a […]

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Pole Barn Cabin Part II

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/03/22 @ 8:00
Pole Barn Cabin Part II

Today’s blog is a continuation from yesterday….Rick Carr, Senior Building Designer for Hansen Buildings shares his thoughts on planning his new pole barn cabin. From JA Hansen, co-owner of Hansen Buildings….Thanks Rick! Next I dealt with the crawl space: After deciding that I want to do a crawl space, several design issues arise and decisions […]

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More Condensation Fun

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/03/13 @ 8:00
More Condensation Fun

Long time readers should be thoroughly drenched with solutions to condensation issues by now. As post frame construction has moved off farms and into suburbia, climate control has brought with it a plethora of condensation challenges. Reader KRYSTA in SPOKANE writes: “Hello!  I have a pre-existing pole building that I am having a ton of […]

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Electrical Planning, Moisture Issues, and Ceiling Barriers

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/02/25 @ 8:00
Electrical Planning, Moisture Issues, and Ceiling Barriers

Today the Pole Barn Guru fields questions on electrical planning, moisture issues, and ceiling barriers. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Good Morning/Evening:     I currently have a 36′ wide x 48′ long with 12′ tall ceiling pole barn that I would like wire for lights and outlets.   I intend to run main power from the street pole […]

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Minimizing Excavation in Post Frame Buildings Part II

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/02/14 @ 8:00
Minimizing Excavation in Post Frame Buildings Part II

Minimizing Excavation In Combination With Post-Frame Frost Protected Shallow Foundations Part II In our last thrilling episode Snidely Whiplash had tied our fair damsel in distress, Nell Fenwick, to railroad tracks. Oops – railroad engineers are not what most of you were expecting! Continuing with a simplified solution response to reader DAVID’s ideas regarding site […]

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Minimizing Excavation in Post Frame Buildings

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/02/13 @ 8:00
Minimizing Excavation in Post Frame Buildings

Minimizing Excavation In Combination With Post-Frame Frost Protected Shallow Foundations Regular readers of this column recognize a groundswell movement towards energy efficient post frame building design. Reader (and Mechanical Engineer) DAVID in CONNECTICUT had some thoughts (after reading a volume of my article pages) in regards to FPSF (Frost Protected Shallow Foundations) and radiant in […]

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How to Properly Apply Post Frame Concrete Sealant

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/02/06 @ 8:00
How to Properly Apply Post Frame Concrete Sealant

How to Properly Apply Post Frame Building Concrete Sealant Condensation in post frame buildings can be problematic. In order to reduce condensation probabilities, minimizing water vapor sources proves to be paramount. Concrete slabs, especially if no vapor barrier was placed beneath them, are a prime source of water vapor. Proper application of sealant can greatly […]

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Cement Versus Concrete

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/01/17 @ 8:00
Cement Versus Concrete

Cement versus Concrete Scraping a chalkboard (also known as a blackboard) with fingernails produces a sound and feeling most people find extremely irritating. Basis of this innate reaction to sound has been studied in the field of psychoacoustics (branch of psychology concerned with perception of sound and its physiological effects). In response to audio stimuli, […]

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Concrete Apron Around a Pole Barn

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/01/16 @ 8:00
Concrete Apron Around a Pole Barn

Concrete Apron Around A Pole Barn My lovely bride and I live in a post frame (pole barn) home along South Dakota’s Lake Traverse. Long time loyal readers of this column have seen photos of it more than once. For those who have missed out, our home was featured on NFBA’s (National Frame Building Association) […]

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Reader Put Up a Competitor’s Shed

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/01/15 @ 8:00
Reader Put Up a Competitor’s Shed

We Put Up a Competitor’s Shed Sadly not everyone does adequate research to realize how outstanding of a value added a Hansen Pole Buildings’ post frame building kit package truly will be. Long time readers of these blog articles (nearly 1600) and questions answered in Monday’s “Ask the Pole Barn Guru™” column (around 1000) have […]

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Some Pole Barns Deserve a Proper Burial

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/01/11 @ 8:00
Some Pole Barns Deserve a Proper Burial

Some Pole Barns Deserve a Proper Burial Reader STEPHAN in OGDENSBURG writes: “Dear Pole Barn Guru, I have a 30ish year old 32 by 54 feet horse pole barn where half the poles heaved some for more than 1 foot over the years. I need to fix it this year because I am afraid that […]

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Eave Lights, Building Plans, and Foundations

Posted by polebarnguru on 19/01/07 @ 8:00
Eave Lights, Building Plans, and Foundations

Today Mike answers questions about eave lights, drawing building plans, and foundation plans. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: How to I attach the poly eave lights to the building frame? RUSSELL in BOISE DEAR RUSSELL: Polycarbonate panels are best predrilled for screw fasteners using a 3/8” bit. Screw pattern for eave lights is same as for […]

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A Steel Ceiling, Wall Finishes, and Condensation

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/12/24 @ 8:00
A Steel Ceiling, Wall Finishes, and Condensation

Today Mike addresses questions about steel ceilings, options for wall finishes, and condensation in added space. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have a 40ft wide x 60ft long x 12ft high pole barn. The trusses are 4ft on center. I want to put a steel ceiling up and wanted to know the best size piece […]

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Pole Building Columns Without Ups or Downs

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/12/14 @ 8:00
Pole Building Columns Without Ups or Downs

Post Frame Columns Without Ups or Downs Once post frame building columns are placed into those holes in ground, there needs to be (or sure should be) a solid plan to keep them from being sucked out of ground, or sinking down into it. FEATURE: Pre-mix concrete bottom collars attached to columns with pounded in […]

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Uplift Plate

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/12/12 @ 8:00
Uplift Plate

Uplift Plate™ I realize I got you readers happily involved in reading a series of articles however I need to break it up slightly. In delivering “The Ultimate Post Frame Building Experience”™ Hansen Pole Buildings perpetually searches for new materials and methods to maintain our post frame kit packages as best possible value for your […]

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Pouring Concrete Against Wall Steel

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/12/10 @ 7:00
Pouring Concrete Against Wall Steel

Reader CHRISTI in INOLA writes: “Is it standard practice to pour concrete above the base trim of the building? In the attached photos you can see the red chalk line where the concrete will come up to. Help! They are coming this week to pour.” Gentle inquirers, if you want a relatively quickly (or in […]

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A Red Barn, Traditional Footings Not Needed, and Added Lighting

The Pole Barn Guru answers questions about a traditional red barn, footings, and additional lighting to outside of building.   DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello, We are looking to have a barn built by the Amish community, but are having trouble finding someone to contact. I see on your website you have had several things […]

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Importance of Constrained Posts

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/11/28 @ 8:01
Importance of Constrained Posts

Importance of Constrained Posts In structural design of post frame (pole) buildings, an ability to transfer wind shear loads from roof to endwalls to ground becomes a key to cost effective design success. When sidewall columns are in a properly constrained condition (usually by attachment to a concrete slab-on-grade) shear forces are reduced by 25%. […]

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Siloxa-Tek 8505 Concrete Sealant

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/11/27 @ 8:00
Siloxa-Tek 8505 Concrete Sealant

Siloxa-Tek 8505 Concrete Sealant Recently I received a question from a reader who was having condensation issues in his post frame (pole) building. Amongst my suggestions was using a concrete floor sealant, if there was not a well-sealed vapor barrier underneath the slab. Following this conversation, my reader did his research and determined a silane […]

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A Residential Pole Barn, Missing Lumber, and Building on Existing Slab

Today the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about plans for a residential pole barn, lumber going missing, and to building an existing slab. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello, I’m looking to build a residential pole barn. I would need enough space for 3 bedroom 2 bath. How big of a pole barn would I need? […]

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Installing Insulation, Properly Treated Posts, and a Slab Solution

The Pole Barn Guru helps with installing insulation in wet seasons, properly treated posts, as well as a solution to embedded posts when bedrock is present. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello. I am ready to install the insulation and metal on our pole building’s roof. I remember reading how it is important to install the […]

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Foundations

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/11/09 @ 8:00
Foundations

Foundations – Post Frame Keeps It Simple Post frame (pole building) construction affords a plethora of savings for a new building owner, chief amongst these are foundation simplicity. I’ve previously expounded upon foundation savings in post frame construction as compared to stick frame buildings: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2011/10/buildings-why-not-stick-frame-construction/. Today I will add some graphics to reinforce (pun intended) […]

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Pole Barn Moisture Issues

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/10/24 @ 8:00
Pole Barn Moisture Issues

Moisture from condensation can be a major issue in initially poorly thought out pole barns. Reader MATT in SHAKOPEE writes: “Hi. I am having issues with moisture in my pole barn. It is getting to the point that mold is starting to show up on the walls and cement floor. The barn is about 28 […]

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Avoiding Condensation When Insulating an Existing Pole Barn

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/10/18 @ 8:00
Avoiding Condensation When Insulating an Existing Pole Barn

Avoiding Condensation When Insulating Existing Pole Barn The last thing people want to have to deal with would be condensation dripping in their pole barn. When an originally unheated cold storage building becomes repurposed to be climate controlled, possible condensation poses some new challenges. If you are reading this article and plans are to construct […]

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Installing Buildings, Additions, and Custom Designs

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/10/15 @ 8:00
Installing Buildings, Additions, and Custom Designs

Today the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about installing buildings, adding on to an existing structure, and custom designs. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: If we purchased from your company do have does it come with installing in Hedgesville WV. Thank you. BRENDA in HEDGESVILLE DEAR BRENDA: Our buildings are designed to be able to be […]

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A Redesign, Hansen’s Delivery Range, and Post Hole Backfill

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/10/01 @ 8:00
A Redesign, Hansen’s Delivery Range, and Post Hole Backfill

Mike the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about pole barn a redesign, Hansen’s delivery range, and post hole backfill. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: If I send you photos of my pole building can you redesign its appearance to make it more attractive? Thanks MATT DEAR MATT: Thank you very much for your interest. Could I […]

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Brick Ledge on a Pole Building

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/08/01 @ 8:00
Brick Ledge on a Pole Building

Brick Ledge on a Post Frame (Pole) Building Whilst it would not be my personal preference for finish on a post frame building, there are instances when either aesthetics (trying to match other existing structures), local Planning Departments or HOAs (Home Owner Associations) mandate use of brick or stone exteriors. Whether for a wainscot or […]

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Isolating Pole Barn Poles from Concrete Slabs

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/07/05 @ 8:00
Isolating Pole Barn Poles from Concrete Slabs

Isolating Pole Barn Poles From Concrete Slabs The fear factor – comes up again and again in construction. Today’s fear is a concrete slab being poured against the poles (columns) of an existing pole barn will cause the columns to decay. “We have a 25 year old pole barn with 12 main 8×8 poles sunk […]

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Fear of Concrete Slab Cracking at Post Corners

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/07/04 @ 8:02
Fear of Concrete Slab Cracking at Post Corners

Fear of Concrete Slab Cracking at Post Corners Nothing appears to add to the self-importance of a contractor more than instilling fear into the hearts and minds of their clients. If I had a dollar for every fear mongering story I have heard over the years, I would be a wealthy man! Hansen Pole Buildings’ […]

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Retro Insulation, Cost of a Hipped Roof, and Slab Prep!

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/05/28 @ 8:00
Retro Insulation, Cost of a Hipped Roof, and Slab Prep!

Today Mike the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about Retro Insulation, Cost of a Hipped Roof, and Slab Prep! DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Retro Pole barn wall insulation: should a person put plastic or some sort of vapor barrier against outside tin on interior, then put fiberglass blanket up? Which Is a better option faced or […]

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Bigfoot Systems

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/05/16 @ 8:00
Bigfoot Systems

Bigfoot Systems® Bigfoot Systems® bills itself as North America’s Original #1 Selling Pier Footing Form, which I would say is most likely 100% or more correct. So, what exactly is a Bigfoot and why would one use one? Before we get carried away, I have never used a Bigfoot and this is not a celebrity […]

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The Effect of Temperature Upon Concrete and Lumber

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/05/11 @ 8:00
The Effect of Temperature Upon Concrete and Lumber

The Effects of Temperature Upon Concrete and Lumber Every time I begin to think I could never possibly hear something new, I have to be corrected as something new crops up. In this particular instance it was a reasoning to not embed properly pressure treated columns in the ground surrounded by concrete. Rot? Nope – […]

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Post Frame and Permafrost

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/04/18 @ 8:00
Post Frame and Permafrost

Permafrost is soil, rock or sediment which is frozen for more than two consecutive years. In areas not overlain by ice, it exists beneath a layer of soil, rock or sediment, which freezes and thaws annually and is called the “active layer”. In practice, this means permafrost occurs at an average air temperature of 28°F or […]

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The Perma-Column Price Advantage?

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/04/06 @ 8:00
The Perma-Column Price Advantage?

My good friend John owns (among other things) Heartland Permacolumn. I’ve borrowed this from his website (https://www.heartlandpermacolumn.com/products/the-perma-column-price-advantage/): “Perma-Column products give you the ultimate price advantage. You simply cannot put up a building on a concrete foundation for less money. Yet some may say, “They’re too expensive…” HOWEVER, the only people who ever say this install buildings using […]

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Reduce Heat, Garage Kits, and Updates to Aging Building

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/03/26 @ 8:00
Reduce Heat, Garage Kits, and Updates to Aging Building

Reduce Heat, Garage Kits, and Updates to Aging Building DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’m looking to build a 40×48 monitor style barn with a 16×48 loft in the center. I don’t plan to heat or cool the loft but would like to reduce the heat in the summer. My first plan is to use a […]

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Basements, Foundations, and OHD Back-Hangs!

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/03/05 @ 8:00
Basements, Foundations, and OHD Back-Hangs!

DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Is it possible to have a full basement with a residential build? What would a basement do to overall cost percentage wise? NATHAN in OAK LAWN DEAR NATHAN: It is very possible to have a full basement beneath a post frame home. According to www.HomeAdvisor.com installing an unfinished basement will cost […]

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Raised Floors in Post Frame Homes

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/03/02 @ 8:00
Raised Floors in Post Frame Homes

Raised Floors Are an Opportunity for Post Frame Homes Three months after Hurricane Harvey churned through Texas, dumping 51 inches of rain and damaging an estimated 150,000 homes, the state’s most populous county took a bureaucratic step which has huge implications for how it will deal with the risk of future flooding. On December 5, […]

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Soil Bearing Pressures Challenge

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/02/13 @ 8:00
Soil Bearing Pressures Challenge

Soil Bearing Pressures Challenge Fast and Loose With Numbers and Terms DAN from MOUNDS VIEW is the first reader who admits they are an addict to my blogs – for this, I love you man!! Luckily there is no 12 step program to cure you, so you are just going to have to keep feeding […]

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Minimizing Condensation When Building Over an Existing Foundation

Minimizing Condensation When Building Over an Existing Foundation Reader ROSS writes: “Hello, I have a question about venting of my building. I currently am in the process of building a shop myself. I had an existing foundation of 75 x 42 that had 8ft concrete walls all the way around. I’m building my building on […]

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Building on Existing Concrete

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/01/11 @ 8:00
Building on Existing Concrete

Building on Existing Concrete Which is Below Grade Trying to utilize existing concrete slabs on grade in new post frame building can bring with it some unique challenges. Reader DARREN has one of these situations which most people do not face. Please read on: “I want to build a pole building on an existing cement […]

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Condensation Under Roof Steel

Posted by polebarnguru on 18/01/09 @ 8:00
Condensation Under Roof Steel

Condensation Even With Radiant Barrier Installed Under Roof Steel It seems every winter I get a few messages similar to this, So far, this winter, I have gotten two, both from newly constructed post frame buildings and from the same area of the United States (which is known for high humidity). Reader SAM in GREENBANK […]

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Variances in Surface of Pole Building Concrete Slab

Posted by polebarnguru on 17/11/16 @ 8:00
Variances in Surface of Pole Building Concrete Slab

Variances in Surface of Pole Building Concrete Slabs Reader RON in MARYSVILLE writes:  “What is an acceptable variance in the finished level of the concrete floor in a new 24×36 pole building? It is 1/4 inch out of level, 1 1/8 inch slope, 3/4 inch hump all acceptable numbers? My floor has all of these […]

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Vapor Barriers for Slabs on Grades

Posted by polebarnguru on 17/11/14 @ 8:00
Vapor Barriers for Slabs on Grades

Our gracious thank you to Lisa Richards for this guest blog post. Vapor Barriers for Slabs on Grade Pouring a slab on grade is a common way to lay a sturdy floor or foundation where a basement or crawlspace is unnecessary. However, concrete slabs are vulnerable to moisture from the ground. That’s why, in most […]

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How Should I Backfill My Pole Barn Holes?

Posted by polebarnguru on 17/10/24 @ 8:00
How Should I Backfill My Pole Barn Holes?

How Should I Backfill My Pole Building Holes This is a subject which is repeatedly brought up. Usually it is ones who are constructing a post frame building which was not designed by a registered design professional (RDP – architect or engineer). The wrong answer could easily lead to a catastrophic failure of the building! […]

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Post Protector Surprise

Posted by polebarnguru on 17/10/04 @ 8:00
Post Protector Surprise

Post Protector Surprise Reader CONNOR from INDIANAPOLIS and I recently had an exchange in regards to the holes of his new post frame building. Connor is proposing to use Post Protectors on the columns of his building. What he has yet to realize is there is going to be a hidden surprise with the use […]

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Can I Build a Pole Barn on my Concrete Slab?

Posted by polebarnguru on 17/10/03 @ 8:00
Can I Build a Pole Barn on my Concrete Slab?

Can I Build a Pole Barn on My Concrete Slab? I dove off from the turnip truck a long time ago, so I have seen a lot of strange things constructed over my nearly 60 year lifetime. Sometimes strange is good, usually not so good. What is remarkable are the structures which are constructed directly […]

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