Category Archives: Pole Barn Planning
Site Slope, Gable End Exhaust Fans, and Setting Trusses
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/08/03 @ 8:00Today’s Ask the Guru blog answers reader questions about building on a slope, a recommendation for gable end exhaust fans, and setting trusses into columns. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I always see pole barns being built on level ground. is there any reason my concrete slab, perimeter board, and exterior grade can’t slope 1/4″ per […]
Read moreRadiant Floor Heat, UC-4B Post Treatment, and Button Staples
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/07/27 @ 8:00This 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 […]
Read moreA Truss Raising Challenge
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/07/26 @ 8:00A Truss Raising Challenge STEVE in ST. MARIES writes: “My question is about raising my trusses. I bought my building package when prices were rapidly rising, not knowing how high they would go. I was only able to afford a third of the building I wanted, but I had the engineer design it so I […]
Read moreInsulation and Ventilation, Straw Bales, and Double Bubble
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/07/20 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about using cardboard and heavy plastic to vent and insulate a pole building, use of straw bales an insulator, and best way to ventilate and reduce roof noise. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: On my 42×63 2 story pole building (heated first floor) I have trusses 9’ […]
Read moreCalculate the Basic Stats
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/07/19 @ 8:00Calculate The Basic Stats: by Mike Momb, Technical Director, Hansen Pole Buildings, LLC Basic Stats for Post-Frame Home Floor Plans If there is a single commonality among us humans, it is this – we are dimensionally challenged. This situation is even more so crucial when it comes to planning your new post-frame home. Here […]
Read more- Categories: Columns, Lumber, Post Frame Home, Insulation, Barndominium, Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Building Contractor, Trusses
- Tags: Glulams, Sheetrock, Roof System Thickness, Staircase, Insulation Bookshelf Girts, Finished Ceiling, Splash Plank
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Building Codes, Site Prep, and Heating & Cooling Efficiency
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/07/13 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about whether or not a Hansen Building meets Florida/Dade building codes + a few others, optimal materials for site prep on a grade, and heating & cooling efficiency in a long, narrow structure. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: A few questions:- Do your products meet Miami/Dade building […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, floorplans, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: Building Code, Zoo, Telephone Poles, Animal Habitat, Soil Compaction, Floor Plans Heating And Cooling Efficiency, Site Prep, Grade Change
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Christmas Morning 2017
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/07/07 @ 8:00Christmas Morning 2017 Christmas morning is traditionally when youngsters awaken their parent far too early – too see what surprises Santa has left them overnight. On occasion there are surprises for adults as well – some of them not always as desired. Below pictured are beginnings of an 80 foot wide clearspan by 240 foot […]
Read moreSharkskin Ultra
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/07/05 @ 8:00Sharkskin Ultra® Sharkskin Ultra® is a high-performance roof underlayment for all steel roofing applications over solid decking (OSB – Oriented Strand Board or plywood). https://sharkskinroof.com/sharkskin-products/sharkskin-ultra/ Construction professionals know how important a quality roof system is. This is why so much research, time and effort goes into specifying and installing right roofing products for every home […]
Read moreWind Exposure and Confusion Part III
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/06/30 @ 8:00Cliff Notes for Wind Exposure Been following along reading my articles on wind exposure? OK – so here is my “Cliff Notes” version – in generalized, simple terms: Wind Exposure B is a site protected from wind in all four directions, within 1500 feet, by trees, hills or other single-family home sized buildings. This would […]
Read moreSecure Doors, Soffits, Wind, and Sliding Door Tracks
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/06/29 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about a secure replacement for sliding doors, soffit kits, a singular concern of wind, and replacing tracks for a sliding door. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I need to replace two 9.5 ft wide by 8 feet high sliding doors on my pole barn. The current doors […]
Read moreWind Exposure and Confusion Part II
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/06/28 @ 8:00WIND EXPOSURE & CONFUSION – Part Deux For those of you who needed an energy drink to survive Part I…. To get the information needed, glance over IBC Section 1609.4.2‐‐Surface Roughness Categories. “A ground surface roughness within each 45-degree sector shall be determined for a distance upwind of the site as defined in Section 1609.4.3 […]
Read moreWind Exposure and Confusion
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/06/23 @ 8:00WIND EXPOSURE AND CONFUSION If you are a registered design professional, or a building official, then you are trying to make sense out of this subject on a daily basis. Most people who are selling buildings (either constructed or kit packages), tend to ignore wind exposure, or pretend it somehow doesn’t exist. What adds into […]
Read moreSkylight Width, Gable Fans, and Post Spacing
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/06/22 @ 8:00This 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 […]
Read moreYou Can’t Build it Here Part I
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/06/14 @ 8:00You 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Post Frame Home, Pole Building Comparisons, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Shouse, Building Contractor, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: Shouse, Pole Building, Building Department, IRC, Stick Frame, Barndominium, Building Inspectors, International Residential Code, Architects
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Pole Barn Garage Wood Floor
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/06/09 @ 8:00Pole Barn Garage Wood Floor Reader CLIFFORD writes: “Hello, I found where you had answered a question about a wood floor in a garage while I was searching the web asking “Wood floor in a garage?”. Let me explain, I am a disabled veteran living on a fixed income. I have a blood cancer as […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Ventilation, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: Floor Joists, Plywood, Wood Flooring, Wood Floor, Waste Rock, Treated Plywood, Joists
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Basic Stats for Post Frame Home Floor Plans
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/06/07 @ 8:00Basic Stats for Post Frame Home Floor Plans If there is a single commonality among us humans it is this – we are dimensionally challenged. This situation is even more so crucial when it comes to planning your new post frame home. Here are a few tips to help you out: EAVE HEIGHT Measure from […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Homes, Pole Building How To Guides, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Trusses, Columns, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: Ceiling Height, Insulation, Wood Floor Trusses, Splash Plank, Finished Ceilings, Bookshelf Girts, Eight Foot Finished Ceiling, Eave Height, Roof System Thickness, Glulams, Truss Heel Height, Roof Purlins, Exterior Grade
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Insulating an Apartment in a Steel Truss Pole Barn
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/06/02 @ 8:00Insulating 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; […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Homes, Insulation, Workshop Buildings, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Pole Barn Structure, Shouse, Shouse, Ventilation, Sheds
- Tags: Ceiling Joists, Condensation, Type X Sheetrock, Ventilation, Exhaust Fan, Sheetrock, Unfaced Rock Wool Batts
- 2 comments
Barndominium Plans Before Land?
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/05/31 @ 8:00Barndominium Plans Before Land? Unlike chicken or egg coming first, barndominium floor plans should come second, after a place to build has been determined. Reader STEVE in MILWAUKEE writes: “I am interested in developing plans for the barndo-square with internal courtyard. I don’t have the land for it bought yet, so is it a waste […]
Read more- Categories: Budget, Professional Engineer, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Building Contractor
- Tags: Wind Pressure, Floor Plans, Barndominium, Building Designer, Floor Plans And Elevations, Barndo-builder, Building Plans, Slab Foundation, Elevation Drawings
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Floor Plans vs. Structural Building Plans
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/05/26 @ 8:00Floor Plans vs. Structural Building Plans Floor (architectural) plans and structural building plans are two completely different animals and should not be confused with each other. Architectural plans show what your home will look like, structural plans detail skeletal aspects and structural stability. In jurisdictions requiring structural plan reviews and inspections floor plans only will […]
Read more- Categories: Barndominium, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, floorplans, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: International Residential Code, Barndominium Plans, Elevation Drawings, Floor Plans; Structural Building Plans, Registered Design Professional, Architect
- 2 comments
Price Per Square, Scissor Truss Spacing, and Column Spacing.
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/05/25 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about our “best guess at price per square…” for a Hansen Building Kit, spacing for scissor trusses, and if there is a national code for post spacing in a barndominium. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What is your best guess at price per square foot range materials […]
Read more- Categories: Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Building Colors, Trusses, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Price Per Square Foot, Scissor Trusses, Columns Spacing, Cost Per Square Foot, Truss Spacing, Post Frame Pricing, Post Spacing
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Finding Which Way is Up
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/05/24 @ 8:00Finding Which Way Is Up Avid reader DAVE in BLUFFDALE writes: “As I told Trey, I’ve been reading and reading and reading your blog posts until I don’t know which way is up! Don’t get me wrong, you’ve done an amazing job with your blog posts, but it can be a bit overwhelming. I think […]
Read moreRunning in Concrete Slab PEX Inside Large Tubing
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/05/19 @ 8:00Running in Concrete Slab PEX Inside Large Tubing Credit for writing this guest post goes to my friend and radiant floor heat expert Les Graham www.RadiantOutfitters.com. If you prefer your DIY radiant floor heat to be right, rather than cheap, call Les 1.320.212.0863. Question from Mike the Pole Barn Guru: Is it beneficial to place […]
Read more- Categories: Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Building Comparisons, About The Pole Barn Guru, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Pole Barn Homes, Workshop Buildings, RV Storage
- Tags: Pex Tubing, Pex-Al-Pex Tubing, Coefficient Of Linear Thermal Expansion, Manifolds
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Roof Leaks, DIY or Hire Builder, and Building Width
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/05/18 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about on old roof that leaks due to nails used in attaching steel, a request for builder referrals, and if a Hansen Building is available in a 48′ width– yes, they are. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: My older metal barn complete with roofing nails, not screws, […]
Read moreResponsibility for Collapsed Pole Buildings
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/05/17 @ 8:00Question Whether County is Responsible for Collapsed Pole BuildingsEllensburg’s (Washington) Daily Record published this letter from DAVE on March 5, 2022: “To the Editor: Anybody passing through the Nelson Siding area in the Upper County some seven miles west of Cle Elum, will notice collapsed pole buildings due to the snow we had in January. […]
Read more- Categories: About The Pole Barn Guru, Building Department, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Building Comparisons
- Tags: Snow Weight, Forensic Evaluation, Building Code, Architect, Snow Load, Engineer, Climactic Data, Licensed Design Professional
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Questions from a Future Barndominium Owner
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/05/12 @ 8:00Reader JASON in WINDSOR writes: “What are ways to avoid a stone base for slab to protrude under grade board using a post in the ground or pier with wet set brackets? We want grass to grow right up to the building’s base rather than stone around the perimeter or stone flower beds. I don’t […]
Read more- Categories: Footings, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Building Overhangs, Roofing Materials, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Fascia L Trim, Splash Plank, Closed Cell Spray Foam, UC-4A, Plasti-skirt, Closed Cell Spray Foam Insulation, Expanded Polystyrene, International Energy Conservation Code, R-10 Rigid Insulation, Rigid Board EPS
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Guidance on Diagonal Bracing on Long Span Trusses
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/05/10 @ 8:00Guidance on Diagonal Bracing on Long Span Trusses A brief note from the Pole Barn Guru: Hansen Pole Buildings includes a copy of BSCI-B10 “Post Frame Truss Installation and Bracing” to our clients in our Construction Manual. Originally Published by: Frame Building News — December 16, 2021 SBCA appreciates your input; please email us if you have any comments […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses
- Tags: Frame Building News, Building Component Safety Information, Temporary Restraint And Bracing, Triangulation, Lateral Restraint, Diagonal Bracing, Shear Wall, Long Span Trusses
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Hart and Home YouTube Episode IV-The Final Chapter
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/05/05 @ 8:00Hart and Home YouTube – Episode IV The Final Chapter If you missed our previous episodes, please go to bottom of this article, on left, and click on arrow thrice to go to Hart and Home YouTube – Episode I. Moving forward: While individual results may vary, our clients have generally had good experiences using […]
Read more- Categories: Fasteners, Pole Barn Homes, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Structure, Barndominium, Steel Roofing & Siding, Shouse, Trusses
- Tags: Integral J Channel, Ceiling Loaded Trusses, F Trim, F And J Trim, Kevin Hart, Integral Condensation Control, Ceiling Joists, J Chanel, Splash Plank
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Personal Storage, Additional Height, and Floor Plans
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/05/04 @ 8:00This 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Homes, Building Styles and Designs, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Ventilation, Shouse, Rebuilding Structures, Shouse, Building Interior, floorplans, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Personal Storage, Interior Height, Post Frame Home, Post Frame House, Registered Design Professional, Pole Barn Storage, Floor Plans
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Hart and Home Youtube Episode III
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/05/03 @ 8:00Hart and Home YouTube – Episode III If you missed our previous episodes, please go to bottom of this article, on left, and click on arrow twice to go to Hart and Home YouTube – Episode I. Moving forward: For those following along at home: Some discussion will be made here about “allowable defects” in […]
Read more- Categories: Trusses, Columns, Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home, Lumber, Barndominium, Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure
- Tags: Lumber Twist, Holes, Wane, Lumber Defects, Bow, Crook, Timbers, End Splits, Checks, Knots
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Hart and Home Youtube Episode II
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/04/28 @ 8:00Hart and Home YouTube – Episode II If you missed our previous episode, please go to bottom of this article, on left, and click on arrow to go to Hart and Home YouTube – Episode I. Moving forward: Planning and Consultation – our Building Design team will work with you, for as long as it […]
Read moreHart and Home YouTube Part I
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/04/26 @ 8:00Is a barndominium in your future? Considering building D-I-Y to save tens of thousands of dollars, but afraid you might not be able to pull it off? You’ll want to watch Kevin and Whitney’s journey beginning at www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMUi9B78GDs. This series is truly excellently done. Today, I am going to skip forward months from their beginnings […]
Read moreTruss Bracing Code Change
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/04/21 @ 8:00How Truss Bracing Code Change Could Harm You Originally Published by: SBCA Magazine — April 12, 2022 SBCA appreciates your input; please email us if you have any comments or corrections to this article. There was a lot of interest and communications this past week regarding the two IRC code change proposals (RB245-22 & RB246-22) recently considered at the ICC Code […]
Read moreCosts to Erect, A Water Leak, and Expansive Soils
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/04/20 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about the costs of erecting a small metal barn, how to address leaks after moving a building, and building on expansive soils. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What is the cost to hire for installation of a small, 24 x 36, metal barn? JACKIE in CUMMINS DEAR JACKIE: […]
Read morePost Frame Building Doors-Coil or Sectional?
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/04/19 @ 8:00Post Frame Building Doors – Coil or Sectional? In my 40 plus years of post frame buildings, I have provided tens of thousands of overhead steel sectional doors and not so many coil roll-up doors. Where we park our vehicles is pretty darn importantish for us Americans. Our garages and shops serve as a unique […]
Read more- Categories: Shouse, Pole Building Comparisons, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Building Doors, Overhead Doors, Barndominium
- Tags: Coil Overhead Door, Sectional Overhead Door, Post Frame Building, Rolling Steel Doors, Overhead Rolling Door, Shops, Coiling Overhead Door, Overhead Door Insulation, Garages, Self Storage
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Overhead Door Opening Dimensions
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/04/14 @ 8:00Overhead Door Opening Dimensions I have probably been involved directly with somewhere around 50,000 sectional steel overhead doors in my career. One thing in common about all of these doors, they all require an opening. In my (and most door installers) ideal dream world, every overhead door opening is perfectly plumb on each side as […]
Read moreFootings, Mechanical Plans, and Hay Ventilation
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/04/13 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about concrete footings for a lean-to addition, how to incorporate plumbing, electrical, and HVAC plans into to process, and proper ventilation for a hay barn. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We are putting a 10′ Lean-to on a Steel Framed Building. We will be using 4×6 posts […]
Read more- Categories: Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation, floorplans, Concrete, Footings, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: Hay Barn, Electrical/plumbing/mechanical, Ventilation, Mechanical Plans, Hay Barn Ventilation, Pole Barn Footings, Concrete Footings, Pole Barn Foundation, Floor Plans
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Do You Do Longer Ones?
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/04/12 @ 8:00Do You Do Longer Ones? Reader DANA in DEER LODGE writes: “Hello. We are looking at having a 4 door garage built but 2 of the spots will be turned into living space. I see the one you have with 3 garage doors. so you do longer ones? What would the price be to do […]
Read more- Categories: Professional Engineer, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, Building Styles and Designs, Shouse, Building Department, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Building Contractor, Budget
- Tags: Building Shell, Limited Lifetime Structural Warranty, Structural Blueprints, Barndominium Kits, Building Kit, Technical Support
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Post Frame Barndo-castle?
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/04/07 @ 8:00Post Frame Barndo-castle? Reader STEVE in MILWAUKEE writes: “I think it would be neat to have 4 rectangular structures placed such that each is the side of a larger square, so that there is a courtyard in the middle of it. I see plans that show 2 structures in an L or 3 structures in […]
Read moreSolar Panels, Concrete Free Slab, and Overhead Door Posts
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/04/06 @ 8:00This 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Sectional Doors, Building Styles and Designs, Overhead Doors, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Building Doors, Concrete, Building Interior, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Overhead Door Posts, Rooftop Solar, Rooftop Solar Panels, Concrete Free Slab, Solar Panels, Concrete Free, Door Columns
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How Are Funds Dispersed From a Construction Loan?
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/04/05 @ 8:00How Are Funds Dispersed From a Construction Loan? Reader CASSANDRA in ROXBORO writes: “When applying for this construction loan as each job is done will the money be dispersed as each job is finished and inspected.? Do you know any in North Carolina that does the whole build or has turkey homes?” Mike the Pole […]
Read moreAdding a Post Frame Gable Extension
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/31 @ 8:00Adding a Post Frame Gable Extension A roof line extension off a post frame gable endwall is an affordable method to cover porches, patios, or even as a carport. As opposed to attaching a single sloping (shed style) roof, it will not reduce headroom or block line-of-sight. It is also easier to build as it […]
Read more- Categories: Porches, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Columns, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Concrete, Footings
- Tags: Porches, Architect, Engineer, Carport, Gable Endwall, Gable Extension, Registered Professional, UC-4B Treated Columns
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Where We Ship, Raising Walls, and Bottom Chord Dead Loads
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/30 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about where we ship, whether or not trying to raise pre-assembled walls is a good idea, and the use of double or single trusses when applying drywall. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Where do you guys ship? Nationwide? SUZANNE in BROOKSVILLE DEAR SUZANNE: Hansen Pole Buildings is […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Pole Barn Structure, Trusses, Concrete, Building Interior, tools
- Tags: Bottom Chord Dead Load, Shipping, Drywall Ceiling, Hansen Locations, Hansen Shipping, Hanging Trusses, Double Trusses, Building Walls, Pre-assembled Walls
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Town Orders Woman to Move Barn
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/29 @ 8:00Town Orders Woman to Move Barn it Granted Her a Permit to Build Article by Brett Davidsen at www.WHEC.com from February 24, 2022 RUSH, N.Y. (WHEC) — A woman from Rush has been ordered to tear down a brand new barn on her property because it violated the town’s zoning laws, but it was the town […]
Read morePool Inside Pole Barn
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/24 @ 8:00Pool Inside Pole Barn Reader DOUG in SNOHOMISH writes: “I am just starting the process of having an inground swimming pool installed but due to weather and TREES in my area I have decided to build a Pole Barn to enclose the entire pool. I have done a lot of research on Pools and Pole […]
Read moreCondensation, Floor Plans, and Planning a House
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/23 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru discusses condensation issues in a metal pole barn a reader would like to convert to livable space, floor plans for a new post frame residence, and the steps to take to plan and build a new post frame house. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I just purchased a property with […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Building Department, Post Frame Home, Constructing a Pole Building, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, floorplans, Ventilation, Concrete
- Tags: Moisture Barrier, Post Frame Home, Shouse, Vapor Barrier, Condensation, Barndominium Plans, Building Permit, Post Frame Floor Plans, Post Frame Building Permit
- 2 comments
Frustrating Builder, Post Size, and Sliding Barn Doors?
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/16 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about recourse against a builder that “never does what what he says,” a question about the necessary post size for an RV shelter, and the need for a structural engineer to answer the question, and advice for a reader whose doors blow out wondering if sliding […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Building Department, RV Storage, Constructing a Pole Building, Sectional Doors, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Sliding Doors, Pole Building Doors, Overhead Doors, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Wind-rated Doors, Post Size, Wind Rated Garage Doors, Builder Issues, Structural Engineer, Legal Recourse, Sliding Doors, Builder Contracts
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Building Permit Makes It All OK? Think Again!
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/15 @ 8:00Building Permit Makes It All Okay? Think Again! This article “Town of Rush orders woman to move barn it granted her permit to build” by Brett Davidson was published at www.WHEC.com February 24,2022 A woman from Rush has been ordered to tear down a brand new barn on her property because it violated the town’s […]
Read morePost Frame Plywood Slab-on-grade
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/10 @ 8:00Post Frame Plywood Slab-on-grade As concrete and excavation costs have increased steadily buildings are more frequently turning to slab-on-grade foundations. These assemblies require less concrete and labor than full basements and have a number of advantages over crawlspaces: better thermal performance, much lower risk for water and animal intrusion, and lower maintenance overall. Slab-on grade […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Insulation, Pole Barn Design, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure
- Tags: Greenhouse Gas, Vapor Barrier, Plywood Slab, Concrete, Decoupling Membrane, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Slab On Grade Foundation, Thermal Performance, Crawlspaces, Embodied Carbon
- 3 comments
Building Over Existing Slab, Blueprints for House, and Pole Building Finance
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/09 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building over or on an existing slab or concrete, whether of not Hansen sells “just the blueprints” for a pole barn/house, and lending for a pole building set on foundation/footing/wall. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: In Arkansas, I want to build a pole barn (or similar) […]
Read more- Categories: Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Homes, Building Department, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Concrete, Shouse, Footings, floorplans, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Blueprints, Floor Plans, Existing Slab, Shouse, Construction Loan, Pole Barn Financing, Motor Home Storage
- No comments
How Much Will My New Pole Barn Cost?
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/08 @ 8:00How Much Will My New Pole Barn Cost? Reader CLAUDIO in LEWIS writes: “Hello, I would like to know what would be the cost to build a pole barn building 25’x50′ with loft? Are the interior partitions and insulated walls and floors included? Is the permit application included? Is delivery and construction included in your […]
Read more- Categories: Constructing a Pole Building, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, floorplans, Building Contractor, Trusses, Concrete, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Fiberglass Batt Insulation, Building Permits, Pole Barn, Interior Partition Wall Framing, Engineer Sealed Blueprints, DIY Pole Barns, DIY Pole Buildings, Wall Framing
- 2 comments
Insulating a Partially Climate Controlled Building
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/03 @ 8:00Insulating a Partially Climate Controlled Post Frame Self-Storage Building Reader KEVIN in HUMBOLDT writes: “ I’m designing a post frame building for self-storage that will have non climate control units around the perimeter of my building with climate controlled units in the center, accessed via a hallway down the center of the building. The entire […]
Read moreSpray Foam, Second Floor, and Bending Posts
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/02 @ 8:00This 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Building Interior, Insulation, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Building Styles and Designs, Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses
- Tags: Wind Load, Engineered Post Frame Plans, Condensation Control, Attic Trusses, Floor Trusses, Post Size, Condensation Barrier, Spray Foam, Two Story Post Frame
- 2 comments
When Barndominium Batman Light Illuminates
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/03/01 @ 8:00When Barndominium Batman Light Illuminates Dark Sky Loyal reader MARCO in EDINBURG brought a smile to my face when he wrote: “*Batman light illuminates dark sky* Pole barn guru! Help! I am building my pole barn house, Finally. This will be a DIY project with help of friends and family. I will more than likely […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Building Department, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Budget, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Risk Category I, DIY Pole Building, Diy Barndominiumbar, Engineered Framing Plans, Floor Plans, Barndominium, Building Risk Category II
- No comments
Roof Purlins for a Bar Joisted Lean-To
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/02/17 @ 8:00Roof Purlins for a Bar Joisted Lean-to Reader JIM in MOORESBURG writes: “First, I have spent the last 3 hours reading around your site and am impressed. I appreciate the manner you answer questions on your site”, respectful and factual with no hint of disrespect (even if deserved) in your replies. Professional and well done! […]
Read moreOccupancy, a Single-Slope Residence, and Lean-to Addition
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/02/16 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru take care of reader questions about getting an occupancy permit in Victor ID, the size and scope of building a single-slope with a loft, and the addition of a lean-to to an existing structure. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I follow your posts and have seen some who question if […]
Read more- Categories: single slope, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Post Frame Home, Building Styles and Designs, Barndominium, Building Department, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Loft, R-3, Occupancy, Residential Post Frame, Single-slope, Lean-to Addition, Lean-to
- No comments
Existing Foundation, “Home/Pool Combo” and HOA’s
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/02/09 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about design ideas to build over or around an existing foundation, designing a “home/pool combo,” and design options for roofing and siding when dealing with an HOA. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We currently have foundation/basement that measures 14×66, with additional 26×26 room with ground level concrete. […]
Read more- Categories: Concrete, Alternate Siding, Vinyl Siding, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Homes, Roofing Materials, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Pole Building Siding
- Tags: Home And Pool Combo Building, Roof Over Pool, Roofing And Siding, Alternative Roofing And Siding, HOA, HOA Rules, Existing Slab, Existing Foundation
- 2 comments
Batteries Not Included
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/02/01 @ 8:00Batteries Not Included Batteries Not Included is a 1987 American comic science fiction film starring Hume Cronyn, Jessica Tandy (winner of a Saturn Award for Best Actress for her performance) and Elisabeth Pena about small extraterrestrial living spaceships saving an apartment block under threat from property development. Reader AARON in NORTH VERNON queried: “Does your pricing also […]
Read more- Categories: floorplans, Building Contractor, Budget, Pole Barn Homes, Workshop Buildings, Pole Barn Questions, Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Building Kit, Batteries, Barndominium Kits, Building Contractor, Erector, Blueprints, DIY Pole Buildings, Building Permits
- No comments
Will My Minnesota Shouse Require Frost Footings?
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/01/25 @ 8:00Will 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Concrete, Shouse, Footings, Shouse, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Wet Set Brackets, Shouse, Insulation R Value, Concrete Piers, Frost Line, Barndominium, Post Frame House, Frost Protected Shallow Foundation
- 3 comments
ZIP Sheathing
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/01/18 @ 8:00ZIP Sheathing and Other Post Frame Thoughts Reader SPENCER in WINLOCK writes: “Hello, I’m in the planning phase and your roof purlin style and watching the “Hart and Home” youtube series have just about convinced me to go with Hansen buildings. I have a few general questions. 1. I have a tight driveway with a […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation
- Tags: Wet Set Brackets, Tyvek, Paddle Blocks, Sheathing, ZIP Sheathing, Zip Panels, Asphalt Felt
- 2 comments
Engineer Andy Ponders Insulation and Condensation
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/01/13 @ 8:00Engineer Andy Ponders Insulation and Condensation Loyal (and prolific) blog reader ANDY in OXFORD writes: “First, THANK YOU for providing so much valuable information in your blog, free of charge. I’m an engineer, quite handy, with construction experience. But everything I know about post frame construction, I learned from you. I’ve been planning for over […]
Read moreA Walk-Out, A Shouse, and Spray Foam Insulation
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/01/12 @ 8:00This 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Ventilation, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Questions, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials
- Tags: Spray Foam, Shop House, Walkout Basement, Heated Shop, Post Frame Home, Shouse
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Planning a Post Frame Building Upon Sandstone
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/01/11 @ 8:00Planning a Post Frame Building Upon Sandstone Reader GEORGE in FARMINGTON writes: “Mike, in the early stages of planning a pole barn 32’x48’x12′ on a newly acquired piece of property. We’ve cleared the land and found the area we want to erect the building is 100% sandstone. Everywhere we’d have to drill for poles is […]
Read moreMy Barndominium Attic Has Moisture Issues!
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/01/06 @ 8:00My Barndominium Attic Has Moisture Issues! Reader DAVID in CHICAGO writes: “Greetings – I’ve got a pole barn style home that’s about 2.5 years old and I’m having moisture issues in the attic. Hoping I can talk with someone to get a consult or second opinion to resolve as quickly as possible. Let me know […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Shouse, Ventilation, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Integral Condensation Control, Closed Cell Spray Foam Insulation, Condensation, Metal Roof, R50 Attic Insulation, Metal Roof Condensation, Ridge Vent, Barndominium
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Framing Loads, Footing Pads, and a Pole Barn Home
Posted by polebarnguru on 22/01/05 @ 8:00This 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Building Styles and Designs, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Planning, Post Frame Home, Trusses, Barndominium, Concrete, Concrete Cookie, Footings, Alternate Siding, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: Footings, Concrete Collars, Post Frame Home, Trusses, Framing Loads, Footing Pads, Steel Trusses
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Worker Injured During Pole Project, Who Pays
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/12/30 @ 8:00Worker Injured During Pole Building Project – Who Pays? Disclaimer: this article is not to be construed as legal advice, please engage a qualified construction attorney prior to any construction project. If you don’t take steps to find out in advance whether workers on your new pole building are insured for injuries, you could end […]
Read more- Categories: Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Building Contractor, Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home, Barndominium, About The Pole Barn Guru
- Tags: General Liability Insurance, General Contractor, D-I-Y Pole Building, Subcontractor, Workers Compensation Insurance, Business Employees
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You Can Do It!
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/12/23 @ 8:00You Can Do It! Screamed headlines of my first ever print display ad for pole barn kits in 1981! I have included below a snippet from one of my first blog posts from 10 years ago: “In the summer of 1979, home interest rates began to rise. Idaho had a usury limit, home mortgages stopped […]
Read more- Categories: Trusses, Lumber, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Homes, About The Pole Barn Guru, Post Frame Home, Constructing a Pole Building, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Trusses, Truss Chords, Green Lumber, Hansen Buildings, Kiln Dried Lumber, Hansen Pole Buildings, Lucas Plywood And Lumber, Pole Barn Kits, Steel Plates
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Moisture Management, Poor Steel Cutting, and Info Help
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/12/22 @ 8:00Today’s “Ask the Guru” tackles reader questions about moisture management, poorly done steel cutting around windows and doors, and help “Looking for info” for Jack. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hi, I am framing out an animal barn (right now to be used for housing chickens and storing some feed and hay) inside of an existing […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Heating, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Building Siding, Ventilation
- Tags: Caulking Windows, Pole Barn Planning, Moisture Barrier, Steel Cutting, Moisture Management, Insulation
- No comments
A Basement Foundation, Vapor Barrier for Arena, and a Hansen Kit
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/12/15 @ 8:00This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building a post frame building on a basement foundation, insulation vs a reflective radiant barrier, and a question about what is include in a Hansen Building kit. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Is it possible to erect one of the pole barn kits on a basement […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Concrete, Lumber, Footings, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Professional Engineer, Roofing Materials, Horse Riding Arena, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Heating
- Tags: Wet Set Brackets, Post Frame Basement, Basement Foundation, Insulation, Engineer Sealed Plans, Vapor Barrier, Reflective Radiant Barrier, Sealed Plans, Materials Kit
- No comments
Storage Barn to Dwelling
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/12/14 @ 8:03Storage 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 […]
Read moreIs Fiberglass Insulation a Carcinogen?
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/12/09 @ 8:00Is Fiberglass Insulation a Carcinogen? We live in a world fraught with unseen perils (COVID-19 anyone?), however fiberglass building insulation is probably not one of them. When it comes to fully engineered post frame barndominiums and homes, we all just want our clients to be safe and happy. I went to an expert on this […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation, Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Shouse
- Tags: IARC, National, Fiberglass Insulation, National Toxicology Program, Glass Wool Fibers, Insulation Outlook, North American Insulation Manufacturers Association, Biosoluble Fiber
- No comments
Hanging Single Hung Windows to Slide Horizontally
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/12/07 @ 8:00Hanging Single-Hung Windows to Slide Horizontally You order a 4’ x 4’ sliding window for your new post frame building or barndominium. Depending upon your geographical location, you will assume this window opens up-and-down (Eastern U.S.) or side-to-side (Western U.S.). Well, we all know what happens when we assume. It is critical to clearly understand […]
Read moreBarndominium Closed Cell Spray Foam
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/12/02 @ 8:00Barndominium Closed Cell Spray Foam – and Rodents Closed cell spray foam applied directly to steel roofing and siding can be a great product for controlling condensation, achieving an air tight barndominium and at R-7 per inch is a great insulation solution. So good, I strongly encourage its use, especially for those buildings in Climate […]
Read moreInsulation Prep, Foundation and Footing Prep, and USDA Programs
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/12/01 @ 8:00Today’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, […]
Read more- Categories: Building Styles and Designs, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Concrete, Footings, Professional Engineer, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: Weather Resistant Barrier, Foundation, Building Movement, Insulation, Loans, Frost Heave, USDA Loans, Footings, House Wrap
- 4 comments
How to Quit Your Job
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/11/30 @ 8:00How To Quit Your Job & Build Your Home Full Time Hansen Pole Buildings’ DIY clients Kevin and Whitney Hart are today’s guest bloggers. Hey everyone! My wife and I have been building our barndominium since about March and have been documenting the whole thing on social media. The most commonly asked question that we […]
Read moreRoof Insulation, a Riding Arena, and Closure Strips
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/11/24 @ 8:00Today’s Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about insulating a roof to keep exposed trusses, the size limits for and equestrian riding arena, and whether or not to use closure strips between the gable (rake) trim and siding. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have a 30×40 post frame building with cathedral style trusses. I really […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Horse Riding Arena, Roofing Materials, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Ventilation
- Tags: Ventilation, Closure Strips, Horse Arena, Moisture Barrier, Riding Arena, Truss Span, Spray Foam, Roof Insulation
- No comments
Canada Facing Premature Decay of Pressure Treated Columns
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/11/23 @ 8:00Canada Facing Premature Decay of Pressure Treated Columns Fear of properly pressure preservative treated wood decaying prematurely has been a continuing concern amongst potential post frame building owners. Key to this is “properly” and at issue how pressure treated wood is labeled and sold at the retail level. Canada uses AWPA’s (American Wood Protection Association) […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Building Department, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Professional Engineer, Columns, Lumber
- Tags: Gary Van Bolderen, Daily Commercial News, National Building Code, International Building Code, AWPA, American Wood Protection Association, CFBA, Canadian Farm Builders Association
- No comments
Barndominium Concrete Slab Insulation Boards
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/11/18 @ 8:00Barndominium Concrete Slab Insulation Boards – XPS or EPS? Other than in Climate Zone’s 1 and 2 (think deep South), International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) requires perimeter and under slab continuous insulation for barndominiums. When it comes to concrete and insulation, contractors tend to be most familiar with extruded polystyrene (XPS). Yet, expanded polystyrene (EPS) […]
Read moreOwner Barndominium Builder Construction Loans
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/11/16 @ 8:00Owner-Barndominium Builder Construction Loans Qualifying for owner-barndominium builder construction loans can be a daunting task. Given 2007-2008’s housing market downturn, owner-builder construction loans are increasingly hard to get but not impossible. An owner-builder is a property owner who serves as general contractor on their own project. A General contractor coordinates everything from budget to hiring subcontractors. […]
Read moreDesigning to Withstand a Hurricane
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/11/11 @ 8:00Loyal blog reader and video watcher DANIEL in SULPHUR writes: “What practices are best for increasing wind rating of a post frame building? My goal is to build a post frame home to withstand 150+ mph winds. I live on the gulf coast and hurricanes are a serious threat, I know I can’t make my […]
Read moreSwitching Post Sizes, Structure Length, and Fire Damage
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/11/10 @ 8:00This week’s ask the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about switching post sizes from a 6×6’s to 6×4’s, how long a structure can be built with 15 trusses with 2×4 chords, and if it is possible to rebuild on a slab that was part of a fire loss. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am […]
Read more- Categories: Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Concrete
- Tags: 6x6 Columns, Building Length, Post Sizes, Alternative Post Sizes, Trusses, Fire Damage, Rebuilding Structure, Slab Damage
- No comments
Syracuse, Nebraska Approves Shouses!
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/11/04 @ 8:00Syracuse, 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Sheds, Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Shouse, Shouse, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: News Channel Nebraska, Pinterest, Shop, House, Barndominium, Shouse, Patty Bucholz
- No comments
Convert to Residence, Insulation, and Truss Spans
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/11/03 @ 8:00Today’s Pole Barn Guru addresses reader questions about building upgrades to convert to a residential use, how to best insulate a monitor style building, and the possibility of trusses spanning 40′ to eliminate interior posts in a shop/storage building. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We bought a pole barn with no insulation, just studs and metal […]
Read moreInsulated Ceiling Vapor Barrier
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/11/02 @ 8:00Should a Vapor Barrier Be Installed in an Insulated Ceiling? Should you put a vapor barrier in an insulated ceiling or not? I build in a cold climate, where many longtime builders swear that you shouldn’t put a ceiling vapor barrier in. The reasons go something like, “Because you have to let the moisture escape,” […]
Read moreHow Do I Ventilate My Barn’s Attic?
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/10/29 @ 8:00How Do I Ventilate My Barn’s Attic? Right up there with curing condensation issues is how to properly ventilate a pole barn’s dead attic space. Reader CURTIS in TRENTON writes: “I have a 40’x60’ outbuilding that doesn’t have soffit vents for fresh air intake and the ridge cap has solid foam closures along the length […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation
- Tags: Ventilation, Gable Vents, Ridge Cap, Exhaust Fan, Air Intake, Air Exhaust, Vapor Barrier, Condensation
- No comments
Blown-In Fiberglass Attic Insulation
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/10/22 @ 8:00Blown-In Fiberglass Attic Insulation In Climate Zones 3 and higher blown-in fiberglass attic insulation is extremely popular due to lower investment cost and high performance. Looking for a best solution for your barndominium or post frame attic? It is inevitable an insulation contractor will warn you away from blown-in fiberglass due to a dated study […]
Read moreWire Mesh in Slabs on Concrete
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/10/20 @ 8:00Many concrete finishers have switched to synthetic fiber mesh reinforcement for concrete slabs to help reduce surface cracking. In doing so, many of these finishers have completely eliminated traditional welded wire mesh (WWM). But while fiber mesh has advantages, it also comes with potentially costly drawbacks. This may sound surprising, given fiber mesh’s big appeal […]
Read moreAdditions, Notching Posts, and Stem Walls
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/10/18 @ 8:00This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about adding to an existing pole barn, the possibility of notching girts into posts, and use of a stem wall on an uneven site. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have an existing 36x36x12 pole barn and would like to do an additional 36-48 roof only build […]
Read moreAircrete for Post Frame Cladding
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/10/13 @ 8:00Aircrete for Post Frame Cladding Reader KRISTOPHER in GARDINER writes: “Can I use pre-cast aircrete panel in lieu of metal siding for the walls and roof?” Mike the Pole Barn Guru responds: It may be possible to use aircrete in lieu of steel roofing and siding, however it would need to be strong enough in […]
Read moreAt What Temperature Can You Not Spray Foam Insulation?
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/10/06 @ 8:00At What Temperature Can You Not Spray Foam Insulation? Reader DON in ELLSWIRTH asked this question. Mike the Pole Barn Guru responds: Ideally, spray foam insulation should be installed during warmer months. Once temperatures start dipping, spray foam insulation installation processes become a lot more challenging. For a successful spray foam insulation installation, application side […]
Read moreHand Winches, Mono Trusses, and a Post Frame Home
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/10/04 @ 8:00This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the use of hand winches to raise trusses, how to secure mono trusses built from complete trusses – DON’T- and the costs to build a small post frame home. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’m curious of the stability of wet set brackets during raising our […]
Read more- Categories: Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Budget, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: Raising Trusses, Winch Box, Engineered Trusses, Post Frame Costs, Post Frame Home, Mono-truss, Hand Winch
- No comments
Unheated Post Frame Building Slabs on Grade
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/10/01 @ 8:00Are Unheated Post Frame Building Slabs on Grade Required to Be Frost Protected? Reader BILL in CLAYTON writes: “I’m in early planning for a post frame garage – just over 1000 sf but will reduce it if it solves a code problem for “private garages” in IBC. Ignoring that, where does the code permit a […]
Read more- Categories: Concrete, Footings, Pole Barn Homes, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Building Department, Shouse, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: International Building Code, Slab On Grade, Risk Category II, Concrete Piers, Frost Protected, Detached Accessory Building, Wet Set Brackets, International Energy Code
- No comments
How to Pour a Slab on Grade
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/09/29 @ 8:00How to Pour a Slab on Grade in an Existing Barndominium Reader PAUL writes: “I have an opportunity to purchase a barndominium that has the posts set in 20” wide 40” deep peers. Unfortunately the county where this is located does not require a footing. All city codes in this area require an 8”X 36” […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Concrete, Post Frame Home, Insulation, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Building How To Guides, Shouse
- Tags: International Energy Conservation Code, Vapor Barrier, Climate Zones, Splash Plank, R-10 Rigid Insulation, Concrete Slab, No. 200 Sieve, Barndominium, Modified Proctor Density, Termiticide
- No comments
Floor Plans, Spray Foam for Condensation, and a Sill Issue
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/09/27 @ 8:00Today the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about floor plans, adding spray foam to an existing structure for condensation control, and solutions for a sill at 18′ OHD opening. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What do you charge to take my floor plan and send me engineered drawings? SHANNON in JONESBOROUGH DEAR SHANNON: We only […]
Read moreCedar Boards, Repainting a Roof, and “Dummies”
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/09/20 @ 8:00This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about installing cedar boards on to a steel tubed hanger door, the best practice for painting a 30 year old steel roof, and “Pole Barns for Dummies?” DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Any tips on installing cedar board 1″ x 12″w with 1×3 batten on a 20’tall […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Alternate Siding, tools, Fasteners, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides
- Tags: Steel Roof Coating, Pole Barns For Dummies, Installation Instructions, Pole Building Installation Instructions, Cedar Siding, Specialty Screws, Cedar To Steel, Refinish Steel Roofs, Repainting Steel
- No comments
Building After a Burn Down
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/09/17 @ 8:00Building After a Burn Down Western United States wildfires have been featured on network newscasts and seen in our air for months. My own Auntie Norma’s home was a victim of California’s 2018 Camp Fire – where she lost all of her worldly possessions. Reader MATHEW in RENO writes: “Greetings, I know I’m not the […]
Read more- Categories: Trusses, Concrete, Budget, Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Wildfires, Building Wildfires Protections, Concrete Sleeves, Fire Proofing, Lowes, Phonehenge, Home Depot, Prebuilt Roof Trusses, Vinyl Flooring, Closed Cell Foam Insulation, Pex Tubing
- No comments
How to Insulate a Post Frame Shop
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/09/15 @ 8:00How to Insulate a Post Frame Shop When No Advance Considerations Were Made I encourage clients to give some serious advance consideration when erecting new post frame (pole) buildings to any eventuality of future climate control and a need for insulation. Reader MAC in MILLVILLE writes: “40 x 30 want to insulate. It will be […]
Read more- Categories: Workshop Buildings, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Roofing Materials, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Concrete
- Tags: Closed Cell Spray Foam Insulation, Rock Wool Insulation, Concrete Floor Seal, Metal Ceiling Liner, Rigid Board XPS Insulation, Cement Board, Insulation, Cellular PVC Panel, Condensation, Sealing Concrete Floor
- 4 comments
Proper Ventilation, Condensation Control, and Post Treatment
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/09/13 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about ventilation, how to control condensation on fifteen year old building, and best practices for treated posts in ground or on specialty brackets. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have a barn that doesn’t have soffit vents but it does have a ridge vent. I installed reflective […]
Read moreHow to Properly Design a Barndominium Wood Floor Over a Crawl Space
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/09/10 @ 8:00How To Properly Design a Barndominium Wood Floor Over a Crawl Space Reader JERRY in HAWESVILLE writes: “If one were to build a post frame home on a crawlspace and the floor joists were sitting on a 3 ply 2×10 center beam on post spaced 8-10 feet apart, how does one support the joists at […]
Read more- Categories: Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Floor Joists, Registered Professional Engineer, Building Code Deflection Limitations, Wood Floor, Interior Floor Beams, Column Footings
- No comments
Vaulted Barndominium Ceilings
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/09/08 @ 8:00I 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Shouse, Trusses, Building Interior, Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, About The Pole Barn Guru, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Tray Ceiling, Second Story Space, Standard Room Framing, Ranch Rambler, Scissor Trusses, Barndominium, Vaulted Ceiling
- No comments
Driver Bits, a Big Room, and Overhead Door Space
Posted by polebarnguru on 21/09/06 @ 8:00This 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Pole Building How To Guides, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, tools, Pole Barn Homes, Sectional Doors, Overhead Doors
- Tags: Clear Span Building, Shouse, Driver Bits, Master Surface Magnetic Drive Bits, Overhead Garage Door Size, OHD Space, Post Frame House
- No comments