Category Archives: Pole Barn Questions
Stilt Home Barndominium
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/05/2025
Stilt Home Barndominium For many challenging building sites (those with grade change, in flood zones or close to oceans or seas) stilt homes are a viable and practical design solution for barndominiums. Reader DAVID in EMINENCE writes: “We are planning to build in southern Missouri a 30′ x 36′ x10′ post frame home on a […]
Read morePole Barn House Planning, Financing for a Shouse, and Notching a Glulam
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/04/2025
This Wednesday readers of “Ask the Guru” are advised in areas of planning for a pole barn house, VA financing for a duplex or shouse, and the best method of notching a glulam for truss support. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Can you send me some images and quotes for pole barn houses for 7,000? TAMARRA […]
Read more- Categories: Budget, Columns, Pole Barn Homes, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Pole Building How To Guides, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses
- Tags: Glulam Notch, Post Frame Home, Shouse, Post Frame Costs, Post Frame House Planning, Pole Barn Financing, Va Loan
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What Kind of Trusses Are Pictured?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/29/2025
What Kind of Trusses Are Pictured? This question was posed by Hansen Pole Buildings’ Designer Doug. Photo isn’t of a Hansen Pole Building, probably raising questions in Doug’s mind as it looks rather foreign. Only actual trusses in photo are in raised center portion of this monitor style building. Interior trusses were probably sold to […]
Read moreScrew Placement, a Future Build, and IRC Engineering in WA
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/28/2025
This Wednesday readers “Ask the Guru” about the placement of screws through the high ribs of steel roofing, exploring options for a future build, and required engineering for post frame in Skagit County, WA. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hi all, not sure if this is the right place to have this discussion, but I just […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Building Department, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Future Build, Skagit County WA, Engineer Sealed Plans, IRC, Post Frame Costs, Screw Placement, Screw Pattern, Screw Through High Rib, Post Frame Guide
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Post Frame Standards in Building Codes
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/27/2025
Post Frame Standards in Building Codes Reader DAN in INDEPENDENCE writes: “We want to build a post frame building for a residence, I had seen post frame standards in earlier versions of the IRC but now can’t, is this here somewhere or what applies to using a post foundation for these?” Thank you for reaching […]
Read moreSliding Door Parts, Pole Shapes, and Roof Pitch for Snow Loads
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/21/2025
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about a possible source of replacement sliding door parts, the shape of poles for pole buildings, and whether or not a 2/12 roof pitch can handle the Minnesota snow loads. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hi! I have a Cleary Pole Barn with concrete floor and main […]
Read more- Categories: Barndominium, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Lumber, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Homes, Building Styles and Designs, Building Department, Pole Barn Planning, Sliding Doors, Trusses, single slope
- Tags: Glulam Columns, Sliding Doors, Single Slope Building, Center Guide, 2/12 Pitch Snow Load, Snow Load, Post Frame Columns, Sliding Door Parts
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Open Air Pavilions, Moisture Issues, and Screws Missing Purlins
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/14/2025
This week “Ask the Guru” answers reader questions about a Hansen Building as as open air pavilion in SW Minnesota, moisture issues in a climate of extremes, and roof screws at an angle due to installer missing roof purlins, then caulking around the screw heads. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello again Mike, Our Southern MN […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Heating, Constructing a Pole Building, Barndominium, Ventilation, Footings, Powder Coated Screws, Building Interior, Insulation
- Tags: Moisture Barrier, Humidity, Picnic Shelter, Screws, Condensation, Moisture Control, Open Air Pavilion, Missed Purlins, Roofing Mistakes
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Condensation Above Metal Building Roof Insulation
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/13/2025
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 […]
Read moreFire Rate Spray Foam, Help Setting Poles, and a Riding Arena
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/07/2025
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about code requirements for fire rated spray foam in enclosed parking structures, a request for assistance to set poles, and a question about the clear span of a riding arena. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Trying to find the NFPA code or Building code requirements for having […]
Read more- Categories: Building Contractor, Trusses, Columns, Horse Riding Arena, Lumber, Insulation, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Setting Columns, Riding Arena, Fire Rated Spray Foam Insulation, Horse Riding Arena Size, Type X Drywall, 5/8" Type X Gypsum Wallboard
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Drill Through Poles, Basements in Post Frame, and Building Space
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/30/2025
This week readers “Ask the Guru” about whether or not it is ok to drill thru poles to run wiring, the ability to build a post frame structure over a basement with a poured foundation, and how much space do I need for my pole building? DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have a post frame […]
Read more- Categories: Columns, Lumber, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Questions, Barndominium, Pole Barn Design, Building Department, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Footings, Budget, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Breezeway, Drill Through Poles, Mechanicals, Post Frame Electrical, Wet Set Brackets, Post Frame On Foundation Walls, Building Offsets
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When is Too Small for a Pole Barn?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/29/2025
Reader JENNIFER from CANON CITY writes: “Is there such a thing as too small of a pole barn to build? I am wanting a shed/hobby space with enough height to make a loft in the future. Due to setbacks and sewer lines, I can only do a 12’X26′ building. Plans for pole barns begin at […]
Read moreAsymmetrical Truss Configurations, Wall Framing, and Snow Loads
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/23/2025
This week readers “Ask the Guru” about the possibility of designing an asymmetrical truss configuration, how to frame the exterior wall to the upstairs floor, and what the snow load of “these pole barns” is. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Can I design an asymmetrical truss configuration? We need a small stand on one side with […]
Read more- Categories: Trusses, Building Interior, Lofts, Lumber, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Truss Design, Loft Framing, Roof Snow Load, Snow Loads, Wall Framing, Asymmetrical Truss Configuration, Clear Span Trusses
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Barndominium on a Crawlspace, Posts on Concrete, and Rafters
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/16/2025
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building a Barndominium on a crawlspace, the ability to install columns on concrete or a pylon, and the use of rafters for an open ceiling. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am in the planning stages for a 30×48 Barndominium. I would like to put the […]
Read more- Categories: Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Barndominium, Trusses, Footings, Building Interior, Lumber, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Lofts, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs
- Tags: Rafters, Loft, IRC, Wet Set Brackets, Barndominium, Crawl Space
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Insulating My Bubble Wrapped Metal Barn
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/15/2025
Insulating My Bubble Wrapped Metal Barn Reader DURIN in WESTERN NEW YORK writes: “So glad I could see your site. So many different opinions. If I could explain my situation below. I have a 40 x 80 x18 metal barn. It was built by the Amish. It has a 6 inch slab of concrete a […]
Read moreCan Wall Girts Be Installed Before Trusses?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/10/2025
Can Wall Girts Be Installed Before The Trusses? In my travels over the years I have seen more than a few post frame buildings under construction. When I find one being constructed by a building contractor, if the wall girts are installed before the roof, it is an immediate giveaway to the builder having been […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Constructing a Pole Building, Trusses
- Tags: Wall Girts, Framer, Setting Trusses, Post Frame Building
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Insulation for Existing Building, Screws to Replace Nails, and Rusted Steel
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/09/2025
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about insulating a metal post frame garage in Florida with vented soffits and peak, replacing nails with EPDM gasketed screws on an existing structure, and ideas to replace rusted steel on the lower 3′ of a structure. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have a metal post […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, Roofing Materials, Ventilation, Powder Coated Screws, Building Interior, Lumber, Fasteners
- Tags: EPDM Gasket, Rock Wool Insulation, Insulation, EPDM Screws, Vapor Barrier, Metal Replacement, Metal Deterioration, Ventilation
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Post Replacement, Truss Winches, and OSB to Roof
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/02/2025
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the ability to replace posts damaged by termites, DIY truss winches, and adding OSB to a metal roof. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We purchased property about 24 years ago with an existing Morton Barn. About 10 years ago we had an invasion of termites that […]
Read more- Categories: Budget, Lumber, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Pole Barn Homes, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Cabin, Pole Building How To Guides, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Building Interior
- Tags: Post Frame Termites, Roof Sheathing, Perma-column, OSB, Truss Winches, Truss Winch Box, Termite Damage
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An Open Endwall, “Level Columns,” and Purlin Spacing
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/27/2025
Today’s blog is a bonus “ask the Guru” that answers reader questions about a design for an open gable endwall and how to address load transfer, “level” columns and NFBA tolerances for post frame construction, and how to measure for purlin spacing. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I want to build a 24′ wide by 48″ […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn holes, Constructing a Pole Building, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Footings, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Columns, Lumber
- Tags: Load Transfer, Open Endwalls, Shear Transfer, Column Level, NFBA Design Standards, Measuring Purlins, Purlin Spacing, Plumb Columns
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Vapor Barrier, Gothic Arch Truss Design, and a Lean-To Addition
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/26/2025
This week the Pole Barn Guru addresses the need for a vapor barrier as well as some framing recommendations in a future build, the possibility of a Gothic Arch truss design with glulaminated columns, and the addition of a “lean-to” to a 2016 Hansen Building. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello Mike, Our monitor style home […]
Read more- Categories: Building Interior, Insulation, Budget, Pole Barn Questions, Sheds, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Pole Barn Homes, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Trusses
- Tags: Gothic Arch Truss, Lean-to, Post Frame Home, Insulation, Lean-to Addition, Vapor Barrier, Glulaminated Columns
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Repair Knee Bracing, Notching Trusses, and Floor Rebuilding
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/25/2025
Today’s blog is a Bonus “ask the Guru” answering reader questions about repair of knee bracing to existing truss system, notching a double truss into a 3 ply glulaminated column for full bearing, and rebuilding the floor structure of an almost 100-year-old bank barn. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Greetings All-Omnipotent Pole Barn One! We humbly […]
Read more- Categories: Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Lofts, Pole Barn Design, Fasteners, Pole Building How To Guides, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior, Lumber
- Tags: Knee Bracing, Truss Repair, Knee Brace Repair, Truss Notching, Double Trusses, Rebuilding Floor, Glu-laminated Columns, OSB Fastening, Floorboard Replacement
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Don’t Want Pressure Treated Columns in the Ground?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/20/2025
Loyal reader GREG in KENTWOOD writes: “We plan to build a house next summer with basically (2) – 40’x60’ units connected at 90°, wife is still in the planning stage, 2 story. I feel that me and my sons should be able to erect a kit with directions from the supplier and tips. I like […]
Read moreInsulation in Massachusetts, Code Restrictions in MN, and Insulation for In-Floor Heated Building
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/19/2025
This Wednesday the Pole barn Guru answers reader questions about the best options for insulating a 24×30 pole barn, potential code restrictions in Victoria, MN, and Insulating a building with radiant floor heating. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello, I want to insulate my 24’x30′ pole barn located in Massachusetts. I will heat it only occasionally. […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Building Interior, Budget, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Heating, Building Department, Roofing Materials, Barndominium, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Pole Barn Insulation, Municipal Codes, Pole Barn Ceiling Insulation, Closed Cell Spray Foam, Rock Wool, Rock Wool Insulation, Building Codes, Minnesota Codes
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Snow Inside of Entry Door
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/18/2025
Snow Inside of Entry Door I recently received a message from my Facebook friend Joe, he writes: “Hey buddy, I have tried to get some kind of help from my builder and they’ve been less than stellar. 80k later and when it snows, I get snow inside my building next to the man door. How […]
Read moreBonus Ask the Guru: Repeat Client, Wet-Set Brackets, and Knee Braces
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/13/2025
Today’s blog is a bonus Ask the Guru, where the PBG answers reader questions from a repeat client about converting a stick frame plan to post and beam, a multiple tenant building built on a ledge site using wet-set brackets, and the need for knee braces on a “stick built pole barn.” DEAR POLE BARN […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Homes, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Concrete, Footings, Building Interior, Budget, Professional Engineer, Lumber, Pole Barn Questions, Columns
- Tags: Post Frame Home, Wet Set Brackets, Repeat Client, Stick Frame To Post Frame, Ledge Build, Knee Braces
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To Double-Up Trusses, Existing Bracket Use, and Ceiling Insulation
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/12/2025
This Wednesday the Pole barn Guru answers reader questions about the need to double up trusses on a 24×36 with 2×6 trusses 12′ OC, use of existing brackets in a stem wall for a post frame home, and best method of ceiling insulation with “double bubble” on roof. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Building pole barn […]
Read moreI Want to Use Steel Trusses and Glulam Columns
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/11/2025
I Want to Use Steel Trusses and Glulam Columns Reader TOM in KNOXVILLE writes: “I am planning on using steel 50ft trusses. All the kits I found recommend 6×6 or 8×8 but I wanted to use glulam columns. Do you know if or why they wouldn’t be recommended. 3 ply 2×8 was my plan but […]
Read more- Categories: Lumber, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Trusses
- Tags: Glulams, Snow Load, Steel Trusses, Glulaminated Columns, Pre-manufactured Trusses, Loads, Wood Trusses, Braced Walls, Wind Load
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Interior Framing, Design and Price, and a Pole Barn Carport
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/05/2025
This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about interior framing for residential homes, costs for the design of a 3-4 bedroom home, and building a pole barn carport for vehicles and equipment. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do you provide interior framing for a residential home? SYDNEY in MILES CITY DEAR SYDNEY: Our mission […]
Read more- Categories: Lumber, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Boat Storage, Constructing a Pole Building, Boat Storage, Pole Barn Planning, Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Building Interior, floorplans, Budget, Columns, RV Storage
- Tags: Post Frame Home, Carport, Framing Lumber, Interior Framing, Design And Price, Floor Plans, 3-4 Bedroom Home
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Walk-Out Type Foundations, Clay Soil Issues, and a “Patio Room”
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/26/2025
Today’s “Ask the Guru” blog answers reader questions about a pole barn being built on a “walk out type” foundation, use of a conventional pier foundation for high clay soils, and if we are able to please build a residential single story “patio room.” DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Can a pole barn be built on […]
Read more- Categories: Alternate Siding, Lumber, Building Interior, Insulation, Budget, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Homes, Building Styles and Designs, Pole Barn holes, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Windows, Concrete, Footings, floorplans
- Tags: Sloped Site, Walk-out Basement, Walk-out Foundation, Patio Room, Three Season Porch, Pier Foundation, Raised Floor, Clay Soil
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Small Addition to House, Adding a Mezzanine, and Heating Options
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/19/2025
This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the addition of a small post frame building to a 1936 stick framed house, adding a mezzanine and lean-to, and a debate between radiant floor and forced air heating of a home. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I had a question from someone asking about a […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Columns, Constructing a Pole Building, Lofts, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Homes, Trusses, Ventilation, Pole Barn Heating, Concrete, Footings, Barndominium, Lumber, Building Interior, Insulation, Budget
- Tags: Footings, Lean-to, Mezzanine, Floor Heat, Addition To House, Forced Air Heat
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A Riding Arena, a Post Frame Home, and Hot Weather Builds
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/12/2025
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru addresses reader questions about the engineering of a round pen riding arena for equine use, if a pole barn can be used for a home, and how well post frame would do in a hot weather climate like Las Vegas, NV. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: A friend of mine […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building How To Guides, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Shouse, Rebuilding Structures, floorplans, Building Interior, Budget, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Shouse, Round Pen, Hot Weather, Las Vegas, Snow Load, NV, Post Frame Home, Riding Arena
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I Simply Can’t Make the Numbers Work
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/06/2025
I Simply Can’t Make the Numbers Work Reader and Registered Professional Engineer LILA in LaCENTER writes: “Is it possible to build a 56×66 pole structure with 4.5×5.5 laminated posts, 10 feet tall at 12′ centers with 110 mph winds in zone C and in seismic zone D? I would dearly love to see the numbers […]
Read moreA Vaulted Ceiling, Pier Shapes for Brackets, and a Sloped Grade
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/05/2025
Today’s “Ask the Guru” answers reader questions about a truss solution for a vaulted ceiling, a question about the use of square piers for brackets compared to round, and building post frame on a sloped grade. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I‘m wanting to build a barndominium on my property in Southern Tennessee. My design is […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Barndominium, Concrete, floorplans, Footings, Building Interior, Budget, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Homes, Building Styles and Designs
- Tags: Site Prep, Scissor Truss, Vaulted Ceiling, Wet Set Brackets, Prefabricated Wood Truss, Square Footings, Sloped Grade, Footings
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Why Are My Footings So Big?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/04/2025
Why Are My Footings So Big? Reader and soon to be client CHRIS in ISANTI writes: “Good morning, I am looking at building a pole building in the near future and have been working with Lucas on developing a plan. Question I have is why are the footings so big? It’s a 40x56x16 with a […]
Read moreTariffs to Raise Construction Costs
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/03/2025
Tariffs to Raise Construction Costs I have been warning people about this for months. Luckily, for Hansen Pole Buildings’ clients, we bought lots (as in rail car loads) of lumber back in November and December – this will allow us to hold prices for a limited time. Article below was published by the NAHB (National […]
Read moreBuilding After a Burn Down, and IWUIC
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/30/2025
Building After a Burn Down– Revisiting the International Wildland Urban Interface Code or IWUIC 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Post Frame Home, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Concrete, Budget, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Closed Cell Foam Insulation, Pex Tubing, Wildfires, Building Wildfires Protections, Concrete Sleeves, Fire Proofing, Lowes, Phonehenge, Home Depot, Prebuilt Roof Trusses, Vinyl Flooring
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Monolithic Slab, Column Spacing and Girt Sizes, and Building Costs
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/29/2025
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about pouring a monolithic slab in Iowa, a question about columns spacing and girts sizing, and what the costs to build a garage with living quarters above might be. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’m building a barndominium in Iowa and I wonder if I can do […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building How To Guides, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Shouse, Building Interior, floorplans, Budget, Columns, Lofts, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: Frost Depth, Bookshelf Girts, Monolithic Slab, Girt Sizes, Girts Spacing, Garage With Living Quarters, Column Spacing, DIY
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Should I Use Concrete Sonotube Foundation?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/28/2025
Should I Use Concrete Sonotube Foundation? DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am planning to build a post-frame house 32×40. I built a 16×16 post-frame barn last Summer as practice and found that I hit bedrock at 2 to 2.5 feet. I know that most post-frame buildings require a 4 foot hole with a concrete footing […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Concrete Cookie, Footings
- Tags: Post Frame Foundation, Pole Building Holes, Concrete Sonotube, Sonotube
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Costs to Finish Kit, Rebuild or New Build, and Size Recommendation
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/22/2025
This week’s ask the Guru answers reader questions about the costs accrued to finish a home after investing in a kit, performing an extensive remodel on an existing barn or tear down and build a new structure, and a building size recommendation for a grow facility. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: After purchasing large kit for […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, floorplans, Pole Barn Planning, Building Contractor, Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior, Budget, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Barndominium
- Tags: Post Frame Costs, Licensed Design Professional, Professional Registered Engineer, Bardominium Costs, Post Frame Finish Costs, Post Frame Rebuild, Building Sizes
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Don’t Mold My Furniture
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/21/2025
Don’t Mold My Furniture Loyal reader RICHARD in MOBILE writes: “Hey Guru, love your site but I can’t seem to find the answer to my question. First off I am in Mobile Al right on the gulf coast where it is hot and very humid most of the year. I recently bought a 60 x […]
Read moreBarn Screws Rotting Wood
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/16/2025
Barn Screws Rotting Wood Reader (and Contractor) JOHN in BIG RAPIDS writes: “In a pole building constructed with trusses 2′ o.c 1/2″ OSB synthetic underlayment. We are finding out that the screw is riding the OSB around the screw. I have seen the same problem in standard pole barn construction with 2 x 4. Purlins. […]
Read moreExcessive Dripping, RV Garage Dimensions, and Roof Insulation
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/15/2025
This week’s Ask The Guru addresses reader questions about the cause and possible solution to excessive dripping, the dimensions of an RV garage Hansen designed, and advice regarding putting a vapor barrier bubble blanket on the underside of the purlins before blowing insulation in attic. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I live in Pennsylvania – we […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Building Drainage, Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Budget, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, Horse Riding Arena, Pole Barn Planning, RV Storage, Barndominium
- Tags: Dripping, Motorhome Garage, Ventilation, RV Storage, Condensation, Drip Stop, A1V, Spray Foam
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Board & Batten Steel Siding
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/14/2025
Board & Batten Steel Siding Board & Batten siding has seen a resurgence in residential and agricultural design in recent years, and rightfully so as many building and builders crave classical aesthetics of rural farmhouse design. A challenge, though, is wooden board & batten is still susceptible to rot, insect damage, cracking, and various other […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Barndominium, Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Building Styles and Designs, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Building Siding, Alternate Siding
- Tags: Pole Barn Siding, Alternative Siding, Steel Board And Batten, Central States Steel, Board And Batten Siding, Post Frame Siding
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A Complete Pole Barn, Floor Plan Conversion, and Indoor Soccer Field
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/08/2025
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru addresses a reader question regarding whether erecting a complete pole barn that has been sitting bundled for eight years might be okay, how easy might it be to convert a stick built floor plan in to a post frame design, and a quote for an indoor soccer field. DEAR […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Building Interior, Budget, Barndominium, floorplans, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Decayed Lumber, Indoor Soccer, Indoor Field, Floor Plans, Pole Barn Conversion, Old Pole Barn Materials, Sitting Lumber
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When to Fill, Wall Insulation, and Gable Vents
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/01/2025
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about best time to fill in uneven grade, best method to insulate walls with no housewrap, and addition of gable vents to help with condensation. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Maybe you can give some advice on our pole barn build. Our rat board is 6ft above […]
Read more- Categories: Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Ventilation, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Building Drainage, Pole Barn Design, Building Interior, Roofing Materials
- Tags: Site Prep, Backfill, Insulation, Vapor Barrier, Rock Wool Insulation, Condensation, Air Intake, Uneven Grade, Ventilation, Fill
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5 Places or Spaces Perfect for Pole Buildings
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/26/2024
We took a look at some of America’s most wide open spaces and thought hard about how climate, severe weather, wind, and seasonal changes affect the ability of a sturdy pole building to provide housing, commercial office space, and industrial warehouse storage. It may come as no surprise that the majority of the locations we […]
Read moreAdding Insulation, Sliding Doors, and Use of Knee Braces
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/25/2024
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about adding wool bat insulation between purlins against an R-7 vapor barrier, and the Guru’s thoughts on Knee Braces in post frame construction. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello We have an existing pole barn that has an R-7 vapor barrier. The vapor barrier is between the […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Building Interior, Insulation, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Heating, Constructing a Pole Building, Sliding Doors, Pole Building How To Guides, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Center Guide, Roof Insulation, Sliding Door, Wool Insulation, Vapor Barrier, Bi-parting Sliding Door, Building Code
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Storage Space Strength, Spray Foam on Steel, and Endwall Glulams
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/18/2024
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the chance shelves in a storage space could hurt the integrity of the building, his opinion on the effects of spray foam on steel panels, and placement of glulams on endwalls for load transfer. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’m creating storage space in post framed […]
Read more- Categories: Building Interior, Lumber, Insulation, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Fasteners, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Barndominium
- Tags: Spray Foam, Shelf Strength, Structural Integrity, Torx Screws, Load Transfer, Glulams, Endwall Columns, Storage Space, Closed Cell Spray Foam
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The Advantages of Post Frame Construction
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/17/2024
The Advantages of Post Frame Construction My friend Randy Chaffee wrote this and it is deserving of being shared. Let’s dive into post frame (Pole Barn) construction. It’s a game-changer when it comes to durability, cost-effectiveness and speed. Forget the old days of just housing livestock or farm equipment. Today’s post frame structures are the […]
Read more- Categories: floorplans, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Building Interior, Budget, Uncategorized, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Homes, Roofing Materials, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, Shouse, Pole Building How To Guides
- Tags: Post-Frame, Post Frame Building Advantages, Design Options, Post Frame Roofing, Post Frame Siding, Design Flexibility
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Easier to Ask Permission, Than Beg for Forgiveness
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/12/2024
Easier to Ask Permission, Than Beg for Forgiveness Our actual client writes: “I need you to please help me. I need a letter from engineering that states that the ceiling can withstand tongue and groove plywood being hung on it. We decided to keep part of the ceiling vaulted and open and are going to […]
Read more- Categories: Professional Engineer, Lumber, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Trusses, Building Interior
- Tags: Ceiling Materials, Engineer Sealed Plans, Ceiling Load Trusses, Finished Ceiling Materials, Truss Dead Loads, Truss Loads
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Insulating a Shed, Addition of Eave Light Panels, and a Small Well Building
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/11/2024
Today’s Ask the Guru answers reader questions about insulating a shed used for vehicle storage and a “workshop to piddle in,” the addition of eave light panels to a structure, and if it is possible to build a small building to house a well. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Thank you in advance for your time […]
Read moreThe Lowdown on Column Uplift
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/05/2024
Let’s Not Uplift I learn new things every single day, much in part to loyal readers, the Hansen Pole Buildings’ Building Designers and our clients. Column uplift seems to be a repeating point of contention for me, as it is (in my humble opinion) poorly addressed, if not totally ignored. Reader Dan has some uplift […]
Read moreAdding Insulation, Financing, and Adding a Ceiling
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/04/2024
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about options for insulation of an existing steel building, financing options for a post frame home, and adding a ceiling to an existing barn. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have a preexisting steel building with no insulation. I am looking for affordable methods to insulate the […]
Read more- Categories: Trusses, Ventilation, Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior, Budget, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse
- Tags: Insulation, Post Frame Financing, Ceilings, Ceilng Joists, Spray Foam Insulation, Post Frame Home
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ADU’s, Best Insulation, and a Post Frame Home
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/27/2024
This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building an attached ADU (additional dwelling unit) with a shared wall, the Guru’s thoughts on the best option to insulate a space, and whether specific design choices are possible in a post frame home. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We are planning to build a shop […]
Read more- Categories: Shouse, floorplans, Building Interior, Budget, Columns, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Heating, Building Department, Post Frame Home, Pole Building How To Guides, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Insulation, Spray Foam, Rockwool Insulation, ADU, Engineered Post Frame Home, Additional Dwelling Unit, ADU Addition, Post Frame Home
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Will ICC Adopt a Pole-frame Appendix?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/21/2024
Will ICC Adopt a Pole-frame Appendix? Reader MATT in PIERRE writes: “Is there any possibility that the ICC will adopt an appendix related to pole-frame buildings. We require engineering in our local jurisdiction at this time and it would be much simpler for customers who want to build a pole-barn if there was a way […]
Read morePlans for a 4 Plex, Romex Wiring, and Foam Board Insulation
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/20/2024
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about plans to build a 4 plex, running romex wiring in a post frame structure, and the installation of foam board on walls and a better method for wall insulation. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello. I’m curious if you could help me with plans to build […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Apartments, Insulation, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure
- Tags: Post Frame Apartments, Post Frame Insulation, Romex Wiring, Foam Board Insulation, Rock Wool Insulation, Post Frame Wiring, 4 Plex, Post Frame Fourplex
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Southern Florida Pole Barn, Custom Plans, and Texas Pole Barns
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/30/2024
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the recommendation of a pole barn home in Southern Florida, what type of custom plans Hansen Buildings provides, and pole barns in the great state of Texas. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hi, are Pole Barn Homes recommended in Southern Florida? It’s hot. If so, I […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, floorplans, Pole Barn Planning, Budget, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Southern Florida Pole Barns, Building Permit, Custom Blueprints, Engineered Pole Buildings, Floor Plans, Structural Plans, Texas Pole Barns
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Together in One Room, Existing Post Use, and Prices Projected
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/23/2024
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the design of a small living space with everything together in one room, whether or not one can use existing posts that are still standing in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, and a reader asks why we don’t post prices of past projects on our […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Homes, Lumber, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Cabin, Concrete, Barndominium, Footings, Rebuilding Structures, floorplans, Building Interior, Budget, Columns
- Tags: Post Frame Home, Free Quotes, Stilt House, Post Frame Pricing, One Room Living
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Comfort for Northern Climate Intermittently Heated Shop
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/22/2024
Comfort for Northern Climate Intermittently Heated Shop Reader DAVID in WRENSHALL writes: “Hi There, I’m thinking about building a shop on my property. I’m in the research phase. I plan to heat the shop intermittently in the winter when i have projects to work on, but I probably won’t be in there long enough to […]
Read moreConcrete Slab Larger in Footprint Than Building
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/17/2024
Concrete Slab Larger in Footprint Than Building Reader JAMES in SOUTHWICK writes: “I built my floor wider than the building. A mistake I know! So now I was going to screw a piece of PVC into the bottom of my bottom girt to rest on floor. Then I was going to silicon around PVC to […]
Read moreTension Cable Location, Double Columns, and Girt Dimensions
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/16/2024
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the location of ceiling ties for roof tension, if a person needs to double columns when switching building heights, and a clarification about the dimensions of commercial girts to building columns when used for finishing the interior walls. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hi. I just […]
Read more- Categories: Constructing a Pole Building, Post Frame Home, Pole Building How To Guides, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Building Interior, Lumber, Budget, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Fasteners, Roofing Materials
- Tags: Post Frame Glulaminated Columns, Trusses, Ceiling Tension, Commercial Girts, Roof Tension, Tension Cables, Transition Wall Columns, Girt Sizing, Post Frame Columns
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Tyvek Under Roof Steel?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/15/2024
Tyvek Under Roof Steel? Reader BRANDON in MIDDLEBOROUGH writes: “Greetings I’m writing to discuss the best practice for what to place under a metal roof. I am building a post frame, for shop use and will eventually be insulted. I had initially intended to install a WRB, like Tyvek, under the sheet metal roof. My […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Ventilation, Building Interior, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Workshop Buildings
- Tags: Moisture Barrier, Integral Condensation Control, Insulation, Vapor Barrier, Steel Roofing, Ventilation, Tyvek
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Old Fiberglass Skylights
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/10/2024
Old Fiberglass Skylights Reader JEAN in HARRISON writes: “My Wayne pole building built 80’s the skylights are full of hole. Wayne is no longer in business and can’t find the pattern of ridges to match now by beams are showing water damage.” Oh joys of old fiberglass skylights – sadly not. Skylights in steel roofs […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Fasteners, Roofing Materials, Pole Buildings History, Barndominium, Pole Barn Structure, Skylights, Steel Roofing & Siding, Alternate Siding, Powder Coated Screws
- Tags: Replacing Skylights, Roofing Rib Patterns, Skylights, Ring Shank Nails, Powder Coated Screws, Fiberglass Skylights
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A Stand Alone Building, Drip Stop in High Dust, and Sliding Door Replacement
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/09/2024
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the pitfalls of trying to build a stand alone building within a steel building, drip stop use in high dust environments, and the replacement of two sliding doors in Lester Prairie. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Good evening, I’m at my wits end. We have had […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Planning, Post Frame Home, Pole Building Siding, Barndominium, Ventilation, Shouse, Insulation, Building Drainage, Shouse, Pole Barn Questions, Rebuilding Structures, floorplans, Pole Barn Design, Building Interior, Building Department, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Shouse, Sliding Doors, Pole Barn Shouse, Drip Stop Condensation Control, Engineered Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Sliding Doors, Drip Stop
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Adding a Lean-to aka Side Shed
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/08/2024
Adding a Lean-to aka Side Shed Reader PATRICK in REDMOND writes: “I have an existing pole barn that was built in 1999 that I would like to add a lean-to onto. I read your previous blogs about verifying the footing that supports the existing poles – but how do you verify that? Is there a […]
Read more- Categories: Concrete, Lumber, Rebuilding Structures, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Columns, Building Styles and Designs, Sheds, Building Department, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium
- Tags: Footings, Lean-to, Side Shed, Trusses, Pole Barn Addition, Post Frame Building
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Fasteners in ACQ, Vapor Barriers, and Buildings in NC
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/02/2024
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about use of which fasteners are best to use in to ACQ treated columns, the need for a vapor barrier in Washington State, and Hansen Buildings in North Carolina. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Potential new customer here. Doing a small job on my own right now. […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Pole Building Siding, Ventilation, Lumber, Building Interior, Insulation, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Constructing a Pole Building, Barndominium
- Tags: North Carolina, Insulation, Vapor Barrier, ACQ Treated Lumber, Strong-Drive SDWS Timber Screws
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Never Miss a Purlin Again
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/26/2024
There is nothing much more frustrating than a leaking brand new steel roof. In my humble opinion, most (if not all) steel roof leaks caused by errant screws could be avoided by simply following instructions and pre-drilling roof panels. Loyal reader MONTE in FRANKTOWN writes: “I’m asking for your opinion on the need for a […]
Read morePosts, Trusses and Costs, Slab Thermal Movement, and a Name
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/25/2024
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about use of one’s own posts, metal vs wood trusses, and cost of trusses, sealer for slab thermal movement, and what the proper name of a garage, storage, and living quarters would be. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: The barn is to be built in 78594. 60x40x15 […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Trusses, Concrete, Shouse, Building Interior, Shouse, Budget, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, RV Storage
- Tags: Concrete Sealant, Trusses, Shouse, Columns, RV Storage, Barndominium, Post-Frame, Slab Insulation
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A New Spin on Truss Raising Winch Boxes
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/12/2024
A New Spin on Truss Raising Winch Boxes Long time readers will recall previous articles on a miracle for raising entire bays of roof trusses, safely and on a budget: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2019/10/winch-boxes-a-post-frame-miracle/ https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2019/11/winch-boxes-episode-v/ Hansen Pole Buildings DIYer Lee Zook, came up with his own spin on winch boxes, allowing him to crank truss bays into place […]
Read moreTwelve Foot Addition, Wall Insulation, and Purlin Settings
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/11/2024
This Wednesday The Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about extending an existing 60′ long pole building by twelve feet, the best way to insulate outside walls to prevent sweating, and the reasoning behind setting purlins flush with the top of the truss top chords. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have an existing 40 x […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Barndominium, Footings, Rebuilding Structures, Pole Barn Questions, Budget, Pole Barn Design, Columns, Constructing a Pole Building, Sheds
- Tags: Addition, Post Frame Addition, Insulation, Condensation, PFDS26B Hangers, Ventilation, Extension Of Building, Wall Sweating, Purlins
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Can Trees Cause Uneven Floors in My Post Frame Building?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/10/2024
Can Trees Cause Uneven Floors in My Post Frame Building? Tree roots can extend to soil beneath your post frame building and cause shifting leading to uneven flooring. A tree is far larger than what you can see. There is an entire extensive root system below grade, one extending for yards. Though roots are out […]
Read moreSloppy Construction or a Structural Integrity Issue?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/05/2024
Sloppy Construction or a Structural Integrity Issue? Reader BRISHA in EARLY BRANCH writes: “This is a barndo that will be our home. Is it acceptable to have metal trusses not come completely together (see pic)? Also, multiple (MANY) screws in the wood that trusses connected to are in at an angle? Is this just sloppy […]
Read more- Categories: Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Trusses, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, Building Department
- Tags: Integrity Issues, Building Codes, Structural Integrity, Steel Trusses, IBC Code, Sloppy Construction
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The Shell or Interior, an Old Barn Fix, and Ventilation
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/04/2024
Today’s Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about inclusions of a Hansen Building Kit, some guidance with the renovation of an old barn, and how many sq inches of NFVA do foam enclosures have? DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What does it include? Just the shell or interior also? ASHLEY in MONROE DEAR ASHLEY: We typically […]
Read more- Categories: Building Interior, Lumber, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Barndominium, Building Department, Roofing Materials, floorplans, Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation
- Tags: Ventilation, Old Barn Repair, Foam Closure, Lean-to, Vented Closure, Post Frame Kit, Building Kit, Hansen Building Kit, Post Frame Renovation
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A Checklist to Follow, Setting Piers, and to Plumb, Level, and Square
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/28/2024
This Wednesday answers reader questions about a barndominium checklist to follow, if one should set piers on virgin ground when adjusting for grade changes, and to plumb, level, and square a building before adding roof sheathing. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I remember you had a checklist to follow when building a barndominium or pole barn […]
Read more- Categories: Trusses, Concrete, Lumber, Footings, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn holes, Roofing Materials, Pole Building How To Guides, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Grade Changes, Post Frame Building, Plumb, Soil Compaction, Sloped Site, Post Frame Checklist, Roof Framing, Checklist, Virgin Soil, Level, Square, Piers
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Footing Diameter, Non-Ground Contact Columns, and Ceiling Insulation
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/21/2024
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the required footing diameter for a 20’x24′ pole barn garage, use of non-ground contact columns on a concrete stem wall or thickened edge, and Insulating a cathedral ceiling in a barndominium. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am looking to build a 20ft x 24ft pole […]
Read more- Categories: Barndominium, Ventilation, Concrete, Lumber, Building Interior, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Budget, Pole Barn Design, Professional Engineer, Constructing a Pole Building, Columns, Pole Barn Homes, Trusses
- Tags: Wet Set Brackets, Thickened Slab, Footing Diameter, Ground Contact, Ceiling Insulation, Dry Columns, Footings, Insulation, Vapor Barrier, Soil Bearing Capacity
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Beam Needs, Slab Design, and Attic Ventilation Issues
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/14/2024
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about LVL beam procurement, a question about slab in a flood prone area, and reflective radiant barrier in a non vented attic. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I need a 3 1/4″ x 7 1/4″ x 12′ beam. Is this something you can help me with? JAMES […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation, Lumber, Insulation, Concrete, Pole Barn Questions, Building Interior, Pole Barn Design, Building Overhangs, Roofing Materials, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Post Frame Slab, Flood Prone Area, A1V, Ventilation, Slab On Grade, Closed Cell Spray Foam, LVL Beams
- 2 comments
Implement Storage, Stumped for Answer, and a Walk-Out Basement
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/07/2024
Today’s Ask the Guru answers reader questions about sue of beams for an implement storage building, a question stumps the Guru so he asks readers for help, and if a post frame building could be built with a walk-out basement. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I want to build a Implement Storage 60’ x 24’ pole […]
Read more- Categories: Concrete, Footings, Building Drainage, Building Interior, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, floorplans, Pole Barn Structure, Trusses
- Tags: Implement Storage, Stumped, Reader Assistance, Walk-out Basement, Beams, Loft, Glulaminated Columns
- 2 comments
Sliding Door Latch, A Ceiling Mounted Crane, and an Auger Challenge
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/31/2024
This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about securing a sliding door, some advice on a ceiling mounted crane, and a challenge finding an auger with a 30″ diameter for concrete collars. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: How to keep my steel sliding door half open but secured? BRUCE in ROCKFORD DEAR BRUCE: Your […]
Read moreTermites, Lumber “Extras” and a new Kit
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/24/2024
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about subterranean termites eating the posts, the best resource to acquire commodity items like OSB, and providing a kit sized 16′ x 32′ x 10 height. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What do you do about subterranean termites eating the posts.? Where I’m at they eat treated […]
Read more- Categories: Barndominium, Roofing Materials, floorplans, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Building Interior, Budget, Lumber, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: Post Frame Materials, Post Frame Kit, Termite Treatment, Commodity Materials, Pole Barn Planning, OSB, Subterranean Termites, Wall Framing
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Post Frame Frost Walls
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/18/2024
From reader Paul in Bismarck: “How do you deal with the requirement for a 4 foot frost wall on buildings that will have plumbing installed in them. Typically, the concrete footing on a stick built structures qualifies as the frost wall. How is this accomplished with a pole building that will be used as a […]
Read moreEndwall Trusses, Valley Flashing, and Roof Sheathing
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/17/2024
This week’s Ask The Guru addresses how a single truss is used at endwalls instead of a double truss, use of valley flashing on roof applications, and the need for sheathing on a roof. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: On a double truss system with 12′ o/c how do you do the gable ends? MICHAEL in […]
Read moreMy New Riding Arena Has Condensation and Birds
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/16/2024
My New Riding Arena Has Condensation and Birds Reader BETH in LEBANON writes: “Last fall I had an indoor riding arena built 70 x 152 x 16 that had a built in vapor barrier. The building has cathedral trusses. This is a stand alone building with no stable attached. I have had condensation in the […]
Read moreAttic Ventilation – Where Hindsight is Always 20-20
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/11/2024
Attic Ventilation – Where Hindsight is Always 20-20 Reader CHRIS in TULSA writes: “Hello! I have a question about attic venting that I’m just not experienced enough to answer properly. I have a new 24’x’40’x12′ post frame building I’m currently working on finishing out (fiberglass insulation, walls, ceiling, etc.). My hindsight was bad and I […]
Read moreBuilt Without Permit, Insulation to Purlins(?), and BIBs Insulation
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/10/2024
This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about potential issues with existing pole barn built without permit, whether or not spray foam directly to OSB is a good idea, and use of moisture barrier with BIBS insulation. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We are thinking about putting a purchase offer on this land in […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Insulation, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Questions, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Vapor Barriers, Building Without Permit, BIBS Insulation, Building Permit, Ventilation, Spray Foam Insulation
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Can This Building Be Saved?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/09/2024
Can This Building Be Saved? Reader BRAYTON in NORTHEAST WASHINGTON writes: “I’ve been previewing your website and am glad I found it! Question: I have been contacted recently by a potential client who had a 40′ x 60′ pole building constructed. The original contractor walked off the job. This client wants me to fix the […]
Read moreInsulate a Post Frame Building, Ventilation, and Column Sizes
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/03/2024
This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the most economical way to insulate a pole barn style building, advice on ventilation, and the best column size for a building in Michigan. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello, I am looking at either building a pole barn style or hybrid Steel column, post and […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Heating, Trusses, Barndominium, Ventilation, Footings
- Tags: Columns, Pressure Preservative Treated Columns, Moisture Barrier, Insulation, Vapor Barrier, HVAC, Spray Foam, Attic Fan, Post Frame Insulation
- No comments
Avoiding Condensation When Insulating an Existing Pole Barn
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/02/2024
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 […]
Read moreA Dog Kennel, Types of Foundations for Post Frame, and Kennel Designs
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/26/2024
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the possibilities of building a dog kennel with post frame construction, they type of foundation required for a post frame building, and what possible kennel designs Hansen has done. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: would it be possible to do a dog kennel in a pole […]
Read moreWhen Attic Insulation is Baffling
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/25/2024
Proper insulation provisions seem to be one of the least considered items when it comes to post frame (pole building) planning. Here is a case in point from reader JOHN in BEND: “We have just built a 32’ x 48’ pole building with commercial GIRT construction, metal siding, 4/12 pitch metal roof, concrete floor, 12 […]
Read moreHigh Humidity in a Pole Barn Home
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/20/2024
High Humidity in a Pole Barn Home Reader SAM writes: “I had a pole barn home built before pole barn homes became so popular. A concrete floor was poured around the 6×6 posts, and wooden trusses make up the roof. The pole barn walls have 2×6 purlins, and the roof has 2×4 purlins. Fiberglass insulation […]
Read moreTin Sheet Ceiling, Glulaminated Columns, and Wood on Grade
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/19/2024
This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about adding tin sheets to the underside of trusses with insulation added, the use of glulaminated columns over rough sawn 6×6’s, and pros and cons of wood on grade vs concrete. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am looking at installing metal sheeting on the ceiling in […]
Read moreAir Intake, Sliding Door Trolleys, and Footing Costs
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/13/2024
This Thursday is another bonus ” ask the Guru” answering questions about proper air intake with no overhangs, replacing sliding door trolleys, and most cost effective footing solution. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am in preliminary stages of designing a post-frame building, that will serve a multitude of functions such as a home gym, work-shop, […]
Read more- Categories: Barndominium, Lumber, Professional Engineer, floorplans, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Building Overhangs, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Homes, Ventilation, Pole Barn Heating, Concrete, Footings, Post Frame Home, Budget
- Tags: Footings, Sidewall Overhangs, Sliding Door Trolleys, Attic Ventilation, Overhangs, Ventilation, Sliding Door Parts, Embedded Columns
- No comments
Column Depth in Canada, Permit for AG Zoned Land, and Skylight Panels
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/12/2024
This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the possibility of a kit in Canada where the client would have columns potentially reaching the water table, if a permit is needed for a barn structure in a AG Zoned area in area of Lafayette County, Missouri, and any know where-a-bouts of skylight panels […]
Read moreEngineer Sealed Drawings, Materials Lists, and Footing Sizes.
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/11/2024
This Tuesday is another bonus “ask the Guru” discussing questions about engineer sealed drawings, a materials list for a post frame garage with sideshed, and footing size questions. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Does it come with engineered Seal drawings as part of the cost? RON in OMAHA DEAR RON: Every building we provide comes with […]
Read more- Categories: Professional Engineer, Lumber, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Trusses, Concrete, floorplans, Footings
- Tags: Glu-lam, Columns, Engineer Sealed Plans, Sealed Plans, Concrete Piers, Footing Size, Materials Lists, MSR Lumber, Footing Depth
- No comments
Framing and Materials, DIY plans, and a Conversion
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/06/2024
This Thursday’s blog is another bonus “Ask the Guru” answering reader questions about Hansen Kits framing and materials, if a readers structural plans are viable, and whether the Guru thinks an old pole barn can be converted into a Barndo. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do your home kits come as a frame tight to the […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home, Lumber, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, floorplans, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Building Interior, Budget
- Tags: DIY Plans, Pole Barn Conversion, Post Frame Kit, Structural Lumber, Framing Materials, Frame Tight, Barndo
- No comments
OSB Sheathing, Plywood for Roof Strength, and Brackets for Helical Piers
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/05/2024
This Wednesday the Pole barn Guru answers reader questions about adding OSB sheathing under new roof steel, as well as more trusses and carriers to support the new loads, a concern about the need for plywood under roof steel to make a building stronger, and if Hansen has a bracket to use with a helical […]
Read moreMixed Use Building, Attaching a Deck, and a Flat Roof
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/04/2024
This Tuesday’s blog is a Bonus Ask the Guru discussing some mixed use ideas for a gallery and apartment, attaching a deck, and a flat roof design. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’m looking for a mixed used building, Large open plan space ground floor for an art gallery and two two bedroom apartments on second […]
Read more- Categories: Building Interior, Budget, Lumber, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Lofts, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Apartments, Building Styles and Designs, Venues, Building Department, Barndominium, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, floorplans, Building Drainage
- Tags: Gallery, Deck Tensioner, Flat Roof Structure, Apartment, Post Frame Buildings, Mixed Use
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a BONUS PBG for Friday, May 31st — Column Spacing, Raised Floors, and a Self-Build
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/31/2024
a BONUS PBG for Friday, May 31st — Column Spacing, Raised Floors, and a Self-Build DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have spoken to my architect and he is saying to do my column spacing 8′ with truss every 4′. I have looked at your videos and several other videos. I noticed 10′ or 12′ Columns […]
Read more- Categories: Budget, floorplans, Columns, Lofts, Lumber, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Building Department, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Post Frame Loft, Self Build Pole Barn, Column Spacing, Truss Carriers, Cost Effective Design Solution, Headers, Flood Zone, Double Trusses, Raised Floor
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Insulation, Lean-To’s and a DIY
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/30/2024
A Bonus Ask the Guru for this Thursday’s blog for Insulation, Lean-To’s and a DIY DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have a 30×40 pole barn with 6″ purloins mounted between the posts. I’m planning to add minimal insulation using closed cell panels. I’ve seen recommendations to cut the panels to fit between the purloins (would […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, floorplans, Building Interior, Budget, Insulation, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Columns, Pole Barn Design, Sheds, Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Trusses
- Tags: Purlins, Lean-to Addition, Lean-to, DIY, Insulation, Building Erector
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Building in Japan, Raising a Building, and In-Ground Use Posts
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/29/2024
This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the feasibility of building in northern Japan, the possibility of raising an existing post frame building, what the best treatment for in-ground use on columns would be, and if post protectors are needed. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’m currently evaluating the feasibility of building a […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Trusses, floorplans, Rebuilding Structures, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Lumber, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: UC-4B, Japan, Post Treatment, Post Protectors, Building In Japan, Post Frame In Japan, Raising Building, Raise Existing Building
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Wall Insulation for a Hybrid Building
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/28/2024
Wall Insulation for a Hybrid Building Reader MASON in HILLSBOROUGH writes: “I read your blog often and I truly appreciate the wealth of knowledge you openly share. I am in the process of starting construction on a hybrid steel shop that will house a small apartment that the wife and I will move into once […]
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