This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about whether or not a 30 year old building correct snow load, the possibility of clear spanning scissor trusses to eighty feet, and assistance with the replacement (or repair) of a window in a Hansen Building from 2014. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: How do I figure […]

Rubble Trench Foundations for Post Frame Homes? My social media friend and loyal reader TRENT in NAMPA writes: “Hi Mike, Ii would like your thoughts on some foundation ideas I have for post frame homes. The main purpose I am trying to achieve is to have perimeter concrete at the base of the building while […]

Post Frame on a Rock Pile? Reader MIKE in MAINE writes: “Hello , I am looking to purchase a Post and Beam Barn kit, but I have been advised by my excavator guy that I won’t be able to set the sonotubes in the ground due to the mixture of rocks sizes at my location A […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about weather resistant barriers, a caution to not attempt to notch LVL rafters, and a recommended design solution for a new build. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We are in process of designing our barndominium with hoping to start building next spring. Do you have a recommendation […]

Full Frost Wall Foundation? Reader AARON in ROSEVILLE writes: “Assuming (not yet verified) that I don’t need a full frost wall foundation for my barndo, wondering about the pros/cons for full frost wall vs pier footings in southern MN. Obviously there is the cost difference, but when it comes to building performance(in the winter), would […]

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

Information on Codes and Shouses I have to admit it was rather flattering to have Southwest Iowa’s Planning Council reach out to me regarding information on Codes and Shouses recently. “Hello. My name is Ashley and I’m a community development specialist with Southwest Iowa Planning Council out of Atlantic, IA. I am currently working on […]

Can no Longer Afford Spray Foam for a PEMB Loyal reader CINDY in TYLER writes: “I had a steel building (20×18)  built with steel frame and metal exterior. This is going to be my house. It will have a loft that is half the size of the building. Originally the builder talked me into spray […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru discusses foundation for a uneven ground with 4-5′ “fall” in the back, granting three wishes, and recommendations for building/footing/slab. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hey thank you for time. I am wanting to build a 50×100′ shop. I have uneven ground and about a 4-5′ fall in the back. What […]

Can I Turn an Existing Pole Barn into a Barndominium? Reader MICHELLE in GALLATIN writes: “Hi Mike, my name is Michelle and I live in Nashville Tennessee. I am under contract on an existing pole barn (30′ x 60′) that I am going to turn into a Barndominium. (Picture attached) Today we had the structural […]

My 22 Year-Old Morton Building Roof Leaks Reader TERRY in EVANSVILLE writes: “Dear Pole Barn Guru, we have a 1989 Morton building. The roof was replaced in 2000 due to flaking and peeling paint. Since then, the headers over our large north and south doors have deteriorated, and the barn is leaking on the entire […]

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

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building a house on a hill lakeside, building a slab on grade instead or embedded posts due to rocky soil, and use of dry set brackets. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hey. We have a lot on the lake that is on a hill (not super […]

The following article first appeared in JLC (jlconline.com) Q: Recently I needed structural design values (E, Fb, Fv) for treated southern yellow pine.  According to the Southern Pine Council’s (southernpine.com) latest design values, SYP’s E (modulus of elasticity) and Fv (allowable shear stress) remain constant, while F (bending strength) values grow smaller as the lumber […]

Today’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 […]

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

A 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 […]

Inspecting an Existing Barndominium Reader STEPHANIE in BATES CITY writes: “We are in the process of buying an existing barndo and will be finishing it out with additional living space. The barndo was built by the current owner, along with his dad, 13 years ago.my question comes from a discovery during inspection on Monday. The […]

This 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’ […]

This 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 […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about a permit problem for building the reader would now need a permit for, whether or not OSB wall sheathing is necessary for an addition, and if a 12′ peak to 10′ eave will appear flat. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I built a pole barn in […]

This 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 […]

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

Drilling Electrical Holes Through Glu-laminated Post Frame Building Columns Reader and Hansen Pole Buildings DIY client AARON in SALEM writes: “I am trying to find the best way to run in wall wires (6/3, 8/3 & 10/2 romex) past columns on the “braced wall panel” bays in my building. My building has a 20′ eave […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about adding condensation control to an existing structure, the installation of the “bottom track” of a sliding door, and how to finish an existing structure with wrap and steel. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: hello – I just bought a large Amish shed for a workshop, and […]

Pole 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 […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about the addition of a basement to an existing pole barn, the possibility of modifying an existing gambrel style horse barn, and the connection of a house and garage. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am considering building a partial basement under my existing Pole Barn Building […]

Insulating an Apartment in a Steel Truss Pole Barn Reader JONATHAN in AUGUSTA writes: “First of all, thank you for having a wonderful resource put together in one place for fellow DIYers such as myself. I am currently in the process of constructing a 30x60x11 pole barn. So far I have the roof put up; […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about condensation prevention by placing foam board over the top of 2×4 purlins, options for sound proofing a post frame home, and if 2×4 flat purlins can hold a specific snow load. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am planning a pole barn; the roof will have […]

Barndominium 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 […]

This 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 […]

Finding 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 […]

Running 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 […]

This 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, […]

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

Reader 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 […]

Today the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about moisture control, insulating a building with a ridge vent, and a solution for replacing posts that have rotted out. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Thanks for the abundance of technical information you provide your readers. Like many of them, I inherited a pole barn with the same […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru addresses a concern about personal items being ruined by storing them in an unfinished pole building, the need for an additional two feet of interior height, and floor plans for designing a post frame home. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello- not sure if you can answer this but hoping […]

Today the Pole barn Guru answers reader questions about available financing for a pole building, a required beam size for 20′ post spacing, and a small connection for 3 ply trusses. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do you offer financing? Thanks. DERRICK in DETROIT DEAR DERRICK: Yes, we offer a variety of financing options. Please visit […]

This 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: […]

This 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 […]

Do You Do Longer Ones? Reader DANA in DEER LODGE writes: “Hello. We are looking at having a 4 door garage built but 2 of the spots will be turned into living space. I see the one you have with 3 garage doors. so you do longer ones? What would the price be to do […]

Post 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 […]

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

How 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 […]

Adding 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 […]

This 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 […]

Pool 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 […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru discusses condensation issues in a metal pole barn a reader would like to convert to livable space, floor plans for a new post frame residence, and the steps to take to plan and build a new post frame house. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I just purchased a property with […]

When The Problem, Is Not The Problem Captain Jack Sparrow’s quote is close in this instance. Please read on….. RYAN in MISSOURI writes: “Hi Mike – I spoke with Brenda at your office and she said you may be willing to help me out. I don’t expect you to just give me free advice though, […]

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

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

How 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 […]

Insulating 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 […]

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

When Barndominium Batman Light Illuminates Dark Sky Loyal reader MARCO in EDINBURG brought a smile to my face when he wrote: “*Batman light illuminates dark sky* Pole barn guru! Help! I am building my pole barn house, Finally. This will be a DIY project with help of friends and family. I will more than likely […]

When Friends Buy Buildings From Others Long ago, in a galaxy far away……well actually it is in our galaxy. Jeff and I met roughly 40 years ago, when his mother and my father dated. About 15 years later, I was Jeff’s sponsor when he became a member of Spokane Valley Rotary. In recent years, Jeff […]

Insulating an Existing Pole Barn When Things Started Wrong Reader TOM writes: “Mike,  I have an existing pole barn (6×6 post with 2’ on center girts ) that has a 4” concrete floor with 10 mil plastic under it. The side walls have 1” XPS insulation on the outside of girt then steel siding with […]

Roof 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! […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru take care of reader questions about getting an occupancy permit in Victor ID, the size and scope of building a single-slope with a loft, and the addition of a lean-to to an existing structure. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I follow your posts and have seen some who question if […]

My Drill Stem Pipe Barn Sways in Light Winds “Recently my husband and I decided we would try building a pole shed row barn for our horses out of structural drill stem pipe. We used 2 7/8 pipe columns on 12’ centers with 2 3/8 pipe columns supporting the (over hang, non-stall) side of the […]

4×4 or Double 2×4 for 12’ Bay Roof Purlins? Reader JOHN in HUNTSVILLE writes: “If you have trusses spaced at 12 feet, can a 4x4x12 or two 2x4x12’s span the distance given the minimal snow loads in Arkansas? I know this is question #2 but what kind of joist hangers do you use (Simpson Number […]

This 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. […]

Retro Installing Windows in a Spray Foamed Post Frame Wall Reader JOEY in PRINCETON writes: “Good Evening Pole Barn Guru! We need to add picture (9) and slider (3) windows to an existing 3-year old Sherman Pole Building Post frame building where we are converting part into living quarters. The building was spray foamed by […]

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

Batteries 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 […]

Being a Fan Fan Reader TOM in MACOMB writes: “Hello, I have a 24 x 40  pole barn built last summer. It has a base layer of 10” of sand and 4’ of crushed concrete on top. This sat exposed for several months until the building was erected,it was a wet summer. The building was […]

This week the Pole Barn Guru addresses questions about whether or not a base will be suitable for a slab, if a person HAS to insulate if they intend to heat the structure, and building 13′ above grade foundation in a flood zone. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Good morning, I’m getting ready to have a […]

Will My Minnesota Shouse Require Frost Footings? Reader CHAD in JANESVILLE writes: “I am planning on building a shouse or barndominium some may call. I am doing 5″ cement with a heated floor throughout. My hope was not to bury any poles but to anchor them on top of the slap. Do you recommend front […]

How to Fix MANY Leaks on a New Steel Roof Reader GUY in SHELTON is probably wishing he would have ordered a new Hansen Pole Building right now. He writes: “Best way to fix MANY roof leaks on a guaranteed newly built pole barn with metal roof over 2-inch vinyl glass woven insulation. Purlins are […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about site preparation and underground obstructions, a recommendation for building with wet set brackets on slab, and whether or not Hansen Buildings uses lumber treated for in-ground use– UC-4B. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We recently started the ground work for our future 48×72 pole building. Half […]

ZIP 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 […]

Engineer 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 […]

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

Planning 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 […]

My 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 […]

This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru kicks off 2022 with reader questions about framing loads using heavy duty steel roof trusses, a stone siding wainscot, and lap siding. Mike then addresses questions about footing pads, and finally creating a pole barn home. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am planning to build a pole barn 36×40 […]

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

Today’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 […]

Help! My Barndominium Roof Is Dripping! Reader TIMM in WHITEFISH writes: “Thanks for taking my question. I recently built a barndominium in NW Montana. I tried to find someone to build it for me, but the demand and cost in the area had gone up so much that I had to do almost all the […]

This 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 […]

Storage Barn to Dwelling Reader JD in FAIRPLAY writes: “I have read over your blogs & my head is spinning. However, you obviously know your stuff. My question is this, do you have a trusted company or guy who can help me design & build a 30x60x16 RV garage that will meet the requirements of […]

Today’s Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about screw penetration into decking/substrate, header aka truss carrier requirements, and a proper roof insulation solution. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Should the screws for exposed fastener metal panel roofing COMPLETELY penetrate the 1/2″ plywood decking/substrate? STEVE in WARREN DEAR STEVE: For through screws, they should not only completely […]

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

Today’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 […]

Today’s “Ask the Guru” tackles reader questions about erecting a kit on a basement foundation, how to find and repair a leaky roof, and some advice on raising bays to add height to a structure. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Is it possible to erect one of the pole barn kits on a basement foundation? LUCAS […]

Loyal 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 […]

This 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 […]

A Barndominium HVAC Challenge My now dear friend (thanks to his barndominium) LONNIE in COLORADO SPRINGS writes: “Hi Mike, I’m still around and still working on the house and making some slow but constant progress so I thank you all for your help and support. I have run into an issue (it’s not related to […]

Today’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 […]

Should 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,” […]

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

This 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 […]

Aircrete 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 […]

Today’s Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about using wet set brackets on a stem wall foundation, if it is possible to build over a walkout basement, and the viability of installing rigid foam between framing and steel cladding. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hey there guru. We are planning on building a post frame home […]

Nightmare From a Local Pole Building Contractor Reader RICK in OOLTEWAH writes: “Regrettably, after going with a local “pole building” contractor I find myself with a semi-completed building and a number of issues (I believe) to work through. The attached photos will hopefully help complete the picture. I was mostly ignorant of the pole building […]

At 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 […]

This 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 […]

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

How 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” […]