Category Archives: Shouse
Posts, Trusses and Costs, Slab Thermal Movement, and a Name
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/25/2024This 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: Concrete, Shouse, Building Interior, Shouse, Budget, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Constructing a Pole Building, RV Storage, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Trusses
- Tags: Columns, RV Storage, Barndominium, Post-Frame, Slab Insulation, Concrete Sealant, Trusses, Shouse
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Ceiling Liner, Double trusses, and a Second floor
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/03/2024This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about what best installed between ceiling liner and trusses and insulation recommendations in a new shop, advice on sidewall column size for use with double trusses, and the structural stability of a pole barn second floor. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Just built a 40x60x11 pole barn […]
Read more- Categories: Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Trusses, Ventilation, Barndominium, Building Interior, Shouse, Insulation, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Lofts, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: Double Truss System, Column Size, Barrier, Insulation, Second Floor, Liner Panels, Attic Insulation, Double Truss, Post Frame Second Floor
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10 Important Things to Consider When Building a Pole Barn
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/26/202310 Important Things to Consider When Building a Pole Barn By Andi Croft. Andi Croft is a freelance writer whose main interests are topics related to home design, business, technology, and travel. This is brought about by her passion about going around the world, meeting people from all walks of life, and bringing along with […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Building Styles and Designs, floorplans, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Building Interior, Uncategorized, Barndominium
- Tags: Constructing Pole Building, Pole Building Design, Pole Building, Pole Building Planning
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Conditioning and Insulating a Shop/House in Spokane (Climate Zone 5B)
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/24/2023Conditioning and Insulating a Shop/House in Spokane (Climate Zone 5B) My Social Media friend TYLER in SPOKANE writes: “Hello Mr. Guru, I am planning to build a 48′ x 60′ post frame shop with a 48’x20′ finished living space inside and the remaining to be insulated and climate controlled shop space. I’m planning for 14′ […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Building Interior, Lofts, Pole Barn Heating
- Tags: Radiant Outfitters, Raised Heel Roof Trusses, Vapor Barrier, Unfaced Rockwool Batts, Housewrap, Climate Zone 5B, Bookshelf Girts, Heated Slabs Of Concrete, Blow-in R-60 Insulation, Geothermal
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Updates to Make to Your Pole Barn in 2023
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/11/2023Updates to Make to Your Pole Barn in 2023 Entering the new year comes with resolutions, and while some may be personal, there are plenty that end up becoming a part of your to-do list. Starting with a clean slate means you can really hone in on what improvements you may need, or what you […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Building Interior, Uncategorized, Skylights, Insulation, RV Storage, Building Overhangs, Post Frame Home, Roofing Materials, Shouse, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Recreational, Insulation, Pole Barn, Fire Resistance, Resolution
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Scissor Trusses, Attaching a Shouse, Attic Truss Space
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/08/2023This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about possibility of installing scissor trusses in upstate NY where there is a heavy snow load (80psf), a recommendation of whether of not to build a shouse and attach it to an aquaponic greenhouse, what the size of space an attic truss might provide with certain […]
Read morePreventing Radon Issues
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/06/2022Preventing Radon Issues in Slab-On-Grade Barndominiums I grew up in what is now Spokane Valley, Washington. Little did any of us know, back then, it turns out Spokane County is one of six counties in Washington State requiring radon mitigation measures in newly-constructed residences and residential additions. Radon is a natural in ground radioactive gas. […]
Read more- Categories: Shouse, About The Pole Barn Guru, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation, Concrete, Footings, Barndominium
- Tags: Passive Radon Mitigation System, Radon Fan, Radon, Radon Resistant, Vapor Barrier, Radon Gas Permeable Layer, Radon Collection Point, #40 PVC Pipe Stub, Sump Pump Cover, Barndominium
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Insulation Options for an Idaho Barndominium
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/22/2022Insulation Options for an Idaho Mountain Post Frame Barndominium Loyal reader LORISTON in NAMPA writes: “We are in the initial phase of preparing for our residential post frame home and are excited to partner with Hansen Buildings when ready. Thank you for all the amazing information and supporting your clients. Question: I am targeting a […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Footings, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Roofing Materials, Barndominium, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Steel Roofing & Siding
- Tags: Wet Set Brackets, Extruded Polystyrene, Spray Foam, R-10 EPS, Bookshelf Girts, Pressure Preservative Treated Columns, Closed Cell Spray Foam Insulation, Concrete Piers, Rock Wool Insulation
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Is a Two Story Barndominium Possible?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/15/2022Is a Two Story Barndominium Possible? Reader BROGEN from HOUGHTON LAKE writes: “I’m looking to build a 40×60 pole barn dominium with the whole downstairs being a garage space except 10 foot off the back wall making the total garage space a 40×50 and having a 10×40 space walled in for stairs and a storage/mud […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building Comparisons, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Budget, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Questions, Barndominium, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: Pole Barn, Barndomimium Kits, Post Frame Building, Stick Built Construction Costs, Barndominium, Multi-story Pole Barn
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Adding Solar to Your Barndominium
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/01/2022Benefits of Adding Solar To Your Barndominium Solar energy is taking off in a big way, both here and worldwide. There are around 2.7 million residential solar panels installed in the United States, and solar trends continue to grow as people become more interested in energy alternatives. If you’re considering building a post frame barndominium […]
Read more- Categories: Barndominium, Shouse, Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Building Department, Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home
- Tags: Solar, Solar Energy System, Energy Star Rated Appliances, Solar Panels, UV Blocking, Barndominium, Smart Thermostat, Post Frame Home Kits, Homeowner's Association
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Information on Codes and Shouses
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/30/2022Information 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Shouse, Professional Engineer
- Tags: IECC, International Residential Code, Post-Frame, Shouse, Pole Barn, Planning Department, Building Codes, Setbacks, IBC, Codes, IRC, Barndominium, Zoning
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Calculate the Basic Stats
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/19/2022Calculate The Basic Stats: by Mike Momb, Technical Director, Hansen Pole Buildings, LLC Basic Stats for Post-Frame Home Floor Plans If there is a single commonality among us humans, it is this – we are dimensionally challenged. This situation is even more so crucial when it comes to planning your new post-frame home. Here […]
Read more- Categories: Columns, Lumber, Post Frame Home, Insulation, Barndominium, Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Building Contractor, Trusses
- Tags: Finished Ceiling, Splash Plank, Glulams, Sheetrock, Roof System Thickness, Staircase, Insulation Bookshelf Girts
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Laminated Columns
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 07/14/2022What every post-frame builder should know about laminated columns By Sharon Thatcher (Frame Building News January 2021) The single most important element to a building’s foundation is its columns. They’re the legs that hold the building upright. As post frame has evolved, it’s only natural that methods to improve the strength of those legs would […]
Read moreYou Can’t Build it Here Part II
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/16/2022You Can’t Build It Here Part II If you missed part I, go back two days to find it. Continuing on… Post frame homes can save thousands of dollars in excavation, footing and foundation forming and concrete costs inherent to stick framing. This is due to use of isolated widely spaced wood columns either embedded […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home, Building Styles and Designs, Barndominium, Building Department, Shouse, Shouse, Pole Buildings History, Pole Barn Structure
- Tags: Post-Frame, Stick Frame, Pole Building, Fully Engineered Post Frame Home, Code Conforming Structural Building System, Pole Barn, Planning And Zoning Departments, Fully Engineered Building, Barndominium
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You Can’t Build it Here Part I
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/14/2022You Can’t Build It Here When I first began selling pole barn kits in Oregon, back in 1980, they were almost universally no permit required farm buildings. As our service area expanded into states such as California and Nevada, engineering was required in most instances, however there was never a concern about a pole building […]
Read more- Categories: Building Contractor, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Design, Post Frame Home, Pole Building Comparisons, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Shouse
- Tags: Stick Frame, Barndominium, Building Inspectors, International Residential Code, Architects, Shouse, Pole Building, Building Department, IRC
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Basic Stats for Post Frame Home Floor Plans
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/07/2022Basic Stats for Post Frame Home Floor Plans If there is a single commonality among us humans it is this – we are dimensionally challenged. This situation is even more so crucial when it comes to planning your new post frame home. Here are a few tips to help you out: EAVE HEIGHT Measure from […]
Read more- Categories: Columns, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Building How To Guides, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Trusses
- Tags: Bookshelf Girts, Eight Foot Finished Ceiling, Eave Height, Roof System Thickness, Glulams, Truss Heel Height, Roof Purlins, Exterior Grade, Ceiling Height, Insulation, Wood Floor Trusses, Splash Plank, Finished Ceilings
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Insulating an Apartment in a Steel Truss Pole Barn
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/02/2022Insulating an Apartment in a Steel Truss Pole Barn Reader JONATHAN in AUGUSTA writes: “First of all, thank you for having a wonderful resource put together in one place for fellow DIYers such as myself. I am currently in the process of constructing a 30x60x11 pole barn. So far I have the roof put up; […]
Read more- Categories: Shouse, Shouse, Ventilation, Sheds, Pole Barn Homes, Insulation, Workshop Buildings, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Pole Barn Structure
- Tags: Condensation, Type X Sheetrock, Ventilation, Exhaust Fan, Sheetrock, Unfaced Rock Wool Batts, Ceiling Joists
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Barndominium Plans Before Land?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/31/2022Barndominium Plans Before Land? Unlike chicken or egg coming first, barndominium floor plans should come second, after a place to build has been determined. Reader STEVE in MILWAUKEE writes: “I am interested in developing plans for the barndo-square with internal courtyard. I don’t have the land for it bought yet, so is it a waste […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Building Contractor, Budget, Professional Engineer, Barndominium
- Tags: Building Designer, Floor Plans And Elevations, Barndo-builder, Building Plans, Slab Foundation, Elevation Drawings, Wind Pressure, Floor Plans, Barndominium
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Floor Plans vs. Structural Building Plans
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/26/2022Floor Plans vs. Structural Building Plans Floor (architectural) plans and structural building plans are two completely different animals and should not be confused with each other. Architectural plans show what your home will look like, structural plans detail skeletal aspects and structural stability. In jurisdictions requiring structural plan reviews and inspections floor plans only will […]
Read more- Categories: Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes, Barndominium, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, floorplans
- Tags: Floor Plans; Structural Building Plans, Registered Design Professional, Architect, International Residential Code, Barndominium Plans, Elevation Drawings
- 2 comments
Hart and Home YouTube Episode IV-The Final Chapter
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/05/2022Hart and Home YouTube – Episode IV The Final Chapter If you missed our previous episodes, please go to bottom of this article, on left, and click on arrow thrice to go to Hart and Home YouTube – Episode I. Moving forward: While individual results may vary, our clients have generally had good experiences using […]
Read more- Categories: Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Structure, Barndominium, Steel Roofing & Siding, Shouse, Trusses, Fasteners, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Ceiling Joists, J Chanel, Splash Plank, Integral J Channel, Ceiling Loaded Trusses, F Trim, F And J Trim, Kevin Hart, Integral Condensation Control
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Personal Storage, Additional Height, and Floor Plans
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/04/2022This week the Pole Barn Guru addresses a concern about personal items being ruined by storing them in an unfinished pole building, the need for an additional two feet of interior height, and floor plans for designing a post frame home. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello- not sure if you can answer this but hoping […]
Read more- Categories: Barndominium, Ventilation, Shouse, Rebuilding Structures, Shouse, Building Interior, floorplans, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Homes, Building Styles and Designs, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Post Frame Home
- Tags: Registered Design Professional, Pole Barn Storage, Floor Plans, Personal Storage, Interior Height, Post Frame Home, Post Frame House
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Hart and Home Youtube Episode III
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/03/2022Hart and Home YouTube – Episode III If you missed our previous episodes, please go to bottom of this article, on left, and click on arrow twice to go to Hart and Home YouTube – Episode I. Moving forward: For those following along at home: Some discussion will be made here about “allowable defects” in […]
Read more- Categories: Post Frame Home, Lumber, Barndominium, Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Trusses, Columns, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Checks, Knots, Lumber Twist, Holes, Wane, Lumber Defects, Bow, Crook, Timbers, End Splits
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Post Frame Building Doors-Coil or Sectional?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/19/2022Post Frame Building Doors – Coil or Sectional? In my 40 plus years of post frame buildings, I have provided tens of thousands of overhead steel sectional doors and not so many coil roll-up doors. Where we park our vehicles is pretty darn importantish for us Americans. Our garages and shops serve as a unique […]
Read more- Categories: Overhead Doors, Barndominium, Shouse, Pole Building Comparisons, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Building Doors
- Tags: Shops, Coiling Overhead Door, Overhead Door Insulation, Garages, Self Storage, Coil Overhead Door, Sectional Overhead Door, Post Frame Building, Rolling Steel Doors, Overhead Rolling Door
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Building Over Existing Slab, Blueprints for House, and Pole Building Finance
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/09/2022This week the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about building over or on an existing slab or concrete, whether of not Hansen sells “just the blueprints” for a pole barn/house, and lending for a pole building set on foundation/footing/wall. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: In Arkansas, I want to build a pole barn (or similar) […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Concrete, Shouse, Footings, floorplans, Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Homes, Building Department, Constructing a Pole Building
- Tags: Shouse, Construction Loan, Pole Barn Financing, Motor Home Storage, Blueprints, Floor Plans, Existing Slab
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Retro Installing Windows in a Spray Foamed Post Frame Building
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/08/2022Retro 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Post Frame Home, About The Pole Barn Guru, Pole Building How To Guides, Barndominium, Steel Roofing & Siding, Shouse, Windows, Building Interior, Budget, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Closed Cell Spray Foam, Spray Foam, Sherman Pole Building, Gas Filled Low E Windows, J Trim Attached, J Channel
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Boral Steel Stone Coated Roofing
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/03/2022Boral Steel® Stone Coated Roofing Boral Steel® Stone Coated Roofing is manufactured from Galvalume® steel, then coated with stone granules applied with acrylic polymer adhesives. Result is a lightweight (1.5 psf – pounds per square foot) durable and cost-effective roofing system offering superior strength of steel and is ideal for new post frame barndominium or […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building Comparisons, Roofing Materials, Shouse, Steel Roofing & Siding, Shouse, Post Frame Home, Barndominium
- Tags: Shouse, Recycled Roofing, Boral Steel, Wind Load, Boral Steel Stone Coated Roofing, Galvalume, Shake, Barndominium, Slate, Galvalume Steel, Tile, Shingle Roofing, Ice Damming, Hailstorms
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Rock Solid, Living Quarters, and Better Get an RDP
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/02/2022Today 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 […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Building Interior, Lumber, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Heating, Building Department, Constructing a Pole Building, Shouse, Pole Barn Structure
- Tags: Moisture Barrier, Rough-sawn Lumber, Own Lumber, Insulation, U-brackets, Structural Design, Registered Design Professional
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Will My Minnesota Shouse Require Frost Footings?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/25/2022Will My Minnesota Shouse Require Frost Footings? Reader CHAD in JANESVILLE writes: “I am planning on building a shouse or barndominium some may call. I am doing 5″ cement with a heated floor throughout. My hope was not to bury any poles but to anchor them on top of the slap. Do you recommend front […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Concrete, Shouse, Footings, Shouse, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Barndominium, Post Frame House, Frost Protected Shallow Foundation, Wet Set Brackets, Shouse, Insulation R Value, Concrete Piers, Frost Line
- 3 comments
A Walk-Out, A Shouse, and Spray Foam Insulation
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/12/2022This Wednesday the Pole Barn Guru addresses reader questions about the possibility of Hansen designing a walk-out basement, building a Shouse, and a consideration of spray foam insulation. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do you do walkout basement? DIANE in WARRENTON DEAR DIANE: Absolutely we can provide your barndominium with a walkout (daylight) basement: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2020/02/barndominium-on-a-daylight-basement/ We […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Heating, Pole Barn Questions, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse
- Tags: Walkout Basement, Heated Shop, Post Frame Home, Shouse, Spray Foam, Shop House
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My Barndominium Attic Has Moisture Issues!
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/06/2022My Barndominium Attic Has Moisture Issues! Reader DAVID in CHICAGO writes: “Greetings – I’ve got a pole barn style home that’s about 2.5 years old and I’m having moisture issues in the attic. Hoping I can talk with someone to get a consult or second opinion to resolve as quickly as possible. Let me know […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Shouse, Ventilation, Pole Barn Homes, Insulation, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: Condensation, Metal Roof, R50 Attic Insulation, Metal Roof Condensation, Ridge Vent, Barndominium, Integral Condensation Control, Closed Cell Spray Foam Insulation
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Hiring Laborers
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/28/2021Hiring Laborers/Contractors to Perform Work on Your Building Not everyone wants or is capable to perform all the labor involved to erect a new building. This pertains to any trade or type of building system. From www.TheIndianaLawyer.com: “A construction worker injured in a building collapse was, in fact, an independent contractor, the Court of Appeals […]
Read moreStorage Barn to Dwelling
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/14/2021Storage Barn to Dwelling Reader JD in FAIRPLAY writes: “I have read over your blogs & my head is spinning. However, you obviously know your stuff. My question is this, do you have a trusted company or guy who can help me design & build a 30x60x16 RV garage that will meet the requirements of […]
Read moreIs Fiberglass Insulation a Carcinogen?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/09/2021Is Fiberglass Insulation a Carcinogen? We live in a world fraught with unseen perils (COVID-19 anyone?), however fiberglass building insulation is probably not one of them. When it comes to fully engineered post frame barndominiums and homes, we all just want our clients to be safe and happy. I went to an expert on this […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Shouse, Insulation, Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation
- Tags: Insulation Outlook, North American Insulation Manufacturers Association, Biosoluble Fiber, IARC, National, Fiberglass Insulation, National Toxicology Program, Glass Wool Fibers
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Hanging Single Hung Windows to Slide Horizontally
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/07/2021Hanging Single-Hung Windows to Slide Horizontally You order a 4’ x 4’ sliding window for your new post frame building or barndominium. Depending upon your geographical location, you will assume this window opens up-and-down (Eastern U.S.) or side-to-side (Western U.S.). Well, we all know what happens when we assume. It is critical to clearly understand […]
Read moreBarndominium Closed Cell Spray Foam
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/02/2021Barndominium Closed Cell Spray Foam – and Rodents Closed cell spray foam applied directly to steel roofing and siding can be a great product for controlling condensation, achieving an air tight barndominium and at R-7 per inch is a great insulation solution. So good, I strongly encourage its use, especially for those buildings in Climate […]
Read moreInsulation Prep, Foundation and Footing Prep, and USDA Programs
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/01/2021Today’s Pole Barn Guru tackles reader questions about plans to insulate and preparations ahead of insulating, recommendation for framing and footing an apartment to prevent movement, and if the PBG knows whether or not the USDA programs apply to post frame homes. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am currently constructing my Hansen provided pole building, […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Building Styles and Designs, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Concrete, Footings, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Footings, House Wrap, Weather Resistant Barrier, Foundation, Building Movement, Insulation, Loans, Frost Heave, USDA Loans
- 4 comments
Designing to Withstand a Hurricane
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/11/2021Loyal blog reader and video watcher DANIEL in SULPHUR writes: “What practices are best for increasing wind rating of a post frame building? My goal is to build a post frame home to withstand 150+ mph winds. I live on the gulf coast and hurricanes are a serious threat, I know I can’t make my […]
Read moreA Barndominium Challenge
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/09/2021A 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 […]
Read moreSyracuse, Nebraska Approves Shouses!
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/04/2021Syracuse, Nebraska Approves Shouses! Syracuse, Nebraska was laid out in 1869 when it was certain railroads would be extended to it. With a population of roughly 2000, Syracuse is pretty well smack dab centered in Nebraska, in Otoe county. While Syracuse might be small in numbers, they are forward thinking in following what is trending […]
Read more- Categories: Sheds, Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Shouse, Shouse, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Shop, House, Barndominium, Shouse, Patty Bucholz, News Channel Nebraska, Pinterest
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Unheated Post Frame Building Slabs on Grade
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/01/2021Are Unheated Post Frame Building Slabs on Grade Required to Be Frost Protected? Reader BILL in CLAYTON writes: “I’m in early planning for a post frame garage – just over 1000 sf but will reduce it if it solves a code problem for “private garages” in IBC. Ignoring that, where does the code permit a […]
Read more- Categories: Concrete, Footings, Pole Barn Homes, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Building Department, Shouse, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: International Building Code, Slab On Grade, Risk Category II, Concrete Piers, Frost Protected, Detached Accessory Building, Wet Set Brackets, International Energy Code
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How to Pour a Slab on Grade
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/29/2021How to Pour a Slab on Grade in an Existing Barndominium Reader PAUL writes: “I have an opportunity to purchase a barndominium that has the posts set in 20” wide 40” deep peers. Unfortunately the county where this is located does not require a footing. All city codes in this area require an 8”X 36” […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Concrete, Post Frame Home, Insulation, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Building How To Guides, Shouse
- Tags: International Energy Conservation Code, Vapor Barrier, Climate Zones, Splash Plank, R-10 Rigid Insulation, Concrete Slab, No. 200 Sieve, Barndominium, Modified Proctor Density, Termiticide
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How to Properly Design a Barndominium Wood Floor Over a Crawl Space
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/10/2021How To Properly Design a Barndominium Wood Floor Over a Crawl Space Reader JERRY in HAWESVILLE writes: “If one were to build a post frame home on a crawlspace and the floor joists were sitting on a 3 ply 2×10 center beam on post spaced 8-10 feet apart, how does one support the joists at […]
Read more- Categories: Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Professional Engineer, Columns, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Registered Professional Engineer, Building Code Deflection Limitations, Wood Floor, Interior Floor Beams, Column Footings, Floor Joists
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Vaulted Barndominium Ceilings
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/08/2021I Like Vaulted Barndominium Ceilings When I built my first personal post frame shop/house, it had a 7/12 exterior roof slope, to match other buildings on the same property. Upper level of this building was designed as an area where we would potentially place a ping pong table. To allow for lobs, I had prefabricated […]
Read more- Categories: Building Interior, Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, About The Pole Barn Guru, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Trusses
- Tags: Second Story Space, Standard Room Framing, Ranch Rambler, Scissor Trusses, Barndominium, Vaulted Ceiling, Tray Ceiling
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Driver Bits, a Big Room, and Overhead Door Space
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 09/06/2021This week the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about driver bits, the ability to build one big room, and the ability to place a 14′ tall overhead garage door in a building with 14′ sidewalls. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Just read a post you had in 2013 that Hansen supplier uses high quality screws. Getting […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Pole Building How To Guides, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, tools, Pole Barn Homes, Sectional Doors, Overhead Doors, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: Shouse, Driver Bits, Master Surface Magnetic Drive Bits, Overhead Garage Door Size, OHD Space, Post Frame House, Clear Span Building
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Better Entry Level Barndominium Buyers
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/20/2021Better Entry-Level Barndominiums Thanks to John Burns Real Estate Consulting for providing content data. US’s largest age group today is 27 to 31 years old. My three adult children are now 31, 27 and 26, pretty well hitting right in there. With the median age of an entry-level buyer at 33 (according to National Association […]
Read moreBarndominium Questions
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/18/2021Questions About a Pole Barndominium Reader PAYTON in CANTON writes: “I have a few questions regarding building a pole barn/barndominium. 1. Do you offer any model homes we can explore? 2. Can we set up a consultation to discuss our options as far as building/kits? 3. What is the lead time for purchasing a kit? […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Homes, Barndominium, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Building Comparisons, Shouse, About The Pole Barn Guru, Building Department, Pole Barn Planning, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Barndominium, Fire Suppression Sprinklers, Shouse, Barndominium Plans, Structural Blueprints, Sprinklers
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Open Web Wood Floor Trusses
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/13/2021Prefabricated Open-Web Wood Floor Trusses in Your Future? Use of open-web floor trusses has steadily increased over this past decade, but there’s a lot of room to grow. Ed Huston from Home Innovation Research Labs (HIRL) recently shared some results from their April 2021 Builder Best Practice Reports on Structural Systems, containing survey results from […]
Read moreHome Addition, Combo Building, and Moisture Barriers
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 08/02/2021This week the PBG answers reader questions about a post frame addition to a house, a combo business/residential building, and use of a vapor barrier. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We bought an older ranch house with a poorly done addition in the back. Since this dream property came with a house that prevents me building […]
Read moreContract Sales Tax and Financing
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/30/2021Disclaimer – this and subsequent articles on this subject are not intend to be legal advice, merely an example for discussions between you and your legal advisor. Please keep in mind, many of these terms are applicable towards post frame building kits and would require edits for cases where a builder is providing erection services […]
Read moreGood Fences Make Good Neighbors
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 06/04/2021Good Fences Make Good Neighbors Robert Frost’s 1914 poem Mending Wall began this proverb. Good fences do indeed help make good neighbors. A good fence is a line of mutual respect and understanding with minimal ambiguities. A good fence is a mutually-agreed upon boundary, with implied and explicit responsibilities for both sides to maintain and […]
Read moreIs Western SPF at $2000 Just Around the Corner?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/28/2021Is Western SPF at $2000 Just Around the Corner? Originally Published by: Russ Taylor Global by Russ Taylor, President — May 4, 2021 In late July 2020 I wrote an article in the WOOD MARKETS Monthly Report (my last-ever editorial) where I posed the question if W-SPF 2×4 #2&Better Random Lengths (FOB BC Mill) lumber could achieve the US$1,000/Mbf threshold […]
Read more- Categories: Shouse, Lumber, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Buildings History, Trusses, Budget, Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home, Barndominium
- Tags: Russ Taylor Global, Russ Taylor, Wood Markets Monthly Report, W-SPF, Logistics Providers, British Columbia Lumber Industry, Pine Beetle Epidemic, Layman's Lumber Guide
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Concrete Slabs on Grade for Cold Climates
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/26/2021Concrete Slabs on Grade for Cold Climates My lovely bride and I have a shouse (shop/house) in Northeast South Dakota, where it can tend to get chilly in Winter. Reader TERRI in DULUTH is in a similar situation and writes: “What type of slab for cold climates do you recommend?” Well Terri, thank you for […]
Read more- Categories: Concrete, Footings, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn holes, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse
- Tags: IECC, Climate Zone, Building Site Preparation, Insulation Minimum R-Values, Engineered Building Plans, Ask The Pole Barn Guru, Site Preparation, International Energy Conservation Code
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Post Frame Homes
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/21/2021Post Frame Homes – Coming Soon to a Neighborhood Near You After providing or building post frame (pole) buildings for over 40 years, one might think there would be very few things coming as a surprise to me. Well…..SURPRISE! Barndominiums and shop houses are no surprise to me at all. I first built one for […]
Read more- Categories: About The Pole Barn Guru, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Planning, Barndominium, Pole Barn Structure, Shouse, Building Contractor, Shouse, Alternate Siding, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Building Contractor, Spiral Staircase, Bonus Room, Lake Havasu, Barndominium, Attic Trusses, Post Frame Home
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What Surging Lumber Prices Have Done to Barndominiums
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/19/2021What Surging Lumber Prices Have Done to Barndominiums Based upon NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) data from April 26, 2021 According to NAHB’s latest estimates, a year of rising softwood lumber has added $35,872 to an average new single-family home’s price. These estimates are based on softwood lumber used directly and embodied in products going into […]
Read more- Categories: Porches, Columns, Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home, Lumber, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Shouse, Building Contractor, Trusses, Alternate Siding, Budget
- Tags: National Association Of Home Builders, Builder Practices Survey, Home Innovation Research Labs, Random Lengths, Annual Wholesale Trade Tables
- 3 comments
Human Habitation Prohibited
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/14/2021Human Habitation Prohibited “Please be aware that the Land Development Code and adopted Building Codes prohibit the human occupancy of any Accessory Building. This means that buildings such as metal buildings, pole barns, tool sheds, garages, or any other accessory structures shall not be constructed or used for human occupancy. Accessory Buildings are not constructed […]
Read moreRain-screen Siding for Post Frame Barndominiums
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 05/06/2021Horizontal exterior sidings like wood clapboards, vinyl, and fiber cement have traditionally been nailed directly to underlying sheathing, typically over a water-resistant underlayment of asphalt felt or some sort of housewrap. This is still common practice, but over the past few decades, a more labor-intensive technique known as rain-screen siding has been steadily gaining ground. […]
Read moreWhere Should You Place Your Pole Building?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/16/2021Where Should You Place Your Pole Building? Today’s guest blog comes from an expert in pole buildings, Lauren Groff. Pole buildings are perfect for so many applications, from sheltering animals to housing your very own hobby shop. Whatever you want to use it for, you need just the right place for it. There’s more to […]
Read moreInsulation Addition, A Clear Span Monitor, and Post Frame Code
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 04/05/2021This week the Pole Barn Guru discusses adding insulation to an existing building, building a monitor style building with a large clear span main level, and a building official misinforming a potential client. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I currently have a 30×50 Wick building on some property which I purchased last May. The building is […]
Read more- Categories: Trusses, Ventilation, Insulation, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, Workshop Buildings, Pole Barn Design, Building Department, Shouse, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Building Officials, Moisture Barrier, Monitor Style Buildings, Insulation, Building Codes
- 4 comments
Rascally Rodents
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/19/2021Rascally Rodents Rodents, such as rats and house mice cause serious damage to structures of barndominiums, shop/houses and other buildings. These rascally rodents can cause grief with any structural system – not just post frame buildings. While rodents are notorious for their consumption and contamination of feed, rodent damage to insulation raises heating and cooling […]
Read morePermaColumns, Pole Barn Planning, and Insulating a Roof
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/15/2021This Monday the Pole Barn Guru discusses the use of PermaColumns, planning of a pole barn in Florida, and the best solution for a building without roof or exterior wall weather resistant barriers. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am having a pole building put up with engineered laminated columns. The contractor is pushing a “Perma […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Structure, Ventilation, Building Interior, Professional Engineer, Columns, Insulation, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, Shouse, Pole Building How To Guides
- Tags: Permacolumn, Insulation, Pole Barn Planning, Weather Resistant Barrier, Glulaminated Column
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Post Frame Barndominium Exterior Wall
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/10/2021Post Frame Barndominium Exterior Wall Questions Reader IAN in RIDGWAY writes: “I am looking for help understanding a couple of exterior wall questions. My county is enforcing the 2018 IECC for energy efficiency. In my region this requires R-20 cavity + R-5 exterior wall assembly. From everything I’ve read, this means a continuous layer of […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Pole Building Siding, Post Frame Home, Lumber, Barndominium, Insulation, Shouse, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Building How To Guides
- Tags: Roxul, International Energy Conservation Code, 2018 IECC, BIBS Insulation, 1" Rigid Insulation, Post Frame Construction, Cuprinol #10, Unfaced Batt Insulation, Weather Resistant Barrier, Copper Naphthenate Solution
- 2 comments
Thoughts When Considering Building a Barndominium
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/05/2021Thoughts When Considering Building a Barndominium If you are reading this, you are probably somewhere between, “Living in a barndominium would be really cool” and “I wish I would have done…..” This is not meant to be a 100% comprehensive list, but may give some food for thought. The Importance of Location When it comes […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Planning, Lofts, Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Shouse, Shouse, Pole Barn Design, About The Pole Barn Guru
- Tags:
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Barndominium Building on Solid Ground
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/04/2021For many, a new barndominium is looked upon as being a ‘forever’ home. This is an opportunity to have a floor plan custom crafted to meet all sorts of family wants and needs – whether it is a huge country kitchen or shop space big enough to house a fleet of classic vehicles. It is […]
Read moreFire Separation When Living With Large Animals
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 03/03/2021Fire Separation When Living With Large Animals While barndominiums and shop houses have become quite a rage, for years we have been providing fully engineered post frame buildings combining animals (most often horses) with living spaces (usually as a full or partial second floor). Along with this come some perhaps unexpected design considerations. Reader LISA […]
Read moreBlog 2000
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/23/20212000 Thank you to loyal readers who have made this blog a success – today marks 2000 blog articles written and shared! It could not have been done without your continued support and encouragement. Back in December 2015, I shared a milestone of reaching 1000 articles, and thought it was a very big number (https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2015/12/1000/). […]
Read more- Categories: Budget, Professional Engineer, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Building Comparisons, Post Frame Home, About The Pole Barn Guru, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Building Contractor, Shouse
- Tags: Fully Engineered Post Frame Homes, Hansen Pole Buildings, Barndominium, Hansen Buildings Construction Manual, Shouse, Post Frame Construction, Stick Framing
- 1 comments
Looking for a Place for a New Barndominium
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/19/2021Looking for a Place for a New Barndominium Reader PATTI in MINNESOTA writes: “My husband and I are knocking around the idea of doing a Barndominium. We need a 4-5 car garage space and we can barely afford a traditional preloved home that has a 3-car garage which will require us to add another stall […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Building Department, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Building Siding, Post Frame Home, Barndominium
- Tags: Shouse, Setbacks, Single Family Home, Planning Department, Fully Engineered Post Frame Construction, Barndominium, Post Frame Home, Cladding
- 2 comments
Market News: OSB Shortage
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/18/2021Market News: Oriented Strandboard Shortages We are now living in a world of COVID induced product shortages – from commodities such as toilet paper, paper towels and cleaning products to simple things such as McCormick Thick and Zesty Spaghetti Sauce Mix. When it comes to building products, it is not unheard of to have to […]
Read moreFloored By A Barndominium Elevator
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/17/2021Recently I have penned a couple of articles about elevators (yes plural, we have two) in our Northeast South Dakota post frame shop/house. Certainly not every barndominium needs an elevator, but if you have more than one level, there is a better than fair chance someone with mobility challenges will be unable to access portions […]
Read moreA Shortlist for Smooth Barndominium Sailing
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/16/2021Every builder worth his or her salt is busy right now – there is a far greater demand for builders, than there are builders to fill needs. This makes builder’s time extremely valuable. There are some things you can do to make for smooth sailing when shopping for and/or dealing with contractors. #1 Have a […]
Read moreBarndominium Electrical Outlets
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/12/2021Barndominium Electrical Outlets No matter how many electrical outlets I plan for, it feels as if there were never enough where I really need them. There are some basic minimum rules, however when planning your barndominium or shop/house – think about places you might need more than these requirements. It is much easier to have […]
Read moreAdvanTech®
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/09/2021AdvanTech® Christina reached out to me on social networking and asked: “Hello, always look forward to your advice and I ran across something I didn’t find on the Hansen website. AdvanTech flooring as an alternative to OSB or plywood. Thoughts?” While I have successfully utilized AdvanTech subflooring myself, rather than reinventing a wheel, today’s expert […]
Read moreFull Size Elevator for Judy
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/05/2021Raising Judy Disclaimer: This article has nothing to do with Coen Brothers’ 1987 film Raising Arizona (starring my lovely bride’s favorite Nicolas Cage and Holly Hunter). Yesterday’s story left Judy crammed into a pneumatic elevator tube on an airplane transfer chair. It wasn’t long before we had to arrive at a better (and safer) solution. […]
Read morePneumatic Vacuum Elevators for Barndominiums
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/04/2021Thank you to my friend John Lyle who encouraged me to write about elevators. As a child, I was fascinated by going through bank drive thrus with our mother as she made bank deposits. Why? Because Mother could fill up a clear plastic cylinder with her deposit, push a button and it was whisked away […]
Read moreLong-Span Truss Installation Guidance for Post-Frame
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 02/03/2021Long-Span Truss Installation Guidance for Post-Frame Originally published by: Construction Magazine Network(link is external) — January 18, 2021 The following article was produced and published by the source linked to above, who is solely responsible for its content. Hansen Pole Buildings, LLC is publishing this story to raise awareness of information publicly available online and […]
Read more- Categories: Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Shouse, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Trusses, Professional Engineer
- Tags: Strongbacking, Strong Back, Trusses, Sean Shields, Jim Vogt, Truss Plates, Long-span Wood Roof Trusses, "spaghetti Effect", Metal Plate Connected Wood Roof Trusses, Engineer
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Barndominium on Expansive Soils
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/29/2021Post Frame Barndominium Building on Expansive Soils. When I was a 1990’s post frame building contractor we trained our sales team to be diligent in looking at soil cuts near where our potential clients were considering erecting new post frame buildings. These cuts could tell us much about what was happening below the surface and […]
Read moreWood I-Joists for Your Barndominium
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/21/2021With many barndominiums being multi-storied, or at least having lofts or mezzanines, there are several methods of structural support. These would include dimensional lumber, wood trusses and I-joists. In our own post frame barndominium, we utilized I-joists as rafters for both side sheds. They are also floor joists for my lovely bride’s mezzanine sewing loft […]
Read more- Categories: About The Pole Barn Guru, Shouse, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Pole Barn Homes, Lumber, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium
- Tags: IRC, Wood Webs, Flanges, Joist Hangers, Rim Joists, Barndominium, Squash Blocks, Wood Beams, International Residential Code, Wood Cladding, I Joists, Web Stiffeners, OSB I-joist Webs
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Wide Clearspan Barndominium Floors
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/19/2021Wide Clearspan Barndominium Floors Multi-story post frame barndominiums are embracing a great feature found in better stick framed homes – engineered prefabricated wood floor trusses. Loyal reader RICK in MONTICELLO writes: “First off, thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience in the blog and answering questions regarding post frame construction with us laymen! It is […]
Read moreSteeply Sloped Post Frame Roofs
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/14/2021With fully engineered post frame buildings becoming a popular barndominium design solution, future home owners are looking for more variety in their builds. Loyal reader KEITH in MADISON is one of these and writes: “Thanks very much for all the work you do to make this website such a treasure trove of information! Online, I […]
Read moreHemp Based Barndominium Insulation
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/05/2021I try to keep my eyes open for new products available for post frame barndominium construction. Hemp based insulation might be of interest to some. Disclaimer: I have never used this product and it appears to currently be a challenge to source it. Hempitecture, based in Ketchum, Idaho, in conjunction with their material processing and […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home, Barndominium, Shouse, Insulation, Pole Building Comparisons, Pole Barn Planning, Budget
- Tags: HempWool, Hemp Fiber, Insulation, Fiberglass, Barndominium
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Shouse Dimensions, UK Plans, and Chance of Tear-out
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 01/04/2021Kicking off 2021 Mike answers reader questions about standard dimensions of a shouse, pole barn plans in the UK, and the chances a building official will force buyer of a converted building to remove non-permitted work. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Was wondering if there are standard lengths/widths, such as 30 x 40 vs 36 x […]
Read moreHow a Realtor Can Participate With Post-frame Barndominiums
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/31/2020Reader (and Realtor) JIM in NEW PALISTINE writes: “How can I participate in the post-frame industry as a Realtor? How do people develop their custom residential interior designs? How are residential pole barn projects coordinated A-Z? Okay, that was three. Can you help me, please?” Mike the Pole Barn Guru responds: Post frame […]
Read moreTubular Skylights for Barndominiums
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/24/2020Tube Skylights for Barndominiums Reader EMANUAL in SPRINGDALE writes: “Read your article about skylights, but what about Tube skylights?” Mike the Pole Barn Guru says: Bringing natural light into a post frame building is a relatively easy prospect, provided the room is adjacent to at least one exterior wall. Windows and glass doors have been […]
Read moreWind Damage, Screw Piles, and Building on Stilts
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/21/2020This week the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about repairing or replacing a wind damaged structure with help of a Registered Design Professional, the use if Screw Piles instead of embedded columns, and an inquiry about a post frame structure for home and shop built on “stilts.” DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I own a pole […]
Read moreQuestion About a Pole Building Under Construction
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/16/2020If you are like me, when you hire a professional to do professional work, you expect them to be experts and to do things correctly. Few things in life upset me more than when a builder gives a client a great price and then cuts corners in order to make a profit. Facebooker CHRIS in […]
Read moreMust Do’s for a Worry Free Barndominium
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/08/2020My Facebook friend RICK in MALDEN messaged me: “I have never built a building like this. I have seen many bad experiences with concrete, poor quality metal work and many more issues. I would just like to know if there is a list of things to make sure I get a quality home. I saw […]
Read more- Categories: Roofing Materials, Barndominium, Constructing a Pole Building, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Steel Roofing & Siding, Building Contractor, Ventilation, Insulation, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, About The Pole Barn Guru, Building Overhangs, Post Frame Home
- Tags: Roll In Shower, Curb Appeal, Walk-in Pantry, Bandominium, Overhangs, Slope Of Site, BIB Insulation, Integral Condensation Control, ADA Bathroom, Slab On Grade, Building Site Prep
- 2 comments
Build on a Slope, Joist Hangers, and the Future of Post Frame
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/07/2020This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about building on a slope with use of embedded columns or brackets on piers, the proper installation of joist hangers, and the Guru’s vision of the future of post frame construction. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Because of the 16% slope, I will be using concrete piers & […]
Read moreDo You, or Anyone Else You Trust, Build In or Near (fill in the blank)?
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/04/2020This question was put forth by reader TARILYNN in FREEDOM. It (or a similar variant) also gets posted roughly 10 to 20 times daily in various social media groups. I spent most of a decade as a registered General Contractor in multiple states. At times we would have as many as 35 crews erecting buildings […]
Read more- Categories: Post Frame Home, About The Pole Barn Guru, Barndominium, Shouse, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Building Contractor, Pole Barn Homes, Workshop Buildings, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: DIY Pole Buildings, 24" X 36" Blueprints, Step By Step Installation Manual, Construction Manual, Barndominium Plans, General Contractor, Blueprints
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How Best to Use Metal Building Insulation
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/03/2020How To Best Use Metal Building Insulation Loyal reader ANDY in SOUTH CAROLINA writes: “ I read with interest the article “What house wrap is good for” on your website and would like to include house wrap on a pole building I’m currently planning to build in the upstate of South Carolina. Typically builders in […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building Comparisons, Building Department, Post Frame Home, Pole Building How To Guides, Barndominium, Steel Roofing & Siding, Shouse, Pole Building Siding, Shouse, Insulation, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Questions, RV Storage
- Tags: Weather Resistant Barrier, Fiberglass Insulation, Faced Insulation, Metal Building Insulation, Condensation Control, House Wrap
- No comments
If You Think Red Iron Buildings Are Great
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 12/02/2020If You Thought Red Iron Buildings Are Great Loyal readers, please join me in reaching way back to yesterday’s article espousing great benefits of PEMBs (Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings) aka “red iron” or “bolt up” buildings. If you are planning a new barndominium, shouse (shop/house), shop, etc., and have decided a PEMB is your one and […]
Read more- Categories: Barndominium, Pole Building Comparisons, Shouse, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Pole Building Siding, Columns, Pole Barn Homes, Lumber, Post Frame Home, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: Foundation Plans, Steel Cutting, Welding, Roofing Materials, Freight Charges, Concrete Brackets, Steel Strength To Weight Ratio, DIY Assembly, Three Hour Exterior Wall Fire Rating, Fire Retardant Treated Wood
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Textrafine Insulation, New Steel on Old Steel, and a Residential Conversion
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/30/2020This Monday the Pole Barn Guru answers reader questions about wall insulation and moisture barrier choices, New Steel on top of old steel, and advice on how to find an engineer to convert an existing shop into a residence. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I wrapped my post frame with double bubble with silver foil on […]
Read moreAnswers for Brian’s Barndominium Builder
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/27/2020Answers for Brian’s Barndominium Builder Should you have missed yesterday’s episode, please click back to it using link at bottom of this page – it will make more sense as well as being more entertaining! Hello Brian ~ My Father and his five brothers were all framing contractors, so I was raised in a world […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building How To Guides, Barndominium, Pole Barn Planning, Building Contractor, Shouse, Ventilation, Budget, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Homes, About The Pole Barn Guru, Post Frame Home, Roofing Materials
- Tags: Plywood, Ice And Water Shield, Bookshelf Girts, Vertical Stud Walls, Stick Frame, Winch Boxes, Purlins And Ceiling Joists, Osb Sheathing, Stud Wall Frame, 5/8" CDX Plywood, Closed Cell Spray Foam
- 2 comments
What Hansen Pole Buildings Offers for Prospective Barndominium Owners
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/12/2020What Hansen Pole Buildings Offers for Prospective Barndominium Owners If you are considering building a barndominium or shouse (shop/house), whether DIY or with a contractor’s involvement, there is one very important question to ask: “Do you personally live in a barndominium?” If you do not receive a resounding, “YES” for an answer, you may want […]
Read more- Categories: Building Interior, Shouse, About The Pole Barn Guru, Budget, Building Overhangs, Professional Engineer, Building Department, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Pole Building Siding, Post Frame Home, Building Colors, Barndominium
- Tags: Curb Appeal, Limited Lifetime Structural Warranty, Overhangs, DIY Pole Buildings, Barndominium, The Ultimate Post Frame Experience, Crawl Space, General Contractor, Basement
- 2 comments
Seven Reasons Why Your Next Barndominium Should Be Pole Frame Construction
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/05/2020Today’s blog comes from Don Howe, who is a retired sales executive but has a burning passion for barndominiums. Seven Reasons Why Your Next Barndominium Should Be Pole Frame Construction One of the first design details to consider when building a barndominium is the building process. Most barndominiums are built using a stud frame, steel […]
Read more- Categories: Budget, Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home, Insulation, Barndominium, Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Building Contractor, Ventilation
- Tags: Steel Frame Construction, Steel Frame Building, Stud Wall Construction, Design Flexibility, Post Frame Construction, Greater Durability, Ceiling Insulation, Faster Assembly
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Minimum Steel Substrate Coating
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 11/04/2020Minimum Steel Substrate Coating for Residential Steel Roof Panels When it comes to residential buildings – whether your barndominium or shouse (shop/house) is stick frame (stud walls), post frame, PEMB (pre-engineered metal building) or some other structural system with a steel roof, there is one import aspect of this roofing material frequently overlooked. Substrates Most […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building Siding, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Design, Barndominium, Pole Building Comparisons, Shouse, Building Department, Shouse, Roofing Materials, Pole Barn Planning, Steel Roofing & Siding
- Tags: Corrosion Resistance, Galvalume Warranty, Galvanized Steel, IRC And IBC Substrate Requirements, Galvalume, Galvalume Steel, Galvanized G100, Galvanized G60
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Arnold Puts Moratorium on Barndominiums
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/29/2020Arnold puts moratorium on ‘barndominiums’ This article by Tony Krausz appeared in the Jefferson County, MO “Leader” October 25, 2020 An example of a barndominium. The city of Arnold has temporarily prohibited the construction of “barndominiums,” which typically are metal barn-like structures that include living quarters. City Council members voted 5-0 last month to place […]
Read more- Categories: Shouse, About The Pole Barn Guru, Building Department, Pole Barn Planning, Steel Roofing & Siding, Pole Barn Homes, Barndominium
- Tags: Barndominiums, Moratorium, High Wind Building Codes, Steel Cladded Buildings, High Wind Events, Pole Buildings, Building Codes, International Building Code
- No comments
Air Sealing Your Post Frame Barndominium
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/27/2020Unless someone reincarnates Nikola Tesla (and he is sane) chances are good energy costs are not going to decrease. Air sealing your post frame barndominium or shouse increases your comfort by reducing drafts and cycle time your heating and cooling systems are running. Air sealing your barndominium reduces humidity increasing comfort levels. A drafty barndominium […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Barndominium, Pole Barn Design, Shouse, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning, Steel Roofing & Siding, Pole Barn Homes, Post Frame Home
- Tags: Sill Gaskets, Closed Cell Spray Foam, Closed Cell Spray Foam Insulation, F, WRB, Vapor Barrier, Inside Closure Strips, Air Sealing, R-14 Insulation, Weather Resistant Barrier, Self-adhesive Sealant Tape
- 4 comments
Blower Door Testing Your New Barndominium Part II
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/23/2020Continued from yesterday’s blog; Aside from code compliance or indoor air quality concerns, another reason to get a blower door test is to properly size your furnace or air conditioner. How leaky or tight your barndominium is can change how much heating/humidification or cooling/dehumidification you need. This then ties into how carefully your mechanical system […]
Read more- Categories: Barndominium, Shouse, Shouse, Pole Barn Design, Building Department, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Pole Building Doors, Windows
- Tags: CFM, HERS Rater, International Energy Conservation Code, Indoor Air Quality, Air Leakage Metrics, Cubic Feet Of Air Per Minute, ACH50, Blower Door Testing, Energy Code Testing, Barndominium, HE
- No comments
Vehicle Lifts for Post Frame Buildings
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/21/2020A trending garage accessory is an addition of a garage vehicle lift. Vehicle lifts provide many benefits for your post frame garage or shop than just being able to work on your vehicle. A vehicle lift for your garage is exactly what it sounds like, it will elevate your vehicle so you can either work on […]
Read moreBusting Post Frame Barndominium Myths
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/20/2020Busting Post Frame Barndominium Myths Yep, I have been web surfing again and I came across a stick frame building contractor’s website who obviously either doesn’t understand fully engineered post frame construction, or just frankly doesn’t care to add it to his arsenal of design solutions. My comments are in italics. MYTH #1. MOST BANKS WON’T […]
Read more- Categories: Constructing a Pole Building, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Concrete, Footings, Shouse, Budget, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Homes, Pole Barn Design, Pole Building Comparisons, Barndominium
- Tags: Post Frame Barndominium, Concrete Footers, Construction Loan, Concrete Piers, Double Trusses, Building Code Compliant, Steel Brackets, Barndominium, Footers
- 2 comments
Site Prep,
Posted by The Pole Barn Guru on 10/15/2020Thursday’s edition will tackle three more reader questions. First up is about how level a site must be before erecting a shop, second is about pole barn homes and the many options available, and third is a question about the best method to fix an issue left by a previous builder. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: […]
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