Category Archives: Ventilation
Help Me Insulate My Pole Building
Posted by polebarnguru on 19/03/15 @ 8:00This story is sad, to me. As post frame building “experts” we (an industry collective we) owe it to our clients to educate them at design phase to avoid a situation such as reader ERIC in SPOKANE VALLEY has become happily (or maybe less happy) involved in. Eric writes: “I want to start insulating my […]
Read moreMore Condensation Fun
Posted by polebarnguru on 19/03/13 @ 8:00Long time readers should be thoroughly drenched with solutions to condensation issues by now. As post frame construction has moved off farms and into suburbia, climate control has brought with it a plethora of condensation challenges. Reader KRYSTA in SPOKANE writes: “Hello! I have a pre-existing pole building that I am having a ton of […]
Read moreInsulation, Insulation, Insulation
Posted by polebarnguru on 19/03/11 @ 8:00The Pole Barn Guru discusses the always popular ceiling insulation, vapor barriers with insulation, and closed cell spray foam insulation. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I read your article on unvented roofs. My building has a vapor barrier installed. I am at the point of insulation and plan on doing closed cell spray foam. What would […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Insulation
- Tags: Vapor Barrier, Ceiling Insulation, Close Cell Spray Foam, Insulation
- No comments
Do Vapor Barriers Trap Moisture?
Posted by polebarnguru on 19/02/27 @ 8:00Vapor Barriers Trap Moisture? Do vapor barriers trap moisture in walls of post frame buildings? They can, but only if they are installed on both sides of a wall insulation cavity. Regular readers of this column will recognize a prevailing trend towards climate controlling both new and existing post frame buildings. An ability to control […]
Read moreElectrical Planning, Moisture Issues, and Ceiling Barriers
Posted by polebarnguru on 19/02/25 @ 8:00Today the Pole Barn Guru fields questions on electrical planning, moisture issues, and ceiling barriers. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Good Morning/Evening: I currently have a 36′ wide x 48′ long with 12′ tall ceiling pole barn that I would like wire for lights and outlets. I intend to run main power from the street pole […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Ventilation, Concrete, Pole Barn Homes
- Tags: Ventilation, Electrical Planning, Moisture, Ground Moisture, Plastic Barriers
- No comments
Minimizing Post Frame Ice Dams
Posted by polebarnguru on 19/02/12 @ 8:00Minimizing post frame ice dams November 1996 in Northern Idaho will probably forever be known as “Ice Storm”. About six weeks prior to this event, my construction company had completed a post frame building just south of Sandpoint. When massive snow and ice storms hit, our client kept his new building warm by use of […]
Read moreUnvented Post Frame Attics
Posted by polebarnguru on 19/02/08 @ 8:00Unvented Post Frame Attics Energy efficiency concerns have literally become a “hot” (pun intended) topic in new construction, and post frame construction methods are no exception to inclusion. Traditionally buildings have had insulation placed or blown into dead attic spaces, directly above a ceiling. Unvented attics have entered fray as an alternative. To construct […]
Read moreHow to Reduce Condensation in Post Frame Buildings
Posted by polebarnguru on 19/02/05 @ 8:00How to Reduce Condensation in Post Frame Buildings Condensation occurs when excessive atmospheric water vapor comes into contact with a cold surface. Post frame building condensation will be particularly common in winter time, in regions where temperatures reach dramatic lows, and also in spring and early summer when ground temperatures are still cool but humidity […]
Read moreCrawlspace Skirting, Adding Spray Foam, and Rafters
Posted by polebarnguru on 19/02/04 @ 8:00Today the Pole barn Guru discusses crawlspace skirting, adding spray foam, and building with rafters instead of trusses. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am planning on building a post frame home with a standard wood framed floor structure. It will have a crawlspace below but will not have concrete stem walls. The building site slopes […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Ventilation
- Tags: Pole And Raftered, Insulation, Spray Foam, Rafters, Crawl Spaces, Skirting
- 2 comments
Moving a Building, Moisture Issues, and Siding Options
Posted by polebarnguru on 19/01/28 @ 8:00This week, the Pole Barn Guru discusses moving a building, a building with moisture issues, and siding options other than wainscot. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We have a 50 year old Morton machine shed 45X90X12. The posts and trusses are in excellent condition. The roof steel needs to be re-screwed and painted . The side […]
Read moreFoil Insulation is Not Insulation
Posted by polebarnguru on 19/01/23 @ 8:00Foil Insulation Is Not Insulation Products being incorrectly marketed and sold as “foil insulation” are actually nothing more than a radiant reflective barrier. They are not insulation. I have previously covered this very subject, so will not rank and rail more: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2014/04/reflective-insulation-wars/ Today’s learning article has inspiration in this from reader BOBBY in GRASSTIN who […]
Read moreReader Put Up a Competitor’s Shed
Posted by polebarnguru on 19/01/15 @ 8:00We Put Up a Competitor’s Shed Sadly not everyone does adequate research to realize how outstanding of a value added a Hansen Pole Buildings’ post frame building kit package truly will be. Long time readers of these blog articles (nearly 1600) and questions answered in Monday’s “Ask the Pole Barn Guru™” column (around 1000) have […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Concrete, Sheds, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Pole Building Comparisons, Pole Building How To Guides, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Ventilation, Closed Cell Insulation, Post Frame Building Kit Package, Vented Ridge, Siloxa-Tek 8505, R19 Insulation, Vapor Barrier, Natural Gas Heat, BIBS Insulation, Geothermal Heat
- No comments
A Steel Ceiling, Wall Finishes, and Condensation
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/12/24 @ 8:00Today Mike addresses questions about steel ceilings, options for wall finishes, and condensation in added space. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have a 40ft wide x 60ft long x 12ft high pole barn. The trusses are 4ft on center. I want to put a steel ceiling up and wanted to know the best size piece […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Ventilation, Concrete, Building Interior, Pole Barn Heating
- Tags: Condensation, Ventilation, Ceiling Steel, Wall Finishes
- No comments
Do I Need Any Additional Vapor Barrier?
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/12/19 @ 8:00Do I Need Any Additional Vapor Barrier? Reader TOM in NEW LONDON writes: “Have a 40 x 60 pole barn which I have poured a 20 X 60 6″ concrete floor with radiant heat. I have installed 1 1/2″ R 7.5 rigid pink board between the 2 X 6 side boards against the steel. I […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure, Trusses, Ventilation, Insulation
- Tags: Condensation In Pole Buildings, Kraft Faced Batts, Concrete Sealant, Gypsum Wall Board, Trusses, BIBS Insulation, Knee Braces, Pressure Preservative Treated Lumber
- No comments
Will My Post Frame Building Support a Ceiling?
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/12/18 @ 8:00Will My Post Frame Building Support a Ceiling? One of my frequently received questions – wanting to add a ceiling into a post frame building and wondering if the building will support the added weight. Other frequent questions include condensation issues and ventilation, so this reader has hit upon a trifecta. Reader BRYAN in SWANTON […]
Read moreSlab Insulation, Vapor Barriers, and Sliding Doors
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/12/11 @ 8:00Today’s PBG addresses slab insulation, vapor barriers and sliding doors at an entry. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am starting a project finishing a Hansen pole barn in a suburb of Minneapolis. My question is in regard to the floor. I assume there was no insulation under the slab, I have yet to confirm this, […]
Read moreStilt Construction, Ductwork, and House Design Options
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/11/26 @ 8:00In todays blog, the Pole Barn Guru discusses stilt homes, ductwork in attic, and post frame house design options. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Pole Barns for Stilt Construction – Just read your Kitty Hawk story – And FEMA backs you up. From FEMA-DRs-4085-NY Foundation Requirements and Recommendations for Elevated Home – Piles can be used […]
Read more- Categories: Post Frame Home, Insulation, Pole Barn Design, Trusses, Ventilation, Footings, Columns
- Tags: Ductwork, House Design, Insulation, Stilt Construction
- No comments
Ceiling Vapor Barriers in Post Frame Construction
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/10/31 @ 8:00Ceiling Vapor Barriers in Post Frame Construction A ceiling vapor barrier or no, in post frame (pole building) construction? Good question. For most of my life I have lived where it tends to get chilly in winter. Here in Northeast South Dakota it can not only be chilly, but downright frigid. It has been drummed […]
Read morePole Barn Moisture Issues
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/10/24 @ 8:00Moisture from condensation can be a major issue in initially poorly thought out pole barns. Reader MATT in SHAKOPEE writes: “Hi. I am having issues with moisture in my pole barn. It is getting to the point that mold is starting to show up on the walls and cement floor. The barn is about 28 […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation, Concrete
- Tags: Insulation, Vapor Barrier, Condensation, Mold, Moisture Issues
- No comments
Avoiding Condensation When Insulating an Existing Pole Barn
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/10/18 @ 8:00Avoiding Condensation When Insulating Existing Pole Barn The last thing people want to have to deal with would be condensation dripping in their pole barn. When an originally unheated cold storage building becomes repurposed to be climate controlled, possible condensation poses some new challenges. If you are reading this article and plans are to construct […]
Read moreWhiskey Tango Foxtrot! Is It Ventilation?
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/10/02 @ 8:00Whiskey Tango Foxtrot! Is it Ventilation? I really enjoy good food. In order to continue doing so and avoid weighing significantly more than I should, I do a treadmill run nearly every morning. To keep from expiring from utter boredom of exercise, I have wall mounted my flat screen LED television within easy viewing distance. […]
Read moreCold Storage Pole Barns
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/09/20 @ 8:00Post Frame Cold Storage for Fruits and Vegetables Hansen Pole Buildings’ Designer Rachel passed along this: “Have a client call in asking if we have experience in designing a building for cold storage. Confused I said yes, many building are used for cold storage and are not insulated or heated. He said no I mean […]
Read moreUplift Concerns, Retro-fitting Insulation, and High Water Tables
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/09/17 @ 8:00This week the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about uplift concerns, retro-fitting insulation, and setting posts in high water tables. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am adding an open overhang to the gable end of my 40×80 pole barn. I bought 36’ trusses and will lower them to fit under the existing gable going out […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Footings, Insulation, Pole Barn Structure
- Tags: Ceiling Insulation, Uplift, High Water Table. Setting Posts, Insulation
- 2 comments
Venting an Attic Without Soffit Air Intake
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/08/23 @ 8:00Venting an Attic Without Soffit Air Intake Loyal reader KEN has an attic space with only air exhaust points – a vented ridge, and no air intake. His dilemma, how to adequately ventilate his attic without vented soffits. Ken writes: “I finally was able to make contact with the manufacturer of the open foam like […]
Read moreTypes of Construction, Sliding Doors, and Roof Vents
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/08/20 @ 8:00Today the Pole Barn Guru visits with readers about, types of construction, sliding doors, and roof vents. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello Mike – I am working with the NFBA on a study of the post frame (pole barn) building market in the US. Among our objectives is to understand what % of construction in […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Ventilation, Sliding Doors
- Tags: Post-Frame, Sliding Doors, Venting, Type Of Construction
- 3 comments
Insulation, Snow Loads, and Best Choice for Condensation
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/08/13 @ 8:00The PBG answers questions about insulation, snow loads, and best choice for condensation. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am wanting to finish the interior of my pole barn and have an cathedral like ceiling. If I were to follow the trusses up to the peak with foam board Insulation and use 2x4s spanning between the […]
Read more- Categories: Uncategorized, Insulation, Pole Barn Design, Ventilation
- Tags: Snow Loads, Radiant Reflective Barrier, Venting, Insulation
- No comments
Insulating a Room in an Unheated Pole Barn
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/07/31 @ 8:00Insulating a Room in an Unheated Pole Barn Regular readers of this column recognize insulation as being a hot (pun intended) topic of discussion – not just entire buildings, but also of a room or rooms in an unheated pole barn. Reader RICHARD in WOODSTOCK writes: “I have a 50 x 75 pole barn with […]
Read moreSingle-Pane Windows
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/07/26 @ 8:00Single-Pane Windows When I was first in the post frame (pole barn) building industry almost 40 years ago windows were hardly ever a chosen option, and when they were, they were always single-pane windows. Why? Because the buildings were probably never going to be climate controlled and the single-pane windows were cheap. And, as we […]
Read moreVinyl Gable Vents for Pole Barns
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/07/12 @ 8:00Vinyl Gable Vents for Pole Barns Attic venting for post frame (pole barn) buildings is a challenge which can be resolved by the use of vinyl gable vents. Reader KEN in BERRYTON writes: “I have a pole barn with the ribbed siding, 3/4″ high ribs at 9″ spacing, with two smaller ribs in-between at 3″ […]
Read moreMy Pole Barn Needs Ventilation
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/07/09 @ 8:00My Pole Barn is a Sauna in Summer- and needs ventilation! “Hey there Pole Barn Guru, got a question about ventilation. Just bought a house with a pole barn on the property. I believe it’s only about a year old. 30 x 32. It has no soffits or windows, only a standard garage door and […]
Read moreWhy Should Air Barriers be Incorporated into Post Frame Construction?
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/06/28 @ 8:01Why Should Air Barriers Be Incorporated into Post Frame Construction? Energy efficiency of post-frame buildings has become a huge topic of discussion. Rather than trying to impress you, gentle reader, with my limited degree of knowledge, here are the words of an expert. The general public does not get to read Frame Building News. Here […]
Read moreBuilding Height, Building on Existing Foundation, and Spray Foam
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/06/25 @ 8:00Today the Pole Barn Guru answers questions about calculating the height of a building, Building on and existing foundation, and Spray Foam Insulation. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I’m looking for over all height of a building with a 14’ eave? Thanks. DOUG in PILOT ROCK DEAR DOUG: The overall height determination starts with a clear […]
Read more- Categories: Footings, Insulation, Pole Barn Structure, Ventilation
- Tags: Building Foundation, Building Height, Spray Foam Insulation, Foundation, Spray Foam, Eave Height
- 1 comments
Cardboard (or Plastic, Foam, Metal) Eave Baffles
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/06/19 @ 8:00Cardboard (or Plastic, Foam, Metal) Eave Baffles The model building codes (IBC and IRC – International Building Code and International Residential Code) require enclosed attic spaces, in most cases, to have ventilation. The most efficient ventilation design solution is to have enclosed vented soffits at the eaves as an air intake, and a vented ridge […]
Read moreThe Idea of Heating, Post Heave, and Interior Housewrap
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/06/04 @ 8:00Mike the Pole Barn Guru discusses The Idea of Heating the building in the future, Post Heave, and Interior Housewrap. DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hi Pole Barn Guru, I am getting ready to order a kit for a new 38×40 pole barn in Southern Ohio. Initially it will be cold storage, but the idea of heating […]
Read more- Categories: Footings, Pole Barn Heating, Insulation, Ventilation
- Tags: Tyvek, Heating, Future Insulation, Post Heave, Soil Compaction
- No comments
The Drip, Drip, Drip of Condensation
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/05/17 @ 8:00Reader JIM in HOODSPORT writes about condensation issues: “New Completed 40’ x 60’ pole barn with 16’ side walls and 24’ peak. Walls and ceiling insulated, 60’ long ridge roof vent. Full cement Pad with plastic vapor barrier under it. Cement was 60 days old when barn was completed.. rained just about every day. No […]
Read moreMold in a Post Frame Building Attic
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/05/01 @ 8:00Hansen Pole Buildings’ client BRENT in WASHOUGAL writes: “We have your 40×80 pole barn built sept. 2014, and it’s having problems with mold forming over the purlins. I’m wanting to know my options to prevent a future problem. Thanks.” Mike the Pole Barn Guru responds: First – get rid of the mold. Mix in the […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Building Overhangs, Ventilation, Fasteners
- Tags: Attic Space, Ventilation, Gable Vents, Vent Fans
- 2 comments
How Not to do a Post Frame Sheer Wall
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/04/27 @ 8:00How Not to Do a Post Frame Shear Wall Reader DAVID in MIDDLETON writes: “Hi we are currently building a 40/72 pole barn. We are wrapping the bottom 4 feet in OSB for sheer strength along with sheeting the roof with osb. We want to insulate the walls and put a drop ceiling in the […]
Read moreEarth Work, Pole Barn Conversion, and Insulation Issue?
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/04/16 @ 8:00DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am about to build a pole building on a piece of land that is absolutely flat (pasture). I have read on this site that the poles should be installed before any earth work has been done. However, the state of Idaho says that I must have a drainage slope away […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Ventilation, Building Interior, Pole Barn Heating, Insulation
- Tags: Insulation, Barn Conversions, Dirt Work, Earth Work, Grading, Conversion
- No comments
Bad Energy Efficient Pole Barn Advice
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/04/13 @ 8:00Bad Energy Efficient Pole Barn Advice from GreenBuildingAdvisor.com Long time readers of this blog have seen ample posts about energy efficient post frame (pole barn) buildings. As most are aware, there is as much bad information (maybe more) than good available on the internet. Whilst I’d like to believe Martin Holladay at www.greenbuildingadvisor.com is fairly […]
Read moreFire Resistance, Condensation, and Wind Speed
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/04/02 @ 8:00Fire Resistance, Condensation, and Wind Speed DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Do you know if WMP-10 metal building insulation facing is ok to have exposed in a commercial building in regards to its fire resistance rating? JON DEAR JON: WMP-10 facings are flame resistant, however you should consult with your local building code enforcing agency to […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Barn Design, Steel Roofing & Siding, Ventilation
- Tags: Vasd, Insulation, Condensation, Wind Speed, Insulation Fire Resistance, Vult
- No comments
What is Adequate Eave and Ridge Ventilation?
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/03/14 @ 8:00CODE REQUIREMENTS FOR ATTIC VENTILATION Historically, ventilation requirements in the International Residential Code (IRC) are applicable to one and two family homes, and have been based on the ratio of “net free ventilating area” (NFVA) that is the area of the ventilation openings in the attic to the area of attic space. The NFVA is […]
Read moreWhen the Pole Building Insulation Problem is Larger Than Imagined
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/02/21 @ 8:00When the Pole Building Insulation Problem is Larger Than Imagined From questions I have received from loyal readers over the past year, post frame (pole) building insulation is right there at the top of the list for priorities. Sadly, it seems the same concern is not often put forward by those who are designing, providing […]
Read moreBuilding a Pole Barn House
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/02/06 @ 8:00Reader JEREMY writes: “Good Morning and Happy New Year! We are currently in the process of building a house inside a pole barn, and have noticed condensation on the inside walls and roof when we heat it. We do not have any vents installed yet, and would like to know if the condensation will stop […]
Read moreConsidering a Pole Barn, Roof Loads, and Proper Ventilation
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/01/29 @ 8:00DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Good morning. I am considering building a pole barn on our land in northwest Georgia and wanted to know the following: 1) On your website, you list links for residential, agricultural, and commercial buildings. What is the difference between a those three types of buildings? Are they different because of design […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Roofing Materials, Trusses, Ventilation, Insulation
- Tags: Pole Barn, Shingles, Roof Loads, Ventilation, Roof Steel, DIY
- No comments
Minimizing Condensation When Building Over an Existing Foundation
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/01/26 @ 8:00Minimizing Condensation When Building Over an Existing Foundation Reader ROSS writes: “Hello, I have a question about venting of my building. I currently am in the process of building a shop myself. I had an existing foundation of 75 x 42 that had 8ft concrete walls all the way around. I’m building my building on […]
Read moreCondensation Under Roof Steel
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/01/09 @ 8:00Condensation Even With Radiant Barrier Installed Under Roof Steel It seems every winter I get a few messages similar to this, So far, this winter, I have gotten two, both from newly constructed post frame buildings and from the same area of the United States (which is known for high humidity). Reader SAM in GREENBANK […]
Read moreTear Down to Rebuild? Bay Spacing, and Condensation Problems
Posted by polebarnguru on 18/01/01 @ 8:00DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello, I am going to tear down a 30x40x10 pole building to rebuild on my property. I noticed that the trusses are spaced 10 feet apart and are set on the 6×6 pole that has been notched. With no header board. This is an all metal building. Was wondering if this […]
Read moreDesigning a Single Slope Pole Building
Posted by polebarnguru on 17/12/21 @ 8:00Designing a Single Slope Finished Pole Barn Reader JIM in ROCHESTER writes: “I am looking for an immediate response. I am building a 30×50 single pitch pole barn that I will eventually insulate and drywall. I plan to run a row of posts down the center of the barn to support the rafters. I will […]
Read moreHow to Insulate My Post Frame Garage
Posted by polebarnguru on 17/12/20 @ 8:00How to Insulate I fear “how to insulate my post frame (fill in the blank)” is going to be my most answered topic for the next decade. Energy efficiency is the “hot” topic right now and sadly there are more folks trying to solve what they already have, than there were those who planned for […]
Read moreCondensation Solutions, A Ceiling the Right Way, and Timing
Posted by polebarnguru on 17/12/18 @ 8:00Advice about condensation, ceilings done right, and the timing of questions DEAR POLE BARN GURU: My deck roof is metal panels on 2×4 purlins, rafters are 2×6, like a pole barn. I am enclosing it, and need to stop the condensation. I spray foamed it with closed cell, but there is some condensation on the […]
Read more- Categories: Trusses, Ventilation, Insulation, Pole Barn Planning
- Tags: Truss Loads, Spray Foam Insulation, Barriers, Ceiling Joists, Vapor Barrier, Condensation
- No comments
How to Properly Insulate between Roof Purlins
Posted by polebarnguru on 17/11/03 @ 8:00How to Properly Insulate Between Roof Purlins Efficient climate control is becoming the buzz term for post frame construction. A challenge occurs when clients look to insulate between their roof purlins. Reader JOHN in COVINGTON writes: “I am building an all wood pole building. The purlins are 2x8s. I want to insulate the walls and […]
Read moreTurf Sweating, A Post Frame Addition, and A Grow House
Posted by polebarnguru on 17/10/30 @ 8:00DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Hello, I am from Webster SD and I built a pole barn and insulated it. I then put turf above gravel floor and use it for a indoor baseball practice facility. It can be heated as we have heaters in there. We have a huge problem and was wondering if you […]
Read moreLoft Storage Solutions, Insulation, and Home Insurance?
Posted by polebarnguru on 17/10/14 @ 8:00DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I like the idea of a 2-stall garage with second level for storage. Is a second level storage area more economical than increasing the square footage of the building? Lot less concrete. JOEL in INDEPENDENCE DEAR JOEL: Only in rare instances is it more cost effective to go up, instead of […]
Read morePremature Roller Wear, Proper Insulation, & Venting!
Posted by polebarnguru on 17/10/02 @ 8:00DEAR POLE BARN GURU: My Plyco rollers are wearing prematurely since I added liner to my doors. Can I put a 3rd roller in the center of each leaf to spread out the additional load? BRAD in EL DORADO DEAR BRAD: If these are round Plyco trolleys, your door must be very heavy. I say […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Building Doors, Ventilation
- Tags: Insulation, Ventilation, Rollers
- No comments
Post Frame Insulation in the South
Posted by polebarnguru on 17/09/20 @ 8:00Post Frame Insulation in the Hot and Humid South Reader RICK in LUCEDALE writes: “Dear Pole Barn Guru, I am in the planning stage for designing a post frame house. I live in a “Hot and Humid” climate in the southern US. Joseph Lstiburek, a building science guru, suggests having an unvented roof for my […]
Read morePost Frame Antiperspirant- Ventilation Frustration
Posted by polebarnguru on 17/08/11 @ 8:00This is a sad story I hear all too often from pole (post frame) building owners who have buildings which were not properly designed for future uses, especially when it comes to insulation and ventilation. Reader JASON in TENINO writes: Hi Pole Barn Guru, I recently purchased a new house and it came with a […]
Read moreIt Is Exactly the Same Building Part I
Posted by polebarnguru on 17/07/26 @ 8:00Well, maybe not exactly the same building. In April of this year we had a client invest in a brand new 36 foot wide by 60 foot long post frame building kit package with a 16 foot eave height. Three months later, the building has been delivered, and one of the group which ordered the […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Building Doors, Ventilation, Pole Barn Design, Pole Building Comparisons, Building Overhangs, Pole Barn Planning, Pole Barn Structure
- Tags: Wind Exposure, Enclosed Overhangs, Roof Slope, Commercial Entry Door, Base Trim, Integrated J Channel, Lifetime Paint Warranty, Reflective Radiant Barrier
- No comments
Drywall Idea, Bolt Counts? and Don’t D-I-Y This!
Posted by polebarnguru on 17/07/15 @ 8:00DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Will I have problem with moisture in the wall if I nail drywall to the gerts and leave the 6×6 poles exposed? I may put a stove for heat in it while I am in it occasionally. I have insulted the roof. Concrete floor. JAMES in NEW ALBANY DEAR JAMES: Provided […]
Read more- Categories: Building Interior, Fasteners, Insulation, Pole Barn Structure, Trusses, Ventilation
- Tags: Drywall, Exposed Poles, Deflection, Bolts Count, Truss Assembly, Girts
- No comments
Should Poly Plastic Barrier be Used on Interior of Walls and Ceiling?
Posted by polebarnguru on 17/07/12 @ 8:00Reader JUSTIN in MONROE writes: “Hello. Hopefully an easily answered question? I have built a 52×30 post frame, steel siding and roof. Walls have Tyvek between steel and girts. Roof is steel directly on purlins with no barrier of any kind. It has a concrete slab and I plan to periodically heat it during winter […]
Read morePole Sizes, Adding On a Shed Roof, and Ridge Vents
Posted by polebarnguru on 17/07/01 @ 8:00DEAR POLE BARN GURU: We live in Pacific county in Washington state and wondering what size of truss pole we would be looking at needing for a 60 ft truss. We are in a wind exposure “C” and trusses will be on 12′ centers. The building we are planning will be 60’w x 48’d with […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Questions, Pole Barn Planning, Trusses, Ventilation, Budget, Columns, Sheds
- Tags: Code, Post Size, Pole Size, Shed Roof, Add On, Foam Closures, Ridge Vents
- No comments
Shipped International, Post Protection, and EmSeal!
Posted by polebarnguru on 17/05/29 @ 8:00DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Can the kit be shipped international, like Philippines? ERIC in SUSANVILLE DEAR ERIC: Post frame building kit packages can be shipped anywhere on the planet. In most cases, the components are delivered to the docks – in your case most likely the Port of Tacoma or Seattle, where it is reloaded […]
Read morePost Frame House Quote? Design Recommendations, and A1 Insulation!
Posted by polebarnguru on 17/04/10 @ 8:00DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Is it possible to get a quote from you guys? Do you just deliver material or build too? I am looking to build a house pole barn in Belle Plain MN Do you have to have a 36″ frost wall to build on a concrete slab? JOSHUA in BELLE PLAIN […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Barn Design, Pole Barn Planning, Ventilation, Concrete, Footings
- Tags: Ridge Vents, House Quote, Building Instructions, A1 Insulation
- No comments
Insulating an Attic Bonus Room
Posted by polebarnguru on 17/03/31 @ 8:00Attic bonus rooms seem to be the rage – Hansen Pole Buildings does more than a few of these and the trend seems to be increasing in popularity. With this comes how to properly insulate an attic bonus room. There are more than a few challenges when it comes to utilization of attic space for […]
Read more- Categories: About The Pole Barn Guru, Ventilation, Building Interior, Lofts
- Tags: Enclosed Attic Space, Cross Ties, Knee Walls, Bonus Room, Attic, Attic Ventilation
- No comments
Safety Concerns from the Heartland
Posted by polebarnguru on 17/03/06 @ 8:00DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Could you give me a cost of installation of spray foam insulation for an indoor horse arena that is 65 by 125 ft in size. Wanting to insulate under roof area only. We are a faith based non profit 501 c 3. JACK in SAVANNAH DEAR JACK: Thank you very much […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Insulation, Pole Barn Design
- Tags: Insulation, Polyiso, Safety, Load Capcity
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Blog Entries Lead to Post Depth Question!
Posted by polebarnguru on 17/02/20 @ 8:00DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Good morning. I have been reading the various blog entries for several days, regarding pole barn construction. I have been in contact with your design professional, but I a question that I thought might be a question that could possibly benefit others with a similar situation. I am in the process […]
Read moreAn Apartment Addition?
Posted by polebarnguru on 16/12/26 @ 8:00DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Can you supply me with a copy of the sparrow barn in Texas plans It is a wedding venue I would like to copy. JAMES in HAMPTON DEAR JAMES: Certainly we can, stamped by a registered professional engineer, and custom designed for your climactic loads – and for free. They come […]
Read moreSheetrocking Trusses Advice
Posted by polebarnguru on 16/11/23 @ 8:00How Advice Columns Get Interesting… Just last week, I shared a question from TOM (a reader who reads my blog) in regards to finishing the inside of a fairly recently constructed post frame (pole) building. The dialogue has continued. Tom: “Obviously drywall for the ceiling would be a wiser choice. The truss manufacturer said the trusses […]
Read moreFinishing the Interior of an Existing Pole Barn
Posted by polebarnguru on 16/11/16 @ 8:00Finishing the Inside of an Existing Pole Structure There are literally millions of pole structures (aka post frame buildings or pole barns) in existence in the United States. Most of them were constructed without a thought as to future use, beyond their immediate need. Here is a story about one which actually did have some […]
Read moreWatermelon Barns
Posted by polebarnguru on 16/03/11 @ 8:00Two good ole’ boys from Texas get the idea to go into the watermelon selling business. They can drive their pickup across the border into Mexico and buy watermelons for a dollar each. So, they drive across, get a load, bring them back into Texas and set up a stand alongside of the road with […]
Read more- Categories: Pole Barn Design, Ventilation
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Ridge Cap Foam Closure Strips
Posted by polebarnguru on 15/11/25 @ 8:00There are lots of little pieces involved when it comes to the assembly of a pole building, which the average lay person would have little or no knowledge of. Some of them don’t make a difference until the lack of them (or their failure to perform) becomes apparent. One of these unsung heroes is the […]
Read more- Categories: Roofing Materials, Ventilation
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What Building Wrap Isn’t
Posted by polebarnguru on 15/11/04 @ 8:00It didn’t take me long to figure out a building is basically just a structural framework with control layers. Yeah, there’s also electrical, plumbing, mechanical systems, and finishes, but the heart of a building is the stuff which holds it up and which moderates the flows of heat, air, and moisture between in and out. […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Building Drainage
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Closeable Roof Louver Exhaust Vents
Posted by polebarnguru on 15/09/04 @ 8:00All of this began from a client conversation with one of the Hansen Pole Buildings’ Designers…. Back in the stone ages I ruled the prefabricated metal connector plated wood truss manufacturing plant at the long ago defunct Lucas Plywood and Lumber in Salem, Oregon. Back in the late 70’s this was a going and growing […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation
- Tags: Roof Jack Vents, Closeable Louver Roof Vents, Roof Louver Vents, Roof Vents
- 2 comments
What is a Trickle Vent?
Posted by polebarnguru on 15/07/07 @ 8:00Apparently this is my week for learning brand new stuff, and as luck usually has it, when I get to learn – it is bushel baskets full! A Hansen Pole Buildings client is constructing a post frame building home in Clallum County, Washington. In discussions with the local Building Officials, he was advised he would […]
Read moreVenting a Hip Roof
Posted by polebarnguru on 15/01/28 @ 8:00Hansen Pole Buildings’ Designer Bill is going to keep me on my toes! Before joining the Hansen Buildings team, Bill spent 14+ years as a Construction Project Manager for diverse projects such as commercial, industrial, institutional and medical. What little he doesn’t know, he isn’t afraid of asking. Bill posed this set of circumstances to […]
Read moreRidge Vent with Steel Roofing
Posted by polebarnguru on 14/12/02 @ 8:00Proper ventilation is one of the most overlooked, if not entirely ignored features when it comes to pole building. I’ve written about ventilation previously, read more at: https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/blog/2014/02/pole-building-ventilation/) For many pole builders and pole building kit providers, their idea of a ridge vent is to just omit the closed cell form fitted closures which should […]
Read morePole Building Ventilation
Posted by polebarnguru on 14/02/20 @ 8:00Ridge vent without soffit vent One of the most overlooked areas of pole building construction is proper ventilation. Lack of proper pole building ventilation becomes even a greater issue when an enclosed attic space is present. The International Building Codes require any dead attic space to be ventilated. Without adequate ventilation, moisture from condensation will […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation
- Tags: Ridge Vents, Gable Vents, Pole Barn Ventilation, Vented Soffit
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Dear Pole Barn Guru: Ventilation for an Old Pole Barn?
Posted by polebarnguru on 13/09/02 @ 8:00Welcome to Ask the Pole Barn Guru – where you can ask questions about building topics, with answers posted on Mondays. With many questions to answer, please be patient to watch for yours to come up on a future Monday segment. If you want a quick answer, please be sure to answer with a “reply-able” […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Insulation, Pole Barn Questions
- Tags: Gable Vents, Remodeling Old Barn, Insulation
- 2 comments
Dear Guru: Which Insulation Should I Use in My Metal Pole Building?
Posted by polebarnguru on 13/08/26 @ 8:00DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I have a few questions that you might be able to easily answer. I have a metal pole building wood framed. Most of it has the standard Condensation/insulation blanket in it however some of it got damaged by mice and had to be ripped out. We are now trying to finish […]
Read more- Categories: Insulation, Pole Barn Questions, Ventilation
- Tags: Fiberglass Insulation, BIBS Insulation, Batt Insulation, Earthbag
- 2 comments
Today In: Ask the Pole Barn Guru
Posted by polebarnguru on 12/12/10 @ 8:00I recently got this email, and as The Pole Barn Guru, I am happy to respond to building questions which are not from Hansen Building clients, either prior or future. “Hello I live in Indiana. I have a pole barn garage. I didn’t build it. It was built when I got the house. It […]
Read moreHappy Horse Barn Ventilation
Posted by polebarnguru on 12/11/29 @ 8:00If common sense was common, then articles like this one would not have to be written. One of the least expensive in upfront cost is also the most cost saving, when it comes to horse health and veterinary bills. Sadly, it is most often either an afterthought, or a “never even thought of” for horse […]
Read moreWhat House Wrap is Good For
Posted by polebarnguru on 12/11/12 @ 8:00Over the past three decades, house wrap has become a staple feature on millions of buildings. Wrapping a wood framed building in a protective envelope is a good building practice which helps combat a building’s worst enemies: water, moisture and air infiltration. House wrap behind a building’s siding is an excellent secondary defense against the […]
Read moreVentilation Blows
Posted by polebarnguru on 12/08/06 @ 8:00One of our clients, Derald writes: “How do you provide adequate intake venting for a ridge vent on a pole building? I am assuming that you would drill 2” holes along the eave girt and install a wire mesh, like bird blocking. How far apart would the minimum spacing of the 2” holes need to […]
Read more- Categories: Ventilation, Building Department
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Windows – A View To The World
Posted by polebarnguru on 12/08/02 @ 7:00I really, really like windows. They give a view to the world. They can be used for ventilation. Those are good things. To bring those of you who are just joining my daily blog up to date, I’ve spent this week building a garage – in Happy Valley, Tennessee. My thanks for the opportunity to […]
Read more- Categories: Windows, Ventilation
- Tags: Windows, Ventilation
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