Today’s “Ask the Guru” covers questions regarding the use of sheathing on walls, and roofing with trusses 2′ on-center, if a combo residence/horse barn can be built, and a question asking what the “typical” size of animal confinement barns might be.
DEAR POLE BARN GURU: I am planning to build a pole barn garage with sheathing on walls and roof. Do I need to use purlins on the roof if I use the sheathing instead? The trusses will be 2 ft on center. Thank you, BRUCE in BIG RAPIDS
#12×1-1/2″ Diaphragm Screws
DEAR BRUCE: While there are people who will screw steel roofing directly to sheathing. I would be none of them. Most certainly not OSB, as it will not hold a screw. Personally, I would lay 2×4 purlins flatwise (3-1/2″ face towards sky) on top of sheathing – screwing purlins through sheathing into tops of each truss with structural screws. Then use diaphragm screws to attach steel to purlins https://www.hansenpolebuildings.com/2024/03/thru-screwed-steel-screws/
DEAR POLE BARN GURU: Can you put a residential and horse barn together. JARED in WAPAKONATA
DEAR JARED: Absolutely, however there are some considerations to keep in mind:
Dust, insects, rodents, noise and odors.
Fire separation – your jurisdiction may require as great as a two-hour fire wall between these two conflicting uses. You will likely not be able to directly pass between these two, so plan upon an outside entryway.
Insurance will be costly, if even available.
Most clients opt to have these two uses as individual structures.
DEAR POLE BARN GURU: What are the typical sizes of the animal confinement pole barns? Small and Medium including the doors. GARRETT in PAGOSA SPRINGS
DEAR GARRETT: There are no “typical” sizes for animal confinement as animals vary as much as do their owners. In general, you will find best bang for your investment is multiples of 12′ in width and length.
