Pole barns are a popular choice for people looking to raise a simple, no-fuss structure in a fairly quick amount of time. They’re easy to build, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t specific strategies builders can take advantage of to improve the success of the project. In fact, there are many easy ways to enhance the performance of a modern pole barn during construction.
By using some advanced planning and intentional design strategies, builders can create a pole barn success story 一 one that results in a longer-lasting structure that serves its purpose with ease. Take a look at these four tips for building a modern pole barn that is fit for a stellar performance:
1. Smart Column Spacing
Pole barns require columns that are evenly spaced to create effective structural support for the trusses, roofing, and walls. Heavy-duty timber is usually used for pole barn columns. One of the biggest mistakes, however, is placing more columns than the structure requires. This results in more labor, more time, and more expenses to pay for the additional materials. After all, the more columns you include, the more materials you’ll need to purchase.
Adequate structural support is absolutely vital, of course, but there’s no need to include more columns than are necessary. Instead, smart column spacing can save builders time and money. Most builders will space wall columns every 6 to 12 feet, and some settle for a structural support beam every 8 feet by default, whether it’s needed or not. Always do the math to calculate exactly how many columns are needed and how far apart they can be placed. Using more materials than needed can bog down the expense sheet and complicate other factors, like insulation and code requirements, down the line.
2. Durable and Attractive Siding
Siding is another area where builders can save money by investing in heavy-duty products that are built to last. Whether the pole barn wil be used as an extra storage shed or as primary living quarters, high-quality siding can make a big difference in the aesthetic appearance and the exterior protection of the structure.
Steel remains one of the best siding materials for modern pole barns because of its resistance to fire, moisture, and impact. It’s simply a stronger siding material than wood or vinyl, and homeowners can expect to get several decades of high-quality performance out of steel. There’s no need to compromise on style, either. TruLog Siding has maintenance-free steel siding that looks just like real wood! There are several authentic styles and colors to choose from, and wood-look steel siding provides excellent protection and aesthetic appearance for modern pole barns.
3. Include a Ventilation Strategy
Another great tip for building a modern pole barn is to include a reliable ventilation strategy for the structure early on in the design plans. Adequate ventilation is essential for climate control and the reduction of condensation, especially for pole barns. There are four ways to ventilate a pole barn: cupolas, overhangs, doors/windows, and mechanical assistance.
Mechanical ventilation, like ceiling fans and portable fans, are good additions, but it’s better to rely on natural ventilation methods that come from intentional architectural design. Install vented soffits throughout generous overhangs, and add a cupola or two on top of the pole barn for additional airflow. Not only will natural ventilation help to keep the interior temperature comfortable, it will also cut down on energy bills.
4. Efficient Door and Window Placement
Doors and windows also help with pole barn ventilation, and placement is key. For most regions, weather patterns move from west to east. Having accessible doors and windows on the east and west sides of the pole barn can help provide a quick ventilation solution when it’s time to get some airflow moving throughout the structure on a warm day.
Door and window placement will also need to be positioned according to your lifestyle needs as well. If cattle, vehicles, or other large equipment will be moving in and out of the pole barn, be sure to include an appropriate door 一 as well as locks and levers 一 to be able to maneuver easily. In addition, if livestock are being transferred, think about the best positioning of the pole barn doors in relation to the pasture. The more efficient the layout, the better the pole barn will function for everyday routines.
Design Your Pole Barn to Fit Your Needs
Commonly used for storage, workshops, livestock, and rustic living quarters, pole barns are one of the most popular and versatile building structures relied on today. Just because they’re easy to build doesn’t mean that they can’t be optimized to maximize their practicality. By paying close attention to important details, including these four helpful tips, you can design an amazing pole barn that meets (and exceeds) your everyday needs.
Contact the siding experts at Trulog today for more information on the most durable pole barn siding solution.
