The 7 Benefits of Pole Buildings

For most people, the term "pole building" usually recalls images of barns or farmhouses. However, did you know that pole buildings have sheltered generations of families in rural and urban areas? They are sturdy and easy to build, and pole buildings can also be converted to serve as garages, stockrooms, or even residential homes.

What is a pole building?

Commonly known as "pole barns," these buildings usually have a laminated wood column every 8 feet. These columns are connected by dimensional lumber girts sized to meet the load requirement needed for the specific area, all of which support a roof made from engineered clear span trusses. This simple design provides durability and balance, along with other nifty features. Although farmers have been calling them pole buildings for years, engineers and architects now refer to them as "post-frame" structures. Similarly, industrial pole buildings use steel frames in the exact same way, with a roofing design that copies the original.

Is it different from "post-frame" buildings?

Aside from their names, post-frame buildings and pole buildings are basically the same things. They differ from the usual "stick-frame" buildings more commonly used in crafting homes. In this article, we'll list some of the advantages that post-frame buildings have over the stick-frame types.

If you're starting a new construction project, here are several reasons why you should build with the post-frame method.

1. Post-frame buildings are sturdier.

These buildings use thick columns to create a rigid foundation that resists hail, snow, and storms. The overall structure relies on posts to transfer weight and mass efficiently. Unlike most other buildings that use the traditional stick-frame method, post-frames have higher wind resistance, and sturdier hinge joints. Post-frame garages and agricultural buildings have a degree of protection that ensures the safety of vehicles, farm animals, harvested crops, and other produce.

2. Post-frame buildings have a smaller foundation costs.

Since post-frame buildings are supported by columns, they usually don't require a basement. Often, the construction of a lower level can rack up costs. Because post-frames have columns inserted 4 feet deep, you won't have to build a basement as a foundation for the whole building. On the other hand, stick-frames requires a continuous footer for support, which makes the initial construction costlier because of the amount of concrete needed. Adding extensions would also require you to dig underground to increase the lower foundation. With a post-frame, however, you won't run into these types of hassles.

3. Pole buildings can be built in any environment.

Site conditions can vary from location to location. However, post-frame buildings can adapt to lateral pressure, which often overturns even the sturdiest walls. The secret lies in its multi-columned design, which allows the lateral force to spread out evenly across the structure, thereby resisting the constant shifting of the ground beneath.

4. Post-frame buildings provide large spaces for commercial use.

Businesses looking to create large warehouses can benefit from the spaciousness of post-frame buildings. A simple post-frame structure can transform into a multi-vehicle garage or a storage room for retail merchandise with just a few adjustments. The near-unshakable design of the post-frame model ensures that your inventory won't be damaged by snow, hail, or even an occasional mild earthquake.

5. Post-frame buildings can be built more quickly.

Since pole buildings don't require an underground foundation for support, you'll enjoy extra flexibility, design choices, and shorter construction times. This means more savings for budget-savvy folks. Even better, adding new features such as wider windows and higher floors is easy, thanks to the large columns that can support higher walls.

6. The walls of post-frame buildings don't suffer from excess weight.

Unlike stick-frames, post-frames don't rely on interior walls to do the heavy lifting, which also creates a wide open area for a warehouse or large equipment storage. Its clean design uses fewer materials while adding a hefty amount of durability.

7. Color options and styles for everyone

We have lots of color options available in a variety of different roofing and siding materials

Do you have a home or commercial project that requires the strength and durability of a post-frame building? Why not drop a comment, shoot us a message, or give us a call? We're a company that specializes in building and remodeling homes that can last for generations. Contact us at 717-945-4403 for a free estimate.

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