What are Pole Barn Buildings?

A pole barn, or pole building, is the traditional name for a large agricultural structure with no basement, a high ceiling, and wide-open spaces. Laminated wooden posts are used in the frame, and today builders prefer the term post-frame building.

1. What type of building is a pole barn?
2. What is the difference between a pole barn and a regular barn?
3. What's the difference between post frame and pole barn?
4. What are pole buildings used for?
5. Why is it called a pole building?
6. Which is cheaper pole barn or stick built?
7. What is the life expectancy of a pole barn?
8. Will a bank finance a pole barn home?
9. Is a pole barn considered a permanent structure?
10. Is a pole barn cheaper than a metal building?
11. Can you put a basement under a pole barn house?
12. Why are pole barn houses cheaper?
13. Are pole barn homes worth it?

What type of building is a pole barn?

Pole barns are a type of post-frame construction – a technique used for centuries to quickly construct sturdy, reliable structures. Post-frame construction is a highly engineered solution that combines efficiency and adaptability.

What is the difference between a pole barn and a regular barn?

The fundamental difference is that pole barns aren't constructed with a traditional foundation. Instead, a series of poles are placed into the ground at specific locations to create an informal foundation. Then, as the building is constructed, those poles carry the load and hold up the structure.

What's the difference between post frame and pole barn?

Post frame construction is the building process used for creating what are frequently referred to as pole barns. Post frame is the construction method, while the pole barn is just one result. ... Municipal buildings, fire stations, schools, clinics and even attractive homes are built using this method of construction.

What are pole buildings used for?

Pole barns can be used for any sort of agricultural building, from fully enclosed buildings to run-in shelters to pavilion style buildings. Also, equipment storage buildings, with extra-wide sliding doors to hold large farm equipment like combine harvesters, hay storage buildings, greenhouses, and multi-use structures.

Why is it called a pole building?

The Name Refers to The Structural Materials

Pole buildings use wood posts (or poles) to form the vertical frame. The posts are buried underground, eliminating the need for a traditional foundation. This means that poles are the essential component of these buildings, hence the name.

Which is cheaper pole barn or stick built?

A Pole Barn Can Cost Less Than a Stick-Built Structure

The foundation usually makes up over 15 percent of the cost of constructing a single-story building. A pole barn uses posts buried in the ground to support the weight of the walls and the roof. In many cases, a traditional concrete foundation is not needed.

What is the life expectancy of a pole barn?

It may be surprising, but pole barns are actually an extremely strong building method. They carry a life expectancy of 60 to 80 years or longer with proper construction and maintenance.

Will a bank finance a pole barn home?

Most banks won't offer construction loans on post frame pole barn houses. ... The small percentage of entities that do offer mortgages for pole barn houses will typically have much higher requirements, because they'll be using internal money to finance it.

Is a pole barn considered a permanent structure?

A pole barn is not considered a permanent structure. Some building departments classify pole barns as an accessory structure- meaning, a structure having a minimum value and utility. i.e., parking, storage and other uninhabitable uses, such as garages, carports, storage sheds, hay sheds and the like.

Is a pole barn cheaper than a metal building?

Pole barns may be cheaper, though the average steel frame barn is listed at prices 60% less than traditional construction. ... A steel frame barn also saves you energy costs, insurance costs (steel frame barns usually cost 40% less than pole barns) and may come with a generous warranty, lasting a few decades.

Can you put a basement under a pole barn house?

You could pour a basement for your pole barn. While a basement under a post frame building is nontraditional and not very typical, it can be done. ... However, with the continuous advancements in the industry, the option is now possible for those who think a basement would be a great idea for their post frame building.

Why are pole barn houses cheaper?

Quicker construction means that buyers save time and money on their projects. The energy-saving qualities also save money in the long-term, and the metal exterior panels require very little maintenance. Clear span pole buildings allow for quicker construction and is often less expensive.

Are pole barn homes worth it?

If like McGraw, you want to live where the green grass grows, but aren't sure how you'll afford it, it might be time to consider a pole barn home. They are a cost-effective building project that can give you all of the durability and functionality you need in your new home design.