If you’re going to invest your money in a new pole barn, then you’ll have to make sure it’s engineered to handle various stresses. For instance, your pole barn will inevitably encounter inclement weather (e.g., rain, snow, and wind). Do you know if your post-frame builder uses the designated snow and wind load ratings for your location?

One of the most common questions our Project Sales Consultants are asked during the pole barn building process is whether or not the concrete pad should be poured before or after the post frame building is constructed. The short answer to this question is it depends.

Rafters vs. trusses. Two different words that can easily be confused with one another (especially if you’re a construction newbie). Although both types of components are used to support the roof of a building, they each have their place in post frame construction.

The truss is just one component in the overall building system. Believe it or not, you can have the most robust truss system, and your building may still fail. You’re probably wondering how that could happen, and we’ll explain why that is possible later on. But remember, it’s important that the load path is followed to the foundation of the building as it resists multiple loads, often co-occurring. Trusses must handle all the loads applied to the roof steel and purlins and transfer those loads effectively to the columns, hence the importance of the truss to column connection.

Over the years, the span size of trusses has evolved. In the 1980s, post frame builders commonly used 60’ (one-ply) trusses, and larger trusses (72’ and 80’) were made of two-ply lumber. The more ply (or layered material), the stronger the truss. At the time, post frame builders were unable to hang or lift trusses without any bending or bowing. The higher up in the air, the more stress placed on the lumber. Consequently, it was easier to produce and swing one-ply trusses.

Do you have an existing post-frame building that you want to renovate? Perhaps you’re tired of a cold, drafty farm shop or garage and want to add insulation.