The beauty of post-frame construction lies in its design flexibility and long-term adaptability. Your pole barn can adapt to new purposes, letting it grow and evolve alongside your needs.
Over the years, we’ve seen countless pole barn renovation projects that breathe new life into existing post-frame structures. Farmers transform their cold storage machine shed into an insulated farm shop. Homeowners turn their pole barn garage into a man cave. Believe it or not, some customers converted their tool shed into a barndominium!
Another increasingly popular renovation idea is adding an interior deck system. From storage space to an office, a loft maximizes your post-frame building’s potential.
Of course, this type of renovation project requires careful planning. This article discusses the key factors to consider when adding a loft to an existing pole barn.
Watch this short YouTube video to see our post-frame construction crew install a 13’ x 15’ x 10’ interior deck system.
While a loft can help stiffen your pole barn by reducing wall movement, the main concern is overloading the foundation.
In post-frame construction, the laminated columns rest on concrete pads. These pads support the roof loads, not the increased live and dead loads from a loft.
When you connect an interior deck system to the columns, you combine the roof and loft loads at a single support point. Depending on the pole barn design, the added stress may exceed the load your structure can safely withstand.
One way to overcome this hurdle is to build an independent support system for your loft. You can frame interior stud walls or install interior posts that carry the new loft loads. This approach prevents your main columns from being overstressed.
If you’re still in the planning phase of a new pole barn, you can design and build for the future. Properly sized cookie pads and a pre-installed ledger board make future loft additions possible.
A ledger board acts as a horizontal beam attached to your interior wall framing. This structural component supports the ends of the floor joists.
Pre-installing a ledger board ensures your future second floor has a stable connection point. You don’t have to worry about jeopardizing your pole barn’s structural integrity.
The overall clearance will determine how comfortable and functional the upper space will be. It also ensures your renovation project meets local building codes.
Post-frame building height is subjective and depends on the intended use.
If you’re going to use this space as an office or recreation area, you’ll need enough headroom for safe movement. In this case, most local building codes require a minimum headroom of 7 feet 6 inches.
If your interior deck system serves as overhead storage, you can get by with less clearance—say 4 feet. Inspectors will classify it as non-accessible storage space. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to stand up straight or move around.
Check with your local building department before renovating your post-frame building. Loft additions often require new occupancy, load capacity, and safety access requirements.
If your pole barn doesn’t meet the necessary clearance, don’t worry, there are solutions. The QLYFT building system can raise your existing pole barn, creating the clearance needed for a functional second story.
Watch this short YouTube video to see this 44’ x 70’ x 12’ cold storage machine shed being raised by 4’.
However, code compliance is crucial for post-frame buildings used for occupancy. Examples include commercial businesses and barndominiums.
Again, you must contact your local building department. They can explain the regional rules and let you know if your pole barn renovation requires a permit or inspection.
Two key factors determine what the International Building Code (IBC) allows:
Building codes can be complex. We recommend working with an experienced post-frame builder with in-house structural engineers. They collaborate with local officials to ensure your renovation project complies with building regulations while meeting your needs.
Following proper permitting and code compliance protects your pole barn investment in the long run.
Ladders are a simple, space-saving option. They are ideal for interior deck systems that are used occasionally or primarily for storage. A ladder has a smaller footprint but isn’t suitable for everyday use.
On the other hand, staircases provide full access, making the loft more usable. They’re great for home offices, recreation areas, or man caves. Stairs take up more room and must comply with local building codes for rise, run, and handrails.
However, there are clever ways to save space. Switchback stairs or stairs with built-in storage allow you to maximize your post-frame building’s footprint.
When planning access to your interior deck system, consider these questions:
Choosing the right access method keeps your interior deck system safe, functional, and code-compliant while maximizing its value.
Once your post-frame builder completes their portion, you can focus on utilizing the space effectively.
If you plan to use your loft for more than overhead storage, you’ll need interior finishes like:
Knowing the purpose of your interior deck system will help you choose lighting, flooring, and amenities like ceiling fans. Then, you can start coordinating with contractors, electricians, and HVAC professionals to ensure a smooth build-out.
Download our General Contracting Your Post-Frame Building Guide. This FREE resource will help you learn how to hire and manage contractors for your pole barn renovation project.
Now that you understand how complex adding an interior deck system can be, you can start this renovation project!
If you have questions, our Project Sales Consultants (PSCs) can inspect your existing post-frame building. It does not matter who built the original structure. Our dedicated team has the knowledge, resources, and workforce to extend the lifespan of any structure or reconfigure it for a new purpose.
Please call (800) 552-2981 to request a FREE pole barn repair and renovation quote.
Do you have more questions that aren't covered in this article? If you need help designing and planning, please contact FBi Buildings at 800.552.2981 or click here to email us. If you're ready for a price, click here to request a quote, and a member of our Customer Engagement Team will help you determine the next steps.