How to Build a Steel Pole Barn?
First, let's start with a definition. What is a steel pole barn?
It's a barn building that is built using steel poles. The
difference between building a barn with steel poles and the
traditional wooden poles are simple: cost effective, superior
quality, and long-lasting. Steel pole barns don't rot as quickly as
steel is non organic. Steel poles don't warp, crack, split, expand
in wet weather or contract in dry weather, so they are
dimensionally stable, giving the barn's structure more stability
over time. Steel is also stronger, which allows larger open spaces
without the structural risks of pole barns.
Before you build a steel pole barn, you'll need to decide a few
things:
What is your steel pole barn's purpose? If your barn is for
storage, or for livestock, or for a maintenance shed, you'll need
the features and layout that fit the barn's intended purpose.
Where will it be located and how big will it be? While the
available space may determine the size of your steel pole barn, if
you have relatively unlimited space, you'll want to be sure your
barn can withstand the weather where you construct it and avoid
steep grades.
Who will build the foundation? If your barn needs a flat
concrete foundation, that foundation may have to be dug out,
sanded, poured and leveled, and you'll want to work with a general
contractor who is known to be reliable to ensure that your barn's
foundation can last as long as the barn itself.
Steel pole barns are also quick and easy to construct. A wide
number of steel pole barn plans are available on the Internet and
while many of them look like they were drawn by architects, they
really aren't confusing once you spend a little time with them.
Look for a plan that includes the supply list, so you have a better
idea of what supplies and materials to buy and you can budget and
track your expenses.
Some steel pole barns are sold as kits, which include the
supplies to build it, the instructions and often online support for
the do-it-yourselfer.