Pole buildings, or barns, provide quick construction for a variety of uses, such as housing livestock and feed, or creating a home office, guest residence, garage, or gym. If you are adding a pole barn, below are a few strategies to prevent common problems. They will help streamline the construction process and keep your new structure comfortable.

How to Prevent Pole Building Issues

1. Choose a Size & Location

Determine what size your pole building should be to avoid a cramped space or too much square footage that costs more to maintain. You should consider the building's purpose, as a simple garage will not need much area, but a dwelling will. Choose the site based on factors such as drainage, sunlight, soil stability, and accessibility to your home and other structures. Once again, this will depend on the use of the barn, such as if you need a fenced area for livestock.

2. Adhere to Local Zoning & Building Codes

Contact your local municipality for information about the zoning codes to avoid problems that delay the construction process and can result in fines. Ensure the land you wish to build on won’t encroach on another’s property. If you plan to run electricity through the structure, contact an electrical inspector for compliance purposes.

3. Install Quality Insulation

Insulation keeps the structure warm in the winter and cool in the summer, preventing condensation that leads to rust, mold, and mildew. A vapor barrier provides further protection against moisture, while extra doors and windows that allow air to flow will also contribute to efficient circulation. Features such as cupolas and continuous ridge vents provide additional ventilation.

4. Protect the Building

Prevent pole building fires by keeping combustible products—such as gas and oil—out of the barn. Also, place a fire extinguisher in the structure that’s out of reach to animals and children, and never smoke around the barn. This is especially significant if you use it for hay and straw storage since both are highly flammable. Do not use household fans to cool the barn, as their motors get coated in dust and dirt, which causes them to overheat. 

Rely on the experts at Bilt-Rite Buildings in Ashland, MO, for quality pole barn construction. The company specializes in pole buildings and garages and works to finish every project on time and on budget. Call (573) 657-2164 to schedule a consultation. Learn more about metal building services online.