There are myriad considerations to take into account when building a pole barn. Thankfully, Exmark Ambassador Mike Morgan knows a thing or two about it. In this Backyard Life video, learn all the pole barn basics: from the pros and cons, to the maintenance required, and the cost associated with building one of your own.
Pole Barn Basics
If you’re looking for a low-cost way to increase your property’s indoor space, few things beat a pole barn.
Morgan begins with a walk-through tour of his family’s pole barn that’s already in progress. The versatile space is divided in half—each with two very different purposes. “On one side, we’re going to have a shop and space for equipment. And, on the other side, we’re building a game room with a patio and pool,” Morgan says. Because the pole barn has clear, open spans without posts in the middle, there’s a lot of room for flexibility.
What is a Pole Barn?
When people talk about pole barns, they’re basically referring to the foundation system. Instead of a poured-concrete foundation, the building is supported by pressure-treated wooden posts set approximately 40 inches in the ground and standing on concrete pedestals.
Advantages of a Pole Barn
- One of the advantages of this type of foundation is that it costs significantly less than a traditional foundation. But, Morgan is also quick to note that they don’t last quite as long as a conventional footer-and-block system.
- The biggest advantage of building a pole barn is its cost-effectiveness over other construction styles. A traditional building costs about $120/s.f., compared to $35/s.f. for a pole barn. “You get a lot of bang for your buck,” states Morgan.
Pole Barn Maintenance
Next, Morgan talks about the best way to keep a pole barn up. “As far as maintenance, there’s not much at all involved,” says Morgan. “No painting, no staining. Maybe an occasional pressure washing.”
Morgan wraps up by highlighting the myriad ways a pole barn can be used. They’re perfect for “workshops, garages or horse barns.”
