Pole barns have been celebrated for almost 90 years as the most affordable and easily constructed building. Today pole barn manufacturers still promote this but sometimes the cost is not as attractive as you might think.
We will unpack the differences so you can make an informed decision.
Pole Barn
- Wood posts need to be set every 8 to 12 feet on sidewalls
- It can be up to 120 feet wide without post
- Does not require foundation and can be anchored in soil
- Susceptible to pests, insects, and rot
- Truss rafters cause you to lose valuable space at peak
- Low-cost option although with increased lumber prices this is not as much the case.
- When the Midwest winters are brutal, snow must be removed to avoid excess snow load and broken rafters
- As screws expand and contract due to weather, it causes holes in metal to elongate and cause leaks in the roof
Pre-engineered steel building:
- Primary framing anchored in concrete
- Columns can be 30 feet apart on sides
- Can be up to 300’ wide column free
- Clear span roof allows you extra height at the peak
- Steel framed structures are fire resistant
- Most resistant to wind damage
- Precise construction with most production in a controlled environment
- Stronger, because steel is a manufactured product, steel studs have no knots, splits or other defects.
In today’s market the difference in cost of steel vs wood is minimal. The added value of steel is in quality and durability. When you purchase a pre-engineered steel building you can customize your structure including heights that can accommodate combines, tractors, and other large pieces of equipment. You will choose a building that will last for multi generations with limited maintenance and upkeep.
