Carole VanSickle has over five years experience working with scientists and creative scholars to promote and explain their work. She is based in Atlanta, Ga., and specializes in scientific, medical and technical writing, SEO and educational content.
Posted under:
Horse FencingSUPPLIES
- Design plans
- Building location
Overview
Post frame buildings are metal structures that are primarily based on a series of roof trusses and framework for the building, then covered with metal sheets instead of solid wood walls or planking. Because of this structure, a great deal of stress is placed on the posts in this type of building, and it is important to place these posts correctly when you are installing them. Different types of post frame building structures require different levels of support, so it is important to evaluate this before you actually start digging.
Step 1
Factor in climate. The two rules of thumb are: 48 inches deep if you have a frost line, and 24 inches deep if you live in a southern climate. If you regularly get snow and ice, then opt for the deeper hole.
Step 2
Evaluate your design. If you have a smaller building, then you need to place the posts deeper because they will be under more stress. The building factors are: a large building needs less support than a smaller building. Larger building use their weight for support, whereas smaller building rely most on the posts for support.
Step 3
Work around your building type. Some rules are hard and fast regardless of climate and size. Any industrial structure like an airport hanger, riding arena, or farm warehouse that uses 6 by 6s or 8 by 8s should have posts planted 48 inches deep.
Step 4
Check your signs. Any one-post mailbox or two-post sign should get planted at 48 inches deep, regardless of whether or not you have a frost line.
TIPS AND WARNINGS
- WARNING : Have a professional evaluate your design plan if you have not built this type of building before and plan to use it for a major use such as storing an airplane or housing someone.
