Overview
A pole building can serve many purposes, providing you with a new barn, garage, office or airplane hangar. These buildings also help protect vehicles, equipment or animals from inclement weather, theft or vandalism.
Methods
Normally, the weight of the building is born by poles set right into the ground rather than on a slab. The poles are usually pressure-treated wood. There are a variety of pole-building methods with different girt designs. The standard design is used for sheds and storage buildings. More complex girt systems provide a better opportunity for customized internal and external finishes and insulation.
Construction
Pole buildings can be erected fairly easily. Some pole buildings can be put up within a couple of days, as long as you have all the materials arranged.
Questions
Answer a set of questions before getting cost estimates. Most importantly, what is the purpose of the building? How big do you need it and where will it be located? Do you have permission from your town's planning and zoning to put it up? How many doors and windows will you need, and what size and kind? Where will you put them? Does it need to blend in with other buildings on the property? Are you going to insulate it? Do you need special financing?
Design
Most pole buildings have a steel roof and siding. It is more costly to have a more finished look, such as stucco or wood-looking siding. The building can be painted in a wide variety of colors. Some people decide to have higher-grade roofing or a painted roof rather than galvanized steel. Even if you are not going to be heating your building, order dual-pane windows and insulate the walls. Skylights add a pleasant dimension and additional natural lighting. You will need a door large enough for the equipment and vehicles. If it is a larger facility, a smaller back door will provide more safety.
Ammenities
Once your building is up, decide whether it needs electricity or plumbing. Also consider accessories. These could include ventilators, end walls, heavy-duty security doors, sliding doors, awnings and canopies.
