How to Build a Pole Barn

You can build a pole barn with ease even with little experience in carpentry. All you need are a few simple tools and just follow these instructions.

Required Tools and Materials

Poles
Roof trusses
Saw
Lumber
Storm clips (these are optional)
Plywood
Braces
Tin roofing sections
Concrete or gravel
Nails (roofing and straight)

Choose the Site

It has to be large enough to fit your design. If it’s going to store animal feed, make sure that it’s on solid ground and drains water. Pave the area first if needed. Dig the area and add some cement mix there if required.

Note: Before you commence, get the permits ready. Inform the authorities it is to be used for agriculture. Only when all paperwork has been approved should you proceed.

Prepare the Lumber

Start to build a pole barn by getting the right lumber. You can use 8 ft lumbers. They are cheap and can do the job adequately. The 2 x 4s will do well for the posts. You can use 2 x 6 for the stringers. Any type of plywood will be suitable for the roofing.

Create the Foundation

Mark the area for the posts. Excavate the holes. Be sure that the corners are set at 90 degrees. Put some distance between the holes. When deep enough, insert a stake.

Pour some concrete in there too. Add them in the areas with soil. Add 6 inches of gravel as well. This will serve as a drainage system.

Create the Poles

If needed, cut them from the lumber. Put each one in place. To ensure you build a pole barn correctly, add a brace for each one. Double check to ensure they are sturdy. Look over each one and check they are aligned correctly. When all are in place, attach the stringers at the top of each pole. Fasten the stringers.

Put in the Trusses and Roof

Set the truss in place and add a brace. Do the same with the remaining trusses. Cut some pieces of lumber and fasten to the edge of the stringers. Next, use the screws to attach the tin roofing. Overlap some sections and caulk them. Put a tin ridge at the roof.

Add the Walls

This is optional when you build a pole barn. Cut or just install the wall boards. You can use some wood for bracing. Add some storm clips for more support to the structure.

Tips

The roof trusses can be purchased in most home improvement or hardware stores. Military surplus shops are also a good option. Use caution when utilizing hammers and saws. Always get help when you are putting on the roof. Be careful if and when you are going to use a ladder.

Always double check the measurements. When everything is properly set, you can put in the grain and animal feed.

There are several other additions but the procedures above are the basic way to build a pole barn. By knowing how to do this, you can make additions and innovations more easily.