Are you looking to add a building to your property? Do you need a new storefront or warehouse? Pole barns or pole buildings are a great choice. Also known as post frame construction, these buildings get their name from the building technique that is used to create them.
They can be built in about a month, offer the same structural integrity as traditionally built buildings and offer cheaper maintenance costs. So, if you are looking to add an ADU for your mother-in-law, to build a garage, or need a barn for your livestock – pole barn buildings are a great option – no matter what you are building.
Choosing to build a pole building can be exciting, but also daunting. We have created a step-by-step guide for people that are interested in building pole barns but are not sure where to start.
Finding the Right Location for Your New Pole Barn
By now you should have a general idea of the size and footprint of your new building. If you are still not sure – see our previous post. With this in mind, here are a few things to consider when determining where your new building will go.
How big is the building?
This is probably the most important point. A building with a 1,000 square foot footprint will not fit in a 200 square foot space. As you are considering your new pole building, it is important to keep in mind the space you have available. Additionally, you will need a five-foot perimeter on the outside of the building for the building crew. If you are concerned about the space you have, it may help to reach out to a professional that has experience in optimizing the space.
How tall is the building?
Are there any other structures nearby, such as a house, that you don’t want to obscure the view of? Are there power lines above the space? Are there large trees that will need to be cut down or trimmed to accommodate the height of the building? Does your county or city have limitations on the height of buildings? Often counties and cities will have different requirements for the height of houses, additional residential buildings, and commercial facilities.
Are there property setback requirements or underground restrictions?
Most counties and cities have requirements that buildings be setback away from the street or property lines. Knowing these requirements will help you know where you can build on your property. Often, there are additional city requirements to avoid septic systems and waterways. You also want to stay away from underground utilities. Knowing the layout of the earth underneath your property and the requirements where you live are crucial to getting your building approved and permitted.
Where will utilities connect in?
Depending on what you are using your building for, you may need electricity, water, and sewage connections. Does your property already have these connections, or will they need to be routed in from the nearest location? If they are on your property, do they have the capacity to handle another building or will they need to be expanded? Adding in another septic system requires its own footprint and county restrictions – if this is going to be a part of your build it is important to know beforehand.
How will vehicles get to the construction site?
Do you already have a septic system on-site? Heavy construction vehicles should not be driving over the system; if they do it runs the risk of damage and expensive repairs. Is the route from the road to the build site clear or is there a fence? Trees? House? Construction crews will need a clear way to get to the build site – for both materials and construction equipment.
What will need to be done to prepare the site for construction?
Site preparation is key to constructing a building that will last. Is there a hill that needs to be leveled? Does drainage need to be put in? Are there large boulders or trees that need to be cleared? A good pole barn construction company will be able to help you with clearing the site and making the best possible foundation for your new building.
Hopefully these questions got you thinking! Our team of experts has been doing this for over a decade, and we would love to connect and discuss your project. No matter what you are building we have the experience to work with you every step of the way to make sure you have a great building that will endure for years to come.
Reach out now for a free quote.
Look out for our article: Pole Barn 101: Part 3 – An Overview of Zoning and Permits
