A pole barn is a good solution when you need extra space for vehicles, animals or farm equipment. If you live in a stormy area, bracing a pole barn for wind is an important step. Pole barns are sturdy and fairly inexpensive. Also, they can last a long time if they are well made.
Why Wind Is a Risk for Pole Barns
Pole barns have a simple design, so strong winds can damage them. Does your area tend to get storms with heavy winds? Then you should orient and brace your pole barn to prevent damage.
Orient Your Pole Barn the Right Way
The way you face your pole barn can help it stand up to wind. So build it with the shortest side facing the direction the wind usually comes from in your area.
Steps for Bracing a Pole Barn for Wind
Add Wind Bracing at the Base
Wind bracing along the base of your pole barn can help prevent damage. First, attach bracing material to the outside of the vertical poles. Then nail 12-foot-long 2×6 boards along the bases of the walls. Use four 16 penny nails at each post.
Install Diagonal Side Wall Braces
Next, create diagonal side wall braces. Run 2×4 braces from the eaves down to the 2×6 wind braces at the base. Set each brace at a 45-degree angle from the vertical poles. Then nail them at the top and bottom with 12 penny nails.
Add Plywood Triangles at the Posts
After that, cut 4-foot square pieces of ½-inch exterior plywood diagonally to make two triangles. Place one triangle at the top of each vertical post. The longest side goes on top, with the point centered on the pole.
Then nail each piece with 8 penny nails at 2-inch centers, both up and across.
Build a Positive Roof Diaphragm
Finally, a positive roof diaphragm helps your pole barn stand up to heavy winds. Use ½-inch exterior plywood on the roofing base. Start at the ridge line and stagger the joints of each sheet for added strength.
Then attach the sheathing to the roof trusses with 8 penny nails, and trim any extra plywood at the eaves. That completes the job of bracing a pole barn for wind.
