When you set up a pole barn, you have two goals. First, you want a shelter that covers all of your storage needs. Second, you want a structure that lasts through years of use and weather. So choosing the best material for a pole barn matters a great deal.
Of course, you will consider price. However, the cheapest option doesn’t usually give you the greatest longevity. To get a quality shelter that holds up to wear and tear, the materials are one of the most essential factors, if not the most essential.
The Best Material for a Pole Barn Structure
As a general rule, cheaper materials lead to more maintenance and higher heating and cooling costs down the road. In the end, you might pay less now. Still, you’ll have to pay more later to keep the structure comfortable and secure.
Also, wood in the structure’s key parts, like trusses and frames, will rot far sooner than steel would.
Why Many Choose Steel
For this reason, many people consider a steel structure a solid investment. With galvanized components, steel holds up to repeated weather exposure. It also handles insects, UV rays and moisture buildup.
Ideally, your building uses thicker 26-gauge steel. This material withstands weather and also holds up to hail.
Add Metal Wainscoting
In addition, consider strengthening your structure with metal wainscoting. It is an added upfront expense. Even so, think about its long-term value if you regularly move vehicles in and out.
The extra metal layer creates a buffer against any tractor, lawnmower, car or truck and the debris it kicks up. As a result, it reduces dents and damage to your sidewalls over the long term.
Insulation
Do you plan to use the pole barn as a horse barn, living area or home? Then insulation becomes an extra step in the installation process. So after the structure is up, think about what will line the walls.
Fiberglass is standard here. However, for higher R-values, foam and cellulose help keep the heat in.
The Floor
Depending on the pole barn’s use, you may also want to add a floor as you set up the building. So which material is ideal for your needs?
Concrete
Concrete is the standard for any storage space or workshop, because dirt won’t end up all over your supplies. The material also creates an even surface. That way, it can handle the wear of heavy tractors, cars, trucks and other farming and landscaping equipment.
Gravel
In certain cases, concrete might be too hard. So if your floor needs more give, pour a layer of gravel on top instead. Keep it level and compact so it works well.
As you decide, also check the slope and water flow around the pole barn. The area needs good drainage to prevent water buildup. However, the slope should not be so steep that the gravel washes away with the water.
Dirt
When might you want to keep the natural dirt underneath? Dirt is best for housing animals. For instance, concrete places too much stress on a horse’s joints. Even so, dirt can easily get dug up, turn to mud, or erode and run downhill if drainage isn’t ideal.
Plan Your Pole Barn With CHA Pole Barns
As you create your perfect structure, get CHA Pole Barns involved in your vision. Then work with our team to choose the best material for a pole barn that fits your plans. You can explore all materials, building configurations, and structures suited to your use.