A pole barn makes a perfectly good shed, but it can be so much more. Pole barn plumbing lets you turn one into a small home, a horse barn or a work space.
Because of its sturdy shape and versatile design, a pole barn adapts to all of these uses. In each case, you will likely need running water.
So consider these tips as you set up your shelter now or modify it later. They apply if you do the project on your own or with a professional.
Planning Pole Barn Plumbing Beforehand
Your shelter will need pipes, a sink or a spigot of some kind. However, you can’t just start laying down plumbing and hope it works out. Instead, prepare first.
First, read up on plumbing codes. Your building needs to meet all standards for your area. Next, consult a skilled plumber about the types of pipes that suit your project.
Then reach out to your local utility company. Ask where any electrical wires, sewage lines and cables run under the ground. After that, mark their location so you don’t strike them when you add the pipes.
Also, know where your water will come from. For example, it could come from your home’s water system or an underground spring.
In addition, find out if your pole barn will need drainage. Local regulations will tell you where to place it. Then put together a plan for the faucets inside the pole barn.
Choose How to Run the Pipes
For pole barns, you have two options for configuring the pipes. First, you can add the plumbing under the building, which means excavating part of the foundation.
Second, you can install it along an exterior wall. In that case, you also need to add insulation so the pipes don’t freeze and burst in winter.
Beginning the Pole Barn Plumbing Project
At the start, no matter where the faucets go, dig at least six inches below the frost line. Next, install your sink or other water fixtures, because the pipes will run to these spots. During this step, make sure you turn off the water pressure.
Then, if you haven’t done it already, dig up part of the pole barn’s foundation. Lay down the pipes from the water source to the sink.
Once everything is in place, pour concrete over the pipes to hold them steady. After the slab fully hardens, measure against your original plans. All pipes should sit in the desired spots, give or take an inch.
If any are off, you may need to dig up the foundation again and reset the pipes.
Start With the Right Pole Barn
Before you install any pipes, make sure you’ve got a pole barn suiting your vision. To begin, work with CHA Pole Barns to create that structure, down to the doors and space you need. For any questions or help, contact our team to learn more.