A hay storage pole barn gives your farm a dry, protected place for hay. If you raise horses or livestock, you most likely buy large amounts of hay. So you need a building that keeps it safe from weather that could cause damage.
Why a Pole Barn Works for Round Bales
Storing round hay bales can be a challenge because of their size. In a traditional barn, it is often hard to move a truck or tractor inside to drop off the hay.
However, a pole barn is a better option. It has a clear span, so there is more room for vehicles to enter and exit.
Choosing a Location for Your Hay Storage Pole Barn
The first step in planning a hay storage pole barn is choosing the right location. The site should have good drainage, so rain and melted snow flow away and your hay stays dry.
Also, the ground nearby should slope at least 5 feet for every 100 feet of horizontal distance. Divert water from nearby areas away from the building site.
Next, place your pole barn where you can reach it easily at all times of the year. Make sure a tractor, or a truck with a trailer, has room to drive up, drop off hay and turn around. The pole barn should stay accessible even when it snows in winter.
In addition, face the open end away from the prevailing wind. This reduces loads on the pole barn and protects the hay.
Keep a Safe Distance
A hay barn should sit far enough from other structures that they won’t be in danger if the hay catches fire. For that reason, place a hay storage building at least 75 feet away from other structures. If possible, locate it near a water source.
Sizing and Setting Up a Hay Storage Pole Barn
A hay barn can generally hold 10 to 15 square feet per ton for square bales. For round bales, plan on 16 to 24 square feet per ton. Round bales can usually stack two or three high.
Then figure out if you want your hay barn to be front loading or side loading. A side-loading barn lets you sort hay and makes better use of space. However, posts can get in the way of access.
Finally, the floor of the pole barn should have an 8-inch layer of compacted gravel over a sheet of filter fabric. That way, water can flow through the gravel.
