Partnering With a Pole Barn Design Company & Materials Supplier

Growing Your Business With a Pole Barn Design Company & Materials Supplier

Is partnering with a pole barn design company & materials supplier the right move for your company? How does it streamline your workflows? Are you able to do more?

In this guide, we tackle these questions head-on and how their answers can be a boon for your business.

We cover:

Barden & Your Business: Partnering With a Pole Barn Design Company & Materials Supplier
Planning Your Project
Barndominiums, & Shouses | Building a Pole Barn Home

The Most Common Pole Barn Design Flaws
Planning Ahead to Avoid Future Headaches
How Much Does a Pole Barn Cost & Other FAQS

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If you’ve been in the construction business for any amount of time, you know the value of having the right people on board for a project of any size. In short, they can mean the difference between a successful completion or costly errors and rework

Whether it’s a custom post frame home or a pole barn for commercial use, seeing a build reach the finish line is no small feat. At the very least, a finished building of any sort represents months of hard work by many hands and plenty of planning.

How do we know this?

With decades of experience under our belt, we’ve worked with many builders on countless projects. We understand exactly what goes into making a construction project happen. From our standpoint, we’re not simply a link in your supply chain; rather, we’re your partner – one that’s here to help you find solutions at every stage of your post frame project, growing your business in the process.

Let’s dig into partnering with a pole barn design company and materials supplier supply company and what it takes to plan a post frame build that will meet & exceed client expectations.

Why Build a Custom Home?

In construction, completing a project successfully isn’t just about having the right tools and labor; it's also about having strong partnerships.

But doesn’t a partnership mean that you’re just putting another thing on your plate to manage?

Recognizing that all building material suppliers are different, it doesn't have to be. In fact, it can be quite the opposite and provide a boost to your business.

A reliable pole barn design and material supply company can make all the difference in your projects and realized benefits are hard to ignore.

Cost Savings

Partnering with a supplier reduces costs through bulk purchasing, especially during market volatility, and eliminates the need for new supplier research and quality concerns.

Strength in Numbers

Suppliers leverage their networks to secure materials during shortages, increasing the chances of order fulfillment when supply is limited.

One Stop Shopping

Simplifies procurement by consolidating orders through a single supplier, reducing time and effort, and handling any customer service issues.

Expert Assistance

Pole barn supply companies offer valuable industry insights, best practices, and trend knowledge, helping you remain competitive in construction.

Partnering with Barden means gaining access to decades of industry expertise, dependable products, and a collaborative approach that prioritizes your project's success. Whether you're tackling a small-scale build or a more complex post frame building , we’re here to ensure you have the materials and support you need to deliver quality work on time, every time.

Planning Your Pole Barn Project

To some, a pole barn might seem like an easier build. Generally speaking, many post frame structures don’t include the features of more complex buildings.

While pole barn design and construction isn’t as heavy a lift as, say, building a skyscraper, it still requires working closely with the client and taking a very detail-oriented approach. And, whether the post frame building serves as a garage, workshop, an alternative to traditional metal storage buildings, or even a home – there are some elements of a pole barn project that are universal.

As with any project, there are a few basics to cover with your clients during your preliminary discussions about their new pole barn:

Budget

The budget is the primary factor influencing the project. A larger budget allows for greater flexibility, while a limited budget may require careful design choices and prioritization to meet the client's needs.

Timeline

The timeline for completion is a close second in importance. A tight schedule may necessitate adjustments to either the client’s expectations or the budget to achieve the desired outcome within the time frame.

Location

The location of the pole barn is crucial, with site-specific factors such as gradient, accessibility, and proximity to other structures playing a significant role in its overall functionality and design.

Purpose

The intended use of the pole barn will directly shape its design. Different purposes, such as whether the building will be used for storage, a workshop, or other activities will require different design considerations, such as headroom or overall size,

But even like a skyscraper, pole barn builds can become complex (something that largely depends on the client and their vision & intended use for the structure.

Pole Barn Project Planning: Getting More Granular

The details of the project matter – even those that might seem small can have big implications for a build.

Getting more granular in planning and designing a pole barn – regardless of its intended use – means focusing on the details that will ensure long-term functionality and client satisfaction. As every project is different, the minutiae of each build can vary greatly.

In working with any client to design a pole barn – be it for commercial, residential, or agricultural purposes – that meets their needs, your planning checklist should include going over:

Size & Height:

The size and height of the pole barn are fundamental design considerations, closely linked to its intended use. It’s crucial to avoid building a structure that’s either too large or too small. While size and height can be adjusted later through extensions, this could be a viable compromise for clients with budget constraints who still want to achieve their desired dimensions.

Foundation Type:

Originally, pole barns often had dirt or gravel floors, with no formal foundation. Today, concrete slab foundations are much more common, However, the choice ultimately depends on the client's preferences, budget, and the intended use of the pole barn.

Layout:

A pole barn offers a large, enclosed space that serves as a blank canvas. This space can be customized to include designated areas like storage, workspaces, or even office spaces. The layout can be tailored to accommodate specific equipment or items, making the barn more efficient and practical for the client’s needs.

Door Type & Placement:

The type and placement of doors are critical to the barn’s functionality, especially if large machinery will be stored inside. Consider the size and number of doors based on the client’s needs, ensuring accessibility and convenience.

Windows:

Windows can enhance the barn’s aesthetics, provide natural light, and improve ventilation. It’s important to discuss with the client how many windows they want and where they should be placed, as these decisions will affect the overall design.

Roof Pitch:

While a 4/12 pitch is typical for pole barns, some clients may prefer a different roof pitch to match their home or for aesthetic reasons. The steepness of the roof pitch may also impact the look, feel, and functionality of interior spaces, particularly when scissor trusses are used for cathedral or vaulted spaces.

Ceiling Type:

The type of ceiling chosen can influence the barn’s aesthetics, insulation needs, and potential for storage space. It can also affect the roof pitch and the truss design.

Utilities:

At a minimum, most pole barns require electrical service. This is especially important if the barn will be used as a workshop or a secondary living space, as it may also need plumbing and sewer connections.

Lean-to Additions:

For clients looking to expand their pole barn’s functionality, a lean-to can provide extra covered space for storage or other uses, often at a relatively low cost.

Color:

Just like choosing a color for a car or house, selecting the right color for the pole barn is an important consideration. The choice of color will impact the overall look and feel of the new structure.

Barndominiums & Shouses | Building a Pole Barn Home

A growing trend in custom home building, post frame homes are an alternative many are turning to. Often referred to as barndominiums (and sometimes, shouses), post frame homes match the strength & durability of post frame buildings with a custom home’s freedom of design.

While serving a different purpose than, say, as a storage building, elements of barndomimum construction aren’t that much different than building a pole barn.

As expected, where barndo construction takes a sharp turn away from pole barn construction is with its custom home elements. In fact, the design, planning, and building are nearly identical to the process used to build any of our panelized homes.

Additional project elements to go over with a client building a post frame home include:

Site Prep:

Site preparation is crucial before construction begins. This includes clearing, leveling the land, and ensuring proper drainage to prevent future foundation issues. It's also important to consider the orientation of the building to maximize natural light and ventilation, which can reduce utility costs. Positioning the home to block cold winds or catch breezes can enhance comfort and energy efficiency, depending on the climate.

Exterior Architectural Style and Aesthetics:

Pole barn homes don’t have to resemble farm storage buildings, though for many that is part of the attraction. With modern design strategies, they can achieve a traditional home-like appearance. Many homeowners opt for exterior finishes like brick veneers, natural stone, or wood. Additional features such as dormers, roof gables, and covered porches can further enhance the home’s curb appeal and functionality.

Interior Floor Plan & Layout:

The flexibility of post framehome design is similar to traditional custom homes. Barden homeowners often customize existing plans or create unique layouts with the help of their Barden Independent Dealer. This process allows clients to design a floor plan that meets their specific needs and preferences, just as they would with a conventional custom home.

Insulation & Energy Efficiency Measures:

A pole barn will lack insulation bc is isn't habitable, but a post frame home will always have insulation bc residential building code requires it. Insulating a pole barn home requires careful consideration of local building codes and R-value requirements. Energy-efficient windows, doors, and properly sized HVAC systems are crucial for maintaining comfort and minimizing costs. Radiant floor heating can be a valuable addition, especially in colder climates, though it requires early budget planning.

Utilities and Services:

Like any custom home, post frame homes require electrical and plumbing services. Considerations include the placement of outlets, lighting, and plumbing lines for living and workspace areas. Additionally, utility connections like sewer and power lines should be part of the initial site preparation unless the home is off-grid.

Further Reading: Builder’s Guide: How to Build a Barndominum

The Most Common Pole Barn Design Flaws You Should Be Discussing With Clients

There’s nothing worse than spending months on a project only for the client to be disappointed in the final product. In that scenario, they’re left with two options: invest more time and money to correct the issues or accept the finished result as it is.

Either way, both those options are the last thing that anyone wants.

How do you avoid your client having to choose between either option? Make sure you address some of the most common design areas where pole barn design flaws are likely early in the planning process, including:

Size:

A pole barn that’s too small will quickly be outgrown, while one that’s too large can lead to unnecessary utility costs.

Location:

Put simply, a pole barn’s location impacts functionality. Poor orientation to the sun and wind can cause overheating or drafts, reducing the barn's efficiency.

Improperly Sized Openings:

Openings that are too small can hinder the use of large equipment. Measure equipment dimensions to ensure openings are adequate.

Missing Features:

Features such as overhead doors, windows, and porches enhance versatility and appearance. It’s more cost-effective to include these in the initial design rather than adding them later.

Wrong Foundation Type:

Pole barns use poles or posts that are set in the ground. if the building isn’t mean for habitation, it can be approved with having a gravel/dirt floor. If the building is habitable, it will require a poured monolithic slab.

Questionable Color Choice:

Choosing the wrong color can lead to the additional expense of repainting. Selecting the right color initially prevents unnecessary costs.

Missing Utilities:

Opting against utilities like plumbing, electrical, and heating may save money upfront, but including them in the original design is more cost-effective and avoids future disruptions.

Planning Ahead to Avoid Future Headaches

While not a flaw per se, one of the biggest mistakes a future pole barn owner can make is not planning for the future if they know the building might see some change.

What do we mean by that?

One of the best parts about a pole barn is that it can be added to or modified as needed more easily than other types of buildings – a perk for clients who may need to go down the road.

When it comes to planning for future additions to a pole barn, there’s no time like the present.

Though it’s impossible to predict exactly what your client might need in the future (even if they’re confident in their current plans), designing with future possibilities in mind could involve incorporating features like additional trusses spaced at intervals to support potential expansions or leaving certain areas open. It might even be as simple as ensuring the structure is fully wired with strategically placed electrical service points.

Making Short Work of Pole Barn Design & Quoting

Coming up with a project quote and initial rendering of a client’s pole barn shouldn’t be an impediment. Rather, it should happen efficiently to get your work together off on the right foot.

With SmartBuild Systems – a design and quoting software available to Barden Independent Dealers – users can quickly create 3D renderings, detailed bids, cutlists, and cost calculations, saving time and improving efficiency.

On average, you’ll save 2.5 hours generating a new bid!

Learn More About SmartBuild:

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How Much Does a Pole Barn Cost & Other FAQs

As an experienced pole barn supply company, we get plenty of questions about post frame construction. Here’s a selection of FAQs we regularly field:

What other FAQs do we get about pole barns? Check out the full list:

Pole Barn FAQs

What is a Pole Barn

Primarily a utility structure, pole barns have a rich history and diverse applications across commercial, agricultural, and residential settings.

First developed in the United States during the 1930s, pole barns were originally designed as cost-effective and practical solutions for storing farm equipment and housing livestock.

The design of a pole barn, also known as a post-frame building, is defined by large posts or poles embedded deeply into the ground, providing essential structural support. These posts form the foundation and framework of the building, while trusses or rafters support the roof. The walls of a pole barn can be constructed from various materials, with metal siding being the most common choice, though wood or concrete panels are also used.

How Much Does a Pole Barn Cost?

Since no two buildings are exactly alike, providing an exact price for a pole barn is challenging, as several factors influence the overall cost.

Size: Larger buildings typically cost more due to the increased need for materials and labor. Additionally, the height of the structure can affect the cost, as taller buildings may require additional reinforcement.
Materials: Pole barns can be built using various materials, such as wood, steel, or concrete. Each material comes with its own costs and benefits, and the choice depends on factors like durability, aesthetics, and budget.
Customization & Amenities: Adding features like insulation, windows, doors, electrical systems, plumbing, and interior finishes will increase the overall cost of the pole barn.
Labor: Labor costs vary depending on location and the complexity of the project. Hiring experienced contractors or builders typically results in higher labor costs but ensures quality construction.

Ultimately, the final cost of a pole barn is determined by the owner’s specific needs and choices.

How Do You Finance a Pole Barn?

In short, there are two options that customers typically pursue:

Paying out-of-pocket
Getting a loan from a bank.

Further Reading: Barndominium Financing & the Available Options

What is a Pole Barn Used for?

Historically, pole barns were predominantly linked with agriculture, serving as barns for hay storage, livestock housing, or shelters for farm equipment. These traditional uses remain relevant today.

However, the versatility of pole barns has expanded significantly.

In commercial environments, pole barns are frequently used as warehouses, workshops, storage facilities, or retail spaces. Their open layout offers maximum flexibility for customizing the interior to suit specific business requirements.
In industrial settings, pole barns similarly provide a cost-effective solution for storage or additional workspace.
For residential purposes, pole barns have become popular as garages, workshops, or extra storage spaces. They provide a budget-friendly alternative to traditional construction methods while offering ample room for various uses. Additionally, they've emerged as an option for those seeking a unique home.