Why You Should (Not) Build a Pole Barn

Pole barns are a popular choice for many property owners due to their affordability, versatility, and quick construction times. You can use a pole barn as a DIY space, farm and horticulture space, art studio, storage space, garage, or even residential space.

But is a pole barn the right choice for your backyard? Here are five advantages and five disadvantages of having a pole barn on your property. 

What’s Good About Them

Popularized after the Great Depression, pole barns have improved with time and serve many purposes, helping homeowners use their space more efficiently. Here are five reasons they’re still appealing one hundred years later. 

Cost-Effectiveness

On average, people spend $11 to $20 per square foot to build a pole barn, and it can last them for decades. This is because they’re built with fewer materials and require less labor and ongoing maintenance. The low-impact foundation costs less to build, and it reduces soil disturbance and the overall environmental impact of construction​.

Versatility

They can be used as storage space for vehicles and equipment, a workshop, an animal shelter, or even a residential area. What makes them even better is that once they’re set up, they’re easy to repurpose. Their design allows for easy modifications and expansions, so you’ll produce less waste than if you had to erect a new building from scratch.

Quick Construction

Pole barns are known for quick construction times. The straightforward post-frame construction method enables builders to complete projects in a matter of weeks, which is much faster than traditional building methods. While I was searching for pole barn buildings near me, I found companies that finish a barn in just days.

Durability

Compared to other wooden structures, pole barns are highly durable. Vertical posts can endure strong winds, heavy snow, and even seismic activity as they are buried deep into the ground, which redirects the pressure. Unlike their first 1920s iterations, new-generation pole barns can last for decades.

Energy Efficiency

Wood is a natural insulator, something you cannot oversee in times of rising temperatures (and energy bills). Unlike metal structures that can keep you freezing in the winter and cooking in the summer, pole barns are comfortable even with minimal insulation. And if you want even better protection, you have plenty of insulation options, such as spray foam, fiberglass, and mineral wool. 

What’s Not Good About Them

Despite their many advantages, pole barns also come with certain drawbacks. If you’re considering getting one, here’s what to keep in mind.

Limited Aesthetic Appeal

Pole barns were created to be practical and sturdy, leaving them with their distinct rustic look. While they come in shapes, from the traditional gambrel roof to a simple gable roof, they still won’t fit in with all architectural styles, especially in residential areas. However, the design is iconic for a reason, and they’ll still be perfect for rural areas.

Potential Zoning and Permit Issues

Depending on your location, building a pole barn may face significant zoning restrictions and permit requirements. Some residential areas may have specific regulations that limit or prohibit the construction of pole barns. This makes the process more complex and time-consuming. 

Structural Limitations

Pole barns are sturdy. However, you should be aware of their load-bearing limitations, as they do not have traditional foundations. This can be a limitation for multi-story buildings or those needing heavy interior modifications.

Potential for Moisture Problems

Pole barns, especially those with metal exteriors, can be prone to condensation and humidity issues. To prevent humidity-caused mold growth and rot, you’ll need to insulate and ventilate your pole barn regularly.

Resale Value Concerns

Not all homebuyers are interested in having a pole barn in their yard. Now, while it may increase your property’s resale value and be very practical for the right buyer, others may want the pole barn removed. Keep in mind that they are a niche addition — they may fit your property perfectly and increase its charm, or they may not fit the aesthetic at all.