Many clients ask us, ‘How long do pole barns last’? And rightfully so. If you are the proud owner of a pole barn, you are aware of the substantial investment it represents. As a result, for your construction to last a long time, it must be appropriately maintained. To maintain the long-term durability of your barn, we’ll give you the crucial pole barn maintenance advice you need to know in this blog.
How Durable are Pole Barns?
Weather, maintenance, and the materials used all impact how long your pole barn will last. However, if you properly maintain your pole barn, it can last for many years. Let’s get started with some advice for maintaining the best possible condition for your pole barn.
Regular Cleaning and Inspection
The lifetime of your pole barn depends on regular cleaning and inspection. Your pole barn should be cleaned twice yearly, preferably in the spring and autumn. Washing off the dirt, dust, and debris gathered on the barn’s surface is necessary for cleaning. Your pole barn can be cleaned with a pressure washer, a garden hose, and a soft brush.
Checking your barn for damage or wear and tear after cleaning is crucial. Look for any cracks or leaks in the external and interior walls and the roofing. To prevent more expensive repairs in the future, any damage should be fixed right away.
Roof and Gutter Maintenance
Two essential components of your pole barn that need routine maintenance are the roof and gutter. Your pole barn’s contents will be safe, and an adequately kept roof will extend its life. It’s critical to frequently check your roof for any indications of wear and tear or damage. Examine the roof for cracks, leaks, or missing or damaged shingles. Avoid additional damage by fixing these issues as soon as possible.
Pole barn gutters are crucial in keeping water from the structure’s foundation. Every two years, clean the drains to avoid clogging, which can result in water damage. You can use a leaf blower or a garden hose to clear the gutters.
Protecting Your Pole Barn’s Foundation
Your pole barn’s foundation is what keeps it standing. It’s crucial to safeguard the foundation of your pole barn from water damage, which could necessitate expensive repairs. Make sure the water is directed away from the foundation. Check the foundation for cracks, and if you find any, repair them immediately with caulk or epoxy to stop water from leaking.
Types of Pole Barn Foundations
The following are the available pole barn foundation types:
- Pier Foundation: With this foundation style, poles are buried in the earth, and the building is fastened to the poles.
- Perimeter Wall Foundation: For this form of foundation, concrete is poured around the building’s edge, and poles are then inserted inside the concrete.
- Concrete is poured into the ground to create a floating slab foundation.
Pole Foundation Design
The lifetime of your pole barn depends on the design of the pole foundation. The design should consider the weight, size, and kind of soil. A sturdy foundation will guarantee the stability and security of your pole barn.
Options for Pole Barn Foundations
The following are some available alternatives for pole barn foundations:
- Treated Wood: The most popular type of pole barn foundation is treated wood. The poles have undergone pressure treatment to guard against insects and deterioration.
- Concrete Piers: To build a sturdy foundation with this type of pier, concrete is poured around the poles.
- Steel Anchors: To secure the poles to the ground using this foundation option, steel anchors must be fastened to the poles.
Rust and decay can quickly deteriorate your pole barn’s structure. Regularly inspect and treat your pole barn with protective coatings and sealants to prevent rust and deterioration.
At Peak Pole Barns and Manufacturing, we understand the importance of keeping your pole barn in excellent condition. Our custom building designs and construction services provide a complete building solution, from concept to finished construction. Contact us today to discuss your pole barn needs and get a quote. With proper maintenance and our high-quality construction, your pole barn can last for decades. Instead of asking, ‘how long do pole barns last?’, you can rest assured knowing that you’ve got the highest quality product and the information you need to give it the most extended lifespan.