4 Things to Know About Building a New Pole Barn

“This is a big purchase for me, and it’s apparent I don’t know what I don’t know,” many customers say.

Are you in the market to build a customized pole barn, but not sure where to start? Here are four key factors to take into account when you’re thinking about building.

1. How much does it cost to build a pole barn?

As a general rule, a pole barn’s cost is determined by five major components, explained Rick Sagness, Area Manager for Lester Buildings:

• Building Use
  For example, a residential or commercial building will naturally be more expensive to build than an equipment shed. An insulated building costs more to build than cold storage.
• Building Size
  The bigger the building, the more you’ll spend. While this seems like an obvious factor, what many people don’t realize is that a builder can quickly and at no extra cost, modify the design and price of a building to suit your unique needs.
• Building Location
  A building location is key because it can affect how much site preparation is needed. How much earth work is required? Where will utilities like water and electricity be (if you want them)? What about tree removal, soil mitigation and drainage fields?
• Building Longevity
  How long do you want your building to last? This will help you determine the quality and durability of the materials, from what goes in the ground (wood versus concrete foundation) to the roof system (not all roofs are equally weathertight). An engineered building will last longer than a building that is not engineered.
• Building Aesthetics
  How do you want the building to look? Do you want porches with overhangs? Many windows to let natural light inside? How about cupolas, mansards, wainscoting? Even color – some color options will add to your building’s cost if the paint has a metallic finish.

2. Will a pole barn increase property value?

Size matters, especially when it comes to resale value. If your site and budget allow, build a slightly bigger structure than you initially planned.

Also, if you need a 10-foot high overhead door to get your camper in and out, consider installing a 12-foot high door instead. “Whether they’re a car collector looking for storage space and room for a hoist, or a small business with commercial HVAC requirements, I can’t tell you the number of calls I get from people who back out of buying a property with a pole barn because it has only a nine- or 10-foot high overhead door, and they want the next size up,” said Corey Larsen, Lester Buildings Territory Manager.

“As a seller, you want your property to be as marketable as possible. So, if you can spend an extra $1,200 now to construct a slightly bigger space, you’ll greatly increase the return on your investment.”

3. How long will a pole barn last?

Choose a manufacturer who has a structural engineer on staff. Look for a skilled builder with a solid reputation for quality workmanship. You’ll also want someone who’ll take care of you, and your pole barn, long after construction is done. Ask about their Lifetime Structural Design warranty, workmanship warranty and component warranties.

4. How do I choose a pole barn builder?

It’s important that you trust your manufacturer and builder. For most of us, the world of construction is filled with engineering mumbo jumbo. So, how can you understand what a building rep is telling you, much less trust that they’re selling you something you can be proud to own?

Look for length of experience in the business. Get references. Pay attention to whether they’re actually listening to what you want. Will they let you customize a floor plan design, so that you end up with a building as unique as you are? Are they allowing you the time you need to mull things over, or are they rushing you to make decisions as soon as possible?

You can learn more about what’s important in trusting your builder by downloading this guide.

We can help.

Building a pole barn is no small matter that can be made more challenging when you’re unfamiliar with construction terms and practices.

If you’re looking for a collaborative, flexible partner to design and build your customized building, contact your local Lester Buildings dealer or rep.