"What are the Advantages of Pole Barn House Plans?"
Basic Construction Difference
I know some of you out there may be thinking, "What makes pole barn house plans a viable option for me?" Simply put, they are house plans that are designed around the traditional building style used for simple barns and garages that feature structural construction of poles rather than stud framing. They do have their pros and cons, just like any type of residential construction, but I would be willing to bet the number one reason pole barn house plans are chosen is price.
The Main Premise Behind the Style
The American Dream that has been pounded into our head since we were young is that it is wiser to own your home than it is to rent. There is some truth in that. However, not everyone is able to afford the home of their dreams exactly the way they want it. Price is always the top factor in new home building for most people. I cannot recall meeting anyone who does not want to maximize floor plan space for the least amount of money. Pole barn floor plans are not really different in their layout; it is simply the structure surrounding the floor plan that is different in nature. Let's take a look at some of the details…
Cost-Cutting Options
The vast majority of pole barn house plans do not take a basement into the overall design scope, so let's nix that off the checklist of things we want or need. Some pole barn homes are built with a concrete floor poured on a flat, graveled surface with poles spaced at regular intervals around the perimeter of the concrete slab. Another style of construction for an identical plan would be to space the poles at the same intervals and then use traditional floor joists raised above the ground for your floor system. I would personally opt for the raised floor system to provide ease of access to the plumbing and wiring, but there is absolutely nothing wrong with a concrete floor.
Pole Construction Details Explained
Typical wall construction around your pole barn home floor plans can utilize one of several options. The most popular, by far, would be the 6 x 6 pole, or post, as some call them. The other options, and more expensive ones, are to use various sizes of round poles to bring more character into the design.
No matter what style post is chosen, they are usually spaced at 8' increments for optimum wall strength. Then a header or beam is placed across the top of the posts to offer lateral rigidity and a bearing point for the roof system. On a typical pole barn wall, 2 x 4's are placed horizontally around the outside of the poles in 2' vertical intervals. The 2 x 4's are now the main fastening structure for metal barn siding or ½” plywood sheeting if you chose traditional vinyl siding as your exterior finish material.
Roof Structure Considerations
The roof system for your pole barn house plans can be the traditional frame roof you find in frame homes. Trusses would be the ideal choice if your pole barn home is a ranch style. Using rafters would be a wise choice if you are considering some living space on the second floor. You will be able to do standard things on your pole barn house roof like adding dormers, skylights, etc...
Tremendous Design Adaptability
The bottom line is, you will be able to turn any standard 1 or 1½ story house plans into pole barn house plans. There will be some structural details needing to be changed if you are working off an existing set of plans. Post locations will need to be added to the floor plan for the sake of accurate construction. Minor details may also need revision depending on your particular home's design.
Several Economical Parameters
Due to structural limitations and integral strength, pole barn house design does not lend itself well to high cathedral-style ceilings, large second floor plans or various things that can best be analyzed after I take a look at your floor plans. Remember, economy is the key word here when you are considering pole barn house plans.
How to Get Started
I have years of experience designing pole barns of varying styles, 22 years to be exact. I still do quite a few pole barn designs on a regular basis. Converting your new home ideas into pole barn house plans is something I look forward to. Contact me and allow me to help you capture your part of the American Dream in an economical way.
As mentioned in the video at the top of the page many, if not even most, house plans can be converted into pole barn style construction.
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