Adding Loft to Pole Barn

[GRivera]

I have a 30x40x12 pole barn with scissor trusses 2/12 pitch ceiling. The concrete floor is 6” 4K psi with rebar. I’d like to build an 8x20’ loft along the gable (30’ wall). My thought was to install a ledger board on wall and attach 8’ joists to it, but not attach it to the side/eaves wall. Instead just support the end and middle with 4x4” posts resting on the concrete floor. However, I’m concerned if any heaving of the floor occurs it may pull the main structure out of the ground some. I’m in Maryland where we get about a 3 month cold season Dec- Feb.

I’m not interested in adding footers to support the loft at this point. Since my plan above only anchors on the 30’ wall does that eliminate the risk of any heaving pulling up on the framing posts? BTW, I don’t know if any heaving actually occurs in my barn, just wanna be prepared in case.

 

[squirrel]

hi, I'm squirrel. I wish I had an answer to your question, but I'm happy you posted it. I'm looking to do the same thing to my pole building. Mine is 36x56, and I want to fo a 12' wide lift on the 36" side. I'm new to this internet thing, but I will be watching this so maybe it will help me to. Good luck with your building.

 

[dfiler2]

It would be odd to have the floor heave inside the building unless it is completely unheated and uninsulated, in which case everything would probably move at the same rate. I wouldn't be concerned about it.

 

[Earp69]

in on this,looking to do the same to mine when I build in the next couple of months