I'm preparing to have a 30x50 pole barn built. I've talked to and received quotes from several builders. After looking at some finished products, I've narrowed it down to 2 choices. Both builders turn out quality buildings. Their quotes are nearly identical, both on specs and pricing. The main difference is that one builds traditional with posts in ground while the other only builds using the perma-column style method. I've searched and most results say that the perma-column is more expensive and not worth the added cost. This is where I struggle as cost is the same between the two. Any suggestions or input would be appreciated from those that have buildings built with the perma-columns. Would this make any difference or difficulties when I insulate and finish out the inside of the building later on?
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Can't decide on structure for pole barn
- Thread starter jtuttle4
- Start date
jives
Well-known member
Perma-columns have been discussed many times on GJ, as has wood in the ground -- many times. One thing to consider is that after its done, its done.
I went with Perma-columns. The Amish folks who built it went with Perma-columns on their own barns.
I went with Perma-columns. The Amish folks who built it went with Perma-columns on their own barns.
readhead
Well-known member
If you can get perma columns for the same price I don't think there is even a question.
73RR
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Soil conditions vary by huge amounts from one place to another so there is no perfect answer. Obviously, the local power company is happy with direct contact but they have a bit different treatment on their poles than what the lumber yard stocks. Can you get what they have? Generally, yes, just a special order.
If you have concrete in the ground will you need to worry about the soils? No.
Perma columns (and their variants) can be field duplicated if you want to make your own brackets.
some discussion here: http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=352535
If you have concrete in the ground will you need to worry about the soils? No.
Perma columns (and their variants) can be field duplicated if you want to make your own brackets.
some discussion here: http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=352535
tomroblee
Well-known member
I had my barn built with Perma-Column and I'm very happy with it. It isn't finished, but I can't imagine any great differences if I were to finish it.
Obviously the concrete portion of the Perma-Column posts extend beyond slab level for a foot or so. If you want to attach something to this portion of the post you will need to use something other than a regular nail. The metal "brackets" used to connect the wood posts to the top of the concrete present a similar issue. Where you want to attach a 2x board to the post (like where you frame a door) you will need to do so slight "trimming" to allow for the thickness of the metal bracket and any bolt head or nuts.
When you say Perma-Column STYLE, you might be talking about something quite different.
Obviously the concrete portion of the Perma-Column posts extend beyond slab level for a foot or so. If you want to attach something to this portion of the post you will need to use something other than a regular nail. The metal "brackets" used to connect the wood posts to the top of the concrete present a similar issue. Where you want to attach a 2x board to the post (like where you frame a door) you will need to do so slight "trimming" to allow for the thickness of the metal bracket and any bolt head or nuts.
When you say Perma-Column STYLE, you might be talking about something quite different.