Garage barn hybrid

[Bslatoria]

Hello all,

I am new to this forum and am in the very early stages of building a garage/barn. The size is 32'x48' and I had some questions on spanning the second floor without using poles. I would like to make the second floor as livable as possible...if that makes sense. Ok...any commits, grips or advice???

 

[GeorgiaHybrid]

You need to get a structural engineer involved with this. There are several ways to span that distance using engineered wood trusses (spanning 32') or a steel support beam sitting on steel columns in the center spanning the 32' direction and engineered beams spanning 24' (total of 48').

You could also use steel open web joists supported by girders or beams or any number of other ideas. The engineer that is local to you will understand local suppliers, costs, time frames, availabilities, etc. that will get you the most economical design.

Good luck with the build and post pictures as you progress.

Edit: Welcome to the site...

 

[JoelS]

I strongly agree with the suggestion to consult a structural engineer. Having just completed a 30 x 50 pole barn, with "attic style" trusses, and having added significant bracing & reinforcement to the bottom chord of the clear span trusses.

I was able to take all of the flex/bounce out of the second floor by adding 3/4 plywood bracing on both sides of the bottom chord all the way across (glue and screwed) AND by building X bracing across the very center

I ordered my building kit from APM Buildings in Pennsylvania, they were one of the very few companies to offer certified trusses with attic/storage space