Header vs non-header buildings-Pole Buildings

[nhraracer90]

I have noticed that on some buildings that have headers across the top of the poles that the trusses sit on and some buildings do not. Some buildings have the trusses sitting on top of each pole and not as many trusses as buildings with headers. Is there any reason for having and not having a header? The advantages and disadvantages? Thanks!

 

[Cyberbear]

In my personal opinion, headers serve the main purpose of supporting a load usually above a door or window opening. Pole barn style of post and beam construction is a popular method of building, one I'm not personally fond of, but popular with agricultural uses where keeping out weather and rodents is not a high priority. If you've read GJ any length of time, you'll see many who do not share my opinion. I've always preferred stick built for my shops over the decades.

 

[kbs2244]

I belive it is a cost saving method used in no snow load areas.

 

[cj7jeep81]

It really just depends on the design of the pole building, and what the trusses are spec'd for. If trusses are spec'd for 8' centers, they're perfectly fine wihtout a header, but the trusses are more expensive than those on 4' centers (but you have half as many so cost isn't that far out, plus no headers). Mine is on 4' centers, which will make it easier to put in a ceiling down the road (most likely metal panels).

 

[rburke65]

You can have trusses that are spaced every 10' and they sit on the posts or poles and they won't support much weight. Or you can have them ..?.. Every 16" or 24" and maybe keep the snow from caving in your building.....or maybe have a ceiling in your building......or an attic. As no one here knows where you live it's hard to understand with what issues you will have to deal with. Many issues and conditions to consider before you break out a shovel or a hammer. What does your local building codes allow?

 

[MagKarl]

Either design can work, we see both here in build threads and seems to be regional convention for the most part. My posts are on 12 foot layout with trusses on posts, 2x8 purlins run between the posts. Engineer stamped building and truss designs.


With trusses on the posts, you get full headroom between the trusses. That makes it feel open, you have a lot of height in each bay. But if you want a ceiling between the truss bottom chords, you would have to add framing to do so. In my case, I wanted it open, it works for me.

From a framing standpoint, the header design usually has more posts. With trusses on posts, they are generally larger and fewer are required. My main posts are 6x10 for instance.