Post or column savers...

[timmyd]

Going to be building a pole barn this October, 30'x48' full insulated and heated concrete. I live in north west Ohio, and I'm not 100% sure that I am crazy about having my laminated columns stuck in the ground, and being on a budget,
pouring a footer or even preformed cement columns I'm not sure I want to swing it. Looking for advice and helpful hints to make this building last for many years.

 

[rburke65]

Off hand I think ya pretty much covered all your options. Others may chime in with other options.

 

[Chris705]

So if I was to build a post building today I would add some sort of plastic post sleeve. But be aware that laminated posts are far better than solid posts because each individual 2x lamination allows the preservative to penetrate further into the wood than a single 4x4 or 6x6 would. So laminated posts are a better option available to us today and adding a post protective sleeve is adding extra insurance and if you can afford them all the better. The use of posts and their lifespan has been discussed in many threads here on GJ.

 

[OldNeons]

Look at Perma-Columns. Reinforced precast base with integrated bracket to accept your posts. If I wasnt using steel, I'd be using these. Good luck