How do they compare to steel frame buildings?
Steel frame buildings, or clear span buildings, are another popular option for folks needing an outbuilding on their property. These metal buildings made of steel are also durable and, since they don’t use any wood at all, are less prone to issues like rot or mold.
However, homes are not usually built solely using steel, so rot and mold can still be an issue with a steel-frame home that is designed to look and function as a home.
One advantage of steel frame buildings is that they can be wider without internal columns. Steel-frame buildings can be up to 300-feet-wide, as opposed to a pole barn, which is limited to about 90 feet. This is great if you’re building a gymnasium or airplane hangar, but even for a barndominium, it’s not usually necessary.
Another issue you should take into account is cost. Steel frame buildings are more expensive than pole barns and require a concrete foundation like a standard home. So you’ll save money on a pole barn home.
When building anything on your property, you should always consider your local building codes, which can vary from place to place.
READ ALSO: Why Are Barns Red?