Building Info

About Post Frame Structures

• Post frame structures fit a multitude of uses including warehouses, storage buildings, shops, equestrian facilities, offices and more.
• Metal is often the siding of choice due to the affordability factor; however any type of siding can be applied including stucco, concrete block, cedar, lap and T1-11. Construction time is typically half of that of conventional building.
• Clearspans of up to 100’ are available.
• Post Frame Structures are quick, versatile and economical!

 

What is Post-Frame?

Post-frame buildings typically feature large, solid-sawn wood posts or laminated columns instead of the 2x4” studs found in many wood-frame buildings. Loads are transferred to the ground through the posts, which are typically embedded in the ground or surface-mounted to a concrete or masonry foundation.

Many people simply think of a “pole barn” when they try to imagine a post-frame structure. Although the post-frame design was originally perfected by engineers for large agricultural buildings, the design has proven so efficient and versatile that barns now constitute only a fraction of the post-frame industry. However, post-frame remains the obvious choice for horse barns, riding arenas, machinery storage, loafing sheds and most other agricultural buildings.

Round “poles” are no longer used in post-frame construction; rot and insect-resistant pressure-treated square posts, nail-laminated or glue-laminated wood columns, and new types of materials are used instead. Laminated columns may also be engineered to build large, arching structural members that are ideal for church sanctuaries and other open timber interiors.

Due to the application of modern structural engineering principles and stress testing methods, post-frame technology is now recognized as a truly significant advancement in the centuries-old art of wood frame construction. Post-frame is now the construction method of choice for any number of different commercial, retail, industrial, residential, religious and public building needs.

Countless structures are now erected using post-frame methods, including strip malls, convenience stores, restaurants, and office complexes. Schools, churches, banks, fire stations, airplane hangars, and many other kinds of structures may be erected using post-frame design. Many homeowners are choosing post-frame for accessory buildings, including garages, workshops and tool or machinery sheds. Some beautiful post-frame homes have also graced the land, as well as multi-family housing units.

A wide variety of materials never envisioned by industry pioneers are now routinely incorporated into post-frame buildings. So many types of materials can be used on the façade, one may easily mistake a post-frame structure for another kind of building. Today it makes little difference whether the building purchaser favors the aesthetics of wood siding, brick or stucco, vinyl, or steel; virtually any kind of cladding may be affixed to a post-frame building. Wainscoting is popular, and new concrete siding products are now available that present a brick appearance without mortar and associated high installation costs. Any type of wall, ceiling and roof material may be directly affixed to the wood structure, eliminating the time-consuming installation of “nailers” and other devices used in non-wood structures to affix finishing materials. From the most utilitarian to the most ornate needs, post-frame provides an economical solution.

Due to the nature of its design and many external façade options, post-frame also is ideal for building additions and remodeling projects. In some projects, entire buildings have been given a new look and chronically leaky roofs have been covered by post-frame remodeling, without sacrificing the original building.

Post-frame structures are much more quickly erected than other kinds of buildings. Because the larger posts and the interlocking frame can handle greater loads than stud-wall construction, less structural materials are needed – which saves on material and installation costs. Pre-assembled roof trusses are often used, which are quickly secured to the frame.

The significant savings in construction time and materials means you can have the quality building you want, in less time, for less money.

The savings don’t end with the construction process itself, however. The natural insulating properties of a wood structure are far superior to those of steel or masonry. Post-frame structures typically create an outside wall cavity at least 6 inches wide, in which a large quantity of any type of insulation may be installed. This large cavity, when filled with the most efficient types of insulation, may result in a higher insulating value than typically possible on other kinds of buildings. You’ll enjoy lowered heating and cooling costs throughout the year.

Once constructed, post-frame buildings are also exceptionally resistant to wind, snow and seismic loads. The entire structure works as a diaphragm to allow superior resiliency. Trusses are attached directly to the post frame, making it virtually impossible for the roof to detach from the building. In areas ravaged by hurricanes and earthquakes, often the only structures left standing are post-frame.

Post-frame buildings are durable, long-lasting, and highly flexible in their application. They may be designed to meet the highest standards for quality and aesthetic beauty, and are the most efficient and economical choice for most low-rise building applications. Whatever interior or exterior look you prefer, post-frame is an excellent choice.