Round Pole Barn Pole Question

[fidowanttobe]

When using round poles, how do you splice the purlins? Thinking that there isn't enough area on the round to butt them. Local sawmill Pal says he will cut one side to have a flat surface, however he hates cutting old utility poles. Is it worth the trouble or am I over thinking this? :confused3:

 

[Birdhunter1]

I've seen them shaved where the purlins go with a chainsaw, it worked.

 

[Cord]

Set the poles and then cut them in place. This way you can adjust for any errors from when the poles were set.

 

[GLyford]

If you can get electric out there or have a battery sawzall, one of the long sawzall blades will also work for cutting notches. They're cheaper to replace than a chain, especially if you are worried about nails, staples, and bolts and such in the poles.

 

[Rustyiron]

Chances are that the pole(s) are tapered, and close to the bottom there will be enough room for a few good GRK screws for the butt splice. As is tapers, I've done a little notching to allow for an additional 2' or so "backer" 2X under the splice while adjusting for a true wall trying to take out the taper. With utility poles, it's hard to make a perfect wall.

 

[LD1]

With utility poles, it's hard to make a perfect wall.

X2

I built a 30x50 with round utility poles because I was cheap back then.

Never again will I do that. Just too hard to make square and look good, especially if there is any plans to also finish the inside.

But for purlins....I just butted them up in the middle just the same as you would if the post was square. Still sufficient contact to get nails in and a good hold. Most of the poles I used were 8-10" diameter. So even though they are round, still have as much area to nail, if not more, than a 4x6.

A building is a big investment that should last decades. Personally, speaking from experience, I'd do it right and use square treated posts.

 

[MH8675309]

Square posts are better for appearance and yes there is enough room for nailing on round posts as LD1 said. It is had to beat a utility pole for decay resistance though. You cant buy treated posts anymore to compare with the creosote ones.

 

[Rustyiron]

In my area, "ground contact" rated PT is available again in dimensional lumber, ye ha! I have used 3 or 4 (PT) 2x6's nailed together for a nice straight & strong post. The chemical treatment does penetrate all the way through a 2X6 where I agree with you, not so much treatment in the center of a 6X6 or a 4X6 and they tend to do crazy things drying out. To me, a 4X6 is too small for a good post. In the end I agree, a utility pole is much more rot resistant, but with good drainage and overhangs, PT is a good choice, and there are many types of post "sleeve's" and wrap's available for additional protection.