Poles for Pole Barn Sizing

[Duffster]

Hey Guys-

I'm looking to build a small horse barn on my property, I am going to build it 36x36.

I was going to use free span trusses with a 4:12 pitch and for posts I was thinking of using 20' 6x6's notched for a double 2x12 header to support the trusses. I looking at having a 16' sidewall height.

Do you guys think the 6x6 is a big enough post for this application? or should I upsize to an 8x8 or even 10x10? It seems most people use 6x6's and do fine, just wanted other opinions.

IMO, you should put the trusses on the posts and skip the header.

6 x 6 is plenty,if not over kill.

 

[bp fick]

Most folks around here, including me, used 4x6. (12' wall), But you have a couple of considerations. Your height and your span. Twisting is indeed a real pain. PT seems especially prone.

And, as was mentioned, if you have applicable building codes and inspections, it matters not what any of us think. You'll do whatever the local czars insist you do. Have fun and enjoy your new project. I am presently in the midst of a small barn project myself. About half your stated size. The hot, hot weather has been rather brutal. Here's wishing you success.

 

[smfcpacfp]

I know that our building code calls for engineering certification for walls on pole buildings that are over 14' tall because of potential wind sheer problems (i.e., a strong wind could cause your building to fall over). If I were you I would definitely have a talk with your building inspection department before I would put up the 16' walls with 6 by 6's.

 

[Johndeere3720]

I help build pole barns all summer and we always used 6x6s.

 

[dweitzel]

I know that our building code calls for engineering certification for walls on pole buildings that are over 14' tall because of potential wind sheer problems (i.e., a strong wind could cause your building to fall over). If I were you I would definitely have a talk with your building inspection department before I would put up the 16' walls with 6 by 6's.

I was worried about wind shear with 18' walls. These are the posts I used. 12" diameter utility poles with 18" diameter bases 6' in the ground on a 2' x 8" thick footer. 10' OC. Yes, I do store hay in the loft. Approx 1500 bales.

DW

 

[schmism]

Hey Guys-

I looking at having a 16' sidewall height.

Do you guys think the 6x6 is a big enough post for this application?

the sidewall height and design windspeed and on center post spaceing is the determining factor for post design. (horizontal wind load on the building generally exceeds the gravity load especially in wall heights over 12')

6' OC perhaps 8' OC is likely pushing it 10-12' OC .... not on my barn.

 

[jcook5003]

So I've decided to lower the height to 12' and am now in talks with my local truss provider to decide on 6' or 8' centers.

On a slightly different note, I am also considering building a montior style barn and not using trusses, does anyone know a place I can buy plans for such a structure?

 

[Duffster]

So I've decided to lower the height to 12' and am now in talks with my local truss provider to decide on 6' or 8' centers.

Bad idea. You were on the right track witht the 16' walls, leaves all of your options open.

 

[jcook5003]

Ok so the news-

I talked with a reputable truss builder in my area, they engineered me a building layout. 36' wide free span trusses with one foot over hangs. 16' 6x6 posts on 12' centers and a double 2x12 header beam. This is engineered to exceed our local building requirements.

I will start a new thread once the building starts. I am about to start a 28'x36' run-in shed for my horses and will also have a thread dedicated to it first. Hope to continue the good feedback and response.

 

[LD1]

Ok so the news-

I talked with a reputable truss builder in my area, they engineered me a building layout. 36' wide free span trusses with one foot over hangs. 16' 6x6 posts on 12' centers and a double 2x12 header beam. This is engineered to exceed our local building requirements.

I will start a new thread once the building starts. I am about to start a 28'x36' run-in shed for my horses and will also have a thread dedicated to it first. Hope to continue the good feedback and response.

What is the span on the trusses?? 4' or 6'??

If you can get some trusses engineered to be set @ 8' centers, I'd set the posts @ 8' as well. The added cost of more posts would be offset by NOT having to use a double 2x12 header all the way around.

But it 4' or 6' trusses are considerabally cheaper, I'd go the route you are planning. You just have to figure both ways to see what is more cost effective.

Just some food for thought