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What Are the Different Types of Pole Barn Kits?

Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari

A pole barn is a structure that is essentially a roof suspended by poles secured around the perimeter. Walls are not necessary for structural support, though some pole barn kits do include them for added protection and aesthetic appeal. Other pole barn kits are exceptionally simple, featuring only poles and roof materials. The various kits will differ in the types of materials included as well as the intended layout, so it is important for the builder to determine how large of a structure is needed as well as how that structure will be used.

Some larger structures, for example, will house heavy machinery, which means a concrete floor will probably be necessary. Some pole barn kits are designed to accommodate this, and the kits may include walls for added security or protection from the elements. Other pole barn kits are intended for use as a housing for livestock, which means the internal structure may feature individual stalls or modular walls. Such a kit is likely to be more expensive since more materials will be included, though again, walls can be very simple structures since they are not load-bearing.

Man with hands on his hips
Man with hands on his hips

The biggest difference between the many pole barn kits available will be the style of the roof. Gambrel roof kits are useful for barns that will feature storage or other usable space on the upper level of the structure, since gambrel roofs tend to have the most usable space of all roof styles. This style can be expensive, however, so a builder looking for a less expensive option may choose a gable roof instead. This roof style is easy to construct and still allows for storage or usable space in the upper level of the structure. A hipped roof fits in between the gambrel and the gable in terms of cost and usable space.

One of the simplest and least expensive roof styles included in many pole barn kits is the shed roof. This is essentially a flat roof that is tilted toward the rear of the structure; the front of the structure will feature higher poles and/or walls, while the rear will feature lower poles or walls. This ensures moisture from rain or snow will still be able to run off the roof. The downside of such a roof style is the limited uses of the structure, since the rear of the pole barn will be smaller than the front.

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