You know that you want a barn, right? Now the tough question is: do you go with a pole barn or a metal barn? The answer is simple – it doesn’t get any better than the metal barns at Metal Barn Central. We know we are partial to steel buildings, but it’s the truth! The benefits of a durable prefab metal building really do outweigh those of a traditional wooden pole barn.
Keep reading to compare the two barns and see which one will best fit your farm or agricultural needs.
What is a Metal Barn?
Our prefab metal buildings are built strong and built to last. Metal buildings will provide you with the peace of mind that your farming and agricultural storage needs are met while taking away the headaches that come with maintaining traditional wooden pole barns.
Steel structures are set up on any level surface, including – ground, gravel, asphalt, and concrete. Installation is simple too. All primary framing pieces are pre-measured and pre-cut for a faster installation.
Each pre-designed barn is modified to fit your exact needs, including sizes, widths, windows, entryways, windows, and more. So, you can customize a metal barn to fit your exact use, whether it’s needed for a workshop, storage space, areas for livestock, hay or equipment storage, and much more.
What is a Pole Barn?
A pole barn has been the traditional name for a large agricultural building with no basement, a high ceiling, and wide-open spaces. This type of structure has wood beams or “poles” buried unto the ground to support the outer walls and roof trusses.
This is a popular idea for people looking for a traditional style barn, but they tend to cost more over time with maintenance and repairs, not to mention treatment for pests.
Why Use Metal Barns in Place of Pole Barns?
Both metal barns and wooden pole barns can be used for a wide range of purposes. While they both provide excellent storage for your farming needs, metal barns really outperform traditional barns for so many reasons:
- Steel frames do not rot or deteriorate. Wood will.
- Don’t worry about molds, terminates, or insects with our steel structures. Metal barns are both termite and mold resistant. Wood isn’t and can end up costing down the road when it needs to be treated for termites or other pests.
- Metal buildings and steel barns offer clear span. A pole barn, by definition, has intrusive poles that minimize the internal clear span or your open space under the roof.
- Prefabricated steel buildings have anchors and braces that are made of high-quality steel that ensure stability and keep your roof safely intact. Wood structures are connected with nails and staples that loosen and pull out over time, causing the framing to shift, warp, sag, and creep.
- Pole barns are expensive to maintain. Because wooden poles can shift, you will have to correct your barn’s orientation every 7-8 years. Steel barns are practically maintenance-free and will stand straight and strong for years down the road.
- Steel is non-combustible and doesn’t add fuel to the fire mishap. Also, steel is one of the most recycled materials on earth. If you are buying a steel barn in place of a pole building, you are not leaching out any bad chemicals into the soil.
- We offer both 26- and 29-gauge sheet metal, which will help expand the life of your barn. These panels are inherently strong, and we offer a 20-year rust warranty on these panels under normal circumstances. You don’t get that kind of dependability with wooden barns. When you attach metal panels to wood poles, you’re increasing your chance for rust.
- Pole barns have truss-type rafters which not only take up building space but create a perfect place for birds to roost and nest. Metal barns will not only give you the option for more space inside but provide you with a cleaner space free of bird droppings!
- Metal barns are considered a property asset and will increase the value of your property. This isn’t the case for pole barns, they aren’t considered an asset because of the upkeep.
Pole Barn Construction vs. Steel Building Construction
Building the frame for your wooden pole barn is simple, just dig out some holes and put your poles in it. Although it’s easy to form the base, it can cause problems down the road. Because pole barns are planted into the soil, it’s subject to movement. So, as the ground shifts, so will your barn.
Steel buildings are anchored with strong bolts into concrete. So, these strong buildings are installed on a base that is strong too. And steel buildings are known for their quick installation. That’s because your pre-designed building comes with everything that’s ready to be installed. So, the parts are pre-measured, pre-cut, and pre-drilled so you can quickly get your building up and ready for use.
Pole Barn vs. Steel Frame Costs
You should know right off the bat that when you add up the prices for the materials, it’s roughly the same. Even if you can find a pole barn for cheaper, steel will end up saving you more money in the long run. Here’s why:
- Because steel barns are so durable, their isn’t much damage that can be caused. Because of this, it’s about 40% cheaper to insure a steel building compared to a pole barn.
- You will save money on maintenance costs. You won’t have to replace rotted wood or pay to have your metal barn treated for termites and other pests.
- Steel barns are energy efficient, so you will save on energy costs.
How Do I Decide Between a Metal Barn and Pole Barn?
You’ve looked at the difference between the two barns, now, how do you choose the one that is right for your property? Honestly, it boils down to your personal preference and what you are thinking about your barn for the long-term.
Both buildings provide solid construction and great options for a sturdy barn. Overall, a steel barn is more reliable and durable, but it could cost more upfront. If you find a cheaper pole barn option, it will cost you more in the future because of the regular maintenance that comes with a wooden structure.
So, when it comes to deciding on your barn, think about how important your barn is to your property and if you want to put up with the costs and time that comes with the maintenance of a wooden barn.
The Best Metal Barns at Metal Barn Central
We know we are a little biased, but it really doesn’t get any better than a metal barn when you’re looking for a sturdy building to protect your equipment or livestock. And what’s even better? The building specialists at Metal Barn Central can customize your barn exactly how you want it, from the color, design, size, and more. So, not only are you getting a barn that’s built strong for years to come, but you’re getting the exact barn of your dreams. Don’t wait! Contact us today at (980) 321-9898, and let us know what you’re looking for. We are here to help!
