Post Frame Buildings

What is "Post Frame" Building?

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.

Pole Barns & Post Frame Construction

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, shoafing 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.

Post Frame Engineering

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.

Uses of Post-Frame Buildings

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.

Post Frame Building (cont.) >> Building Materials