The Ultimate Guide to Post-Frame Construction
Our Post Frame Construction Guide: What, How, and Why?
Post-frame construction is a widely-used construction method that offers a straightforward construction process and a variety of additional benefits. Let’s review our post-frame construction guide to help you better understand this well-trusted process.
What is Post-Frame Construction?
Post-frame construction is a centuries-old method that combines roof trusses and large posts to create structurally sound buildings with expansive interiors. This construction method is most commonly used for agricultural buildings with wide-open interior spaces like pole barns.
Post-frame construction differs from traditional stick-built construction in that it requires fewer materials and less labor, which makes it a more valuable option. This construction method is used for buildings with open interiors, whereas traditional stick-built construction requires supportive interior walls. Post-frame construction also doesn’t require a basement foundation, making the construction process faster while providing an attractive alternative.
What are the Benefits of Post-Frame Construction?
This trusted construction method offers a variety of benefits. We explore each of these benefits below.
Affordability
Post-frame construction can be a more affordable construction method for a variety of reasons. Due to the structure of the trusses and large posts, buildings made with post-frame construction methods do not require interior walls. This saves money because it requires fewer materials and less labor.
Post-frame construction also doesn’t require a basement foundation, which is another reason this method can save you moeny. Instead of a basement, concrete columns are mounted on a slab or anchored in the ground. The structures remain highly sound.
Energy Efficiency
Post-frame construction is also uniquely energy efficient because the structures only require posts every 8 feet. The wider spacing and deeper recesses allow for thicker insulation with fewer breaks. This reduces the chance of energy transfer between the building’s exterior and interior walls, making these structures energy efficient.
Highly Durable
Buildings made using post-frame construction methods are very durable against extreme weather like heavy snow and severe wind. These structures are also built to withstand agricultural buildings’ repeated wear and tear. The materials used during construction are heavy-duty, and the sturdy trusses and posts are directly connected. Both of these factors make them highly durable and long-lasting.
The Post-Frame Construction Guide Process
Now that we understand the benefits of post-frame construction, let’s discuss the construction process step by step.
- Lay the foundation: While we know that post-frame construction buildings do not require a basement foundation, they need a concrete slab to provide a secure base for the posts. After you’ve decided on your foundation, you can begin securing your columns.
- Secure the columns: Now that you have a concrete slab as the base of your structure, the columns can be secured into the ground. Typically, additional concrete is poured to secure the columns.
- Install horizontal cross beams: Horizontal cross beams are installed after the columns to make the structure more durable and secure.
- Install roof trusses: The roof trusses used in post-frame construction are typically prefabricated, making the construction process faster and more affordable. These trusses are wide, sturdy, and contribute to the structure’s durability.
- Finish the building’s interior: After the building has been constructed, it’s time to finish its interior. Depending on the building’s use, this can include stalls, insulation, drywall, and stell liner panels.
Truss Manufacturing at Standard Supply & Lumber
Standard Supply & Lumber proudly provides truss manufacturing solutions that can be shipped throughout Michigan. With decades of industry experience, we source the highest quality lumber and provide reliable customer service so you can be confident in working with us. Our experts are here to help make your project run more smoothly. Contact us for a quote.