Why Choose Pole Barns Over Metal Buildings in OKC?
Choosing the right structure for your needs in OKC requires a keen understanding of different construction types. Among the popular options available, consider distinct differences in terms of construction, cost, and durability. Understanding these factors is crucial to making an informed decision that aligns with your budget and purpose. For those considering pole barns in OKC, this knowledge is particularly essential.
Metal Buildings vs. Pole Barns
The first steel buildings, nicknamed "iron houses," were developed by Peter Norris in 1848, catering to the California Gold Rush. In 1909, Butler Manufacturing pioneered pre-engineered metal buildings for Model T Ford storage. Pole barns, dating back to the 1930s Depression, originated as a cost-effective solution for farmers using recycled utility poles for constructing storage and shelter.
Understanding the Basics
Metal Buildings
Metal buildings are composed of solid steel framing elements, carefully engineered in quality manufacturing facilities. Renowned for the exceptional durability, strength, and resilience in challenging environments, they find applications across commercial, industrial, agricultural, and even residential sectors.
Pole Barns
Pole barns are agricultural structures built upon a foundation of wood framing supported by poles driven into the ground. Primarily used for housing livestock, farm equipment, hay, and various agricultural supplies, their straightforward construction and affordability make them a practical choice for homesteads seeking additional storage, ranches, and small farms.
Understanding the Benefits
Metal Buildings
Metal buildings boast exceptional durability and longevity, requiring minimal upkeep, unlike traditional structures that demand constant painting or board replacement. Their resilience against extreme weather, fire, rot, and pests ensures long-lasting performance and composure. Their versatility makes them suitable for various applications. Furthermore, their inherent fire resistance often translates to significant reductions in insurance premiums, potentially exceeding 30%. The ability to achieve clear span widths up to 300 feet and the trussless roof design maximizes usable space. With wall/roof sheeting & framing typically backed by warranties of up to 40 years approximately and engineering designed to withstand local wind, snow, and seismic activity, metal buildings are a sound investment in the long run.
Pole Barns
Pole barns offer a cost-effective solution for smaller structures under 5,000 square feet, particularly appealing to those seeking a traditional & rustic aesthetic. They are ideally suited for small to medium-sized agricultural buildings like storage barns & sheds. Their adaptability allows for easy modifications and expansions to accommodate future needs. Unlike metal buildings, pole barns can be constructed without specialized labor, simplifying the building process. Their construction is remarkably fast and simple, especially when a dirt floor suffices, further minimizing foundation costs and site preparation.
Consider the Drawbacks
Metal Buildings
Metal buildings, while versatile and durable, may present higher upfront costs for smaller projects under 5,000 square feet. Construction timelines can vary based on design complexity and often necessitate skilled labor and specialized equipment. Additionally, their modern aesthetic may need to align with those seeking a rustic charm. While expandable, modifications after construction can prove costly unless planned during the design phase.
Pole Barns
Pole barns require ongoing maintenance, including painting and wood replacement. They are less ideal for areas with deep frost and have limited interior clearances & lifespan due to roof trusses with maximum widths of 80 feet.
Costing Aspects
Metal Buildings
Metal buildings offer a structured cost system. The kit package typically ranges between $15 and $30 per square foot. The foundation is another critical cost component, with a full slab installation costing between $5 and $10 per square foot. Additionally, foundation footings cost between $3 and $6 per square foot. Construction costs are also in the range of $5 to $10 per square foot. Collectively, these expenses bring the average installed cost of a metal building to about $36 per square foot.
Pole Barns
Pole barns present a slightly more affordable option. The kit package prices vary from $12 to $23 per square foot, indicating a cheaper initial material cost compared to metal buildings. The foundation costs, both for a full slab and footings, mirror those of metal buildings, each ranging from $3 to $10 per square foot. Construction costs hold steady at $5 to $10 per square foot. These combined factors lead to an average installed cost of $31 per square foot for pole barns, making them a cost-effective alternative with a 15% lower cost than metal buildings. Although pole barns offer a lower upfront cost, investing approximately 15% more in a steel structure can lead to significant savings over time due to reduced maintenance and insurance premiums, which can be 30% lower or more.
Construction & Foundation
Pole barns and metal buildings differ significantly in construction. Pole barns utilize wooden poles anchored into the ground with closer spacing, while metal buildings employ steel I-beam columns on concrete foundations, offering greater flexibility and modularity. For larger structures, consider seeking assistance from experts in quality pole barns or metal building construction.
Pole barns generally employ a post-frame foundation with wooden poles anchored in the ground, either directly or with concrete footings. Conversely, steel buildings necessitate concrete slab or pier and beam foundations engineered to adhere to local codes. The choice between these foundations for pole barns or metal buildings hinges on factors like budget, soil conditions, and intended use, as a robust foundation is vital for the building's durability and stability.
Selecting Pole Barns Over Metal Buildings
Budget-Friendly- Pole barns offer a more affordable option, especially for smaller projects.
Quicker Construction- Simpler construction processes lead to faster completion times compared to metal buildings.
Customization and Expansion- Easy to modify and expand in the future to adapt to changing needs.
Rustic Appeal- The traditional wooden aesthetic of pole barns helps in certain applications.
Reduced Site Preparation- Minimal site preparation, especially if a dirt floor is acceptable, helps in several ways.
Common Questions to Consider
How long do pole barns typically last?
Pole barns, or semi-permanent structures and, with proper upkeep and maintenance, can have a lifespan of up to five decades.
Are pole barns capable of withstanding strong winds?
Pole buildings help to resist wind gusts up to 90 mph. However, the regions that are prone to high winds or hurricanes or where stronger structural integrity is crucial, these won't help.
What is the construction timeline for a pole barn?
The time required to build a pole barn varies from a week to three weeks depending on several factors, like the size and complexity of the structure, cost, weather, the chosen construction method & expertise.
Choose Rose Hill Builders for Quality Pole Barns
Rose Hill Builders understands & values the importance of choosing the right structure for your needs. If you're considering pole barns in OKC, we are here to help make your decision easier. Contact us today to discuss your project requirements and how we can deliver a solution that meets your budget and exceeds your expectations. Let's build something great together!