Pole Barn Engineering

Why Choose Blue Sky Engineering for Your Pole Barn Engineering?

When it comes to constructing a reliable and enduring pole barn or post-frame building, the foundational engineering is paramount. You need an experienced structural engineer who understands the unique demands of this specialized construction method and the specific environmental factors in our region. Blue Sky Engineering provides:

Unwavering Structural Integrity & Safety: As expert structural engineers for pole barn projects, our primary focus is on ensuring the safety and long-term durability of your investment. We perform comprehensive structural analysis, meticulously calculating wind loads, snow loads, and seismic forces (critical in Utah and surrounding states) to ensure every component, from the embedded posts and trusses to the roofing and bracing, can withstand the elements and its intended use.

Adherence to Industry Standards: While the International Building Code (IBC) does not specifically adopt them, the National Frame Building Association (NFBA) provides the primary engineering reference for Post Frame Buildings. Blue Sky Engineering is well-versed in these standardized practices and utilizes them to guide our comprehensive engineering solutions.

Specialized Foundation Expertise: We are highly familiar with and well-versed in the shallow Post and Pier Foundation Design that is an integral part of efficient pole barn engineering. Our expertise ensures proper load transfer and stability for your specific site conditions.

Iterative & Cost-Efficient Engineering Process: Engineering a pole barn is distinct from typical construction; it often involves a “give and take” iterative effort where post types, pier dimensions, and exact locations are balanced to achieve optimal efficiency and meet owner expectations. We understand that available materials often influence the engineering approach. Blue Sky Engineering has developed a proven engineering method to help contractors and homeowners find the most cost-efficient and structurally effective end result. This process follows a comprehensive checklist that we collaboratively work through with our clients until a plan is developed that is both constructible and highly efficient.

Guidance Through Critical Structural Decisions: By choosing Blue Sky Engineering, you gain a partner who will guide you through crucial structural choices and their engineering implications. Some of the decisions we can help you navigate:

• • Post Options & Engineering Impact:
    • Treated Wood Posts: Common, durable, specific embedment requirements.
    • Steel Bracket Systems: Connects wood posts to concrete foundations, often for specific load or moisture concerns.
    • Glulam Posts (Treated or Untreated): Offer higher strength, allowing for larger spans or heavier loads.
    • Steel Posts: Provide maximum strength and versatility for heavy-duty applications.
  • Foundation Engineering & Constructability:
    • Concrete Pier Systems: Often depend on local auger availability and specific load requirements for efficient construction.
    • Concrete Slab Foundations: Engineered for specific floor loads and integration with the post system.
  • Wall Sheathing & Lateral Strength:
    • Metal Panels: Provide aesthetic finish, but offer lower lateral strength for resisting wind and seismic forces.
    • OSB Panels: Contribute significantly higher lateral strength, crucial for structural stability.
    • Both (Metal over OSB): Provides the highest lateral strength, optimizing both durability and protection.

Versatility for Your Needs: Whether you’re planning an agricultural pole barn for equipment storage or livestock, a commercial pole barn for warehousing, retail, or a workshop, or a robust residential utility building, our engineering solutions are precisely tailored. We ensure the structure functions perfectly for its purpose while maintaining peak stability.

Guaranteed Code Compliance: Our residential engineers (and commercial structural experts) are intimately familiar with all relevant building codes and regulations. Our detailed engineering plans are designed to be fully compliant, streamlining the permitting process and helping to ensure a smooth, worry-free project.

Our Pole Barn Engineering Process

Project Assessment & Initial Consultation: We begin by understanding your pole barn’s intended use, dimensions, and specific requirements. We discuss available materials and your budget.

Collaborative Engineering & Analysis: Our pole barn engineers engage in an iterative process, performing detailed load calculations and structural analysis. We work with you through our checklist, evaluating different post, foundation, and wall sheathing options to balance efficiency, constructability, and structural performance.

Detailed Engineering Plans: Based on the optimized solution, we develop precise structural engineering plans, including:

• • Engineered Foundation layouts (post embedment, concrete piers/slabs)
  • Framing layouts for walls and roof systems
  • Connection details for all structural elements
  • Bracing requirements for optimal stability
  • Material specifications based on our collaborative decisions.

Construction Document Preparation: We prepare professional, stamped engineering drawings and calculations, formatted for efficient submission and approval by local building authorities, aiding in quick permit acquisition.

Construction Consultation (As Needed): We remain available for consultation during the construction phase to address any structural questions or field conditions that may arise, ensuring faithful adherence to the engineered plans.

Ready to Engineer Your Robust Pole Barn?

Don’t compromise on the structural integrity or long-term efficiency of your pole barn. Partner with Blue Sky Engineering for expert pole barn engineering services that guarantee safety, durability, and compliance, whether for an agricultural pole barn, commercial pole barn, or for residential use.

Ready to Expand Your Home?

Don’t leave the structural integrity of your valuable investment to chance. Partner with a trusted structural engineer who understands the nuances of residential construction.