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How to Build a Pole Barn
Pole barns are easier to build than structures using typical construction methods. The pole barn kit you purchase will include plans and an illustrated guide with helpful tips to lay things out.
There are many great reasons to build a pole barn including foundation savings, easy site adaptability, structural stability, and of course, versatility.
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Here are some important things to consider and some "how to" information related to building a pole barn.
1. Building Codes
2. Site Selection
3. Soil Rating Chart
4. Soil Bearing Capacity
5. Post Foundations
7. Post Embedment Techniques
8. Squaring Up Your Building
9. Setting Posts
10. Skirt Board / Grade Board / Splash Board
11. Post Frame Construction
12. Pole Barn Hardware
13. Interior Wall Framing
14. Platform Framing
15. Insulation
16. Metal Siding Panel Length Calculator
17. Metal Roof Panel Length Calculator
18. Cubic Yard Calculator
19. Roof Styles
20. Roof Pitch
21. Roof Trusses
22. Truss Bracing
23. Truss Connection Details
24. Roof Truss Calculator
25. Building Rafters
26. Roof Rafter Calculator
27. Roof Decking Installation
28. Barn Doors
28. Stick View of Pole Barn
Looking for pole building construction information for your garage, shed, or barn? Didn't find it here? Please contact us so we can improve this section of our site. We will source the information you are looking for and include it in our site.
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Building Code Locator
Building codes differ from state to state and county to county. Make sure you know the requirements for your project prior to purchasing plans, building materials, or anything else.
While building permits may not be required for agricultural buildings in certain areas, it is best to check with your local government and insurance agent to build the best structure right the first time.
If you don't already have the telephone number to obtain a building permit, or to find out if building codes require anything of you when you construct on your property, use this form to find resources to help you.
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If your metropolitan area is responsible for building codes and building permits then use this form to fill in city data.
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PERMITTING OFFICE QUESTIONSRequired Snow Load ?3 second gust maximum wind speed ?Seismic and Exposure?Do I need Sealed / Stamped Structural Plans ?Do I need Sealed / Stamped Truss Drawings ?Is a Soil Test Required ?Are there any peak height restrictions ?
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Const ru ct ion Calcu lat ors & Ch art sCu bic Ya rd Ca lcu la t orRoof Pit ch Ca lcu lat orTru ss Ca lcu lat orRaft er Calcu lat orSoil Rat ing for Pole Em bedm entInsu lat ion R V alu eSqu arin g Bu ilding Lines Exam ple
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Site Selection
A great feature of pole barns is that they can be erected without destroying the natural environment surrounding the site. These buildings can be built in a wooded area without disturbing vegetation, which in turn, cuts down on soil erosion.
SLOPE & SOILThe first factor to consider in site selection is the slope of the land. More slope means erosion control and construction issues will be slightly more involved.
This means a flat site is easier but pole foundations are actually easier to adapt to sloped sites than other types of construction.
Soil type is a major consideration when deciding the pole embedment depth and calculating soil bearing capacity.
WHICH DIRECTION SHOULD MY DOOR FACEYour pole barns orientation is important from an energy conservation standpoint. The sun, prevailing winds, and shading are all factors to considerwhich can have a huge impact on year round comfort.
Northern climates require proper use of southern exposure. A barn or building facing south takes advantage of the passive solar heating availableby having window space on the southern side. This will also provide better natural lighting.
Remember that the sun passes low in the sky in the winter so nearby trees can impede your planned natural lighting and solar heating.
ZONING & BUILDING CODESBe certain to find out if your plans will be adversely affected by local zoning or building codes before you get too far into your project. Also, talk to your local insurance agent to make sure you take advantage of any benefits they may provide as you build the features you plan into your pole barn.
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Pole Barns » Pole Barn Construction » Soil Ratings
Const ru ct ion Calcu lat ors & Ch art sCu bic Ya r d Ca lcu la t orRoof Pit ch Ca lcu lat orT ru ss Ca lcu la t orRaft er Calcu lat orSoil Rat ing for Pole Em bedm entIn su la t ion R V a lu eSquaring Building Lines Exam ple
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Soil Rating Chart
Two major considerations when planning your pole barn project are the slope of the land and soil characteristics.
The type of soil is important in terms of pole embedment depth and soil bearing capacity. The three main inorganic components of soil are:
♦ sand♦ silt♦ clay
In general, gravelly and sandy soil types are better than clay types of soil for pole buildings.
SOIL TESTINGTo determine soil characteristics, dig several test holes around the building site. Each hole should be several feet deep. Make them deep enough to show a complete soil profile since there are various levels of soil.
Typically, a soil profile will contain:1) several inches of topsoil2) a deeper layer of subsoil composed of sand, silt, and clay3) a layer of substratum that is unweathered rock and gravel.
The 2) subsoil is the soil we are most interested in when planning a pole foundation.
RATIN GS FOR SOIL TY PES
General Characteristics Special Characteristics Useage Undistu rbed Soil
Hydrologic Reaction Fou ndation
Soil Type Stabil i ty Permeabil i ty Corrosion Compactabil i ty Pack Expand Frost Foundation Drain Frost Dense/Hard Loose/Soft Drainage
Bedrock EX N S EX V P N S N S V P EX N S V P EX EX N S
Gravel EX EX EX EX EX V P EX EX EX EX EX EX EX
Gravel/Sand V G V G EX V G EX V P EX V G EX G EX N S EX
Gravel/Si l t MED G-P EX G V G P G-EX G V G G-V G V G V G V G
Gravel/Clay F V P V G G G F G-V G G V G F-MED G EX V G
Sand G EX EX EX EX V P EX V G EX V G-MED EX V G-EX EX
Sand/Si l t F-G G-P EX G G F G G EX F-V P V G V G V G
Sand/Clay F V P V G G G F G MED N S F G V G V G
Clay/Si l t P G-P V G F-G G F G-MED F N S P-V P G G V G
Clay P V P G G MED MED G F N S F-P G-V P G-MED V G
Organic Si l t P G-P G F F G G P N S P-V P G-V P G V G
Inorganic Si l t P GP V G F-G F G V -MED V P N S V P MED G V G
Inorgainic Clay V P V P G F-G F G G P N S V P-F MED-P G-V G N S
Organic Clay V P V P G F F G G V P N S V P F-V P MED N S
Loam N S N S MED N S N S N S V G N S N S N S F N S N S
EX-Excellent, VG-Very Good, G-Good, MED-Medium, F-Fair, P-Poor, VP-Very Poor, NS-Not Suitable
Cited: FHA Bulletin # 37 3
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Const ru ct ion Calcu lat ors & Ch art sCu bic Ya rd Ca lcu la t orRoof Pit ch Ca lcu lat orTru ss Ca lcu lat orRaft er Calcu lat orSoil Rat ing for Pole Em bedm entInsu lat ion R V alu eSqu arin g Bu ilding Lines Exam ple
Soil Bearing Capacity Table
Ty pe of SoilLoad Bearing
(Pounds Per Square Foot)
Rock w/ Grav el 6,000 psf +
Grav el 5000 psf
Sandy Grav el 5000 psf
Sand 3000 psf
Silt Sand 3000 psf
Silt Grav el 3000 psf
Grav el w/ Clay 3000 psf
Clay 2000 psf
Sandy Clay 2000 psf
Silt Clay 2000 psf
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Soil Bearing Capacity
Soil bearing capacity refers to the ability of soil to support load applied to the ground. Bearing capacities have a safety factor built in to prevent failure. So, the ultimate bearing capacity would be its perceived point of failure with no safety factor built in.
Soils beneath the footings of a concrete slab are under the most pressure so soil compaction is necessary. Use a vibrating plate compactor for sandy and gravel soil consistencies, and a jumping jack compactor for clay or silt based soils.
Pole embedment depth is calculated based upon the type of soil at the construction site, frost heave depth, whether there are "open walls" or not, and the size and design of the building it must support. A hand penetrometer can be utilized to measure soil bearing capacity and provides readings in tons per square foot. Your local building code office can help with soil bearing requirements in "some areas" of the country, others not so much.
Remember that after digging holes for your posts, level out with gravel, rather than throwing soil back in the hole. The soil added back will have expanded by as much as 50%. Under load it will settle and potentially cause problems for your project.
Also, the size and thickness of the footer (concrete the post sits on) is based upon the same factors discussed above.
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Foundations for Pole Barn Kits
The new terminology for pole barns is now post frame construction or post frame buildings. One of the biggest advantages this type of construction has over stick built construction is a reduction in foundation costs, specifically perimeter footers and site work necessary to erect the building.
This advantage can melt away if a building is constructed with inferior materials or incorrectly specified material. Everyone wants to save money whether by purchasing a pole barn kit and constructing their building DIY or simply by finding the best price for turnkey barns.
Numerous engineering calculations go into the sizing, spacing, and embedment depth of posts for pole buildings. Whether a 4x6, 6x6, or glue lam post is used they should be treated with CCA type III to a retention level of .60 pcf KDAT (kiln dry after treatment) or compatible level of treatment. The rating for structural wood is UC4B by the AWPA and in severe decay areas UC4C ratings are recommended.
Note- CCA is no longer available in residential applications but is used for structural wood in many areas of the country.
Wood SpeciesSouthern Yellow Pine is an easy lumber species to treat due to the fact that it contains more sapwood and less heartwood than many other types of wood. Plainly stated, heartwood is more difficult to treat than sapwood due to penetration issues.
Douglas fir and hemlock are the lumber of choice in the Pacific region of the country as well as parts of the midwest and upper east coast. Doug fir is available in long lengths, strong, and seems straighter more often.
Laminated columns (like 3-2x6 glue and nail lam posts) readily absorb treatment better than solid sawn posts like 4x6 or 6x6 posts. There is more surface area for treatment absorption. They are stronger, straighter and just better.
Barn Kit Engineering
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Post Foundation Embedment
There are a number of factors that determine the size of the posts you use on your building. Wall height and wind conditions are two that come to mind immediately, but many other factors are considered too. Attic trusses, or floor joists create loads that may require larger posts, glulams, or closer post spacing.
Post foundation embedment is determined by soil bearing capacity and frost heave. If a cold winter in your area is a low of 40° and the soil is rocky gravel then a 24" depth, 12" diameter hole with a 6-8" footer may be sufficient.
Northern climates mean deeper pole embedment to combat frost heave.Frost heave creates an upward thrust or deforming of the soil near the grade and below the grade to certain levels.
Soil that is sandy, has clay content, or includes silt does not have the load bearing capacity of gravel and rocky soil.
It is always a good idea to check with local authorities about soil consistency in your county. Some areas have very consistent soil while others fluctuate wildly.
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Const ru ct ion Calcu lat ors & Ch art sCu bic Ya r d Ca lcu la t orRoof Pit ch Ca lcu lat orT ru ss Ca lcu la t orRaft er Calcu lat orSoil Rat ing for Pole Em bedm entIn su la t ion R V a lu eSquaring Building Lines Exam ple
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Squaring Building Lines
Typical post spacing is 8,9, 10, and 12 foot on center, with some spacings requiring more cuts than others. Post spacing is one criteria to consider when engineering for wind loads, wall heights and lengths, and species of wood used.
Bury the Posts or Pour PiersThere is great debate regarding burying poles in the ground versus pouring piers due to the potential for rotting. While building piers prevents rotting, it also reduces the structural integrity obtained by burying the pole deep in the ground.
Pressure treated posts that are buried in the ground properly will last an incredibly long time and preserves the structural strength of the building.
Site PreparationThe first thing to do after locating the site and determining the placement of the building is to lay out building lines and batter boards. The building lines are marked by a taut string which will locate the foundation holes, the outside of the pole frame, and the building corners.
Batter boards hold the string in place and allow removal and replacement of the string during excavation to ensure the center of the hole is precise.
First use a tape measure and stake out the outer corner of the pole buildings. The outside of the building should always be measured to the outside of the wall framing regardless of usage of girts or regular stud framing. The placement of the poles will then be located from this referencepoint to the outside corners.
SQUARING A BUILDINGTo square up the building lines measure from left front corner to right rear corner. Then measure from right front corner to left rear corner. The building is square when these two measurements are equal length. See the diagram below for reference.
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Pole Barns » How To Build A Pole Barn » Setting Foundation Posts
Setting Foundation Posts
Hole depth is determined based upon the frost heave in your area, wind speeds, wall size, building dead load and other factors.
Northern climates often have 24" of frost heave and post embedment is typically 3 1/2 to 4' for a typical sized pole barn. Check with your local building code department and local DIY resources in your area to determine recommended width, depth, and footer size for your building.
Uplift CleatsUplift is a big concern for pavillion structures and those with open walls. Even if your building will be fully enclosed nail some uplift cleats to the post with 4" nails. Use treated wood and nail them to all four sides of the post at the bottom.
Corner PostsPlace footer in hole. Make sure everything is level and set post in hole. If your post is a 4x6 the wide part of the post goes perpendicular with the wall (4" parallel with wall / 6" running the other way).
Leave room for the girts by placing the post 1 1/2" inside where the mason lines meet at the building corner (unless you are doing bookshelf girts).
While continuing to check for plumbness nail a temporary brace from the inside of the corner post (at the top) and secure to the ground near the stakes. Do the same thing in the opposite direction too.
Fill hole with dirt or dirt/gravel mix, and tamp solid. Repeat for all corner posts.
Sidewall and End Wall (Gable) PostsRepeat the above steps for each post between the corner posts, bracing and plumbing up as you go. Post spacing is determined by referencing your structural building plans.
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Pole Barns » How T o Build A Pole Barn » Installing Grade Board
Grade Board / Skirt Board / Splash Board
Grade board, skirt board, and splash board are all similar names for the treated lumber nailed at grade around the perimeter of the building.
Grade board is typically 2x6 or 2x8 lumber treated to UC4A specifications. This product is treated for ground contact but not embedment.
Install Skirt BoardFind the corner post with the highest grade. Set the building grade here by setting a nail in the corner post. Place a nail in each post around the building maintaining a perfectly level string line or laser.
Install grade board with 30D (4 1/2") ring shank nails, setting the board on top of the grade nails temporarily placed around the building perimeter.
End GapsLeave a small gap between skirt boards to allow for expansion and contraction as temperature changes occur.
CornersWhether you miter or butt / overlap the corners is a matter of personal preference.
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Post Frame Construction
Post frame construction compared to other forms of construction provides:
♦ Better Energy Efficiency♦ Best Design Flexibility♦ Strongest & Most Durable Structures
Post frame construction uses posts for the foundation, wall, and roof support structure for pole barns or multi purpose pole buildings.
Post frame construction provides superior structural strength against mother nature including hurricanes, floods, and even earthquakes. The reason for this is that the posts support and tie together the entire structure. The posts absorb the forces of nature and transmit them through the structure into the ground.
Since the roof and floors are supported by the posts there is greater flexibility in wall and window placement using this construction method.
Pole framing uses less wood than platform framing.
Click Picture for more details
Post Frame Construction
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Pole Barn Hardware
Obtaining the right hardware and fastening up your building is as important as anything else you do during the construction process.
Some common hangars used are Simpson H2.5a rafter ties (trusses too) and LU26 hangars for purlins (purlin hangars = labor intensive).
Pole barn nails (ring shank galvanized nails) for framing and fastening are readily available anywhere in the country and typical sizes are listed below including some drawings displaying connection details for each.
Pole barn framing nails are typically in the 16D to 20D sizes, truss connection 40D and 60D for 2x6 purlins on edge (used for post spacing trusses).
Fastening Steel Panels
Lean To Roof Connection To Sidewall
Nailing Gable Truss to Laminated Columns & Posts
(See method using carriage bolts for truss connection details)
Lateral Bracing
Wall Framing Hardware
A nail conversion chart is included below:
Penny Diameter Length Head Size
2D .072 1" 3 ⁄1 6 "
3D .083 1 ¼" 1 3 ⁄6 4"
4D .109 1 ½" 1 ⁄4 "
5D .109 1 ¾" 1 ⁄4 "
6D .120 2" 1 7 ⁄6 4"
8D .134 2 ½" 9 ⁄3 2 "
10D .148 3" 5 ⁄1 6"
12D .148 3 ¼" 5 ⁄1 6"
16D .165 3 ½" 1 1 ⁄3 2 "
20D .203 4" 1 3 ⁄3 2 "
30D .220 4 ½" 7 ⁄1 6"
40D .238 5" 1 5 ⁄3 2 "
60D .238 6" 1 7 ⁄3 2 "
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Pole Barns » How To Build A Pole Barn » Pole Barn Hardware
Pole Barn Hardware
Obtaining the right hardware and fastening up your building is as important as anything else you do during the construction process.
Some common hangars used are Simpson H2.5a rafter ties (trusses too) and LU26 hangars for purlins (purlin hangars = labor intensive).
Pole barn nails (ring shank galvanized nails) for framing and fastening are readily available anywhere in the country and typical sizes are listed below including some drawings displaying connection details for each.
Pole barn framing nails are typically in the 16D to 20D sizes, truss connection 40D and 60D for 2x6 purlins on edge (used for post spacing trusses).
Fastening Steel Panels
Lean To Roof Connection To Sidewall
Nailing Gable Truss to Laminated Columns & Posts
(See method using carriage bolts for truss connection details)
Lateral Bracing
Wall Framing Hardware
A nail conversion chart is included below:
Penny Diameter Length Head Size
2D .072 1" 3 ⁄1 6 "
3D .083 1 ¼" 1 3 ⁄6 4"
4D .109 1 ½" 1 ⁄4 "
5D .109 1 ¾" 1 ⁄4 "
6D .120 2" 1 7 ⁄6 4"
8D .134 2 ½" 9 ⁄3 2 "
10D .148 3" 5 ⁄1 6"
12D .148 3 ¼" 5 ⁄1 6"
16D .165 3 ½" 1 1 ⁄3 2 "
20D .203 4" 1 3 ⁄3 2 "
30D .220 4 ½" 7 ⁄1 6"
40D .238 5" 1 5 ⁄3 2 "
60D .238 6" 1 7 ⁄3 2 "
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Bookshelf Girts
It is quite common for the skirt boards (grade boards), girts, and truss carriers to be nailed to the outside perimeter of the foundation posts. This is the easiest, quickest, and cheapest method for barns not finishing the interior of their walls.
Bookshelf girts (also called commerical girts) provides more strength against high wind and provides the substructure to finish out the interior walls of your farm building, garage, or barn.
This method is simple enough. The 2x6 girts are laid flat between the posts at whatever on center your site location requires, with 2x6 strongback support.
16D or 20D galvanized ring shank nails are typical hardware.
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Platform Framing
Platform framing (also known as western framing) is the most common framing method for residential construction where each floor of a pole barn or conventional building is framed independently by nailing the horizontal framing member to the top of the wall studs.
Pole framing actually uses the pole foundation to support the structure.
Most contractors will be more familiar with platform framing and the additional benefits are that it is a simpler process that uses less wood than pole framing.
Platform Framing DisadvantagesSince the subfloor interrupts the headers and joists more vertical shrinkage can occur as the wood dries, potentially leading to problems with brick or siding materials.
Platform Framing Details
Sole Plate: Bottom horizontal framing member of the wall section.
Header: Beam placed perpendicular to wall studs above windows and doors to carry structural loads.
Jack Stud: Fits under each end of the header & transfers load to bottom plate.
King Stud: Nailed to the jack stud and supports assembly between plates.
Rough Sill: Bottom of window opening.
Rim joist: Vertical board that caps the ends of the floor joists boxing in sub flooring.
Floor joist: Horizontal framing member that supports the floor load.
Ridge board: Upper most horizontal framing member on roof that attaches tops of rafters.
Rafter: Series of beams that form the slope of a pitched roof (from ridge to eave).
Eave: The overhanging edge of a roof.
Ridge: Beam laid along the edge where two sloping sides meet at the top (upper end of rafters).
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Const ru ct ion Calcu lat ors & Ch art sCu bic Ya r d Ca lcu la t orRoof Pit ch Ca lcu lat orT ru ss Ca lcu la t orRaft er Calcu lat orSoil Rat ing for Pole Em bedm entIn su la t ion R V a lu eSquaring Building Lines Exam ple
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Pole Building Insulation
There are many insulation options for pole barns and buildings. Choosing the right one depends on your intended utilization of the building, your budget, and the weather your building will endure.
Blown in foam insulation seals air gaps during the expansion process providing the most effective way to insulate your pole barn for energy savings. Those savings come at a price today since this method of insulating is more expensive than others.
Loose Fill fills the air gaps but doesn't seal them. Much less cost than blown foam and effective, but not as effective as expanding foam.
Fiberglass batting comes in various R values and is easy enough to cut and fill air gaps with. No seal is created but filling the air gap minimizes penetration. R30 and R19 for walls and roof.
Condensation blanketsprevent indoor condensation and provide minimal (R6) R value, 2" vinyl backed post frame insulation is used as well as double bubble radiant barrier.
These products provide excellent energy savings over long periods of time for pole buildings.
Pole Barn Insulation Options
Type of MaterialR-Value / inch
Appropriate Applications
Cellulose 3.5 Wood framed ceiling/floors/walls
Fiberglass 3.1 Wood framed ceiling/floors/walls
Rockwool 2.9 Wood framed ceiling/floors/walls
Perlite 2.7 Wood framed ceiling/floors
Expanded Polystyrene
3.6Interior & Exterior (above grade) insulative sheathing
Blueboard 5.4
Interior & Exterior (above grade) insulative sheathingInterior & Exterior foundationBeneath concrete slabs/along slab edges
Expanded Polyurethane
6.25Interior & Exterior insulative sheathing
Polyisocyanurate 7 .2Interior & Exterior insulative sheathing
How to Install Green / Non-Toxic Insulation
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Metal Siding Panel Length EstimatorTo use this panel length calculator enter whole numbers and decimals only (no fractions).
You can refer to the image to identify the type of overhang you plan to build, if any.
Truss heel heights vary (6"-10") based upon span, loads etc. Purlins can be laid flat or be on edge so include the purlin height based upon your method of construction.
The Metal Panel Coverage area refers to the width of the panels you plan to buy. A 38" panel will have an effective coverage width of 36".
Tool Rounds Up To Nearest Inch
Metal Siding CalculatorFeet In ch es
Wa ll Heigh t
Bu ildin g Width
Bu ildin g Leng th
Ov er h a n g Ty pe None
Ea v e Ov er h a n g In ch es
Tr u ss Heel Heig h t In ch es
Pu r lin Heig h t In ch es
Roof Pitch /1 2
Pa n els StopIn ch es A bov e Gr a de
Met a l Pa n el Cov er a ge (Width )
In ch es
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Metal Wall Panel Length Calculator
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Gable Roof Panel Length Estimator
To use this panel length calculator enter whole numbers and decimals only. We plan to enable the use of fractions at a later time.
Enter the diameter of the roof ridge vent gap usually between 2 and 4 inches.
Finally, enter the coverage area (width) of the panels you plan to buy. For instance a 38" panel will have an effective coverage width of 36".
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Pole Barns » How To Build A Pole Barn » Metal Roofing Calculator
Metal Roofing Panel Length Calculator
Meta l Roofin g Ca lcu la tor
Feet In ch es
Bu ildin g Width
Bu ildin g Len g th
Roof Pitch /1 2
Ea v e Ov er h a n g In ch es
Ridg e Ga p In ch es
Meta l Pa n el Cov er a ge (Width )
In ch es
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Const ru ct ion Calcu lat ors & Ch art sCu bic Ya r d Ca lcu la t orRoof Pit ch Ca lcu lat orT ru ss Ca lcu la t orRaft er Calcu lat orSoil Rat ing for Pole Em bedm entIn su la t ion R V a lu eSquaring Building Lines Exam ple
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Cubic Yard Calculator
For pole barns used for a garage, certain farm buildings, and many other uses, a concrete floor is a great addition.
Dirt and gravel floors are cheap but they are also hard to keep clean and maintain. Dirt and gravel floors are subject to erosion when drainage is a concern for your site location.
Since there are no foundation walls in a pole building a floating slab can be poured inside the poles using the skirt board for forms. The concrete is considered to float because it is totally independent of the building. Changes in temperature and ground movement allow shifting of the foundation with no impact on the poles that support the structure.
A 1" foam expansion joint is placed around the perimeter of the foundation to isolate it from the wall framing of the building.
A typical sturdy slab will include leveling with base material, a 6 mil visqueen (polyethylene) vapor barrier, reinforcing mesh wire, and 4-6" of 4,000 psi concrete.
Concrete Requirements for Floating Slab
Cubic Yard CalculatorLength (Feet)
Width (Feet)
Height (Inches)
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Concrete Requirements for Foundation Posts
Concrete Requirements - Post Holes
Hole Diameter (Inches)
Depth (Inches)
Post Size 4x6
Calculate
Notes:To calculate footer only set post to 'None'.We are not suggesting you fill your hole with concrete. This is for bottom cookie and footer calculations. See the post embedment techniquespage for more info.
Example:Footer Settings - 16" diameter 6" depth No post sizeBottom Cookie - 16" diameter 12" depth 6x6 post sizeAdd both together for hole requirement.
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Roof Styles
Since a pole barn uses conventional rafter framing, any roof style can conceivably be used for pole barns.
The four major types of roofs used for barns are gable, hip, shed, and gambrel. Each roof type has advantages and disadvantages.
GAMBREL ROOFS
Gambrel roofs provide more head room and provide storage space on the top floor. While they are more difficult to frame than simpler types, they add a lot of useful space and provide a really nice exterior appearance.
SHED ROOF
The shed type roof is a single plane straight pitched roof typically used for smaller barns and limited function open air buildings.
This is the simplest type of roof to frame since it only requires the front wall to be higher than the rear to provide pitch. Snow loading is a major consideration for this type of roof for northern climates.
HIP ROOF
A hip roof is a simple to frame option typically used for single story pole barns. The hip roof eliminates eave details and gable end walls for really simple framing.
This roof type can be classified as a time and money saver.
GABLE ROOF
With two equally pitched sides this roof is a snap to frame. A steeply pitched gable roof is excellent for sheding snow.
Ventilation and insulating are simple to do with a gable roof.
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Pole Barns » How to Build a Pole Barn » Roof Pitch
Roof Pitch
Roof pitch or slope refers to the amount of rise a roof has compared to the horizontal measurement of the roof.
The picture below shows the pitch of a 7-12 roof slope meaning that for 12" of horizontal measurement (roof run) the vertical measurement (roof rise) is 7".
This measurement is best done on a bare roof because curled up roofing shingles will impair your measurement. If this isn't practical then perform the same measurement on the underside of the roof. We included a roof pitch chart below the 7-12 example image and the calculator below that.
Roof Pitch Calculator
If none of the above is working for you this tool will convert pitch to angle or angle to pitch for half degree roof slope calculations.
Enter any pitch or fraction of pitch to find angle. Enter any angle or fraction of angle to find pitch.
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Const ru ct ion Calcu lat ors & Ch art sCubic Yard CalculatorRoof Pit ch Ca lcu lat orTruss CalculatorRafter CalculatorSoil Rat ing for Pole Em bedm entInsulat ion R ValueSqu aring Building Lines Exam ple
7 /12 Roofing Pitch
Roof Pitch Examples
Roof Pitches
12/12 pitch angle 45°
11/12 pitch angle 42.51°
10/12 roof pitch angle 39.81°
9/12 roof pitch angle 36.87°
8/12 - roof pitch degrees 33.69°
7/12 - 30.26°
6/12 - 26.57°
5/12 - still walkable 22.62°
4/12 - standard roof pitch 18.43°
3/12 typical in southern climates 14.04°
2/12 - low roof pitch 9.46°
Roof Pitch T able
1 12 4.7 6°
2 12 9.46°
3 12 14.04°
4 12 18.43°
5 12 22.62°
6 12 26.57 °
7 12 30.26°
8 12 33.69°
9 12 36.87 °
10 12 39.81°
11 12 42.51°
12 12 45°
Roofing Pitch Calculator
Pitch 4 Angle
RIDGE HEIGHT CALCULATORBuilding Width Wall Height Roof Pitch
FT FT /12
calculate
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Building Profile Generator(Tool rounds to whole numbers)
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Pole Barns » How to Build a Pole Barn » Roof Pitch
Roof Pitch
Roof pitch or slope refers to the amount of rise a roof has compared to the horizontal measurement of the roof.
The picture below shows the pitch of a 7-12 roof slope meaning that for 12" of horizontal measurement (roof run) the vertical measurement (roof rise) is 7".
This measurement is best done on a bare roof because curled up roofing shingles will impair your measurement. If this isn't practical then perform the same measurement on the underside of the roof. We included a roof pitch chart below the 7-12 example image and the calculator below that.
Roof Pitch Calculator
If none of the above is working for you this tool will convert pitch to angle or angle to pitch for half degree roof slope calculations.
Enter any pitch or fraction of pitch to find angle. Enter any angle or fraction of angle to find pitch.
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7 /12 Roofing Pitch
Roof Pitch Examples
Roof Pitches
12/12 pitch angle 45°
11/12 pitch angle 42.51°
10/12 roof pitch angle 39.81°
9/12 roof pitch angle 36.87°
8/12 - roof pitch degrees 33.69°
7/12 - 30.26°
6/12 - 26.57°
5/12 - still walkable 22.62°
4/12 - standard roof pitch 18.43°
3/12 typical in southern climates 14.04°
2/12 - low roof pitch 9.46°
Roof Pitch T able
1 12 4.7 6°
2 12 9.46°
3 12 14.04°
4 12 18.43°
5 12 22.62°
6 12 26.57 °
7 12 30.26°
8 12 33.69°
9 12 36.87 °
10 12 39.81°
11 12 42.51°
12 12 45°
Roofing Pitch Calculator
Pitch 4 Angle
RIDGE HEIGHT CALCULATORBuilding Width Wall Height Roof Pitch
FT FT /12
calculate
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Building Profile Generator(Tool rounds to whole numbers)
Width Height Pitch Length Done
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Pole Barns » Roof Trusses
Roof Trusses
A truss is a triangular shaped structure made of dimensional lumber designed to withstand anticipated loads at your building site.
Loading, like snow load, wind, loft, ceiling, or attic loads are all considerations when a truss is designed. The top cord is sized taking snow load into consideration. The bottom cord is where loft, ceiling, and attic loads are factored in.
Large loads on either cord (top or bottom) can impact the size of the dimensioned lumber used, not only on the large load side, but on the other side as well.
Truss Terminology Snow Load Roof Material Weights
Truss Erection & Handling
The larger the truss the more difficult it is to handle effectively. Roof trusses are engineered to be strong in plane with the roofing on the top chord. They are easily damaged when laying on their side.
Large span trusses of 30' or more require strong back or "multiple pickup points" when transported. Damaged trusses should not be repaired. They should be replaced.
Truss Bracing
Temporary truss bracing is critical to ensure safety and to protect the integrity of the truss structure until permanent bracing is in place.
For detailed information see our page on permanent roof truss bracing.
Truss Connection Details
Connecting the truss to your building is critical to long term strength, durability, and safety.
Post frame buildings have some advantages that are important to consider in your construction methods.
Full height gable posts, Simpson H2.5a rafter ties, 1/2" carriage bolts on 2 2x12 truss carriers will do the job using proper techniques and equipment. For detailed drawings visit our truss connection details page.
Roof Pitch Ridge Height Calculator Building Profile Generator
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Pole Barns » Roof Trusses » Truss Connection Details
Truss Connection Details
Note: Truss and carrier connection is most often built using 40D ring shank nails. This example is a requirement in Colorado and in some western states.
Truss Terminology
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Pole Barns » Roof Trusses » Roof Truss Bracing
Purlins Laid Flat Purlin Hangars Purlins on Edge / Ov erlapped
Roof Truss Bracing
Proper bracing is critical for a strong structure that will stand up to mother nature.
Images on this page use colors to identify bracing.
Running the length of the building♦Green bottom cord bracing♦ Blue top cord bracing
3 Truss Clusters on each end & every 20' ♦Red cross bracing♦Green lateral bracing
As spans increase, bracing becomes even more critical. Smaller structures that are sheathed in metal or osb require less bracing assuming proper truss connection details are used.
Purlins 24" oc are typical along with the bottom bracing shown. To strengthen the roof system truss clustering (cross bracing and lateral bracing) is recommended at both end of the buildings and every 20' for longer span buildings.
Truss ClustersFor maximum strength this image shows a cluster of three trusses tied together.
Stagger top and bottom cord bracing so the lumber 'ends' on different trusses for additional rigidity as you work your way down the building.
Lateral Bracing Truss ClustersAt both gable ends, and at least every 20' add lateral bracing (green) of truss clusters. The images below show these critical components and their recommended placement.
Cross Bracing Truss ClustersAt both gable ends, and at least every 20' include cross bracing (red) of truss clusters. The partial images below show these critical components and their recommended placement.
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Pole Barns » Roof Trusses » Roof Truss Bracing
Purlins Laid Flat Purlin Hangars Purlins on Edge / Ov erlapped
Roof Truss Bracing
Proper bracing is critical for a strong structure that will stand up to mother nature.
Images on this page use colors to identify bracing.
Running the length of the building♦Green bottom cord bracing♦ Blue top cord bracing
3 Truss Clusters on each end & every 20' ♦Red cross bracing♦Green lateral bracing
As spans increase, bracing becomes even more critical. Smaller structures that are sheathed in metal or osb require less bracing assuming proper truss connection details are used.
Purlins 24" oc are typical along with the bottom bracing shown. To strengthen the roof system truss clustering (cross bracing and lateral bracing) is recommended at both end of the buildings and every 20' for longer span buildings.
Truss ClustersFor maximum strength this image shows a cluster of three trusses tied together.
Stagger top and bottom cord bracing so the lumber 'ends' on different trusses for additional rigidity as you work your way down the building.
Lateral Bracing Truss ClustersAt both gable ends, and at least every 20' add lateral bracing (green) of truss clusters. The images below show these critical components and their recommended placement.
Cross Bracing Truss ClustersAt both gable ends, and at least every 20' include cross bracing (red) of truss clusters. The partial images below show these critical components and their recommended placement.
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Pole Barns » How to Build a Pole Barn » Gable Roof Truss Calculator
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Gable Roof Truss Calculator
Use of manufactured roof trusses can dramatically cut labor costs when framing a gable roof compared to building rafters.
Trusses can be constructed with smaller sized lumber than rafters and often their cost is not significantly higher than normal rafters.
Since they can be fastened directly in place much less labor is required compared to bird mouth, plumb, and tail cuts on individual rafters.
Our roof truss calculator can be used to aid you in the purchase of your trusses by determining the quantity of trusses and lineal feet required.
Truss Terminology
ROOFING T RUSS CA LCULA T OR
A ) Roof Len g th in feet
B) On Center (inches betw een tr u sses)
C) Width of bottom cor d in feet
ft in ch es ft
Calculate
How to Enter Sizes24 Feet 24
24 Feet 6 inches 24 6
24 Feet 6 & 1 /2 inches 24 6 1 /2
Meaning of 25-5-0-5
25 psf Top Chord Live Load (snow)5 psf Top Chord Dead Load (materials)0 psf Bottom Chord Live Load5 psf Bottom Chord Dead Load
4' oc 25-5-0-5 psf Truss Member Sizing(No ceiling)
Dimensional Lumber Required 2x4 Flat oc Image
SpanTop
ChordBottom Chord
Webbing Lateral Purlin
20' 2x4 #2 2x4 #2 2x4 #2 7 2" 24"
24' 2x4 #2 2x4 #2 2x4 #2 7 2" 24"
30' 2x6 #22x4 2400f-
1.8E2x4 #2 7 2" 24"
36' 2x6 #1 2x6 #1 2x4 #2 7 2" 24"
40' 2x6 #12x4 2100f-
1.8E2x4 #2 7 2" 24"
Connector plates are generally 16 gauge to 20 gauge depending on truss design requirements.
DISCLAIMERThe information provided here is not intended to replace truss drawings.
Engineered truss drawings should be obtained for specific site locations incorporating specific snow load, wind speed, eave wall height, building length and importance factor (use of building).
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Gable Roof Truss Calculator
Use of manufactured roof trusses can dramatically cut labor costs when framing a gable roof compared to building rafters.
Trusses can be constructed with smaller sized lumber than rafters and often their cost is not significantly higher than normal rafters.
Since they can be fastened directly in place much less labor is required compared to bird mouth, plumb, and tail cuts on individual rafters.
Our roof truss calculator can be used to aid you in the purchase of your trusses by determining the quantity of trusses and lineal feet required.
Truss Terminology
ROOFING T RUSS CA LCULA T OR
A ) Roof Len g th in feet
B) On Center (inches betw een tr u sses)
C) Width of bottom cor d in feet
ft in ch es ft
Calculate
How to Enter Sizes24 Feet 24
24 Feet 6 inches 24 6
24 Feet 6 & 1 /2 inches 24 6 1 /2
Meaning of 25-5-0-5
25 psf Top Chord Live Load (snow)5 psf Top Chord Dead Load (materials)0 psf Bottom Chord Live Load5 psf Bottom Chord Dead Load
4' oc 25-5-0-5 psf Truss Member Sizing(No ceiling)
Dimensional Lumber Required 2x4 Flat oc Image
SpanTop
ChordBottom Chord
Webbing Lateral Purlin
20' 2x4 #2 2x4 #2 2x4 #2 7 2" 24"
24' 2x4 #2 2x4 #2 2x4 #2 7 2" 24"
30' 2x6 #22x4 2400f-
1.8E2x4 #2 7 2" 24"
36' 2x6 #1 2x6 #1 2x4 #2 7 2" 24"
40' 2x6 #12x4 2100f-
1.8E2x4 #2 7 2" 24"
Connector plates are generally 16 gauge to 20 gauge depending on truss design requirements.
DISCLAIMERThe information provided here is not intended to replace truss drawings.
Engineered truss drawings should be obtained for specific site locations incorporating specific snow load, wind speed, eave wall height, building length and importance factor (use of building).
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Building Rafters
Tools Required:• Framing square• Saw• Tape measure
A framing square is used for more than just 90 degree cuts. The plumb cut, at the top of the rafter, and the seat or heel cut, at the bottom, have a 90 degree relationship to each other. In order to build rafters you need to know the roof pitch and the roof span (overall width of roof).
While it isn't that difficult to build rafters, the wall system supporting the roof must be level and square. It is well worth the effort to rough out the wall system to be square and level so the roof framing is simple.
Many people opt for manufactured roof trusses rather than building rafters. This is a good option for less experienced carpenters or if you want to save time and labor.
Roof PitchThis refers to the roof angle or slope. It is measured by the number of inches a roof rises vertically for each foot horizontally. So, a 7 / 12 pitch roof would rise 7" for each foot of roof.
Roof SpanRoof span is the width measurement between the outside surface of the exterior walls.
Plumb CutThis rafter cut is at the top of the roof where the rafter contacts the ridge board.
Heel or Seat CutThis cut on the rafter is at the bottom and is designed to sit flat on top of the exterior wall.
Building RaftersThis picture shows the alignment for a 7 / 12 pitch cut.
To make the cut:• Use the outside numbers or the inside numbers on the framing square (not both sides!)• Line up the tongue of the framing square where the smaller number (7) is right on the inside edge of the board• Angle the framing square to align the larger number (12) to the outside edge of the board• Draw a line that intersects the two numbers for the plumb cut• To make the heel cut on the other end of the board, simply repeat the steps above but make the cut on the long side of the framing square.
Once you have the first rafter perfect use it as a pattern for the rest of your rafter building. A little practice on a smaller scale is a good idea until you get the hang of it.
For information about the rafter birdsmouth cut (or birdsmouth cut) this video explains the full bearing method and the 2/3 method. A birdsmouth cut is also called the heel stand in some areas. Good information about fascia and overhang is included too.
Rafter Length Calculator
Video explanation of framing square.
Roof Pitch CalculatorRoof Rafter CalculatorMaximum Span Length Calculator
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Roof Calcu lat or & Chart s
Roof Pit ch Ca lcu lat orT ru ss Ca lcu la t orRaft er Calcu lat orSoil Rat ing for Pole Em bedm entIn su la t ion R V a lu eSquaring Building Lines Exam ple
PitchRise / Run (in)
Approx Slope
(degrees)
1/12 5°
2/12 10°
3/12 14°
4/12 18°
5/12 23°
6/12 27 °
7 /12 30°
8/12 34°
9/12 37 °
10/12 40°
11/12 42°
12/12 45°
Get ex a ct slope u sin g ou r Roof
Pit ch Ca lcu la t or .
Ra ft er Lengt h Ca lcu la t or
Roof Width (FT) Ridg e Width (In ) Ov er h a n g (In ) Pitch (0-1 2 )
ft in in /1 2
Calculate
How to Enter Sizes24 Feet 24
24 Feet 6 inches 24 6
24 Feet 6 & 1 /2 inches 24 6 1 /2
Ridge Height CalculatorBuilding Profile Generator
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Roof Rafter Calculator
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If you plan to use a gable roof, our roof rafter calculator tools are handy for calculating the number of rafters needed, rafter length calculator, lineal feet of rafter, board feed in ridge and sub-facia,and the total board feet in the roof.
Rise and Run means that a 6/12 pitch roof has 6" of rise (vertical) for each foot of run (horizontal).
ROOF RA FT ER CA LCULA T OR
A ) Roof Len g th In
Feet
B) Ra fter Len gth In Feet
C) On Cen ter (in ch es betw een
r a fter s)
D) Ra fter Th ickn ess In
In ch es
E) Ra fter Width In
In ch es
ft ft in in in
Example Calculate Clear
Typical rafter on center spacing is 16" or 24".
How to Enter Sizes
24 Feet 24
24 Feet 6 inches 24 6
24 Feet 6 & 1 /2 inches 24 6 1 /2
How To Cut Rafters
Trying to find what size lumber to use?This is based upon the span of the rafter (horizontal span, not total rafter length), live and dead loads. To size joists and rafters use the Maximum Span Tables for southern yellow pine. This Rafter Span Calculator is species specific for Douglas Fir, hemlock, etc.
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Roof Calcu lat or & Chart s
Roof Pit ch Ca lcu lat orT ru ss Ca lcu la t orRaft er Calcu lat orSoil Rat ing for Pole Em bedm entIn su la t ion R V a lu eSquaring Building Lines Exam ple
PitchRise / Run (in)
Approx Slope
(degrees)
1/12 5°
2/12 10°
3/12 14°
4/12 18°
5/12 23°
6/12 27 °
7 /12 30°
8/12 34°
9/12 37 °
10/12 40°
11/12 42°
12/12 45°
Get ex a ct slope u sin g ou r Roof
Pit ch Ca lcu la t or .
Ra ft er Lengt h Ca lcu la t or
Roof Width (FT) Ridg e Width (In ) Ov er h a n g (In ) Pitch (0-1 2 )
ft in in /1 2
Calculate
How to Enter Sizes24 Feet 24
24 Feet 6 inches 24 6
24 Feet 6 & 1 /2 inches 24 6 1 /2
Ridge Height CalculatorBuilding Profile Generator
More Roof CalculatorsRoof Truss Calculator
Next » Roof Decking Installation
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Roof Rafter Calculator
Tools Will Not Work For YouJavascript is disabled. You must enable Javascript to use these tools
If you plan to use a gable roof, our roof rafter calculator tools are handy for calculating the number of rafters needed, rafter length calculator, lineal feet of rafter, board feed in ridge and sub-facia,and the total board feet in the roof.
Rise and Run means that a 6/12 pitch roof has 6" of rise (vertical) for each foot of run (horizontal).
ROOF RA FT ER CA LCULA T OR
A ) Roof Len g th In
Feet
B) Ra fter Len gth In Feet
C) On Cen ter (in ch es betw een
r a fter s)
D) Ra fter Th ickn ess In
In ch es
E) Ra fter Width In
In ch es
ft ft in in in
Example Calculate Clear
Typical rafter on center spacing is 16" or 24".
How to Enter Sizes
24 Feet 24
24 Feet 6 inches 24 6
24 Feet 6 & 1 /2 inches 24 6 1 /2
How To Cut Rafters
Trying to find what size lumber to use?This is based upon the span of the rafter (horizontal span, not total rafter length), live and dead loads. To size joists and rafters use the Maximum Span Tables for southern yellow pine. This Rafter Span Calculator is species specific for Douglas Fir, hemlock, etc.
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Pole Barns » How to Build a Pole Barn » Roof Decking Installation
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Roof Decking Installation for Pole Barns
FIRST ROW OF PLYWOOD
♦Use 4x8 inch plywood for base decking material.♦ Set ladders to allow 2 workers to carry 4x8 plywood to roof.♦Measure from rake rafter to rafter that is 6' on center from building edge.♦ Cut first sheet to overhang rake rafter by 3/4" stopping halfway on inside rafter♦Nail sheet with 8d nails every 8"♦Nail rest of sheets on first row. Rafters should be 8' on center so no cutting required♦ Cut last piece on first row to overhang 3/4" on rake rafter♦ Trim small out of square with circular saw
SUBSEQUENT ROWS OF PLYWOOD
♦Do not overlap joints on same rafter as first row♦Measure and cut from 2nd rafter for second row, third rafter for third row to stagger overlap
FINAL ROW OF PLYWOOD
♦ Last row must be ripped to proper width to extend exactly to peak of roof♦ If planning a ridge vent leave a 1" gap between ridge board
TAR PAPER / FELT
♦ Steeply pitched roof requiring cleats require installation from top to bottom. Leave bottom edge unstapled to slip next sheet underneath for weather proofing♦ If cleats are not used then tar from bottom to top lapping rows as you go
FACIA BOARDS & DRIP EDGE
♦ Butt facia boards up under plywood decking & attach to eave rafters and the side of rake rafter with 8d galvanized nails♦Drip edge is nailed onto the edge of roof on top of tar paper with 1 1/4" roofing nails driven along back edge
Metal Roofing Systems
Planning a metal roof?
Each metal roofing manufacturer provides instructions for specific products sold. Make sure you get a copy with your panels to follow their specific recommendations for application.
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