Do I Need a Concrete Slab for My Pole Barn?
Whether you need to protect large machinery and equipment or a recreational vehicle like an RV, effective and sturdy outdoor storage solutions like pole barns can be a practical investment. In most cases, pole barns are designed for agricultural storage needs like housing livestock and storing feed or farming equipment. They are typically constructed as wood-framed structures with steel roof trusses.
To ensure proper wind resistance, machine-dug holes and an engineer-approved poundage of concrete are poured to anchor the posts deep into the ground. This is especially important for pole barns constructed in Florida as they will need to withstand severe weather conditions.
When it comes to the pole barn flooring, there are several options available, but concrete tends to be the more popular choice in Florida.
Before construction can begin, consider your budget, the location of your pole barn, what you will be storing in it and whether dust and moisture control are important. These factors may influence your choice of flooring in your pole barn.
What Are the Common Types of Flooring for Pole Barns?
- Concrete flooring tends to be the most popular choice because it reduces moisture, dust and debris. It also helps with maintaining a clean, level floor and can last for many decades. Concrete flooring is typically ideal for storage and agricultural barns and in-between livestock stalls.
- Livestock mat flooring is the most practical choice for housing livestock in a pole barn. It supports sanitation and provides animals with a comfortable, gentle foundation to walk and stand on. Livestock mat flooring is typically made of specialized concrete, rubber or other synthetic materials that are appropriate for a variety of animals and applications, from horse stalls to poultry coups.
- Stone flooring is known for its durability and strength which makes it a great option for storing and moving machinery and equipment. It is great for adding an aesthetically-pleasing, rustic look and comes in a variety of colors and styles.
- Gravel flooring is typically a more budget-friendly flooring option for pole barns used for storing equipment. While gravel isn’t the most durable, it can minimize moisture and slow the erosion of dirt. In most cases, gravel will need to be reapplied over time to maintain the floor’s level and function.
- Dirt flooring is the most natural and cost-effective choice for a pole barn. First-time pole barn owners tend to go with dirt flooring upon construction and may add a different flooring type later down the road. In a climate like Florida’s, dirt flooring can erode much faster due to wind, rain and moisture.
Should I Pour Concrete Down Before Building My Pole Barn?
Most building inspectors and contractors will advise you to wait to pour concrete until the poles and skirt boards are in place. The concrete acts as a sturdy foundation for the wooden structure. Once it is freshly poured during the building process, it increases the pole barn’s durability and longevity.
If you have an existing concrete slab, it may be possible to build a pole barn over it. Keep in mind that it will likely be more expensive due to the amount of time and labor it takes to cut into the concrete slab. If your timeline and budget are important, you may want to consider building your pole barn in a different location that does not have a pre-existing concrete slab.
Do You Live in Florida? Build a Durable Pole Barn with Bestway Portable Buildings Inc.
We know all about Florida’s extreme weather conditions and our pole barns are designed with wind resistance in mind. At Bestway Portable Buildings Inc., we believe outdoor storage solutions are a necessity for keeping valuable machinery, supplies and livestock safe from unpredictable weather.
Our experienced team of state certified and licensed contractors can walk you through every important decision that comes with building a pole barn, storage shed or carport.
Call our office at (850) 747-8974 or request a quote online.
