How to Maintain Pole Barns
Pole barns are very simple in their cost and structure. However, with all their simplicity, they will require some effort on your part to properly maintain them. Though it may require work and time, if your pole barn is in excellent condition you will be able to get many years of use from it.
What You'll Need:
- Hammer
- Wrench
- Nails
- Bolts and washers
- Roof flashing
- Inspect the bolts, washers and nails. All these components are essential especially if your pole barn is enclosed completely or partially. Tighten each of the bolts from time to time and ensure that the panels are flush. Cover any bolts that are sticking out, these bolts could injure your livestock.
- Check the roof for any signs of a leak. Your pole barn will need to provide leak-free shelter for your feed, animals and machinery. If even after you've tighten the bolts you are still experiencing leaks, you may need to seal your rood using a waterproof sealant, caulking or roof flashing.
- Look for any signs of structural damage such as rotting or cracked and broken wood. The poles support the barn, so ensure that they are at their full integrity and so no signs of damage are present.
- Cover each edge of your metal panels. If your pole barn has sheet metal, including corrugated metal panels, you'll need to finish them so there are no sharp edges remaining. Overtime these can loosen or rip.
- Check for any signs of drainage. Your pole barn should have been constructed in a manner which water would drain water away from it, especially if you have a foundation. Overtime erosion can modify the drainage path so, you may need to improve your system at some point.