Understanding The Name “Pole Barn” and Its Origin
The term ‘pole building’ seems simple enough, but it may leave you scratching your head if you’re not familiar with the building process, materials, or how these structures have evolved over time.
In order to understand why it’s called a pole building, you need to know some basic pole building vocabulary and history; here’s a quick rundown to bring you up to speed.
The Name Refers to The Structural Materials
Pole buildings use wood posts (or poles) to form the vertical frame. The posts are buried underground, eliminating the need for a traditional foundation. This means that poles are the essential component of these buildings, hence the name.
Pole Building Is the Shortened Version
When the practice of constructing pole buildings first became popular during the Great Depression, builders would use telephone poles for their pole barns rather than the pressure treated wood that we use today.
Because of this, the name ‘telephone pole barns’ became common. Eventually, ‘pole barns’ and ‘pole buildings’ became the preferred terms.
What Do The Poles Do?
The poles (or posts) of a pole building provide vertical support; they are the most recognizable feature of one of these buildings because they’re the most vital.
Posts are reinforced with horizontal girts to form walls, and purlins are added to create the roof. Basically, the entire structure of a pole building is assembled around the poles, so it’s only fair that they receive prominent recognition in the name.
Common Misconceptions About Pole Buildings
Because the name leaves a lot to the imagination, many people get confused about what exactly a pole building is. Often at Beehive Buildings, we receive inquiries from people who mistakenly believe that pole buildings are open-sided fence pole style carports or something else of the like, but this is not the case.
For a clearer picture of what you’re getting into before you jump into the buying process, be sure to check out our posts answering the questions What Is A Pole Building? and How Much Does A Pole Building Cost?
What Can A Pole Building Be?
Now that we’ve covered what a pole building is not, let’s touch on what it is.
Pole buildings can serve all sorts of different functions. Storage buildings, man caves, riding arenas, detached garages, equestrian buildings, workshops, and many other applications can all be completed with pole buildings.
Basic questions are easy to overlook in an industry that involves some complex subjects, but a firm grasp on foundational topics like these will help you better understand pole buildings as a whole.
Now that you have a better idea of why it’s called a pole building, contact us to discuss how we can make your dream building a reality!