How to build an RV pole barn?
By
Elaine Knight
Page last updated:
10/08/2023 |
Next review date:
10/08/2025
In this blog post, we will answer the question: “How to build an RV pole barn?” We will discuss the steps and procedures to build an RV pole barn effectively. We will also discuss the required materials and talk about all the details that are needed to build an RV pole barn. At the end of this post, you get to know how to build an RV pole barn within a week.
How to build an RV pole barn?
To build an RV pole barn, you need to follow the steps described below.
- Choose the location
- Consider the size of the barn
- Design the layout
- Purchase the required materials
- Dig holes and install the poles
- Install the stringers and the trusses
- Install the roofing
- Install the siding
- Level the ground with gravel or concrete
- Install doors and windows.
Choose the location
- First, you will need to choose a location to build an RV pole barn. The location is the most important factor to consider before planning.
- Make sure that you choose a location that has a flat surface. This will make the construction process easy and there is no need to worry about leveling.
- Avoid an uneven surface or a location that has slopes. You should have the desired location in mind before considering building an RV pole barn. Make sure that the location has more than enough space for your RV.
Consider the size of the barn
- Next, you will need to consider the size of the barn. There is not much compromise in this aspect since the barn has to be bigger than the RV. Building an RV pole barn is easy if you have enough space.
- You must measure the size or at least have an idea of how big you want the RV pole barn to be. The RV pole barn should be eight feet wider and four feet longer than your RV. This is because pole buildings are usually made in eight-foot sections to accommodate the side panels and roofs.
- It is also good to have enough space around your RV for easy access or storage. Remember to have enough space around your rig.
Design the layout
- Now that you have the place and the size sorted out, you will need to move ahead and design the layout. This might be a tough task for some people but there are experts to design layouts for RV pole barns.
- The idea has to be simple and it is not too hard to come up with an idea for an RV pole barn layout. Always remember to keep the RV measurements and mind and leave enough space accordingly.
- While designing the layout, make sure to consider the height. RVs are huge and the height is critical in this situation. Your RV should be able to pass through the barn without any hassle.
- There are plenty of RV pole barn models that consist of different styles and designs. Be sure to choose one that suits your needs. If you want additional storage in your RV pole barn, be sure to design a layout that has enough storage options.
- With a little research, you will be able to get the idea to design an RV pole barn layout. Some pole barns have a porch and some have space on the inside to relax. You can also choose to have a room if needed.
- Make sure to keep the roof of the RV pole barn tilted and be sure to note down the number of poles that are required. You can have up to eight or even 12 poles depending on the size of the barn.
- It all depends on your taste and preference. While designing the layout, be sure to note down the materials that are required.
Purchase the required materials
- Building an RV pole barn will require quality materials for longevity. Be sure not to compromise on the quality of the materials that you purchase.
- Make a note of the materials that you will need. There is no particular rule to stick to certain materials alone as long as the RV pole barn is built strong and sturdy.
- Most RV pole barns are built with a combination of metal and wood. However, there are a few other barns that use different materials according to their requirement.
- It is also important to consider materials that are easy to maintain. This will help you in the long run and your RV pole barn will last longer.
Dig holes and install the poles
- Depending on the conditions and the type of RV pole barn. You will need to dig post holes. It is recommended to keep the post holes eight feet apart when choosing the place.
- The post holes must be 16 inches on all sides and a minimum of three to four feet deep. Note that RV pole barns constructed in extremely cold locations will need holes set deeper than the frost line.
- Next, you will need to install the poles in the holes and use a carpenter’s level to check for vertical alignment. Once you have the poles level, you will need to brace them with two-by-fours.
- Mix one bag of concrete per hole and mix the concrete with water until you get a thick texture. Pour the concrete into each hole and leave it to set for a minimum of three days. Note that you will need help while installing the poles.
Install the stringers and the trusses
- In the next step, you will need to install the stringers and the trusses. You will need to set two by eight stringers securely across the top of the poles. Note, this is not a one-man job, it will require several people to get the task complete.
- Once you have the stringers in place, you will need to get the pre-constructed trusses. This is not an easy task and you will need help for several people. The trusses and the hammers will need to be fixed in place.
- It is always good to opt for wood trusses since they are not as heavy as steel or metal ones. There are different types of truss models that are available for RV pole barns. Be sure to get one that is suitable and lightweight.
- In some situations, you will need some machinery to help get the trusses on top of the RV pole barn. Ensure to secure the trusses properly and double-check for their stability.
Install the roofing
- In the next step, you will need to install the roofing for the RV pole barn. You can choose to use tin sheets for the roof and make sure that the roofing is overlapped over the pre-constructed trusses.
- It is advised to use roofing hardware that is included with the roof pieces. Don’t forget to install the metal roof cap across the top of the roof to allow air to vent. You can use bolts to secure the roofing onto the wooden pre-constructed trusses.
Install the siding
- Some people choose to install siding to the pole barn, but usually, RV pole barns do not require siding since the poles provide structural integrity.
Level the ground with gravel or concrete
- In the next step, you will need to level the ground with gravel or concrete. This is another important step since the RV must be level at all times. Ensure to use smooth gravel and pour concrete on the floor to give it a proper finish.
Install doors and windows.
- Install doors and windows only if you have siding for your RV pole barn. Sliding doors and windows are one of the best options, but make sure to have doors that are one or two feet taller than the RV. You can also have two doors on either side for easy access.
Conclusion
In this blog post, we have answered the question: “How to build an RV pole barn?” We have discussed the steps and procedures to build an RV pole barn effectively. We have also discussed the required materials and talked about all the details that are needed to build an RV pole barn. Have you built a pole barn before? Leave us a comment below and let us know.
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