We’re diving into a special topic that’s close to the heart of anyone who takes their machinery seriously: the pole barn machine shed. These structures are invaluable for anyone who needs to store large equipment, whether you’re a farmer, a landscaper, or just someone with a knack for big DIY projects.
A machine shed, pole barn or not, isn’t just a building—it’s a protective haven for your costly machinery and a hub for your hard work. Read on for a detailed overview of what a machine shed is, why you should consider building a pole barn machine shed, and some handy tips for planning one.
What is a Machine Shed?
A machine shed is a robust and roomy structure designed specifically for the storage of large machinery. These aren’t your everyday garden sheds. Machine sheds are built to accommodate big, heavy, and often expensive machinery that needs a safe, protected space when not in use.
The history of machine sheds is pretty extensive – in fact, you can find a surprising amount of information about machine sheds from museums and history projects focused on agriculture.
They’re certainly not as old as farming, but from around the time that gasoline-powered equipment became recognized for its efficiency-boosting power in farming, the machine shed has been considered a necessity. After all, if your motorized equipment breaks down, it’s an expensive fix!
Most machine sheds consisted of several separate bays, but this was always a personal choice. Some older designs were more like spacious lean-tos, with big openings for fast access; the risks of weather damage to more complicated machinery these days makes fully closed sheds more popular.
The size of a machine shed could be almost anything. For smaller farms, all you may need is space for a tractor. But for big operations or dedicated agriculture specialists, the bigger the shed, the more equipment you can maintain!
Now let’s move onto why you might want to build a pole barn machine shed.
Why Should I Make a Pole Barn Machine Shed?
Let’s talk about pole barns now. A pole barn is a type of building that’s supported by big, sturdy poles set in the ground and anchored by concrete. We’re pretty partial to pole barns, as you may expect. But even outside our circles, they’re lauded for their durability, cost-effectiveness, and relatively easy construction process.
So, a pole barn machine shed combines the best of these worlds – the robust, spacious storage of a machine shed and the solid, cost-effective construction of a pole barn. The result is a structure that is purpose-built for machinery storage and that can stand the test of time.
If you own large machinery, a pole barn machine shed offers an array of benefits. Top of the list is the protection for your machinery. Exposing your valuable equipment to harsh weather can lead to premature aging and costly repairs. A pole barn machine shed shields your machinery from the elements, providing peace of mind that they are secure and well-maintained.
On top of protection, these structures provide an efficient organization. Imagine not having to maneuver around clustered equipment anymore. Your tools and machinery are neatly arranged and easy to find, saving you time and avoiding potential damages.
The beauty of a pole barn machine shed is its versatility. You can customize it to suit various needs—whether you need a single, big open space or several segmented rooms throughout. Unlike other types of construction, pole barns are primarily supported by hefty poles around the perimeter of the building, allowing a wide open space in the interior like a blank canvas.
They are also surprisingly cost-effective and straightforward to build compared to traditional garages or warehouses. Foot for foot versus other construction types, pole barns can use fewer materials and take less time for builders to construct, saving material and labor costs. Even if you’re building it yourself, that means more time to focus on your farm and less time focused on building your new structure!
These benefits combined make it an attractive investment for any machinery owner.
Tips for Planning a Pole Barn Machine Shed
Now that you’re ready to build a pole barn machine shed, let’s move on to some key planning tips.
Size to Your Needs
First, think about what machinery you’re going to store. The size and type of equipment you have will dictate the size and layout of your machine barn.
Siting Is Everything
Next, carefully choose your location. Think about accessibility, the ground’s suitability, and whether the location fits into your overall property layout. The most important aspect of a machine shed is that it works for your farm. It should be as centralized to its “use area” as possible, access doors on the sides that make the most sense, and easy to drive into or out of.
Options to Choose From
Keep in mind features like ventilation, lighting, insulation, and even aesthetics. Depending on what you store, ventilation and insulation could be important. After all, moisture and extreme temperatures aren’t good for a lot of machinery out there. Reducing them can prolong the lifespan of your equipment, which is a large part of the value of a machine shed.
Likewise, we all know dedicated farmers work before (and after) dark. The right lighting can save you some headaches when you’re starting and ending your day.
Know Your Local Building Codes
Try to avoid common mistakes, such as neglecting local building codes or failing to plan for adequate drainage. Remember, it’s better to over-prepare than be caught out later. And don’t be afraid to seek professional help if the project seems too overwhelming. Many excellent architects and contractors specialize in these types of structures.
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