Although pole barns are inherently sturdy structures, they’re vulnerable to damage in especially violent storms. Thankfully, there are ways to reinforce them so that they can withstand even the most powerful sustained winds. Whether you’re planning on installing a new pole barn or you want to protect an existing one, here’s what you should know about wind bracing. 

3 Ways to Make Your Pole Barn Stand Strong in the Wind

1. Reinforce the Exterior Walls 

2’ x 6’ boards can be used to brace the outside walls of the barn. Install them along the base of each wall, just above the ground, making sure to attach them securely to each vertical post. Use at least four screws on each post for optimal strength so that the bracing can withstand storm winds.   

2. Use Heavy-Duty Hardware

If your pole barn has yet to be erected, make sure to use high-gauge screws and bolts instead of nails wherever it makes sense to do so. If the structure is already built, you should use these forms of hardware when installing the bracing at the various points of vulnerability. 

3. Brace the Roofing 

In severe storms, some or all of a barn’s roofing can lift off the structure entirely. To keep this from happening on your property, connect the roof trusses directly to the underlying posts. This will essentially anchor the roof to the rest of the stick-frame construction so that it can't be lifted by the wind. 

For a high-quality pole barn that will meet all your needs, turn to Sentinel Lumber & Hardware. All their units have extra-large doors and weather-proofed coatings. Located in Ashland, MO, this supplier can also handle all your lumber and hardware needs for other major building projects on your property. Since 1957, this locally owned and operated company has been proudly serving clients across the Boone County area. To learn more about their pole barns, visit their website or call (573) 657-2164.