Pole Barn Insulation
Owning a pole barn can be a cost-effective way to have a sizable barn on your property. Pole barns can be constructed in a variety of sizes, shapes and with different materials to suit your specific needs. However, to make a pole barn a more effective means of storage, you may choose to insulate your pole barn. Depending on how your pole barn is constructed, you may have several different options.
Dealing with Moisture Buildup
If you are constructing a pole barn with the intention to insulate it, you can make a few modifications in order to make the insulation process a bit easier. A common problem that many people encounter when insulating a pole barn is the wicking of water and moisture from the metal siding into the insulation. In order to prevent this, you can use spray foam insulation. However, be sure that the foam insulation that you are using is not pure urethane, as this type of foam can “rot” when exposed to excessive moisture. Most new spray foam insulation formulas are designed to avoid degradation that can occur over time.
Another way to help combat the moisture buildup from the metal siding on a pole barn is to use a moisture barrier. This can be accomplished by installing a layer of heavy-duty plastic sheeting in between the insulation that you are using, and the metal side of the barn. However, don’t forget that the metal of your barn may rust, as trapped moisture can sit in between the metal and the plastic sheeting for quite some time in certain weather conditions.
Types of Insulation Used in Pole Barns
Fiberglass Blanket Insulation?:
Many steel buildings use fiberglass blanket insulation. This type of insulation is sometimes housed in vinyl, and does not require additional support upon installation. To find this type of insulation, it’s best if you begin shopping around to find the best price. It can be secured with a staple gun to the joists in your pole barn.
Fiberglass Board Insulation
Many people choose to use fiberglass board insulation for their pole barns, though it does require the addition of a vapor barrier to help with condensation. The fiberglass board should be installed in between joists, with a custom cut to ensure that it fits tightly in between the joists.
Spray Foam Insulation
Perhaps the most widely accepted way to insulate a pole barn is to use spray foam insulation. While this is seen by many as being the best option, its main downfall is that it tends to be fairly expensive. Depending on your budget for insulating your pole barn, you may or may not choose to go with spray foam insulation.
Cost of Pole Barn Insulation
Depending on the type of insulation that you choose for your pole barn, your costs may vary. While spray foam is the most expensive way to insulate a pole barn, it is also noted as having the most insulation benefits in prevention of moisture buildup, as well as a reduction in monthly heating bills. The prices per foot of different types of insulation are entirely dependent on the thickness of the insulation.
Approximate Per-Foot Insulation Costs:
• Spray Foam – $1.25 to $2.25 per square foot
• Fiberglass Board – $0.20 – $0.95 per square foot
• Fiberglass Blanket – $0.20 – $0.55 per square foot
