CONTINUING EDUCATION
Presented by:
POST-FRAME CONSTRUCTION
IN LOW-RISE COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS
By Paige Lozier, in collaboration with Marissa Hovraluck
INTRODUCTION
The term post-frame building system refers
to a building characterized by primary structural
frames of wood posts as columns and trusses or
rafters as roof framing. Roof framing is attached
to the posts, either directly or indirectly through
girders. Posts are embedded in the soil and
supported on isolated footings, or are attached
to the top of piers, concrete or masonry walls,
or slabs-on-grade. This type of framing system
outperforms other building types in any climate
or soil condition and is an energy-efficient
building method.
This article will discuss construction methods
and materials, as well as performance measures
for post-frame buildings and their application in
low-rise commercial buildings. It discusses how
a combination of quality materials, expert work-
manship, energy efficiency and low maintenance
in a post-frame building can optimize value.
METHODS OF CONSTRUCTION
The term post-frame building system refers
to a building characterized by primary structural
frames of wood posts as columns and trusses or
rafters as roof framing. Roof framing is attached
to the posts, either directly or indirectly through
girders. Posts are embedded in the soil and
supported on isolated footings, or are attached
to the top of piers, concrete or masonry walls,
or slabs-on-grade. Secondary framing members,
purlins in the roof and girts in the walls, are
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
At the end of this program, participants will be able to:
1. Describe the methods of construction employed in
post-frame construction.
2. Review the importance of material and finish choice
for post-frame construction.
3. Discuss the attributes of post-frame construction in
terms of durability and energy efficiency and review
applications in low-rise commercial buildings.
4. Describe how post-frame construction is code-
accepted and code-compliant with applicable
building regulations.
CONTINUING EDUCATION
CREDIT: 1 LU
COURSE NUMBER: ARaug2015.1
Use the learning objectives to focus your
study as you read this article. To earn credit
and obtain a certificate of completion, visit
http://go.hw.net/AR815Course1 and complete
the quiz for free as you read this article. If you
are new to Hanley Wood University, create a free
learner account; returning users log in as usual.
attached to the primary framing members to
provide lateral support and to transfer sheathing
loads, both in-plane and out-of-plane, to the
posts and roof framing.
This type of framing system outperforms other
building types in any climate or soil condition.
After hurricanes Katrina and Rita ravaged
the southern U.S. coastal states, post-frame
buildings stood tall amidst the rubble. The same
is true of snowstorms in the North. Post-frame
buildings are not only strong but they allow
for flexibility in design and construction when
compared to other building methods, as the
choices for size, roof style, materials, ceiling
systems, flooring, thermal insulation systems
and interior wall configurations are virtually
unlimited. Post-frame buildings feature wide
open interior spaces thanks to their truss system,
which allows for a virtually unlimited selection of
interior layouts as well as exterior features.
CONTINUING EDUCATION
Post-frame buildings can be constructed any
time of year, as weather-related construction
delays are rare. Once the construction process
begins the amount of time it takes to get under
roof for a post-frame building is approximately
half of what is normally expected from other
construction techniques. This allows building
professionals to design buildings year-round
without feeling the pressure of a season change.
These attributes come as no surprise to those
who engineer and build post-frame structures
because when built correctly, their unique design
and construction performs exceptionally well
under tremendous weather extremes.
POST-FRAME FOUNDATION
The structure of a post frame building is what
sets it apart from others, so it is important to
explain how they are constructed from the
ground up.
Based on the specific climate, ground conditions
and building use of a project, there are several
types of footings/foundations to choose from.
A manufacturers foundation and warranties
must guarantee durability no matter what style is
chosen. The foundation system of a post-frame
building consists of columns that are buried in
the ground, embedded in concrete, or anchored
to a concrete foundation. Vertical loads from the
roof are transferred to the column, and from the
column to a concrete footing or foundation, and
then to the soil. Buried or embedded posts can
resist lateral loads.
Posts surface mounted on concrete foundations
need to be designed utilizing roof diaphragms
and shear resisting wall elements similar to
traditional wood construction. Most metal
roofing and siding manufacturers have design
values for their products that can be used.
Plywood and OSB substrates may also be used.
Concrete
Field placed concrete or ready mix provide the
best footings. This allows the concrete to con-
form to the column and fill the hole completely.
Utilizing specialized digging equipment provides
deeper holes for the footings and columns,
creating a uniform cylindrical shaft. Digging a
hole with shovels can result in shallower, funnel
shaped holes that will be uneven. Pre-formed
options, if used, shift and settle, creating an
uneven surface for the column even if the
hole was originally level. Industry standards
and design specifications typically require the
columns to be embedded in the ground a
minimum of 4 feet.
Laminated Columns and anchor bolts, using one of two techniques.
A column on a formed wall with trenched
Nail laminated columns are the posts of choice.
footing below utilizes ready-mix concrete with
Typically 3-ply laminated lower columns that
reinforcement. Column sockets are anchored
are hydraulically compressed during lamination
with plated concrete anchor bolts and the
and provide a stronger column than solid posts
laminated column is bolted in the column
of the same dimension are chosen. Lower
socket. A column can also be mounted on a
columns should be pressure preservative treated
monolithic slab, which is a good solution in
in accordance to AWPA treatment standards to
rocky, difficult-to-dig soils and works well with
prevent fungal decay and insect infestation.
a poured concrete floor. As with the previous
Laminated columns provide superior treatment technique, column sockets are anchored to
since this will allow 100% penetration of the plated concrete anchor bolts and the laminated
sapwood, which cannot be obtained with column is bolted in the column socket. A
square posts because they are treated with thickened edge meets heavy load requirements.
preservative on the outside edges only. It is
In-ground column foundations
preferred to treat only the lower portion of a
column because a full length treated column Another economical foundation option that
would make it harder to get a straight wall, can be utilized where conditions permit is a
as treated lumber has a tendency to warp and system with pre-cast concrete columns buried
twist as it dries out. Lamination also provides in the ground. Providing superior strength with
the ability to add column stiffeners and/or specially designed components and materials
increase the dimensional size of lumber for compared to laminated wood columns, the
high demand situations, like high wind areas, hybrid foundation can be used for a variety of
earthquakes and buildings taller than 16 feet. building uses. The system consists of several
components: a concrete column, an internal
There are several foundation options and
threaded adjustment bracket, stainless splash-
different ways to achieve a solid foundation in
board bracket, internal column connector and
post-frame construction. All begin with these
a wood upper column. Because the foundation
three or four member laminated columns.
system utilizes concrete in the ground, there is
no need for treatment, providing an eco-friendly
foundation option for the building.
Column on Trenched Footing
Column on Monolithic
Columns Mounted to Foundation
Columns can be mounted directly to the
concrete foundation with a steel column socket
CONTINUING EDUCATION
Steel Bracket
Finally, pre-cast concrete foundation columns
are attached to the concrete columns with a
steel bracket, which is welded to re-bars in
the concrete column that extend to the base
of the column. 10,000 PSI super high strength
concrete is usually specified, as well as galva-
nized steel uplift anchors.
Trusses
Trusses are another structural member that
provide post-frame buildings superior strength
and longevity. Specially engineered trusses are
densely webbed and attached to the support
columns; while the trusses can be mounted on
the outside column member, to the side of the
column or in a support header, the best method
is when they are centered in a column, positioned
between column laminates. Extra deep truss
heels eliminate the need for knee braces, leaving
more usable space inside the building. Trusses
should be made from premium-grade, such
as MSR lumber which has been evaluated by
mechanical stress-rating equipment for stiffness,
which then determines the lumbers strength.
Trusses which sit in a saddle and are bolted
and nailed provide double strength against
wind shear. Finally, a predrilled, factory-cut
continuous purlin system can add strength,
rigidity and uniformity. There is the option of
straight- or raised-chord trussing, the latter of
which provides greater interior clearance and
allows for the installation of taller end doors.
Clear-span structures are available in a variety
of widths. Some manufacturers offer custom
clear-span widths up to 100 feet as well as
double- and triple-wide trusses.
Steel Trusses
Another option in post-frame construction is
a hybrid structure that allows for clear span
buildings up to 150 feet when steel trusses are
used. Hybrid technology combines the strength
and spanning capabilities of steel along with
the affordability, design flexibility and energy
efficiency of post-frame construction and is
a great option for a variety of building
applications. These buildings feature pre-en-
gineered steel trusses with an open-webbed
design set on wood framing. The steel trusses
allow for a wider building, while wood framing
provides superior insulating properties and
building strength. This hybrid technology also
makes buildings possible that have greater door
clearance, giving the ability to use bigger doors
with shorter walls, and allowing for a lower
profile building.
methods of installing insulation. In typical steel
ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND INSULATION
While metal is a conductor of hot and cold,
wood is an insulator. At its very core, the wood
frame in post-frame construction creates a
controllable environment. The design of a
post-frame building should allow maximum
insulation, air circulation and condensation
control. Be sure to specify insulation choices
that save on heating and cooling costs for the
life of the building.
Where newer energy codes require higher
levels of insulation, post-frame is a particularly
good option because its walls and roof are
relatively easy to insulate and wide blankets of
insulation can be used. Wide column spacing
allows for continuous insulation between
structural elements, fewer interruptions in
insulation material, and less chance of thermal
leakage. In fact, insulation breaks occur only
at the wood columns, which are spaced
further apart than other structures. Where the
insulation is interrupted, wooden structural
members have natural insulating properties
and conduct less heat than most structural
steel or masonry components.
Air deflectors should be installed to move air
up through the attic of the building and out
through the peak to promote good ventilation
throughout the building, protecting the insula-
tion from condensation and the building from
leaks. A fully ventilated attic allows for air flow
and adequate room for blown-in insulation.
Finally, as part of the insulation system a vapor
retarder should be secured over the insulation
to keep it dry and reduce infiltration and heat
loss. This creates a seal between the elements
and the inside of the building. Nailers are then
placed over the vapor barrier which allows
interior walls to be attached. HVAC, electricity
and plumbing can be run inside this barrier
without compromising the seal.
Post-frame buildings feature an exceptionally
large built-in wall cavity that is nearly 9 inches
thick, six of which are insulation. Extra deep
truss heels also allow for extra insulation and
insulation descends below the top of the
concrete floor. All of these factors lower heating
and cooling costs throughout the year.
Its important to compare how insulating
methods differ for steel buildings as opposed
to post-frame and why post-frame can obtain
a better R-value. Steel buildings offer several
buildings, the insulation is draped over the roof
purlins so that fiberglass blanket insulation is
rolled out over and perpendicular to the outside
of the structural frame. Then the metal covering
sheets are fastened to the frame, holding the
insulation in place, but this method compresses
the insulation when the roofing is applied. This
compression can result in a loss of nearly half
of the thickness of the insulation, reducing
the insulations R-value, which is the standard
measure of thermal resistance.
Insulation can also be installed between purlins.
This allows for thicker insulation without com-
pression at the structural members by applying
it between purlins rather than perpendicular
to them, resulting in better thermal efficiency.
However, the problem of thermal bridging
through the structural members in direct con-
tact with the metal covering sheets still applies.
While many steel-framed buildings feature 3
inch fiberglass ceiling insulation, which provides
an R-9.5 rating, some post-frame insulation
systems can obtain R-38 insulation on ceilings.
MATERIAL AND FINISH CHOICES
Post-frame is an energy-efficient building
method and its primary material, wood, is a
renewable resource that is widely available and
sustainably harvested throughout North America.
Wood is strong and innovations in engineered
wood products allow it to be used for longer
spans and taller structures than ever before.
CONTINUING EDUCATION

As discussed, wood is a good insulator, which QUIZ

reduces heat transfer. The widely spaced,
relatively thick wood side and end wall posts
minimize the number of thermal breaks and
minimize the thermal bridging effect in post-
frame buildings. Condensation accumulation
on the inside wall surfaces at thermal breaks is
practically eliminated in post-frame buildings.
1. True or False: In post-frame construction roof framing is attached to wood posts through girders.
2. Industry standards and design specifications typically require the columns to be embedded in the ground a
minimum of _____.
a. 5' b. 4'
c. 6" d. 10'

EXTERIOR MATERIALS 3. True or False: 3-ply laminated lower columns that are hydraulically compressed during lamination provide a stronger
column than solid posts of the same dimension.
While the structural members of post-frame
buildings are made of wood, the roofing and 4. Which is the best foundation option to use in rocky, difficult-to-dig soils?
exterior siding can be clad in a variety of materi- a. True b. False
als from asphalt, cedar shake, slate or tile roofs
to stucco, brick, stone, fiber cement, wood or 5. True or False: 70% Fluoropolymer painted panels cannot chalk more than 5 Delta Es over a 10 year period.
vinyl siding. As in other building types, materials a. Column on trenched footing b. Column on monolithic slab

can be combined to create architectural details c. Column anchored to buried monolithic concrete

such as wainscoting, board-and-batten siding,

cupolas, dormers and porches that enhance
the buildings architecture and aesthetics.
These exterior materials are easily adapted to
post-frame construction and you will notice
examples of each throughout the course.
That being said, the roof and siding of post-
frame buildings are often made of ribbed steel
panels, which will be discussed in greater detail.
In order to get the strength needed to carry
roof loads, flat sheets of steel are run through a
roll-forming machine. Steel gauge is an important
measurement and can vary depending on where
the steel is purchased; typically big box retailers
sell 30 gauge steel, while many contractors offer
6. True or False: Wooden structural members have poor insulating properties and conduct more heat than most structural
steel or masonry components.
7. Which of the following can be used as exterior siding on a post-frame building?
a. Brick b. Vinyl
c. Stucco d. Stone
e. Fiber Cement f. All of the above
8. What is the ideal gauge of steel for ribbed steel panels used in post-frame construction?
a. 30 gauge b. 29 gauge
c. 15 gauge d. 26 gauge
9. True or False: Because diaphragms and shear walls are used in the lateral design of a post-frame building the structure acts
as a box system and can outperform many steel structures.
10. Post-frame buildings are wood structures and as such are classified as Type ______.

29 gauge. The thickness of steel can vary, even a. VC or VB b. AC or HV

c. VA or VB d. AV or BV
within the same gauge of the product; for post-
frame you should select a quality building that
11. The ASABE is a professional and technical organization comprised of members who are dedicated to advancement of
is constructed with a heavier (lower) gauge of engineering applicable to agricultural, food, and biological systems.
steel. 26 gauge (thickness range of .0179 inches a. NFPA b. ICC
to .019 inches) commercial steel is ideal because c. AWA d. ASABE
it is a thicker, superior steel product. 26 gauge
commercial steel is more flexible, minimizing
cracking during the roll-forming process, but it is
also heavier than 29 gauge steel (.0135 inches to SPONSOR INFORMATION
.0142 inches) or 30 gauge steel (.0157 inches to
.013 inches), making it better able to withstand
the elements.
An arch-shaped rib configuration varies by
manufacturer, offering a wide variety of profiles Morton Buildings is a construction-led designBUILD firm. Our in-house staff of project managers, construction
though-out the industry. Each panel type estimators, drafting technicians and construction coordinators provides a team with significant experience on
commercial projects that will work alongside qualified professionals. With more than a century of experience,
has its own structural and/or architectural
Morton is Americas leader in custom timber-frame construction.
design characteristics. Some manufacturers
recommend fastening into the intermediate
or flat ribs which allows water to run over
the fastener and rib. This is not best practice

and can be compared to putting holes in the This article continues on http://go.hw.net/AR815Course1. Go online to read the rest of the article
bottom of a gutter. The best practice is to and complete the corresponding quiz for credit.
fasten in the high rib to prevent leaking.
CONTINUING EDUCATION
Some manufacturers produce ribs that have
a lower profile and sharper bends, but many
believe a better quality steel panel features
high ribs with a rounded profile, which reflect
sunlight from various angles for better
aesthetics. Generous bend radii offer improved
paint and metallic coating flexibility.
For buildings that will be used for living and
working areas, you may want to consider
specifying a high rib acoustical steelone of the
most efficient sound insulation systems in the
construction industry. Installed in a band around
or in the ceiling, acoustical steel allows sound
waves to pass through sound-absorbent materials
in the wall and ceiling cavities, which significantly
improves the sound quality in a building.
COATINGS
To form the ribs, the steel is stretched and bent.
As a result, there is a strong likelihood that this
stretching may result in hairline cracks in the paint
and zinc, which may result in future red rust. A
roofing product that is more flexible, has a heavier
zinc coating and a durable paint system will resist
cracking during the roll-forming operation.
Steel is commonly recognized as a strong
material but when unprotected and exposed
to the weather, steel oxidizes rapidly and red
rust forms. If the steel is left unprotected, it
will likely rust through in a matter of years. To
protect the steel, a coating of zinc or a mixture
of zinc and aluminum can be applied. The two
coatings commonly used are galvanized and
Galvalume. Galvanized is 100 percent zinc,
while Galvalume is 30 percent zinc and 70
percent aluminum.
A building is best accented with an outstanding
paint coating. A coating that consists of a 70
percent polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) topcoat
or color coat and polyurethane primer that
utilizes a Galvalume metallic coating is arguably
superior. This type of coating in an appropriate
color can be ENERGY STAR label qualified
for roofing applications and contribute to a
cool roof. The coating used on steel panels
must have certain qualities to remain virtually
maintenance-free and easy to clean. First, it
should have superior protection against fading,
chalking, peeling and red rust. It should also have
resistance to the effects of ultraviolet rays, rain
and pollution. Finally, the coating should have
color and gloss retention that lasts far longer than
standard consumer or commercial paint coatings.
There are a number of advantages to using
powder coatings, as they cure to a durable
scratch resistant finish with improved corrosion
resistance. With powder coatings, particles of
the coating are made to float around and coat
the surfaces of parts to which they are attracted
electrostatically. The part is moved to an oven
where the particles rapidly melt, fuse to each
other, and adhere to the part as a cured film. The
powder epoxy is significantly easier to use than
liquid epoxy paint, as the liquid counterparts
become difficult to work with because of a
tendency to gel in paint lines and guns. High
performance liquids often present health
hazards, whereas powders can be selected which
do not pose additional health risks to operators.
The powder coating process also improves the
protection of the sharp edges of a part, as liquid
paints tend to run away from sharp edges but
powders cover the edges very well.
Powder coatings also have ecological benefits.
Liquid paints produce hazardous waste that
is costly to dispose of, while the overspray
of powders can be collected and used again
and again. The small amount of remaining
waste powder can be safely disposed of in
approved landfills. Because they are greater
than 98 percent nonvolatile, they do not emit
any significant pollutants into the atmosphere.
Liquid paints on the other hand are typically
made with greater than 50 percent solvents
which evaporate into the air during the
spraying and drying process. According to the
EPA, paint solvents are among the chief causes
of pollution. With liquid paints, the explosive
solvents must be exhausted from inside the
oven in order to prevent their accumulation
in the ovens air. A curing oven for powder
coatings operates efficiently because there is no
need to exhaust the heated air, which aids in
the preservation of natural resources.
POST-FRAME CONSTRUCTION
The post-frame building you design should
be matched to site specific geography and
climate conditions. Choose a manufacturer that
produces products in the United States and
delivers and unloads the materials at the jobsite.
And finally, build using professional craftsman
trained extensively in post-frame construction.
The combination of quality materials, expert
workmanship, energy efficiency and low
maintenance will provide the most value for
your project budget.
Second and third generation owners of
post-frame buildings can attest to the fact that
they look like new after decades of use. From
foundations to fasteners, every detail should
be designed for minimal maintenance. Specify
a building with the following details and it too
will last for generations. The paint used on the
building should resist moisture and UV light.
Treated wood, true stainless steel screws and
rust-resistant ring shank fasteners all prevent
corrosion and rot in the building. Eliminate
leaking and condensation build-up through
appropriate roof pitches and ventilation
systems. Controlling condensation also protects
insulation from moisture and sagging. Stand
strong against high wind and snow loads.
Unlike concrete, post-frame construction has
some give, so when the ground shifts and
settles, the building remains structurally sound.
Be sure to select a manufacturer with
environmentally friendly construction practices
such as manufacturing materials within 500
miles of the building site to reduce transportation
pollutants. Open floor plans, like in many post-
frame buildings, maximize natural lighting which
reduces the need for electric lighting. In addition,
the structure allows plumbing, electrical and
HVAC to be placed between the insulation and
finished wall or ceiling, when using a suspended
ceiling. This results in no penetration of the
insulation and an increase in energy efficiency
and overall insulation performance. ENERGY
STAR qualified components, such as windows
and doors, are available in a variety of styles to
maximize the energy performance of a building
and cool roof paint colors are available that
are ENERGY STAR approved for reflectivity in
CONTINUING EDUCATION
roofing applications. These approved colors help
to reflect sunlight and keep heat away from
the building, which helps to keep the building
cooler and reduce cooling loads. Finally, timber
frames should be manufactured from renewable
resources and siding and roof steel are typically
recycled and recyclable. These are just some of
the options available that can add efficiency and
functionality to a post-frame building.
Post frame buildings are engineered for site and
building requirements; through quality design
and materials, they can be constructed to be as
strong as a steel-frame building. The strength
lies in the framing system, from treated columns
that add stability, wind resistance and longevity
to a thin membrane diaphragm that creates an
effective bracing system to resist lateral forces.
The diaphragm is a flat structural unit
acting like a deep, narrow beam. The term
diaphragm is usually applied to roofs and
floors. A shear wall, however, is just a vertical
diaphragm. Shear walls provide support for the
roof and floor diaphragms transmitting forces
into the foundation. A diaphragm structure
results when a series of diaphragms are properly
tied together to form a unit. When diaphragms
and shear walls are used in the lateral design of
a building the structure acts as a box system.
Because of this tremendously wind-resistant
box a post-frame structure can outperform
many steel structures, even before the siding
is attached. Conversely, steel buildings derive
their strength from a combination of the frame
and panels. If either is compromised, the entire
building is compromised.
STEEL SIDING AND ROOF PANELS
All steel siding and roof panels are not created
equal. Inferior, imported products with untraceable
Location Therms used steel frame
Grafton, ND 6080
Bismarck, ND 5025
Monticello, MN 4671
Norfolk, NE 3970
Morton, IL 3690
Holton, KS 2987
Monett, MO 2770
Conway, AR 1871
Waco, TX 1217
Gainesville, FL 851
This chart shows a post frame vs. steel frame insulation comparison.
metal content are common in the construction
industry. Prime, pre-engineered commercial
quality steel is preferable, as is more substrate that
provides additional corrosion protection. Also,
high arch-shaped ribs with minor ribs between
each provide the strongest architectural shape
for withstanding water and weight. Steel panels
should not be welded but rather fastened with
screws and nails that add durability.
The buildings have many similarities regarding
size, openings, and type of air furnace used.
The differences lie in the roof pitch and interior
insulation used. In the post frame building there
is a 4 in 12 roof pitch with an attic. 6 inch wall
insulation with R-19 and blown attic insulation
with R-38 is used. In the steel building there is
a 1 in 12 roof pitch with no attic. 3 inch wall
insulation with R-9.5 and 3 inch roof insulation
with R-9.5 is used. The table on this slide lists
actual annual natural gas usage for these
buildings as predicted by the DOE 2.1E computer
simulation program, which was developed by
Lawrence Berkley Laboratories in conjunction
with the Department of Energy. You can see
that in every location, the therms used were
considerably less in the post-frame building.
Many manufacturers of post-frame buildings
provide written warranties such as a 50 year
snow load and a 5 year wind load warranty on
the building structuremuch longer than
those provided by most steel frame building
manufactures. Be sure to research the actual
written warranty on any structure that you
are using to determine if it is a pro-rated type
warranty or a non-pro-rated, and whether or
not it includes the labor to make the necessary
repairs or not.
Custom building layouts with varying styles,
siding types and floor plans can be chosen
Therms saved annually
Energy performer ($ savings at $1 per therm)
9177 3097
7703 2678
7088 2417
6058 2088
5621 1931
4607 1620
4228 1458
2902 1031
1926 709
1373 522
that best fit a business needs. Consider a
post-frame building for any low-rise commercial
setting such as retail, office warehouse, office
building, mini-storage buildings, commercial
storage, veterinary clinic, kennel, bank,
restaurant, child care facilities, car wash, vehicle
dealership and repair, and aircraft hangar.
APPLICATIONS
Whether planning a retail outlet, strip mall, or
any other commercial building it is important
for business owners and designers to develop
an inviting, energy-efficient space where they
can conduct their business. Its also vital to
continue drawing in new customers while
maintaining the loyalty of regulars in order
for the business to succeed. A post-frame
building can be customized with features and a
layout that best suits the business needs.
Offices and Warehouses
Business owners who need an office building
with the convenience of having a warehouse
attached or an office and storage building for
personal use, will get a building that is durable,
efficient and easy to maintain.
Business owners are looking for a space thats
welcoming to customers while being safe
and efficient for employees. Regardless of the
industry, a post-frame building will provide a
dependable, professional office building that
meets the needs of the company. From exterior
siding options to interior features and floor
plans, post-frame buildings offer the capabilities
of a truly customized office building.
Storage Units
When designing a mini-storage building it is
imperative that it be a long-lasting, low-
maintenance building that will give customers
a safe and convenient place to store their
valuables. Whether theyre looking for a space
to house their collectibles, recreational vehicles
or simply items that dont fit in their home,
post-frame facilities can be constructed where
customers will be confident renting space.
CONTINUING EDUCATION
Because a variety of people utilize storage units,
from students to renters and homeowners to
business owners, the number of units and size
of those units can be customized to best fit the
needs of a community. Mini-storage units can
also be customized both inside and out with
features including steel, brick and stone siding,
wainscot, overhead doors and a variety of
insulation options.
Veterinary Clinic/Kennel
A veterinary clinic or kennel owner will want
a long-lasting facility that provides exceptional
service for the animals left in its care. Post-
frame veterinary clinics not only provide a safe,
dependable place for owners to bring their pets,
theyre also a sound investment for the business.
From small, private practices to large clinics
and university learning complexes, space and
budget can be maximized. The facility can be
customized to the clinics operation with layouts
that include a reception room, exam room,
surgery room, break room, pharmaceutical
storage and boarding facility.
Kennels have become an increasingly popular
form of animal care for owners who are on
vacation or out of town for extended periods.
To complement their veterinarian services, many
vet clinics now offer kennel services to their
clients. Since a trust relationship has already
been established, this can be an ideal situation.
Bank
Trust is the foundation for every successful
business relationship and when customers place
their funds into the care of a bank, theyre
affirming their trust in the security of that
financial institution. Banks, savings and loans,
credit unions, and other financial institutions can
be constructed with post-frame construction.
Restaurants
Restaurant owners want a space that is
welcoming to patrons while being safe and
efficient for those working inside. Design a
post-frame building to create a place that is
aesthetically pleasing and functional both inside
and out.
Child-Care Facility
When caring for children in an educational or
social setting, its important to provide them
with a safe atmosphere and plenty of space.
Whether expanding a childcare operation,
remodeling an existing building or starting a
new center, the vision of a quality, dependable
facility can become a reality.
A post-frame building can be customized to
meet a child care owners needs while providing
a comfortable environment for staff and
children to work and play whether in a small
daycare or large community center.
Car Wash
Whether designing a simple building with a
few stalls or a more elaborate building with an
office for the business, post-frame buildings
offer many choices that can help add visual
interest to a car wash. Best of all, the buildings
are virtually maintenance-free.
Vehicle Dealership
At a vehicle dealership, potential customers
should find the space visually inviting, and the
building should be one that beckons them to
enter. Once theyre in, the atmosphere should
welcome them to stay and talk. The open floor
plan of a post-frame building allows dealership
owners to utilize the interior space of their
building in the best way for the business, while
clear span trusses provide greater overhead
clearance. These features allow the design
team to start with a blank canvas and then
customize the layout to fit their needs. Virtually
maintenance-free and energy efficient post-frame
buildings are an ideal structure for a dealership,
and with a variety of options available so owners
can choose the style they want, inside and out.
Aircraft hangars
Traditional aircraft hangars are steel-framed
buildings that can be difficult to insulate and
even worse to heat and cool. Plus, condensa-
tion can form in steel-framed buildings leaving
the aircraft, engine and instruments vulner-
able to rust or deterioration due to build-up.
Whether an aircraft is used for business, strictly
for hobby, or a combination of both, it is an
important asset. To protect this investment,
post-frame buildings provide hangars that are
attractive, functional, strong, and efficient.
Winery, Brewery, Distillery
When a space is needed to house equipment to
produce the best wine and spirits, a post-frame
building can offer design flexibility in high,
open spaces and wide, clear spans. Design and
construct a small brew or distilling operation or
a larger brewery with a restaurant or a winery
with a tasting room.
CODE-COMPLIANCE
Post-frame construction is code-accepted and
code-compliant with all applicable building
regulations. Several organizations have developed
industry standards for post-frame buildings
that are then accredited by other standards
organizations such as the American National
Standards Institute (ANSI), the American Society
for Testing and Materials (ASTM), and the National
Fire Protection Association (NFPA). They coordinate
standards with international standards so that
American products can be used worldwide and
can be adopted into the International Building
Code (IBC), a model building code developed by
the International Code Council (ICC).
IBC
The International Building Code is a performance
based code which requires a design to meet cer-
tain performance criteria and when the design
does, the design is acceptable. For a structure
this performance criteria is meeting wind loads,
live loads, snow loads, earthquake loads, etc.
In a few instances, the IBC does address design
of elements specific to post-frame construction.
An example would be guidance in post depth
design, which is found in the code at Section
1807.3 Embedded Posts and Poles.
Post-frame buildings are wood structures and
as such are classified as Type VA or VB. There
is no minimum required fire resistance rating
of the elements of Type VB construction. With
some exceptions, the minimum required fire
resistance rating of the elements of Type VA
construction is one hour.
Certain other standard writing organizations
like ASABE provide standards for specific
CONTINUING EDUCATION
design elements like the ANSI/ASABE EP486.1
that specifically applies to Post Foundation
Design as does most of the ASABE Standards
referenced. These are considered the method of
construction standards. The IBC recognizes and
approves post-frame construction in accordance
with the referenced standards.
ASABE
The ASABE is a professional and technical
organization comprised of members who are
dedicated to advancement of engineering
applicable to agricultural, food, and biological
systems. ASABE Standards are consensus
documents developed and adopted by the
organization to meet standardization needs
within the scope of the Society; principally
agricultural field equipment, farmstead
equipment, structures, soil and water
resource management, turf and landscape
equipment, forest engineering, food
and process engineering, electric power
applications, plant and animal environment,
and waste management. Post-frame structures
fall into this category, as they are often used for
agricultural buildings, but the standards apply
to all post-frame buildings.
ANSI/ASABE
In ANSI/ASABE EP486.1, Shallow Post Foundation
Design, the ASABE presents the engineering
basis for determining the depth of embedment
for sidewall posts in post-frame buildings. It
presents a rational basis and design procedures
for the required lateral and uplift capacity for the
embedded post and for designing the foundation
for a post-frame building. The design procedure
provides necessary definitions, material
requirements and design equations.
The standard is currently being updated to
better address numerous considerations
including in-situ determination of soil properties;
prescriptive soil bearing capacity values, which
are considered too conservative for certain post
foundations; minimum footing sizes for plain
and reinforced footings (both cast-in-place and
precast; tests for modulus of horizontal sub
grade reaction; adequacy of the uplift equation;
effects of backfill material on lateral strength and
stiffness; and use of dry concrete mixes.
ASABE EP484.2, Diaphragm Design
This engineering practice presents the rational
engineering basis for diaphragm design of
post-frame buildings in a format suitable
for acceptance by architects and engineers,
referenced from IBC section 2306.1. The roof
(and ceiling) diaphragms, endwalls, intermediate
shearwalls, and building frames are the main
structural elements of a structural system used
to efficiently resist the design lateral (wind)
loads. This engineering practice gives acceptable
methods for analyzing and designing the
elements of the diaphragm system.
ASABE EP558, Load Tests for Metal-Clad
Week-Frame Diaphragms
This engineering practice establishes the test
procedures and the data analysis procedures
for determining the in-plane shear strength and
in-plane shear stiffness of metal-clad, wood-
framed structural diaphragms typically used
in post-frame buildings and other sheathing
in accordance with their performance
characteristics. The in-plane shear strength and
stiffness are required inputs for the engineering
practices presented in ASABE EP484.2.
This method shall be used for diaphragm
assemblies constructed with roll-formed
metal sheeting (for example, steel, aluminum)
attached to any type of wood framing system.
If rigid or blanket insulation is to be installed
between the metal sheeting and wood framing
in the building being designed, identical
insulation shall be installed in a similar fashion
in the test assembly.
ASABE EP559, Mechanically
Laminated Columns
This engineering practice presents the rational
basis for determining the structural strength
and stiffness of mechanically laminated columns
used in many modern post-frame buildings. The
scope of this engineering practice is limited to
mechanically laminated columns with three or
four laminations.
AWC
The American Wood Council (AWC) has
published the Design for Code Acceptance
document "DCA5Post-Frame Buildings"
which provides guidance to post-frame building
designers for meeting the requirements of
the 2000 International Building Code and to
confirm that a properly designed post-frame
building is in fact code compliant.
AWPA
The American Wood Protection Association
(AWPA) is another industry organization whose
standards and EPA documents confirm the
suitability of using properly treated building
posts in ground contact for permanent edifices.
AWPA documents specify treatment of posts
and various other lumber products installed at
or below grade for buildings in the use category
system: User Specification for Treated Wood
Products." AWPA specifies UC4A for above-
ground uses such as post-frame skirtboards and
UC4B for building poles and permanent wood
foundations embedded within the ground.
ASTM International
ASTM F1667Post-Frame Nails sets production
standards for threaded hardened nails, and is
referenced in the National Design Specification
(NDS), published by the AWC. NDS establishes
the technical specifications for the dimensions,
tolerances and materials for the manufacture
of fasteners. Post-Frame Nails has exceptional
withdrawal resistance characteristics. This
unique fastener has been thoroughly tested
and is recognized by these construction
industry standards.
This specification covers nails, spikes, staples,
and other fasteners driven by hand tool, power
tool, or mechanical device in single or multiple
strikes and are positioned by hand, tool, or
machine. The driven fasteners are classified
as type one: nails (NL); type two: cut nails
(CN); type three: spikes (SP); and type four:
staples (ST). Materials shall be tested and the
individual types shall conform to the material
requirements and physical properties, such as
ductility, tensile strength. Protective coating and
finishes are also detailed.
NFBA
Finally, the National Frame Building Association
(NFBA) has assembled all pertinent engineering
information from codes and standards into the
Post-Frame Building Design Manual, the only
current and complete published reference of its
kind on how to properly design and engineer
post-frame buildings.
CONCLUSION
This article looked at the different methods
and materials, as well as performance
measures for post-frame buildings and their
application in low-rise commercial buildings.
Post-frame buildings outperform all other
building types in any climate or soil condition,
and can be designed to meet the highest
standards for quality. Through a combination of
quality materials, expert workmanship, energy
efficiency and low maintenance in a post-frame
building, post-frame buildings are an efficient
and economical option and are the construction
method of choice for low-rise applications.