Here is a simple and cost effective solution if you do not have a garage or extra storage space.
It is building yourself an old style pole barn with the help of plans.
You may use this to house your vehicles, small tractor, garden equipments and tools.
The origins of the old style pole barns are in the Great Depression of the 1930s.
In those difficult times, farmers used items such as telephone poles and corrugated steel to build inexpensive and durable structures for their farms.
Many of these structures were created out of utility poles, and thus the name 'pole barn' came to be used.
They are in use even today due to their versatile nature.
You, too, can make your own old style barn with the help of plans prepared by experts.
Old style pole barns are economical alternatives to more expensive constructions.
If due care is taken in their construction with the help of plans, they are not only inexpensive, but also fulfill all of the basic needs of more expensive buildings.
They are usually made of wood and sheet metal, and function as an effective place for storage and as a shelter for livestock.
Let us see now how this old style building is constructed.
These are the basic steps involved, and you can get more detailed instructions from good plans.
The poles used in the construction are the same as the ones used for telephones.
They are tapered at one end and are treated to prevent rot.
The holes for the building are dug at the appropriate distances, and the poles are placed directly in the ground.
Horizontal nailers are fastened to them, and sheet metal or any other suitable material is nailed to the sides.
The roof is then constructed.
Good plans will give you step by step instructions regarding the construction, with the list of materials required as well as illustrations.
Dirt floor is common for old style constructions, especially if used for housing livestock.
However, if it is to be used as a garage or for storage purposes, then a concrete floor is best.
Wooden floors are also used sometimes.
Your plans will guide you in the selection of the best floor.
You have to take care of a few points while making an old style building with the help of plans.
If you use metal sheets in your construction, it is very important that you truss or fasten them at each stage.
If you do not truss them properly, it will lead to a loose overall structure.
As far as the roof is concerned metal is very popular.
It is not only cheaper than wood, but also lasts longer.
While building the roof, you have to ensure that you do not build it too high, or else it will wear out quickly.
Good plans will provide more information regarding this.
The building exteriors are usually made of galvanized metal which is weather resistant.
Electricity is common in most of these buildings.
Running water and heat, on the other hand, are options.
Concrete floors are mostly used nowadays.
The main entrance is usually made of a large sliding door, for the convenience of farm equipment and large vehicles.
A side entry door is also common.
While choosing a location for your old style pole barn, it is best to select a high ground area.
This will ensure that water does not collect inside, and the building and the equipments kept inside are safe and dry.
In the olden days, neighbors also used to join in the old style barn construction process, sharing the meals and having fun in the process.
You may try to recreate this by inviting your family, friends and neighbors to join you in the construction work, carefully following plans.
This will also make the work fun and easier.
Old style pole barns are relatively easier to build than other barns and buildings.
They are also less expensive compared to other barns, and you can save much more by building them yourself with the help of plans.