Pole Building Process - By Bulldog Contractors

Innovative Technologies backed by Experience


Pole framing or post-frame construction (pole building framing, pole building, pole barn), is an alternative building technique adapted from the timber framing technique, in which vertical poles are secured in the ground to serve as both the foundation and framework.

You will find our pricing competitive, and our quality of service unsurpassed. You can be assured that we will be very thorough in going through our proposal and will take the necessary time it takes to answer any questions you may have. We provide free on site estimates, professional staff and clean job sites.

A Bulldog steel building is the most advanced and versatile product available, not only in function, but in appearance as well. The real integrity of our structures can be found in the details of all components, from nails to fasteners through finishing materials are the best available. The diagram below shows you our exclusive post frame construction techniques and high quality materials that are standard features of every single Bulldog Contractors Building.

Our Pole Building Process and Steps

Click one of the numbered sections below to learn more about this part of our Pole Building Procedure


1. Truss / Column Notch

Trusses are set into a notch cut into the support post to maximize load-carrying and uplift capability. The trusses are then nailed to the columns.

2. Roof Trusses

All trusses are factory built and computer engineered to meet the specific loading capacity of each individual building. Unlike job-site built trusses, our custom prefabricated trusses are randomly third-party inspected for quality control. Double trusses are used for interior spans. Clearspan widths are available to 80’.

3. Door Headers

All overhead or sliding doors are spanned with either a header or a prefabricated roof trusses.

4. Siding / Roofing Panels

We use 29 gauge (.0165 thickness) steel panels manufactured to ASTM Specification A446, grade E, requiring “full-hard” 80,000 psi minimum yield point and 82,000 strength tensile strength. High tensile strength and a unique rib design provide exceptionally high spanning properties. Our panels are architecturally pleasing and are available in a wide range of colors & carry a 40 year manufacturer paint coat warranty.

5. Added Truss Bracing

To fully utilize truss strength, we incorporate 2″ X 6″ bottom chord bracing (rat run).

6. Dimensions

Building size is not restricted and can be customized to meet your requirements. Standard sizes that provide the most economy are:

Height – 8’ through 20’ in 2’ multiples

Width – 20’, 24’, 30’, 36’, 40’, 48’, 50’, 60’, 70’, 72’, 80’

Length – Multiples of 10’, 12’

7. Columns

Posts are full sawn material, grade, stamped (#2, #1 or select Structural) , pressure treated (.60 CCA), set at the proper design depth and backfilled with concrete. Posts can range from 6″ X 6″ – 8″ X 12″

8. Doors/Sliding or Overhead

Doors are placed to allow for the most functional use of the inside of your building and are engineered for ease of operation and minimal maintenance.

9. Roof Purlins

Select structural 2”x6” or 2”x 8” (or larger as required) Purlins on edge are

joist-hung or laid over top of trusses at 16” to 24” O.C.

10. Vapor Barriers

Condensation control blanket metal building insulation is provided as a standard feature under all roof steel to prevent condensation and help control interior temperature (option on walls.)

11. Eavelights

Translucent fiberglass eavelight panels are available in clear or white and come in lengths of 2’ to 12’ in the same configuration as the siding panels.

12. Windows

Standard windows are available in many sizes with insulated or low E in sliding or fixed windows.

13. Walk Door

Raised panel 3’ wide x 6’8” tall insulated steel skin doors are weather sealed on all sides, equipped with keyed exterior lockset and deadbolt custom trim. Wider sizes are available.

14. Wall Girts

2”x 6” select structural lumber is spaced 2’ O.C. to support the wind loads being applied to the walls and to provide area for screw fasten.

15. Stud Walls

Stud walls can be easily framed between the poles so you can insulate and finish off the interior of your building.

16. Base Girts

2″ x 10″ pressure treated skirt boards keep sidewall metal from ground contact, protect against rot and decay and function as concrete forms for pouring the floor as well.

17.Screw Fasteners

Color matched, water tight screws are a standard feature.

18.Building Trim

Available in a variety of colors to provide an attractive matching or contrasting compliment to your building.

18 a-b-c

18a. Seals the bottom of all wall panels to help prevent insect or rodent infiltration.

18b. Provides a smooth transition from sidewall steel panels to wall lights.

18c. Gives a clean finished look at the top of the sidewalls.

18 d-e-f

18d. “C” Trim

Cut steel edges around overhead and entry doors and windows.

18e. Jamb Trim

Covers the jambs around your overhead door opening to eliminate the need for painting.

18f. Track Covers

Supported by interlocking brackets, keep out the weather and protect door hardware.

18 g-h-i

18g. Corner and Gable Trim

Gives your building that finished look.

18h. Ridge Cap

Fastened with color matched screw fasteners, as all our trims are, to seal off the peak completing a weather tight roof system.

18i. Overhangs

Add a very nice appearance to any building.

18 j & k

18j. Facia Trim

Covers the wood facia on overhangs so you have that finished look.

18k. Soffits

Are available to add that finished touch.

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