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How to Enhance Your Pole Barn Exterior with Stunning Add-Ons

Date Modified: May 22 2023

A pole barn becomes a complete structure with outdoor addons, such as the porch on this pole barn.

If you have a pole barn, or horse barn, or are planning to build one, you might be wondering how to make it look more attractive and functional. After all, building a pole barn is not just a storage space. It can also be a workshop, a garage, a hobby room, or even a living space.

But how do you improve the look of your pole barn and make it stand out from the crowd? How do you add value and comfort to your pole barn without spending a fortune?

The answer is simple: outside add-ons.

Outside add-ons are accessories that you can attach to your pole barn exterior to give it more style, character, and versatility. They can also help you protect your pole barn from the elements, increase its energy efficiency, and extend its lifespan.

There are many types of outside add-ons for pole barns, but some of the most popular and effective ones are:

  • Wainscot

  • Cupolas

  • Widow’s peak

  • Side porch

In this article, we’ll explain what these outside add-ons are, how they can benefit your new pole barn too, and how to choose the best ones for your needs. We’ll also share some tips on how to find the best pole barn materials and contractors for your building.

Let’s dive in!

WAINSCOT: ADD CONTRAST AND PROTECTION TO YOUR POLE BARN WALLS

Pole barn with wainscot at the bottom and a side porch and entrance

A wainscot is a panel that runs along the lower part of your pole barn walls. It usually has a different color or material than the rest of the wall, creating a two-tone effect that adds contrast and interest to your pole barn exterior.

A wainscot can also protect your pole barn walls from damage caused by dirt, moisture, rocks, or animals. It can also hide any imperfections or repairs on your wall panels.

Wainscots can be made of different materials, such as vinyl, stone, brick, or wood. You can choose a material that matches or complements your pole barn roof, trim, or doors.

The height of your wainscot depends on your preference and budget, but it should not exceed 5 feet. A good rule of thumb is to keep your wainscot between 2 and 4 feet high.

CUPOLAS: ADD CHARM AND VENTILATION TO YOUR POLE BARN ROOF

Red agricultural barn with cupolas

A cupola is a small structure that sits on top of your pole barn roof. It usually has a square or rectangular base, a sloped roof, and windows or vents on its sides.

A cupola can add curb appeal, charm, and elegance to your pole barn exterior, giving it a classic or rustic look. It can also serve as a focal point or an accent piece for your roof.

But cupolas are not just decorative. They can also provide and improve ventilation for your pole barn interior, allowing hot air and moisture to escape and fresh air to enter. This can help you regulate the temperature and humidity inside your pole barn, preventing mold, mildew, and rust.

Cupolas come in different sizes, shapes, styles, and colors. You can choose one that suits your pole barn design and dimensions. A common guideline is to have one inch of cupola base for every foot of roof width.

You can also customize your cupola with features such as weather vanes, finials, louvers, or lights.

WIDOW'S PEAK: ADD DRAMA AND HEIGHT TO YOUR POLE BARN ROOF

Horse barn with widows peak, side porch, cupolas, and wainscot.

A widow’s peak is a pointed overhang that projects from the center of your pole barn roof. It usually has a triangular shape and extends over the main entrance of your pole barn.

A widow’s peak can add drama and height to your pole barn exterior, giving it a distinctive and striking appearance. It can also create an illusion of more space inside your pole barn, especially if you have a loft or an attic.

Widow’s peaks are often associated with traditional or historical buildings, such as barns, churches, or Victorian houses. They can also add a touch of mystery or romance to your pole barn, depending on the rib pattern, and color you choose.

Widow’s peaks can be made of different materials, such as plywood, metal, wood, or vinyl. You can choose a material that matches or contrasts with your pole barn roof, walls, or trim.

SIDE PORCH: ADD COMFORT AND FUNCTIONALITY TO YOUR POLE BARN ENTRANCE

A side porch is a covered area that extends from the side of your pole barn. It usually covers the main entrance of your pole barn, providing extra space for shelter and shade for you and your guests.

A side porch can add comfort and functionality to your pole barn exterior, giving you a place to relax, socialize, or work. You can also use it as a storage area for tools, equipment, or furniture.

You can choose to enclose your side porch with screens, windows, or doors, creating extra room for your pole barn. This process can give you more privacy, security, and insulation for your porch.

You can also leave your side porch open, creating an airy and inviting space for your pole barn. This can give you more natural light, ventilation, and views for your porch.

Side porches come in different sizes, shapes, styles, and colors. You can choose one that fits your pole barn layout and purpose. You can also customize it with features such as railings, columns, steps, or lights.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST OUTSIDE ADD-ONS FOR YOUR POLE BARN

As you can see, outside add-ons can enhance your pole barn exterior in many ways. But how do you choose the best ones for your needs?

Here are some tips to help you make the right decision :

  • Consider your budget. Outside add-ons vary in cost depending on the type, size, material, and installation. You should have a clear idea of how much you are willing to spend on them before you start shopping.

  • Consider your purpose. Outside add-ons should match the purpose of your pole barn. For example, if you use your pole barn as a workshop, you might want to add ventilation cupolas or side porches. If you use it as a living space, you might want to add wainscots or widow’s peaks.

  • Consider your style. Outside add-ons should match the style of your pole barn. For example, if you have a modern or minimalist pole barn, you might want to add simple or sleek outside add-ons. If you have a traditional or rustic pole barn, you might want to add ornate or cozy outside add-ons.

  • Consider your location. Outside add-ons should suit the location of your pole barn. For example, if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, you might want to add durable or protective outside add-ons. If you live in an area with scenic views, you might want to add open or transparent outside add-ons.

GET THE BEST POLE BARNS AND MATERIALS FROM A QUALITY COMPANY

Just as there are many options for outside structures and add-ons for your pole barn, there are also many options for pole barn materials and contractors for your project.

But not all options are created equal.

You need high-quality metal panels that are strong, durable, and beautiful. You also need experienced contractors who are skilled, reliable, and professional.

That’s why you need Mansea Metal.

At Mansea Metal, we produce exceptional metal panels for roofing, metal siding throughout, and more. We use only premium-grade steel that’s coated with Galvalume® for superior corrosion resistance. We also offer a variety of colors, styles, and finishes to suit any taste or design.

But we don’t just sell metal panels. We also connect you with trusted contractors who can install them for you. Our network of professional installers has the skills, experience, and equipment to handle any outside add-on project, big or small.

So if you’re ready to enhance your pole barn exterior with stunning outside add-ons, contact us today. We’ll help you find the best metal panels and contractors for your needs.

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When we price a building package, we give you everything you need to ensure structural integrity. Like longer gable posts that extend to the top of the truss, not just tying in at the bottom. And long-lasting pressure-treated wood measuring .60 CCA. You won’t get this quality at a ‘big box’ store. Plus, we use 6x6’s along with 2x10’s and 2x12’s that are #1 grade.

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