Benefits of post-frame and post-beam construction…

Post-frame and post-beam design is a style of building where structure is simplified, so generally uses fewer materials.

Conventional construction involves the roof load set on walls which set on floors which set on a continuous, rigid foundation. Any compromise in those layers, such as a cracking foundation or a settling floor, results in structural demise.

The basic concept is simple: The roof is supported by posts or columns that are imbedded directly into the earth, and set on individual concrete footers that prevent posts from sinking. 

Foundation work is minimal compared to conventional construction. Concrete floors require an excavated, level, earth pad with no perimeter footing necessary. Wooden floor systems, even multiple-level floors, are secured to the posts, so excavation is not entirely necessary. Separate post footers mean the building can more economically follow the grade of hilly land.

Post-frame construction carries all roof and floor load directly on large posts which set deep in the ground.

Post-beam construction carries the roof on built-up beams secured to the posts set in the ground, same as post-frame.

Exterior and interior walls of post-frame and post-beam buildings do not support anything except themselves, so windows and doors are placed freely, anywhere a post does not stand. Large, open, interior spaces are possible. Because exterior walls are typically hung independently of interior walls, exterior walls can exhibit what is known as a “diaphragm effect” - which flexes to the wind slightly, post-frame buildings hold up very well in high winds. Rigid walls are more prone to major damage due to wind shear and uplift because they resist all movement, creating higher pressure, which affects the whole structure. Floor systems are independent of the roof structure, making design elements limitless.

The ground or earth is the “root” of a building. Paying attention to that root, when designing any structure, is vital to its integrity. Forces of nature change constantly and those changes affect every building. Iddlegrow builds post-frame and post-beam buildings because they are inherently stronger. The style is simple and so vastly subject to the designer’s creativity.