Bob: “My wife and I were looking to build a post-frame home on our newly acquired property. The only potential problem I need clarification on is the yard’s grade. This home would be built on a hillside. It is not flat. I am not sure if it would still be possible to build a a post-frame building here or not. Would this be an issue for construction? I ask because most of the homes and pole barns I see photos of are on flat land.”

Answer:

A hillside or slope will not be an issue for a post-frame building. While it may add some cost to the overall project, it is possible to construct a your build on a slope/hillside. Post-frame construction, also known as pole barn construction, is a method that offers flexibility and can be adapted to various terrains, including hillsides. 

With full engineering, post-frame buildings CAN be customized to suit a wide range of ground surfaces, spanning from entirely flat to significantly sloped. There are numerous design options available to address different scenarios:

• Excavating into a hillside (which may necessitate a retaining wall beyond the building perimeter or a foundation made of materials like concrete, block, ICFs, or pressure-treated wood).
• A combination of excavation and filling.
• Raising the site to achieve the highest grade (a common approach that helps minimize the potential impact of water infiltration on the exterior).
• Constructing the building on longer posts with added grade board acting as a built in retaining wall.

Here is the complete process:

1. Site Evaluation:

Before commencing any construction, conducting a thorough site evaluation is crucial: Assessing the slope of the hillside, examining soil stability, and evaluating drainage conditions. This evaluation will determine the feasibility of constructing a post-frame building and identify any potential challenges or modifications required. Understanding the site’s characteristics will guide the design and construction process.

2. Foundation Design:

Building on a hillside often requires customizing the foundation design to accommodate the slope. The posts may need to be installed at varying depths to create a level platform for the building. Additionally, additional bracing or anchoring might be necessary to ensure stability. Collaborating with an experienced builder, architect or engineer is crucial at this stage to develop an appropriate foundation design that meets the specific requirements of the site.

3. Grading and Site Preparation:

Proper site preparation is essential, especially when constructing on a hillside. Grading the land may be necessary to establish a level or partially leveled surface for the building. This could involve cutting into the hillside or filling certain areas to achieve the desired elevation. By carefully managing the site’s topography, the construction process becomes more streamlined and ensures a solid foundation.

4. Drainage Considerations:

Adequate drainage is essential to prevent water runoff and erosion, which can undermine the building’s stability. Implementing effective drainage systems, such as French drains, swales, or retaining walls, is crucial in managing water flow and protecting the building’s foundation. Properly designed drainage solutions will help mitigate potential water-related issues and ensure the longevity of the structure.

5.   Structural Modifications:

Building on a hillside may require adjustments to the building’s layout and structural components. The slope and design preferences might necessitate additional support beams, roofline modifications, or framing adaptations to accommodate the hillside’s contours. Working closely with construction professionals will ensure that the building is appropriately designed and structurally sound, considering the unique characteristics of the hillside.

Constructing a post-frame building on a hillside offers versatility and adaptability to different terrains. Engaging with experienced architects, engineers, or construction professionals familiar with hillside construction ensures the building’s structural integrity, compliance with local building codes, and long-term durability. 

By carefully evaluating the site, customizing the foundation design, preparing the land appropriately, addressing drainage concerns, and making necessary structural modifications, a successful project can be accomplished. Proper planning and expertise can make a post-frame building a reality, even on challenging hillside landscapes.

If you have any additional inquiries that haven’t been addressed in this article, please don’t hesitate to reach out. For assistance with designing and planning your project, you can contact Milmar Buildings at 260-440-3190 or send us an email by clicking here. Our dedicated Customer Engagement Team will be happy to assist you in determining the next steps for your project.