In the Midwest, we see our fair share of severe storms, often including tornados. The force these storms bring can damage many structures and while post frame builds are built to withstand heavy winds and storms, not much will stand up fully to a direct impact from a tornado (and even some straight-line winds!).

While all buildings can sustain damage during these storms and even be completely ruined, especially when they are directly in the line of tornados, you will usually see a difference between those that were built well and those that weren't. Tornados and hurricanes can absolutely destroy quality-built and poorly-built buildings alike, but just keep in mind that kit-type builds that weren't constructed at a high level of quality, or those constructed poorly, may not hold up as well, in even less severe instances, as a quality-built barn by a reputable contractor/building company. 

You can start by performing a basic assessment yourself

1. Note from the outside of the building any missing pieces (if the building is still standing and mostly structurally sound). Are windows broken, doors in place, eaves, ridges, and roof intact. Look for both damaged pieces, as well as for missing pieces. Check the exterior fully, noting if there seems to be any damage to the foundation as well. 
2. If it's safe to do so, enter your building and note any gaps you can see in the walls and roof. Note if there seems to be any structural damage, paying special attention to the trusses. Does anything seem to be out of place or does the building have any kind of "lean" to it. Is the lumber intact and do all the trusses seem to be aligned still. Proceed only if everything seems sound/safe. 
3. Finally, if there doesn't seem to be a whole lot of damage, something to check on is all the "connections." The bolts, screws, trim pieces (are they all in place), truss plates, headers, etc. Sometimes more minor damage is present, but not as obvious at first glance. 
4. Take pictures of any damage! This can be helpful when talking with a building contractor about the repairs, but may also come in handy with insurance claims. Take detailed images, and if you have pictures from before the damage too, that's always a plus. 
   
5. Contact your insurance agent to find out what info they will need from you to begin a claim. 

How should you go about starting your plan for storm damage repair? 

1. You'll want to have a company or two come out and provide you with assessments and quotes for the damage. This will help you get ahead on figuring out what contractor you want to use to repair your build, but it also allows you to find out what the reasonable repair or replacement cost will look like. Because storm damage can be anywhere from minor dings and dents to full-on building replacement needed, each situation is different. 
2. If you have insurance on your structure, you'll want to begin the process of filing a claim right away too! That way you'll have the funds you need as soon as possible, to begin the repair work. 
3. It's important to understand the condition of your building. The current condition of your building is crucial. If the structure is sound and the damage is minimal, repair could be a fairly cost-effective project. If, however, there is both surface and structural damage, the repairs will be more extensive.
   An inspection by one of our team members can help you assess the building, before making any decisions on repairs. We're always happy to take a look for you and see what the possibilities are, while giving you the best, most cost-effective options available to you.

Something to keep in mind while doing repair work is that if there is any other work you've been wanting to do to your build, it does give you the opportunity for that. A little bit of "making lemonade out of lemons" situation, if you will. 

Here are several key factors to consider when you've had storm damage your pole barn or post frame build:

• Structural Integrity: Before starting any repair work, let some experts assess the structural integrity of your building. This will help you determine the extent of repairs required. 
• Permits and Regulations: Check local building codes and regulations. Some areas have strict rules about repairs and renovations, others will not have any restrictions for repairing or replacing damaged builds. 
• Budget: Set a realistic budget that includes a contingency for unexpected costs as they happen frequently during repair work (rotted wood, compromised insulation, damaged wires, etc.) (Don't forget to begin a claim if your build is included in your insurance plan!)
• Contractor Selection: When choosing a contractor with experience in renovating and repairing post-frame buildings, make sure you find a builder that is familiar with repairs. You don't want to be pushed into a situation where the builder will only push for a new build, but one that will look at the current one and help you weigh your options and costs. Milmar is happy to provide valuable insights and recommendations throughout the whole process and even for permitting (if needed).
• Timeline and Project Management: Develop a realistic timeline for the project. Regularly monitor the progress of the project and address any issues promptly to keep it on track.
  

When thinking through everything, the cost is ultimately crucial. In some ways, repairing is less costly than rebuilding, and at times, rebuilding is the more economical option. Our team will inspect the structure to identify how much wood framing needs to be replaced, and that is an important factor to be considered when it comes to cost.

Oftentimes, the roof re-skin doesn’t cost any more than the walls, unless you are replacing the wood trusses themselves. An upgrade frequently requested is adding overhangs to a building which had none, during the re-skin process, which you can also add house-wrap to control condensation on the roof and/or walls.

Metal re-roofing costs with Milmar are the following: 

• If original metal (which we are removing) was nailed, price starts at $6.50/sq ft
• If original metal (which we are removing) was screwed, price starts at $5.50/sq ft

There may be additional costs involved if there are other pieces damaged - structurally or aesthetically. Think of trim, lumber, insulation, electrical, and any other component that may have been damaged or exposed during the storm.

Don’t discount the power of some repair work to your pole barn. You may only need metal replaced, minor repair work for some tree damage, or you may need a full re-build. Either way our team is happy to assist you. As we mentioned, each case is different, and yours is going to be unique to your build and the damage done.

With our help, you can breathe new life into your damaged building. Speak with our experts today!