A pole barn is a charming way to host storage or animals on a property, and it can complement the modern farmhouse look very well. Barns typically have a traditional look, but you can customize your barn’s colors, finishes, and appearances in many ways. If you’re unsure where to start with your pole barn’s design, it’s a solid idea to learn your options first.
Flooring
Most pole barns have dirt or hay as the ground cover, as a foundation is only needed on the footers. However, you can technically host any flooring you’d like for additional costs. Remember, dirt or hay can provide adequate, soft ground for livestock. Alternatively, you can use concrete for a rustic or industrial look. Gravel flooring can also present a natural style while keeping costs and maintenance low. If you want a more luxurious rustic style, stone flooring can come in many charming styles and colors. If you’re into the rustic barn feeling, you can’t go wrong with wood flooring. Wood floors can be sealed for more durability and can come in many different shades.
Siding
Your barn’s siding will represent most of its external appearance and can be made of many materials.
Vinyl
Vinyl siding has a neutral, slightly manufactured look and can be customized with a small range of colors. Still, it typically presents only one look—vertical or horizontal strips in uniform colors. Vinyl is cost-friendly but may not last as long as other materials.
Wood
Wood is a beautiful, charming choice for a barn’s siding, especially if you enjoy the rustic, country feel. Wood comes in various natural colors and can be painted in any color for additional customization. However, wood can be susceptible to water damage, rot, and bug infestation.
Metal
Metal is an excellent choice if you’re a fan of sleek, modern, industrial looks. It costs more than other materials but will last a long time and present a highly durable and hardy structure for your barn. You may be picturing only gray or black as your color choices, but metal barns can come in various colors, from red to green to white!
While these are the most common, affordable siding options for pole barns, you can choose many more, such as brick, stone, or concrete. You can even mix materials and siding options to present a variety of textures, colors, and styles.
Roofing
You can choose a roof shape and style for your pole barn. While using pole barn metal trusses for structural integrity is recommended, your barn’s upper roof shape can take on any style or material. A gambrel roof presents a traditional barn look, adding headspace and storage opportunities between the roof and the trusses. Shed roofs, or mono-pitched roofs, are also popular for barns and present an asymmetrical slant to one side. They are ideal for areas with much snow accumulation but may not be suitable for larger barns. Most are familiar with Gable roofs, the traditional ‘A’ shaped roof. While they’re simple in structure, they’re easy to build and cost-effective. While gable roofs can still provide storage space, you won’t get as much as gambrel roofs. Your roof can be any color you’d like; lighter colors are better for energy efficiency. Adding a cupola can create a charming touch.
Trim
Pole barn trims, typically made of steel or wood, can add additional structural integrity and vary in color. If you like to add accent colors or color contrast, choosing a trim color different from the primary color can add flair and style. You can add some beautiful tile or stone trim to the interior for a luxurious look.
Doors
There are quite a few types of doors for pole barns in style, color, and function. While your doors can be any color, consider one that matches or compliments the rest of the barn. Barn doors can slide to the side, open outward, or even fold up (like a garage door). You can add charming trims to doors to create more pops of color.
Match the Landscape
Consider the landscape when choosing finishes and colors for your barn’s exterior. One of the best ways to create a beautiful barn look on your property is to match your surroundings. Green, red, or brown hues can be gorgeous in lush forests. Yellow, tan, and gray can create a striking complementary look in mountainous terrains. White, blue, and green may mesh well if you’re near lakes, rivers, or oceans. The choice is yours, but your surrounding terrain can provide good inspiration.
Consider Laws and Regulations
While you can choose whatever color you’d like for a barn, you will ultimately have to stay within the limits of local laws, including any Homeowner’s Association (HOA) laws you may be susceptible to. Be sure to research local laws and ask permission from any HOA before choosing your barn colors.
Accent Colors
If you’re unsure about going bold, an accent color can serve as an excellent middle ground. You can paint the trim or doors bolder while maintaining a neutral color throughout the barn. Accent colors provide tasteful color combinations while still allowing customization.
Mixed Textures and Materials
Another way to choose the best of all worlds regarding material and texture is to combine multiple ones. A stone siding combined with a wood door can create a rustic retreat. Metal roofing with wood siding can add durability and sleek modern touches. The siding can consist of stone, wood, and metal. The options are endless.
