The Timeless Simplicity Of The Monitor Barn

A barn is built across the United States to facilitate airflow and light for crops, hay and feed storage, and livestock. For centuries, these types of monitor barns were made using timber, but the shortcomings of wood have led farmers and ranchers to start looking for alternatives. One such alternative is a metal monitor barn. Let’s explore this further.

What Are Monitor Barns?

Monitor barn is commonly known as a raised center aisle barn. The midsection is raised, while the sides slope away downward from the main roof. This creates two slopes, one at the center and the other on the sides.

Key Design Element

You can think of the design as a central aisle with two structures on its side and the third one right above it.

What Custom Features You Can Add To Your Steel Monitor Barn?

There are plenty of features that you can add to this structure, namely:

1. Lean-tos on either side or front to create shade
2. Insulation to decrease moisture and heat transfer
3. Ventilation to increase air circulation and reduce humidity
4. Barn shutters (sliding, casement, double hung, single hung, etc.)
5. Barn doors (metal sliding, roll-on, walk-in, double panels, etc.)
6. Gutter, lights, and water pipes

What Type Of Foundation Is Best For Raised Center Metal Barn?

Since barns are large buildings, we suggest pouring a concrete slab between 4 to 8 inches thick, depending on the soil quality. A concrete slab is the strongest and most durable base that lasts long once cured correctly.

It can bear more load than other foundations. On the other hand, structural steel is a lightweight material 25 times stronger than wood. Combining both gives you structural strength that lasts for decades with little maintenance.

Cost Of The Metal Raised Center Barn

The cost will largely vary with the following:

• Additional add-ons
• Height of the building
• Design complexities
• Location of installation

Let’s have a look at what effect size has on the metal barn.

Note that, in general, the cost per square foot decreases as the size of the steel barn increases. So, it’s always a good choice to buy a larger size if you know you will need it soon. Larger barns come at a competitive price with timber barns.

Benefits Of A Raised Center Aisle Barn

1. Usable Loft Space

With a steel building, you can design a barn with a height that can go up to 40 feet. This height is measured from ground to eave (not peak). You can create a two-story low rise building with structural steel. Farmers can use this space for the following:

• Storage: hay bale, clothing, tacks, seasonal items, etc.
• Living Space: small office space, library, reading nook, sitting area, study/ gaming room, etc.
• Resting Area: sleeping space for barn caregivers, playroom for kids, hobby art studio, etc.

2. Better Ventilation

The raised center barn has superior ventilation by design. The elevation at the central aisle lets warm air rise up and escape and cool air settle down. This promotes air circulation inside the entire barn. Improved air circulation leads to better air quality and is suitable for livestock.

3. Natural Lights

You can install barn windows to improve natural lighting indoors. This reduces the need for artificial lighting and optimizes workflow. Workers can effectively move inside, manage livestock, and move equipment easily. Barn windows also reduce energy bills, as you will need less power for light and active vents.

4. Clear Span

The raised center aisle barn can have a clear span design. Its interiors are column-free, giving maximum usable indoor space. So, you can freely design the floor plan and change it as needed.

5. Flexibility

Raise center barns are flexible to use. You can use it to store tools, machinery, farm vehicles, and livestock shelters. The options here are endless.

6. Appeal

Metal Raised center barns have a traditional charm. Opt for red metal posts, panels, and frames. We also provide matching color fasteners for a finished look. It matches the vintage aesthetics. The central elevated space, along with side sheds, can serve as a great equine space.

Applications Of The Center Aisle Barn

Get Free Quote On Your Metal Monitor Barn Today!

Metal monitor barns’ durability and lightweight design have made them popular among farmers and ranchers. Look no further than Viking Barns for a wide range of design options and accessories that meet and exceed your farm’s needs. Call (704) 579-6966 to discuss your local code specifications and color options with our team. Don’t forget to ask about the ongoing offers.