Raising a pole barn?

Great detailed feedback gents, thank you for taking the time to write that out. I had already contacted my general contractor about reinforcing the supports this fall as this building was constructed in 1937, but I can read your posts to him to give him food for thought on increasing clearance and see what approach he might want to take.

Dimensions are 30 ft x 30 ft

The current grade drains fairly well, but some water does creep in a few feet and pool in the front of the left side during heavy rain, so I do like the idea of improving that situation as well. This is in Georgia by the way, so snow is not a factor.

I priced a new steel building and it is around $20K delivered and installed, but does not include the slab/foundation. I'm guessing raising this structure/lowering the ground would be a good bit cheaper, and I also like the idea of preserving this building for sentimental reasons, as it seems to be in good shape, and the property has been in my family since 1950.

Thanks again

rtintwo said:

Is it just a perspective of picture or is the left side of the building leaning? If it leaning then it’s time to replace those poles before parking a tractor in there. Also a good chance to go 6” higher with the new poles

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Yes that does look bad doesn't it. Must be something from the camera lense.....they are definitely plumb in person

Update. Just got 9 new support posts (PT 6x6s)/footers put in. Although I was only getting 100 inches of clearance in the front, there is actually 106 inches from the middle rafter going all the way out to the back, so our next step is digging out a little with a skid steer, and then bringing a load of gravel in and making the back the new front if that makes sense. I should easily be able to fit any 100HP tractor w/cab in there, which is the most tractor I am going to get.

rwmeyer said:

Your "upgraded" structure looks good... solid and the height you wanted, BUT! As mentioned previously, what about wind? Are there any anchors for the 6x6's into the concrete bases? How deep are the bases into the soil?
I live in eastern TN and there's only been a few tornados near me, but we do see 40-50mph winds. If your building isn't anchored firmly, that's enough wind to move it to ???. Bob

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Fair point, but it's been sitting here since 1937 and we have had plenty of storms since then I imagine. If a tornado ever comes ripping through here, I am going to have much bigger problems to deal with