16×32 Pole Barn – Free DIY Plans

This step by step diy woodworking project is about free 16×32 pole barn plans. This is one of my largest shelter projects on this blog, so you know it must be special. This pole barn features a gable roof and a large opening to the front. The framing is super sturdy made from 6×6 posts and engineered trusses. Read the local building codes, so you make sure you comply with the building codes. In addition, attach a roof to protect the construction from bad weather. Make sure you take a look over the rest of plans to see alternatives and more projects for your garden.

When buying the lumber, you should select the planks with great care, making sure they are straight and without any visible flaws (cracks, knots, twists, decay). Investing in cedar or other weather resistant lumber is a good idea, as it will pay off on the long run. Use a spirit level to plumb and align the components, before inserting the galvanized screws, otherwise the project won’t have a symmetrical look. If you have all the materials and tools required for the project, you could get the job done in about a day. See all my Premium Plans HERE.

Projects made from these plans

It’s that simple to build a 16×32 pole barn!

Free 16×32 Pole Barn Plans

Building-a-16×32-pole-barn

Cut + Shopping Lists

• A – 10 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 156″ long, 2 pieces – 180″ long, 1 piece – 204″ long, 1 piece – 99″ long, 2 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 96″ long POSTS
• A – 2 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 96″ long, 1 piece of 6×6 lumber – 99″ long DOOR FRAME
• B – 2 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 46 1/2″ long, 1 piece – 189″ long, 4 pieces – 192″ long SPLASH BOARDS
• C – 2 pieces of 2×10 lumber – 189″ long, 2 pieces – 192″ long, 2 pieces – 190 1/2″ long, 2 pieces – 96″ long TRUSS CARRIERS
• D – 8 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 46 1/2″ long, 6 pieces – 189″ long, 40 pieces – 96″ long, 15 pieces – 18 3/4″ long, 45 pieces – 22 1/2″ long, 15 pieces – 7 1/2″ long GIRTS
• E – 17 pieces – 18 3/4″ long, 51 pieces – 22 1/2″ long, 17 pieces – 7 1/2″ long GIRT BLOCKINGS

• 10 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 14′
• 2 pieces of 6×6 lumber – 16′
• 1 piece of 6×6 lumber – 18′
• 1 piece of 6×6 lumber – 10′
• 5 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 16′
• 3 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 8′
• 8 piece of 2×10 lumber – 16′
• 4 pieces of 2×10 lumber – 8′
• 6 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 16′
• 62 pieces of 2×4 lumber – 8′
• 5 1/2″ screws
• 3 1/2″ screws
• 2 1/2″ screws
• concrete

Tools

 Hammer, Tape measure, Framing square, Post hole digger, Level

 Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander

 Safety Gloves, Safety Glasses

Time

 One week

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How to build a 16×32 pole barn

Posts-for-pole-barn

The first step of the project is to build the 6×6 posts for the large pole barn shed. As you can see in the diagram, you need to set the posts in concrete for about 3′ (make sure you read the local building posts, to determine the depth exactly to your local front line specifications). You can dig the holes by hand, or you can use an auger drill.

Laying out the posts for the pole barn

Use the color code from the diagram to place the posts properly. Use batter boards and string to lay out the posts in a professional manner. Apply the 3-4-5 rule to the corners to make sure they are square. In addition, make sure the diagonals are equal. It is essential to take accurate measurements before fitting the posts. The middle end posts are slightly larger so you can attach the end trusses and have a back support to secure to.

Installing the posts

After marking the location of the posts, dig the holes and then set the posts into place. Level the ground as much as possible, as this will help you later on. Use a spirit level to plumb the posts. Tamp the bottom of the holes thoroughly and make sure it is plane. In addition, use temporary braces to lock the posts into place tightly while pouring the concrete in the holes. Let the concrete to dry out before continuing the project. Make sure the top of the side posts are horizontal and cut out any excess.

Fitting the splash boards

Next, fit the 2×6 (you can use 2x8s as well) for the splash boards. Align the edges with attention and use a spirit level to make sure they are perfectly horizontal. Drill pilot holes and insert 3 1/2″ screws to lock them into place tightly. Invest in pressure treated lumber, as these boards will be exposed to moisture.

Framing the walls

Front and back top beams

Fit the 2×10 supports to the top of the posts, to the front and back of the pole barn. Align the edges flush and use a spirit level to check if the beams are perfectly horizontal. Clamp the beams to the posts, drill pilot holes and insert 5 1/2″ screws to lock them into place tightly.

Truss-carriers

Build the truss carriers using 2×10 lumber, at the dimensions shown in the diagram shown above.

Fitting the top beams to the pole barn

Continue the project by fitting the truss carriers to the sides of the 16×32 pole barn. Most certainly, you won’t find 24′ long 2x10s, so you need to install the carriers in sections. Align the edges, make sure the beams are horizontal and then lock them to the posts with 5 1/2″ screws.

Framing the front opening

Continue the project by framing the front door. You can adjust the size of the opening to suit your needs, but I show you the framing techniques. Fit the 2×6 cripple studs and the top 6×6 header. Use 5 1/2″ screws to lock the components into place.

Front wall girts

Next, you should start attaching the girts to the front of the pole barn. Lay the 2x4s to the posts, as shown in the plans. Align the edges and insert 3 1/2″ screws to lock the girts to the posts.

Fitting the back girts – Pole Barn Plans

Fit the 2×4 supports to the back of the barn, as shown in the diagram. Place the supports equally-spaced and lock them to the the poles using 3 1/2″ screws.

Front wall girt blockers – 16×24 pole barn

Fit the 2×4 blockers between the girts. Cut them with a saw and then lock them into place with 2 1/2″ screws or nails. You need the blockers so you can attach the

Fitting the side girts – 16×32 pole barn

Fit the blockings between the girts, as well. Use 3 1/2″ screws to lock the slats to the posts.

Finishing touches

How-to-build-a-16×32-pole-barn

Make sure you read PART 2 of the 16×32 pole barn project, where I show you how to build the gable roof. In addition, you should check out my free plans for building the 16×24 pole barn HERE.

16×32 Pole Barn Plans – side view

16x32Pole Barn Plans – front view

Last but not least, you should take care of the finishing touches, as to be able to continue the process with the rest of the steps. Therefore, we recommend you to check if all the components are installed properly into place.

16×32 Pole Barn – dimensions

Building a 16×32 pole barn with a gable roof and post frame construction will likely cost you between $5,000 and $10,000, depending on the materials and any additional features you choose. The larger size and gable roof design add to the cost, but they also provide a spacious and versatile structure that can be used for a variety of purposes, from storage to a workshop or even housing livestock. This investment results in a durable, functional barn that offers ample space and long-term value.

How to build a 16×32 pole barn

You can expect to spend about 6 to 8 weekends constructing your 16×32 pole barn with a gable roof. The post frame construction is efficient, but given the size of the barn and the gable roof design, the project will require careful planning and consistent effort. By working methodically, you’ll end up with a solid, well-built barn that’s ready to serve your needs for years to come.

16×32 post frame barn – free plans

The gable roof not only adds to the barn’s classic look but also provides additional overhead space, making it ideal for storing large equipment, setting up a workshop, or sheltering animals. This project isn’t just about building a barn—it’s about adding a valuable and versatile asset to your property, one that will meet your needs and stand strong through the seasons

Top Tip: Check out the rest of the shed projects for more inspiration for your backyard. You can see all my woodworking plans HERE. If you want to get this plan as a PDF file with 1 full Cut list and 1 full Shopping list, please take a look over the GET PDF PLANS button bellow.

This woodworking project was about 16×32 pole barn plans. If you want to see more outdoor plans, check out the rest of our step by step projects and follow the instructions to obtain a professional result.

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