The plank-frame barn has been very popular in several sections of
the country; the considerable saving in lumber and ease of building
recommending it to practical men. Less men and time are required to
build one of these barns; they are stronger, the excellent “bracing” of
the frame making them effective to stand the pressure of hay and grain
within or strong winds without.
[Illustration: FIG. 58—A plank-frame barn.]
In some sections a solid frame foundation is used, in Maine the entire
structure is of plank; the barns are built either with or without
basement, according to the taste of the owner. A good, firmly built
stone and cement foundation is advisable; with this foundation to rest
the plank upon the frame is raised. Do not be sparing of spikes, they
are an essential feature.
[Illustration: FIG. 59—Cross-section.]
[Illustration: FIG. 60—Ground plan.]
No sills are used, and the upright studs take the place of posts. Two
for each post are set on the foundation on each side, between these is
placed and spiked the cross-plank, which extends the width of the barn
and ties the two sides together. The scantlings on each side of barn
floor, forming center posts, are then raised and spiked in place. Upon
outside of each upright is spiked a plank of same size as, and parallel
with, the first cross-plank; this gives three 2 × 8’s for cross sills
through center of barn, each joint or band being fixed in this way.
End joints, using boards instead of plank on outside, give the bedwork
of the barn. At the sides, between uprights in place of sill, a plank
is firmly spiked; this holds the uprights firmly in place and prevents
working sideways, while the thoroughly spiked cross planks prevent all
movement in other directions.
Some barns are boarded diagonally, some horizontally; both methods give
excellent satisfaction. Many of these barns are built with a hip-roof,
as in the illustration given, and these give a great amount of storage
room in the loft. The steeper single-slope roof gives equally good
results, looks well, and is a little more economical to build.
Paroid on roof and sides make it wind and waterproof.