The Benefits of Gravel for Post-Frame
Building Post Rot Prevention
Should you put gravel around the post?
*If it’s in constantly wet soil conditions, gravel isn’t going to stop post-rot.
Post-frame buildings are a popular choice for homeowners and builders alike, but there is one common problem that can cause them to become unusable: Post-Rot. A properly treated post will last 50 plus years in the ground without a perma-column or Post Protector which are highly recommended for much longer lasting post. Without any protection or wood treatment the moisture and humidity will cause the devastating condition of post-rot, leading to weakened posts that can no longer adequately support the structure.
In this article, we will discuss the causes of post-rot and how a gravel or sand base can protect against it.
Understanding post rot prevention
Post-rot happens when moisture seeps into the wood above the surface and at the ground-line combined with bacteria and heat. Rot soon takes over, eating the post from the outside in. The decay will eventually cause the post to fail and could cause the building to sag or collapse. Signs of post-rot include cracking or splitting wood, discoloration of wood, soft spots in wood, and a general decline in structural integrity.
Should Gravel be Put Around the Post?
“It’s amazing how often we get questioned about putting dirt around posts:
Customers will wonder whether gravel would be the best option to put around posts once they are in the ground.”
Marvin, Owner of Milmar Post-Frame Buildings, says:
“A customer will see the post being put in the ground, and they will often ask this question, but if it’s in wet soil conditions, gravel isn’t going to stop post rot.”
Marvin goes on to say:
“Our view is that it needs to be well-drained soil. If not, then it should be concrete post bases or, at the very least, post protector sleeves. Gravel would be somewhat of a middle ground. But if it’s in wet soil conditions, gravel isn’t going to stop post rot.
So why then, is gravel or sand important? Gravel is best for the cheapest alternative as it drains and should last many years with high quality treated posts. It provides a physical barrier to keep moisture away from the posts by allowing drainage. It can also provide additional support for posts, protecting them from sinking into wet soil and further preventing decay and rot damage. When selecting gravel for post-frame building rot prevention, it is important to consider the type of soil present and the size of the stones.
Benefits of Gravel for Post-frame Buildings.
Other than posing a physical barrier to direct moisture away, gravel helps to provide stability to the posts and prevents weed and organic growth, resulting in a cleaner and neater post-frame building. Applying a gravel strip around the exterior of your building is an easy way to maintain the clean edges that keep your building looking new!
Design Your Post-Frame Barn or Garage With MilMar Buildings!
The use of gravel also makes it easier for homeowners and builders to maintain their post-frame building over time. By having a layer of gravel around each post, it is easier to spot any signs of damage or decay early on. This means quick action can be taken to address any issues before they lead to more significant damage that may require costly repairs or replacement. Regular inspection will help identify any potential problem areas before they become unmanageable, meaning you can enjoy your post-frame building for years to come with minimal maintenance required.
Taking some simple but effective measures such as adding gravel around each post can go a long way in protecting your investment and keeping your structure safe for many years in the future. So if you’re looking for an easy way to prevent rot on your post frame building, then gravel or drainable soil could be just what you need!
Installing gravel around posts
When selecting a type of gravel for post-frame protection, crushed rock, pea gravel, or river rock are all suitable options. It is important to ensure that the size of stones used are appropriate for drainage and support of the posts – no gap should be larger than one inch between stones.
The amount of gravel used should also be considered; at least two inches should be applied around each post for optimal protection against moisture build up and rot damage.
Conclusion
Even with the use of gravel and post protector sleeves as barriers against post-rot, it is important to perform regular inspections of your barn and of your posts.
Be on the lookout for small cracks, holes, or leaks. Major damage can come from even small wet spots if they aren’t addressed soon enough. If a low spot goes unaddressed or unnoticed, it can become softened by fungi. In addition, insects such as carpenter ants or termites are attracted to wood that has been softened by fungi, leading to an infestation.
Here at MilMar, we advise best on which protection suits you best, depending on the kind of soil your post-frame building is based on. Our standard buildings all come with full Post Protector sleeves and grade guard and we have the option to go to a full concrete foundation for post frame homes or buildings that require a concrete foundation.
MilMar Buildings is more than capable of assisting you with your post-frame building project. Speak with our experts today!
If you have any additional inquiries that haven’t been addressed in this article, please don’t hesitate to reach out. For assistance with designing and planning your project, you can contact MilMar Buildings at 260-440-3190 or send us an email by clicking here. Our dedicated Customer Team will be happy to assist you in determining the next steps for your project.
Written by Shane Ferris