How to Heat a Pole Barn Without Insulation
Pole barns are practical buildings used for agricultural,storage or workshop purposes. Many of them are built without proper or any insulation at all, which makes them challenging for heating. However, they can remain warm with the right approach and smart planning.
You need to be creative and combine different methods to heat a pole barn and make it a comfortable and functional environment. Although insulating it is the best option, we will share several practical ways to rise up and maintain the steady temperature of your pole barn.
Heating an Uninsulated Pole Barn
If you choose not to insulate the pole barn, it will lose heat through conduction, convection and radiation. The walls, roof and the floor are points where heat can escape really quickly, while cold air is coming in through all little gasps and openings, even the ones you might not notice.
Outside temperatures have a direct effect on the indoor temperature, as there is no thermal barrier. If your pole barn is uninsulated, you need to find reliable methods that will decrease heat loss temporarily. Of course, insulating the entire structure is the key solution to all your problems, but there are other ways to make the space usable and comfortable, too.
Portable heaters showed as the most practical solutions when it comes to heating uninsulated pole barns. They are suitable for small/medium sized barns and they come with built-in thermostats and oscillating fans. These features are important because they help distribute heat evenly through the space.
If your barn is spacious, our recommendation is to use propane heaters. They have great heating capabilities, but please keep in mind that you have to install a good ventilation system to avoid carbon monoxide buildup. There is one more option - you can use kerosene heaters, but they require good ventilation and regular maintenance, too.
Infrared heaters emit infrared radiation which makes them perfect for localized heating. Our suggestion is to install a wood-burning stove and centrally locate it, for the maximum efficiency. This is also an economical choice, especially if you already have some firewood supply. You probably haven't heard of portable radiant floor mats, as they are not a common choice. Get them if you have a problem with floor heating in your barn.
Diesel heaters have the most powerful heat output, and that’s why they are often used in construction sites and outdoor events. You will be satisfied with their efficiency, but keep in mind they require regular fueling and maintenance.
On the other hand, you can take some temporary insulation measures which will help you with heating the object. Try hanging thermal blankets along the walls - they should keep the heat inside for a longer period of time. Also, you can try to create a barrier against heat loss with foam board panels - just place them against all walls and windows. Take weatherstripping/door seals to seal all gaps you can notice - this will stop the cold air coming in.
If you want to keep the indoor temperature more consistent, consider installing ceiling fans - they will distribute warm air evenly throughout the barn. Heat lamps are not pricey and showed up as a good solution for smaller spaces and specific areas of the barn. Consider using solar energy, too. Install large, south-facing windows or clear panels to catch and store sunlight. Also, there are portable solar panels available - they can be connected to your heaters which is a very convenient solution.
More Advice for Efficient Heating
Heating up an uninsulated pole barn is not easy, but there are a few more things you can do to make the situation better. The equipment you store there, furniture or workspaces should be arranged properly - expose them to the heat source. Barrels of water or other dense materials act like thermal mass when placed near heat sources. They will store the heat and slowly release it over time.
Look for new gaps, cracks or holes and if you notice them, seal them with super metal sealant or expanding foam.. This inspection should be done every 2-3 months. Don’t try to heat the entire space - it is not necessary. Focus on specific areas where warmth is the most needed.
Safety Considerations
Heating a pole barn can be risky and cause accidents, so safety should always be a priority. Invest in a good ventilation system, especially if you want to use fuel-burning heaters. Carbon monoxide detectors are a good choice if you are willing to use propane, kerosene or wood-burning stoves. Keep the heating sources at a safe distance from flammable materials and remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for running the heating system you chose.
Balancing Cost and Efficiency
As you can conclude, heating an uninsulated pole barn is not easy, and can be pretty costly because of the continuous heat loss. Always consider the costs of the heating solution you choose and compare them with the benefits it provides. For example - propane heaters will warn up your pole barn, but the operating costs may be sky-high. Remember to consider the long-term impact of each heating solution - that is how you won’t end up negatively surprised at the end of each month.
Considering Insulation as a Long-Term Solution
Although we are here to talk about heating without insulation, we have to say that adding even a minimal insulating layer can make things much better. Investing in insulation of your pole barn will bring its energy efficiency to the completely new level! Options like spray foam insulation, fiberglass insulation, or wall insulation can easily be installed in this kind of structure, enhancing comfort and saving you a lot of energy and money.
