Must-Have Add-Ons for Your Pole Barn Project

One of the biggest advantages of building a pole barn is its flexibility—what starts as a simple structure can easily be customized with features that boost comfort, function, and long-term value. At Stimson Contracting, we’ve seen firsthand how the right upgrades can transform a basic pole building into a shop, garage, hobby space, or even a home you’ll love for decades.

In this post, I’ll share my go-to list of must-have add-ons for your pole barn project, based on years of building here in the Spokane area. If you want to get the most out of your new barn, these upgrades are worth considering.

Table of Contents

1. Insulation and Vapor Barriers

2. Overhead Doors and Entry Doors

3. Windows and Natural Light

4. Concrete Floors and Floor Drains

5. Interior Partitions and Finished Walls

6. Loft Space or Mezzanines

7. Electrical and Lighting Upgrades

8. Plumbing and Bathrooms

9. Covered Porches and Lean-Tos

10. Conclusion: Plan Now, Enjoy Later

1. Insulation and Vapor Barriers

If you plan to heat or cool your pole barn—even part of the year—insulation is a must-have. It keeps your building comfortable, helps control condensation, and lowers energy costs.

We often recommend:

• Spray foam for high R-values and air sealing

• Batt insulation for framed interior walls

• Vapor barriers to prevent moisture buildup

A well-insulated building is usable year-round—especially here in Spokane.

2. Overhead Doors and Entry Doors

Choosing the right doors makes your barn more functional and secure. Consider:

• Insulated overhead doors for garages or shops

• Extra-wide doors for RVs, tractors, or trailers

• High-quality man doors for daily entry

• Keyless or smart locks for added convenience

These details make day-to-day use much easier.

3. Windows and Natural Light

Don’t overlook windows! Adding them means:

• Natural daylight (which saves on lighting costs)

• Better ventilation

• A more inviting workspace

Skylights and clerestory windows are also great ways to bring light into larger open spaces.

4. Concrete Floors and Floor Drains

A durable concrete floor takes your pole barn to the next level. Add-ons to consider include:

• Reinforced slabs for heavy equipment

• Smooth or polished finishes

• Built-in floor drains for wash bays or garages

• Vapor barriers under the slab to control moisture

A solid slab makes your barn feel permanent and ready for work.

5. Interior Partitions and Finished Walls

If you plan to use your pole barn for multiple purposes—like a shop and storage—you’ll want:

• Interior framed walls or partitions

• Insulated office or break rooms

• Finished walls for easy cleaning and a polished look

We build these spaces to grow with your needs.

6. Loft Space or Mezzanines

Want to maximize square footage without expanding your footprint? Consider:

• A loft for storage

• A mezzanine for an office or lounge

• Stair access and railing systems for safety

This is one of the smartest add-ons for any pole barn.

7. Electrical and Lighting Upgrades

Basic lighting is fine—but bright, energy-efficient lighting makes your barn more usable. We often install:

• LED shop lights

• Motion sensors

• Outlets placed exactly where you need them

• Dedicated circuits for heavy equipment

Smart electrical planning now saves headaches later.

8. Plumbing and Bathrooms

Adding plumbing may seem like a luxury—but even a basic bathroom can make a huge difference. Popular options include:

• Half baths or full baths

• Utility sinks or wash stations

• Floor drains for cleaning equipment

These features turn your pole barn into a fully functional workspace.

9. Covered Porches and Lean-Tos

A covered porch or lean-to is a practical add-on that adds:

• Outdoor storage for firewood or equipment

• A shaded work area or break space

• Better protection for doors and entries

They’re easy to add during construction and look great too.

10. Conclusion: Plan Now, Enjoy Later

The best time to plan your must-have add-ons is before you build, not after. The right upgrades will help you enjoy your pole barn for decades—whether it’s a workshop, garage, storage space, or all three.

At Stimson Contracting, we’ve designed and built thousands of pole buildings across Spokane and the Inland Northwest, each one customized for how our clients really use them. If you’re ready to talk about making your dream barn a reality, let’s connect.