High and Wide—How to Raise the Roof on Your Business’s Potential

At some point, all growing businesses hit a wall—literally.

With larger equipment, more inventory, or even more space for the horses to ride, your once spacious building is now working against you —slowing workflows, limiting equipment options, and holding back your business’s growth.

And I think we can all agree: that’s no good.

At that point, many business owners start looking at their options. And all it takes is a quick Google search to learn that, when looking for size, many owners turn to post frame buildings. Why? Because these structures can be built economically and customized to your growing business’s needs.

Additionally, post-frame structures can often be built large enough to house even the most gargantuan commercial assets—making them a popular choice among commercial and agricultural operations. But there is one caveat.

Why Post-Frame Builders Cap Building Sizes

These days, it seems like anyone with a hammer and saw can throw up a pole barn. And to be fair, everyone starts somewhere. Many post-frame designs are simple enough for even DIYers to handle. That being said, there are limits—even with professional outfits.

That’s because modern commercial buildings (especially those with wider spans) require more advanced engineering. Taller ceilings introduce structural and logistical challenges. And at the end of the day, not every builder has the experience (or confidence) to handle these projects safely and responsibly.

As a result, most post frame building contractors cap out around:

70–80 ft. widths
20–22 ft. ceiling heights

To be fair, these size limitations work for many projects. But if you’re thinking bigger, you might need another solution.

How to Get a Higher (and Wider) Building—Easily

Tristate Buildings specializes in higher and wider structures than many other builders in our area.

Kevin Weaver, founder of Tristate, weighs in on the specifics:

“Typically, competition will not go wider than 80 feet. Most guys will do up to 20’, or maybe 22’ ceiling height, but once you get above those heights most guys will not want to do it. We can go up to 100’ wide clear span trusses and can also go up to 30’ high ceiling height.”

Furthermore, Tristate can handle larger builds for the following reasons:

Designers are using sophisticated design and drawing software
All crew members are meticulously trained beyond industry standards
Tristate has over 35 years of post-frame construction experience
Multiple team members carry 10+ years expertise in post-frame buildings

All in, Tristate’s deep pool of experience and use of modern design platforms make large custom post frame buildings possible—far beyond the typical limitations found in the trade.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Building a High and Wide Structure?

Let’s cover the drawback of larger buildings first: the cost.

Simply put, larger buildings require a greater upfront investment. As such, cost can become prohibitive for some business owners. However, if you’re able to float the financials, high and wide may be your best bet.

Especially for the following uses:

A Growing Business: Manufacturers, service companies, and logistics operations all benefit from larger spaces. Bigger spans mean better layouts, smoother workflows, and room to scale—making more space smarter commercial building design.
Agricultural & Equipment Storage: For agricultural operations, size isn’t an option—it’s essential. Large machinery needs clearance, airflow, and safe maneuvering space, making tall, wide post-frame structures ideal farm equipment sheds.
Commercial Flex Storage: Modern commercial building design takes advantage of large spaces—and for good reason. With fewer size constraints, flex commercial space can truly be flexible—allowing for more revenue paths and a wider pool of tenants.

Whatever Your Space Needs, Tristate is Here to Help

Building height and width aren’t just numbers on a blueprint. These measurements directly affect your day-to-day—and often have a greater impact on a business’s operations than you might think.

However, high and wide construction isn’t is something you “figure out as you go.” Larger buildings require precise engineering, additional safety measures, and the expertise needed to perform work efficiently and up to every regulatory standard.

As trusted PA pole barn builders, commercial building design experts, and friends of the NJ, MD, and PA agricultural communities, Tristate brings just that: proven systems, regional expertise, and a track record of excellence that spans over 35 years.

So if you’re researching custom post frame buildings for your growing business, reach out today. You’ll get a free quote and any design guidance you may need to bring your dream building to life. Plus, when working with crews that care, you can expect a contracting experience that’s just as positive as your finished building.

Guaranteed.

Get Your Free Quote

Tristate Buildings has been providing post-frame buildings for agricultural, residential, commercial, and equestrian facilities for over 35 years. All projects come backed by a Lifetime Workmanship Warranty and the assurance of working with specialty crews trained beyond industry standards. Reach out today to take the first step toward your dream building by connecting with a friendly, knowledgeable team member who cares.