We take a lot of pride in building durable and functional farm buildings. However, even the strongest farm buildings in Lancaster need a little TLC. Routine maintenance is the best way to keep your building working harder for longer. It also helps protect your livestock, equipment, feed, and other supplies from damage.
MQS Structures has built and worked with farm buildings all over Lancaster for years. We’ve seen our fair share of good maintenance practices and not-so-great ones. In this article, we’re sharing some of our best expert tips and tricks to help you keep your buildings in great shape year after year.
Clean Out Your Roof and Gutters
If there’s one part of the building that takes the most abuse, it’s the roof. When water gets backed up or pools on a roof, it can quickly cause leaks or rot.
That’s why we always suggest you take a look at your gutters and downspouts often and remove any leaves, twigs, and debris buildup. Snow buildup is another factor for agricultural buildings in Lancaster to keep in mind. After a major snowfall, remove excess snow from the roof if it’s safe to do so.
We build durable roofs for our farm buildings in Lancaster, but that doesn’t mean they are maintenance-free. Staying on top of buildup will go a long way toward protecting your investment.
Keep an Eye Out for Moisture and Drainage
We get a lot of rain here in Lancaster. If water pools or collects near your building, it can seep into the foundation. This is a bad situation for your building and everything inside.
Check that the ground around your barn slopes away from the base and the water is draining naturally and quickly. You may need to add gravel or French drains if there’s an area that tends to collect water.
Poor drainage can be another common issue for an older pole building in Lancaster. Addressing this early can help you avoid bigger repair costs down the line.
Inspect Doors and Windows Regularly
Properly working doors and windows are a must for any building. Not only do they keep out the elements, but they provide ventilation and access to the building. If not maintained properly, hinges can rust or shift over time, and seals can wear down.
Go around and test every door and window in your building. Make sure you open and close them completely, and that they latch tightly without dragging. If a door or window sticks or squeaks when you use it, give it a little lubrication or adjust the alignment.
Properly functioning doors and windows also allow for better ventilation, which is crucial for agricultural buildings in Lancaster.
Don’t Forget About the Interior
It’s easy to get so focused on the exterior of your barn or building that you forget about what’s going on inside. Make sure you keep floors clean and dry. Sweep out old bedding, feed waste, or chemical spills.
Pests are attracted to clutter and areas where they can find food and shelter. Mice, birds, and insects are common problems for farm buildings in Lancaster. Store feed in sealed containers and close off entry points to deter them. Clean up any spills immediately.
An organized interior also makes it easier to work in your building. If everything is put away and tidy, you’ll be more efficient.
Plan for the Future
Many of our clients build Lancaster agricultural buildings and then expand a few years down the road. That’s why we always design barns that grow with you. If you’re considering adding space or equipment in the near future, now is the time to plan.
Need more stall space, storage, or a larger feed room? Our team can design custom pole barns in Lancaster to fit your goals.
When a barn is built right from the start, it’s also much easier to modify or add onto down the road. That’s one of the benefits of working with a builder that understands the importance of function and flexibility.
Work With Local Builders Who Know the Area
The team at MQS Structures has years of experience building and working with farm buildings in Lancaster. We understand the area’s weather patterns, soil types, and local building codes. We don’t just build for our customers, we also provide long-term support.
Do you have a question about your building? Is something not working? Do you need a repair? We’re here to help. We work hard to be a trusted resource for farmers, horse owners, and property managers throughout Lancaster.
Conclusion: Routine Maintenance Makes a Big Difference
Your barn or other farm building is a major investment for your operation. With a little routine care and maintenance, it will keep paying you back for decades to come. As experienced builders of Lancaster farm buildings, we know how important durability and performance are to you.
Make it a habit to inspect your structure, keep it clean, and dry. Keep an eye out for small problems before they turn into big issues. And when you have questions or need advice or repairs, just give us a call.
Ready to improve your property with a new barn, garage, or post frame building? MQS Structures is here to help! Contact us today!
We help farmers. We help families. We help businesses build the space they need to grow.
We listen. We design. We build structures (MQS style) that stand the test of time.
Want us to build your next barn? Fill out a form here or call us at 855-677-3334.
We’re here to help you create a post frame building. One that’s built to last—and made for you.
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