Top Six Things Customers Wish They’d Done When Building Their Post Frame Building

When investing in a post frame building, every decision you make early on impacts how functional, durable, and cost-effective it will be. We hear from customers all the time how they wished they’d planned for additional features, or upgraded certain aspects of their building from day one. So we polled our friendly team at Vap Construction and rounded up the most common “wish I’d done that” items to consider to save you time, money, and frustration later on:  

1. Plan for More Space from the Start

One of the most common regrets is not building large enough. It is almost always more affordable to add a few extra feet during construction rather than expanding later. A larger footprint provides more flexibility for future needs, whether that is additional storage, workspace, or equipment. Adding on later can involve significant structural adjustments, permit challenges, and higher labor costs. Planning for growth ensures your post frame structure remains functional without expensive renovations.

2. Pour the Concrete During Initial Construction

Delaying the concrete floor might seem like a cost-saving choice, but it often leads to higher expenses and complications. Pouring the slab during construction ensures proper grading, drainage, and fit. It also saves the hassle of moving equipment, clearing stored materials, or adjusting door openings later. With the concrete in place early on, you gain immediate usability and a cleaner, more stable environment for your operation or storage needs. 

3. Protect Your Building with a Moisture / Vapor Barrier

A moisture or vapor barrier is a simple addition that protects your building from long-term damage. Installed beneath the roof and inside the metal walls, it helps prevent condensation, mold, and corrosion. Without it, moisture can accumulate unnoticed, leading to rust on equipment, deterioration of building materials, and an uncomfortable interior. Adding a moisture barrier during construction protects your investment and keeps your building cleaner and more durable. 

4. Add Interior Wall Studs for Future Flexibility

Adding studs to your interior walls during construction gives you options for the future. Even partial studding makes it easy to mount workbenches, hang cabinets, or add shelving without struggling to find support later. It also simplifies the installation of electrical outlets, plumbing, or wall finishes. This step creates a more functional, adaptable space that can evolve with your needs. 

5. Install Interior Liner Panels Early

Installing interior liner panels, often metal, during construction protects insulation and increases durability. They create a tough, cleanable surface that stands up to daily use, making the space easier to maintain. While an upfront investment, adding panels later is far more costly due to labor and disruption. Including them during the build keeps your structure functional, clean, and well-protected. 

6. Insulate During Construction for Lasting Efficiency

Insulating during construction is one of the most cost-effective decisions you can make. It allows for proper installation without working around finished walls or stored equipment and ensures your building is comfortable and energy-efficient from the start. Delaying insulation leads to higher costs and reduced effectiveness, as retrofitting can leave gaps or require additional materials. Investing early lowers ongoing energy expenses and improves usability year-round. 

Planning ahead ensures your post frame building is built to last while saving you time, money, and stress. When you're ready to create a space designed for your needs, request your free custom quote at vapconstruction.com/quote. Also be sure to explore available features and add-ons at vapconstruction.com/options. At Vap Construction, we are committed to delivering high-quality structures that exceed expectations. Contact us today to start planning with confidence.