Typically, pole barns under 2,000 square feet are cheaper to build than metal frame buildings. Pole barns that don’t require a foundation will also be cheaper. But, steel buildings over 2,000 square feet can be cheaper due to recent increases in lumber prices. PEMBs are also up to 40% cheaper to construct than pole barns and require virtually no maintenance and have clear span interiors giving you 100% usable space.