Although farm buildings use the same construction materials as other buildings, they differ in design and construction practices. Some of these differences include special considerations for: the enormous pressures in silos and grain bins; moisture problems in livestock and food storage buildings; fire risks due to large quantities of highly combustible hay and straw; and others.

The Ontario Construction Guide for Farm Buildings 2003 explains and illustrates many of the special requirements necessary for human health and safety in and around farm buildings. Divided into 11 parts and two handy appendices, it covers structural design, fire safety, foundations, wall and roof systems, building materials, fasteners, and more. Detailed graphs, tables, figures, and equations are provided to help demonstrate the concepts.