chilly

Cantilever

The barns have the distinct characteristic of having a wide upper loft area that hangs over the lower level of the barn. The overhang is what is known as a â�...
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The barns have the distinct characteristic of having a wide upper loft area that hangs over the lower level of the barn. The overhang is what is known as a â€œcantilever.â€ The overhang design was perfect for farmers in the Smokies. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park usually receives 80 inches of rainfall each year, making it one of the rainiest places in the U.S. The high level of rainfall and humidity in the Smokies caused farmersâ€™ crops to rot. The overhang was the golden ticket solution farmers needed! The cantilever would funnel the rainfall on the roof away from the storage cribs of crops. The open spaces between the cribs kept the structure ventilated allowing air to circulate to further reduce spoiled inventory. Live stock could also find shelter underneath the overhang from severe weather or hot, sunny days. This barn in Cades Cove is an architectural wonder!
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