Constructing a traditional horse barn can be expensive and time-consuming. Many horse owners decide to build a pole barn instead since the process is much simpler and faster. When choosing a design for your barn, consider your horses’ comfort and safety and your current and future needs.
Stalls
Design your horse barn with some extra stalls. If you decide to get more horses in the future, you will already have enough space and won’t have to worry about building an addition. If you don’t get more horses, you will have plenty of storage space.
Make sure the stalls are large enough for your horses to move around comfortably. You should also design the aisles so they will be wide enough for a horse to walk alongside the person leading it.
When it comes to doors for the stalls, sliding doors are simple and cost-effective. They also make less noise than some other types of doors, which means they are less likely to spook horses. Doors can be designed with one piece that slides to the side or two pieces that meet in the middle and can slide in either direction.
Storage
Designate a section of the barn for tack. Saddles, blankets, bridles, brushes, and other equipment should be kept in a separate area free from dirt, dust, and moisture. Set aside an area for food, but keep hay in a separate building. If the barn were to catch fire, the hay would quickly go up in flames. The fire could then spread throughout the barn, and your horses’ lives could be in danger.
Airflow
Good ventilation is essential for your horses’ health. Many horse barns are designed with large doors at either end that can be left open in mild weather. The barn should also have roof vents. Fans in the ceiling and stalls can help with air circulation.
Light
Let as much natural light as possible into your horse barn to keep your electricity bills down. Windows without glass can let in both light and warmth to keep your horses comfortable. Dutch doors can be opened at the top to allow in light and fresh air, while the bottom can be kept closed to keep the horses in the barn.
Get a Quote for a Horse Pole Barn
CHA Pole Barns can design and construct a horse pole barn that meets your needs and your horses’. We offer pole barns in a range of sizes and styles, and we can customize features to build you a horse barn that will work both now and in the future. Contact us today to explore your options and to get an estimate.