There are approximately 944,000 horses in the United Kingdom, and 19 million equestrian consumers with a range of associated interests; if you’re fortunate enough to live and work with these remarkable creatures, you know that they are unique in their own way. With the ability to pull heavy weights for long days and a beauty that allows them to compete in the most prestigious show competitions, these equine animals stand out in the whole of the animal kingdom. If you’re looking to build a new barn or stable for your team, make sure it includes the following features.
Size matters. No matter how many horses you own or house, it’s guaranteed you’re going to need more than a standard 10×10 shed offering 800 cubic feet; that will be enough for a single horse’s stall, but you’re going to need to go above and beyond for an entire barn.
Once you’ve determined the total amount of space needed for your team, you need to figure out what materials you want to build it out of. Metal horse barns are long-lasting structures, capable of resisting the effects of storms and UV damage alike for 20 years or longer, but many people prefer the aesthetic of a classic wooden barn. If you’re concerned about durability and maintenance, metal is the clear choice; if you’re more interested in a quiet interior and reliable insulation (for areas that experience frequent rain or extreme seasons), wood is the better option.
Comfort matters, especially if your horses are going to be working long, hard days. Installing rubber floor mats in your stalls can help relieve the pressure associated with standing for long periods of time on hard or uneven surfaces. They also have the added benefit of making cleanup a breeze; if you’ve got a barn full of show ponies, you’ll find that maintaining their sanitary conditions is easier than ever.
Now that you’ve taken care of the practical aspects, it’s time to move onto aesthetics. Dutch doors and windows can take your barn or stable to the next level; they’re utterly beautiful in a classically elegant kind of way, and provide great light, ventilation, and an overall healthier environment for your (big) four-legged friends. No one can deny the benefits that dutch windows and doors offer. Feeling especially fancy? Consider adding a silver feature to really make your barn shine, literally. Silver actually reflects almost 95% of the visible light spectrum.
Horse barns can be designed for your personal needs. Whether you want the strength of a galvanized metal roof (which can last up to 50 years, barring any serious weather damage) or the beauty of dutch doors, you’ll be able to customize your stable to your exact specifications. Your troop will never be happier!