After reading Blueprint for Success: Part One, the vision of your dream barn is starting to take shape. As covered, you’ve planned your budget and gotten the financing in order. You’ve determined the style of barn and plans are in place. Now all you have to do is build it.
Once you’ve chosen a builder for your new barn, signed the contract and agreed to a start date, you’re probably anxious to get underway. Here is a rough summary of the processes involved in building your barn; however, be mindful that every construction project has its own individual challenges.
Site Work Excavation work is the first part of the on-site building process. Read more >> Delivery of Materials Several flatbed trucks turning onto your property will give you the first view of your new barn. Read more >>
Foundation A secure, level foundation is one of the most crucial elements of your barn. Read more >>
Aisles and Walkways The best floor surface for the barn aisle is slightly roughened concrete. Read more >>
Stall Floors Stall floors can be roughened cement, dirt, clay, asphalt, crushed limestone, sand or wood. Read more >>
Framing Most horse barns today are post-frame buildings. Read more >> Wiring The first on-site wiring will be covered cables strung across the ground and connected to an outside electric power box. Read more >> Plumbing Water is the lifeline of every horse operation. Read more >>
Insulation The necessity for barn insulation is somewhat controversial among horse owners. Read more >> Roofing Obviously, choosing a fireproof and water shedding roof to eliminate structural damage is more important than aesthetics. Read more >> Doors and Windows Your choices for doors and windows are limited only by the amount of money you spend, with many custom choices available. Read more >> Stalls Custom stall manufacturers make it easier than ever to build sturdy, safe, long-lasting, beautiful stalls in your new barn. Read more >>
Tack Room This area should be roomy, functional, organized and secure. Read more >>
Wash Rack A wash rack is practical for owners who show, breed and sell, or compete with their horses. Read more >>
Louann Chaudier and her husband live on a small farm in southern Wisconsin with three Quarter Horses, four wallabies and five cats.
Horse Illustrated is the magazine for people who are passionate about horses. Each issue offers advice on horse health and care, plus user-friendly training tips for both English and western riders and engaging lifestyle features for horse lovers.
These 7 tips for spring pasture maintenance will keep your horses grazing on beautiful, healthy…
If you're planning on buying a new horse, check out which questions to ask and…
It’s the end of a busy horse show day, and you’re worn out. The horses…
It’s no secret that prices are going up, up, up! Understandably, equestrians are watching every…
Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the…
Read the full article about showing in hand in Horse Illustrated’s June 2024 issue! Here is some great content we…
Plenty has been written about the prevention, causes, and treatment of founder, but less information is available on whether or…
Depending on the availability of indoor arenas, lights, and safe footing where you live, riding throughout the winter can be…
Whether you’re new to cattle work or want to improve your cattle-driving skills, you’ll need to learn how to influence…