Horse Barns
Introduction to Horse Barns
| Horse barns are found on agricultural and ranch properties and used to provide shelter for horses. They typically contain one or more stalls where the horses are kept as well as a tack room, feed storage room and a center aisle or work area. |
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Well-designed barns have sufficient light and ventilation and protect from rain, drafts and ground water. Floors are usually packed dirt, which offers secure footing and appropriate drainage, though wood is also used. Rubber mats may be used in areas with concrete floors where the horses are groomed or bathed. Horses spend a lot of time inside a horse barn, and therefore they need to feel relaxed and comfortable. The stall should comfortably accommodate the horse—a 10- foot-square space for ponies and at least 10’ x 12’ (or larger) for full-size horses.
You’ll find barns of metal, wood, brick or concrete block. There are many different designs of horse barns ranging from country themes to modern styles. Safety is a critical factor in any horse barn, so it is essential that all horse owners and barn employees check the barn regularly to ensure that there are no hazards that can harm or injure the horses.
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Horse barns also provide areas for grooming horses. They feature wash bays that can accommodate large horses. Other animals such as hens, chickens, goats and sheep may also stay in the horse barn; most horses will love the interaction. |
Horse Ranch
Horse Ranches are located throughout the United States, and they have been around for hundreds of years. Horse ranches are large farms or properties that feature horse barns, feed rooms, indoor and/or outdoor riding arenas and accommodations. Some horse ranches offer summer camps for children and adults where they can come and stay and learn about life on a working ranch and about caring for and riding a horse. Horse ranches may also offer shows with a wide variety of horse activities like barrel racing, show jumping, cutting and reining.
| Horse ranch competitions are held once a year where horse ranches from all over the country compete against one another for the title of best horse ranch. Children are welcome to learn to ride at horse ranches. For experienced riders, special trainings may be offered. |  |
Hose Barn Plans
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Once a horse owner has decided to buy a horse barn or horse property or to replace an existing horse barn, it’s best to develop a Horse Barn Plan. The plan should contain information such as style, layout, design, material and the features you would like the barn to include. |
Horse barn specialists and architects all over the country are available to help with designs and plans. Horse barns can be built on site, or prefabricated sectional stables may be brought in. On-site building may take more time and money, so it is important to determine your budget.
Most horse barn companies offer free quotes on horse barn plans. Many owners try to incorporate a particular theme into their farm or ranch so that all the buildings have a particular theme or style. Horse barn plans should include layout, design, dimensions, materials and special features that will be used in the construction of the barn itself.
Horse Barn Design
| Horse Barn Designs are available in more than 500 styles. There are country and western, unique and historical, contemporary and traditional styles to suit your property and taste. The design of the horse barn can be incorporated into such details as the windows, lighting, tack room, feeders, entrances and exits. |  |
Horse barns are also built in a variety of materials and colors. Long-lasting materials are key, and stall walls should be able to withstand kicking, leaning, chewing and other abuse inflicted by the horses.
Barn Equipment
Barn Equipment & Tools Guide
Take your time buying your barn equipment, doing plenty of research on what you and your horse need. Horse people are typically very generous with loaning their equipment out to those in need. Just be sure you take good care of it and return it in the same condition or better.
Barn Equipment:
Tack cleaning kit - It’s best to keep a wide assortment of sponges and a bucket on hand to clean your tack. Try to use a sponge on one product only, for instance glycerin soap, and not several like oil, soap and conditioner.
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