When planning for your custom barn, there are many factors to consider. We recommend researching different options for your barn before diving into the design process. By preparing beforehand, you will be able to enjoy the experience knowing your contractors have good insight into your vision.
Size:
Determining the size of your barn is a significant factor when you are getting started. First and foremost, the capacity of the space will depend on the size of your property and how many horses you intend to board. It is recommended to have 1 1/2 – 2 acres of open land per horse, so make sure to consider how much space you should use on the barn when factoring in the amount of open area you will need as well. If you have a vast amount of space on your land for the upcoming project, then the possibilities are endless
Sizing the structure is also determined by budget and the intended use of the barn. If you plan to add extra amenities to the space, such as an indoor arena and a tack room, then looking into larger options would be the solution. However, if you want a simple structure with the basic necessities, then you could choose a smaller layout. Keep in mind each horse stall will range in size between 12×12 to 16×16 with a door opening of about 4 feet wide. Knowing how many stalls you would like and the size will help you define the appropriate size for your barn. Keep in mind that you may use up 2 stalls with our easy to remove dividers when you set up a foaling stall.
Structure Type:
There are several different types of construction for barns. Some popular options are pole barns, steel framed, and timber-framed. Each style has benefits and disadvantages, so understanding the differences can be helpful before determining which technique would suit your needs. This article can give you some insight into the different varieties to help you make the best decision for your custom barn.
Color:
The most popular barn colors continue to be the old fashion red barn with white trim. Even though this seems to be the preference, there are many additional colors to pick from and the creative possibilities are endless. There are all sorts of options when it comes to the color palette of your barn. The roofing, stain, siding, and accent colors all play a role. The type of material you choose may limit your color selection as well. For example, if you want a metal roof, you may have fewer varieties of color available. Although you don’t need to make all of the aesthetic decisions upfront, it can be useful to have an idea of your overall color preferences throughout the planning process.
Material:
Educating yourself on the different materials when it comes to your custom barn is helpful from a budget standpoint and keeps the integrity of your vision in the forefront. From the type of flooring to the roofing materials, learning about the various options can lend a helping hand when it comes time to decide. For instance, if you choose a metal roof for your custom barn, then you should determine the appropriate weight of the roof for your particular needs and budget. The thickness of metal roofs can range from 26 gauge (between 0.90 – 1.00 lbs/sq. ft) and the 29 gauge (between 0.60 – 0.65 lbs/sq. ft). You may want to consider the differences between corrugated and standing seam metal roofs. The more research put into this category the better the outcome for your project, particularly if an eco-friendly structure is an important factor to your design.
Hiring an experienced horse barn builder can make your research and planning less stressful. At B&D Builders, we support our clients and help them understand their options throughout the process. With decades of expertise as custom timber frame horse barn builders, we have the experience needed to provide useful guidance based on real-world situations. If you would like to learn more about your options or to start designing your barn, give us a call at 717.687.0292 or Contact Us.