Are you looking to add a new barn to your property for your horses and other animals? Before you build the stable, ensure that you’re ready for construction by first considering these crucial factors!
Location
As they say in real estate, the three most important things are location, location, and location. Horse real estate isn’t all that different—where you place the new stable on your property is one of the first things to consider before building.
Do you want it closer to the house so that you have a shorter walk every day to check on and look after the horses? Or do you want something a little more out of the way so that you and your horses have some privacy? Don’t make this decision lightly—hopefully, your stable will be in the same place for decades!
Size & Number of Stalls
Next, you’ll determine the size and scope of your new barn, including how may stalls you’ll need. Before that, you’ll need to answer some vital questions, like:
- How many horses do I have?
- Do I plan on expanding my stable of horses in the future?
- What’s the biggest stable you and your staff could afford to support?
- How large are your horses?
- What variety of stall sizes do you need?
For stall size, 10 feet by 10 feet is about as small as you’ll want to go—assuming you have rather small horses or foals to take care of. Anything bigger, and you’ll likely better off with 12-foot by 14-foot or 12-foot by 16-foot stalls at a minimum.
Stable Layout
When planning the layout of your new stable, it’s wise to check out other barns and gather information about efficient and productive stable layouts. If you have neighbors or other horse stables nearby, ask their owners if you can tour the area. Ask about the layout and if there’s anything they wish they knew before building.
Often, the best resource for horse and stable owners are other equestrians!
Construction Materials
Do you want your stable to be wood, metal, or a mixture of both? They both offer advantages, but don’t underestimate the value of plastic materials for your new barn.
Plastic construction materials are more cost-effective than organic wood or metal, are easier to maintain than wood or metal, and plastic fencing can even help improve your horse’s quality of life.
Local Ordinances
Finally, you want to ensure that your new stable is in line with all the local laws and ordinances regarding construction and equestrian management. No place is the same and each county or region has specific regulations when it comes to barn construction or the number of horses allowed per acre.
You don’t want to get hit with a fine or be forced to change your construction halfway-through and create delays and expenses. Make sure all your paperwork is in order before you begin the project.
