How to Build a Tie Rack for Horses

Tie racks are not essential, but your life as a horse owner will definitely be easier if you have a place to securely tie your horse for grooming, medicating or bathing. Building one is not difficult, and you will reap the rewards for years to come.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 10- or 12-foot posts, metal or wood (if wood, telephone posts are ideal)
  • 2 12-foot 2-by-4s
  • 2 12- or 14-foot 2-by-4s
  • Wood screws
  • Power drill
  • 2 lead ropes
  • Concrete
  • Post hole digger
  • Rubber pad
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Instructions

    • 1

      Decide where your tie rack would work the best on your property. It should have easy access to a water hose and the barn and also should be in a fairly quiet, secluded spot.

    • 2

      Plan the layout. Your area should be 12-by-12 or 12-by-14 to give you ample work space. Dig the post holes and set the posts into the ground, with about 4 feet below ground and 6 feet above. This will prevent your horse from breaking them if he sits back or is startled into bolting. Set the posts on either side of the pad, about 2 feet from the front. This will give you room to work in front of your horse.

    • 3

      Build the frame for the concrete using the 2-by-4s in either the 12-by-12 or 12-by-14 layout. Use large wood screws to fasten them together. Then pour concrete so the pad is 3 to 4 inches thick. After pouring the concrete, use a stiff broom to give it a rough surface finish, which will give your horse better traction. Be sure that your pad slopes gently to allow the water to run off in the direction that you prefer.

    • 4

      Allow the concrete to set, then remove the screws and remove the boards. Place a rubber pad on top of the concrete. This will provide better footing for you and your horse.

    • 5

      Tie the lead ropes securely to the posts, measuring to make sure your horse has a little slack when he is tied. Use quick-release snaps, in case of an emergency situation.