DIY Horse Barns

If you plan to own horses on your property, you will need to build them a shelter to protect them from the elements. Horse barns are one of the most expensive but important investments a horse owner can make. Barns can be as simple as a one horse building, or as complex as a huge facility holding hundreds of stalls. A do-it-yourself horse barn is likely to be a simpler structure that will hold a small number of horses and shelter them from inclement weather. There are several types of structures you can build in a variety of materials.

  1. Plan and prepare

    • Decide on the size and dimensions of your barn before you begin to build. Draw these out on paper and do the math needed to make sure you have the materials you will need for the project. Before you dig a hole or drive a nail, make sure that all your tools are gathered, your blueprint is in front of you, and you have all the materials and assistance you will need to complete the project. Don't forget to also check with the local authorities for any permits or regulations.

    Pole Barns

    • The simplest type of barn is a pole barn. This is a framework that is filled in with wood poles or boards. The frame of the barn is set up and secured, and the roof is completed. Then the remaining spaces are "filled in." Pole barns are economical, attractive when done well, and can be long lasting if they are constructed properly. These are an excellent choice for do-it-yourself barns.

    Metal barns or Barn Kits

    • Metal barns or barn kits are another great choice for do-it-yourself builders. A barn kit comes with almost everything you need to construct your barn, as well as step-by-step instructions. The drawback is that you will pay for this convenience. Overall, compared to a contractor setting up the barn, it is still cheaper, but as with anything prepackaged, you will pay more for it than working from scratch. You can also buy the materials yourself and follow your own schematic to build a metal barn - just make sure you do your homework first and take proper measurements, as metal is costly and mistakes can add up quickly.

    Wood Barns

    • The most challenging type of barn to build for a home project is a full wooden barn. This will take the most time, the most material, and the most forethought. A simple wooden shelter is very easy to construct, but an actual wooden barn takes some skill and patience. Again, be prepared with your materials. Have the lumber you will need on hand. Measure twice and cut once. Wood is not cheap, so use care and foresight when designing and building your barn. In addition, you will need to buy treated wood and then paint it to protect it from the elements. These can be very attractive structures, so if you are willing to do the work, it can be a real benefit to your property.