Instuctions on How to a Build a Horse Shelter

Horses have existed for thousands of years without the benefit of human structures to shelter them. A horse's needs are simple: a place out of the wind, rain and hot sun is perfectly acceptable for most equines. Horses do not need expensive or fancy stalls and barns. A basic shelter can provide them with adequate protection from the elements.

Things You'll Need

  • 4 4-by-4-inch posts, 12 feet long
  • Cement
  • 2-by-4-inch lumber pieces
  • Sand
  • Nails
  • Siding (corrugated metal or plastic)
  • Post-hole digger or auger
  • Roofing nails
  • Hammer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure out the building and mark the corners. A standard shelter will be 12 by 12 feet and at least 10 feet tall.

    • 2

      Dig holes for the corners posts to a depth of at least 3 feet. Set the corner posts in cement and allow them to set for at least 72 hours.

    • 3

      Nail the 2-by-4 lumber pieces into the corners posts from the ground to the top of the posts, creating walls on three sides of the shelter.

    • 4

      Nail 2-by-4s face down to the top of each corner post on all four sides. This is creating a basic framework for your roofing.

    • 5

      Attach the siding to the roofing frame, nailing each end of the siding securely to the 2-by-4 lumber pieces. As you attach each siding piece, overlap them by a few inches to discourage leaks. Use roofing nails to attach the siding pieces to each other.

    • 6

      Smooth any rough edges and check for sharp points or nails sticking out. Finally, spread sand inside the shelter to create a dry area for your horse to stand and lie down in.