How to Build a Loafing Shed for Horses

Horses have existed for thousands of years without the help or influence of man, and in their wild state, are actually quite tough. But over time, as they have been tamed and selectively bred, horses have become much more fragile and in need of specialized care. While high-dollar show horses often require stalling and more expensive housing, for the average horse, a simple loafing shed can provide adequate protection from the elements and can be built by most owners--even those on a tight budget.

Things You'll Need

(4) 12-foot-long 4-by-4 posts
2-by-4 lumber pieces
Siding
Nails
Roofing Nails
Hammer
Concrete mix
Sand

Instructions

- 1
  Measure and mark the spots for the corner posts for your shed. The standard size loafing shed is at least 12 feet by 12 feet. Dig the post holes for your 4-by-4 pieces to a depth of 36 inches and stir up the concrete mix according to package directions. Set the posts in the holes in concrete, allowing 9 feet of the posts to remain above ground. The posts must set in the concrete for 72 hours.
- 2
  Build solid walls on three sides of the shed with the 2-by-4 pieces of lumber. Start about 4 inches from the ground and work up to the top of the posts, or leave a small gap at the top for ventilation. Create a basic frame for a roof at the top by nailing 2-by-4s from corner post to corner post on all four sides, which will give you a place to nail down your roof.
- 3
  Nail the front and back pieces of the siding to your roof framework, using standard nails and making sure you secure them well. Lay the siding pieces on in an overlapping pattern to encourage water runoff. Use roofing nails to attach the siding pieces to each other to increase roof stability. Siding can be corrugated metal, tin or plastic.
- 4
  Spread sand at least 6 inches deep on the shed floor, and check for sharp edges or exposed nails. It should now be ready to provide a dry place for your horse to get out of the elements.