Stalls
Miniature horses are an economical alternative to their full size cousins. They are smaller, easier to keep and take up fewer resources, yet retain the beauty, elegance and nobility of their larger counterparts. This article will give you some tips on build a miniature horse barn.
Instructions
1. Begin with measuring for your barn. Stalls should measure a minimum of 6-by-6 feet, with 8-by-8 feet being a more suitable size. Make your measurements of the overall size of the barn based on these calculations. Height should be a minimum of 7 feet, with 10 feet being preferable to increase ventilation.
2. Mark the size of the barn and then create your pad. The pad is the area that the barn will sit on that is raised above the level of the surrounding earth. This creates drainage and flood-proofs the barn. Use the sand to raise your pad at least 18 inches above ground level. Any concrete should be measured and poured at this time. Concrete is recommended for any aisles you choose to include in your barn plan.
3. Stalls should be measured and posts sunk at the corners. Posts need to be sunk at least 2 feet into the ground and cemented securely. The framework of the barn should be completed, with the focus on making the barn sturdy to resist wind, weather and the animals themselves. Horses can be incredibly destructive.
4. The sides of the stalls should be boarded to the height of at least 3 feet with 2-by-4s to keep the horses from kicking through the siding. Once the framework has been completed, the siding can be applied. Be sure to overlap the siding to increase waterproofing.
5. The roof should be at an angle to encourage rainwater to drain away from the opening of the stalls. It should be made of metal or aluminum siding. Gates should be hung at the front of each stall, measuring at least 4-by-4 feet.
