11-Horse Barn “Must Haves” for Your 2021 Farm Plan

When you are living the equestrian lifestyle, a barn is not an option it is a necessity. In addition, there are multiple elements to include in your construction. Things like flooring and wash areas are all vital and not a luxury if you and the ponies are going to be happy. In this week’s article, we do a deeper dive with  you must include. Here are 11-horse barn “Must Haves” for your 2021 farm plan.

Layout Your Ideas for the Architect

Whether you’re planning a wood or pole barn construction, it is key to start from the ground up. Meaning cement flooring is not always the best solution to your animal’s comfort or safety. There are plenty of resources on the Internet for you to get ideas for layouts and stable arrangements to help you or the architect. You’ll need to include other important elements in the design like: 

• Width of Walkway 
• Feed & Hay Storage
• Manure 
• Bedding or 
• Tack 

Once you have a solid plan down, it helps to shop for a contractor or someone who is skilled in building these types of structures. 

Flooring Makes the Cut for 11-Horse Barn Must Haves for 2021

Next, flooring extremely important to making a horse comfortable. Rubber mats, asphalt and clay are all fair materials with asphalt being one of most popular for both men and animal. Builders will suggest the fancier products like brick pavers to be on the outside of the stall like in the aisles. Be sure to avoid sand to stay away from messes. Small gravel is also highly recommended if they made it of limestone or granite. Use it as a base for the rubber mats and it should be suitable. Remember, to always select materials that are weather-resistant or proof. 

Indoor Riding Arenas Should Be Included in Your Farm Plans

Indoor riding or arenas are a viable asset when owning horses. Northern Colorado is also a place that sees some brutal winters where your animal will want to stretch if they aren’t in the pasture. Don’t forget to include the arena in your plans even if it is a smaller one. Also, arenas make a good training facility for both you and your pony. 

Hot Tub in the Tack Room is Just What You Need After a Day of Riding

Install a hot tub in the tack room for a pleasant way to unwind after a long ride. Muscles become sore for both the animals and people where soaking in a jacuzzi is a good way to unwind even in the middle of winter. The tack room is a nice place for this type of luxury spa because the heat and humidity from the hot water relieves leather saddle, helps add moisture back in the dry Colorado air. Many reasons this is a ‘must have’ for any barn. 

Storage Areas are a Must for Any Barn

Upgrade your hay storage area to be more efficient and stylish. An excellent way to improve this area is using concrete flooring with a pole barn made of galvanized steel. Remember to include a draining system and do not attach this to the horse’s barn in the event of a fire. It is also imperative to keep this area clean since they use hay for both food and bedding. In addition, be sure this is a well-ventilated area free of weather issues. 

You Need an Automatic Waterer System in the Pasture

Put in an automatic waterer system for horses on pasture 6 or any part of your property where you think the ponies and adults are going to need to hydrate. With today’s innovative solutions, you can find automatic heated and non-heated waterers that are energy efficient. Be sure these items are secure so the larger horses cannot mess with them. 

Replace Your Exterior Doors for Energy Efficiency

Replace all exterior doors with energy-efficient ones that will save you money on heating bills. We can’t stress the importance of this enough, as it will be more cost-effective in raising livestock and equestrians. 

Another ‘Must Have’ is Second Story Living Quarters 

Second story living quarters are yet another way to spruce up your barn ideas. There are several reasons a second story just makes sense. They can use these areas for offices, viewing or a place for guests. Add windows and a deck overlook to watch your favorite pet in action. You’ll be ever so happy you included this add-on! 

Do You Have a Horse Run Shed for Bad Weather Days?

Horse run sheds are vital for Northern Colorado since our weather is constantly changing. When living in the mountains, a horse shed is going to get your babies out of scorching sun or away from poor weather. The difference with this type of element; unlike barns, we can easily move them to other locations. 

No Barn Should be without a Wash Stall Area

Don’t forget the wash stall area if you want to prevent tracking dirt and mud into your living quarters. The wash stall should include a place to wash down your horse with a hose to cool them off. Get crazy with this part, as there are no limits. 

Spruce it up with a Juice or Coffee Bar 

Just imagine coming back from a long run or teaching Trigger to jump fences and how nice it will be to relax with a hot coffee or fresh smoothie. Juice and coffee bars are becoming more popular among our equestrian clients. If you’re feeling a nip of a good bourbon is more suitable, then turn a section of your barn into a lounge area. Add couches, some music and both you and the horse can rest till next time. 

Windows for Ventilation & Socializing

Horses can be very interactive with both people and other animals. Moreover, a barn needs to have excellent ventilation for people and non-humans. Barns with windows provided needed natural lighting in a healthier environment for your investments. Add window grills to allow the horse to look out without allowing unwanted visitors indoors. Either way, this is a horse barn feature you must include in your farm plan. 

We hope you enjoyed the 10-Horse Barn Must Haves for 2021 and are full of inspiration. In the meantime, reach out to our team for updates on “Soon to be available” equestrian estates and acreage. Visit: Contact – Real Estate In Northern Colorado and fill out the form for our team member to get in contact.

Until next time….