News

Thanks to technology, you now have some amazing options when it comes to how you choose to construct your barn. Just think - for generations, wood has been the default material for barn construction. But now, steel has become the superior building material choice for barns.

Not only does a VersaTube steel barn provide a safe and lasting structure for your equine guests, it’s also a project you can complete in just a few days that will last for years to come.

Having the initiative to build your barn with steel is remarkable. Engineered to stand the test of time, VersaTube steel barns are immune to wood decay and warping, and resistant to common wood-barn pests, mold and fungus. The strength of steel also decreases the general aging, wear and tear you would see in a wood barn.

As you begin your barn planning process, here are 6 things to keep your eye on:

1)      Customization: VersaTube takes pride in the fact that everyhorse barn is fully customizable. To get started, jot down your current needs. How many horses do you have? Will the number of horses stay consistent over time or would you like to add to your herd? Will you be boarding horses? What equipment will you need to house in the barn? Is there a need for additional office space or other specialized areas? Planning ahead will ensure that your design not only meets today’s needs, but also allows you to expand as you desire.

2)      Stall and Aisle Space: As you know, there’s always movement within a barn. From feeding and mucking to transporting horses, your stalls and aisles will be a hive of activity. Depending on the size of your horses, consider maximizing the stall and aisle space. Although standard stall space may be 12 x 12, adding a few extra feet to both the stalls and aisle can offer both safety and convenience. Also, an in-house washing and grooming stall will provide ease of use for you and your horses. All of these additions bode well for the usability of your barn, as well as the increase to your property value.

3)      Natural Light and Electricity: A brightly lit barn with enough electrical and natural light is a pleasure to work in. Adding Dutch doors to your stalls is an excellent option for increasing natural light during daylight hours when the weather is pleasant. Skylights and windows are also an option for increasing natural light. Electrically lighting the stalls and aisles will come in handy during the evening hours and winter months.

4)      Air Circulation and Ventilation: Good air circulation and ventilation within your barn should be part of your site planning for equine health and wellbeing. Take into consideration the direction of spring and winter winds. Your barn should be situated to avoid strong wind currents and drafts down the center aisle. Rotate your barn about 45 degrees away from prevailing winds to distribute air flow evenly; to buffer the winter wind and catch the pleasant summer breeze. Good air circulation and ventilation will provide a pleasant atmosphere for horses, owners and guests.

5)      Plumbing and Sprinkler System: Assess your water needs. Would you like in-stall watering and water run to a washing/grooming stall? Is a sprinkler system to protect your animals and your equipment a top priority? Write down the necessary water arrangements for use within and around your barn.

6)      Tack Room and Storage: Whether you are in need of a tack room or hay loft, plan ahead for additional storage. Over the years, a horse barn is sure to accumulate many treasures. Having the ability to store everything you need for your horses within your barn will make the care and enjoyment of your stock trouble-free.

 VersaTube’s Highlander Series DIY steel horse barn kit offers the ultimate in safety, comfort and protection for your precious investment – your horses. It features a traditional center-aisle-with-wings design with roomy interior space ready for your finishing choices. Assembly is simple enough that our barn kits can be constructed with some household tools and a few buddies. Assembly time is drastically reduced with the pre-cut frame components and patented Slip-Fit frame connections.

Another option: Design your custom steel barn with one of VersaTube’s engineers. You will find the expert advice an incomparable asset as the barn of your dreams becomes a reality.

Questions? We’re just a phone call away. Call us today at 1-888-217-0891 to speak with a VersaTube expert. In no time, you will be up and running and your horses will have prime living quarters in their new VersaTube steel barn.