Horse Barn Knowledge
what you should know before your decide to build
Not all builders are the same, so the first order of business is to check a firm’s references. When you work with Custom Barns we provide an extensive reference list and we take you to see a few barn sites so you can examine our work.
Custom Barns has been building barns for years and we’ve worked hard to ensure that every single customer is totally satisfied.
Next, follow along through the following statements and use this information to truly evaluate whether a custom barn is right for your location and your needs.
- Our post and beam construction approach is often much more of an investment than basic construction. While this is appropriate for some budgets, there are some people who just want the look of a barn but don’t need the sturdy and robust techniques we provide.
- Often, the cost of hiring a builder can be more expensive than purchasing a barn kit and having a contractor put your barn up. See our kits and plans at the Custom Barns’ online store.
- Is your location appropriate for a custom barn or riding facility? We will not undertake a project if your terrain isn’t graded properly to support a barn or dressage arena.
[I want to break this up right here. Above is getting to a decision where you do or don't want a builder. Below, is helping us choose a builder. So, this text should be something with the feel of 'If you've decided to go ahead and hire a "Horse Barn Builder", you'll want to make sure you're hiring someone with experience dealing with horses. Make sure the builders you talk to seem knowledgeable on the topic. Below are some basic questions to ask."]
- A horse barn is far different from a storage barn or garage. Realize that if Custom Barns builds a horse barn for you, it will be optimized for use as a stable, tack and horse living quarters. If all you need is a storage barn for vehicles or belongings, we’re not the company you need.
- There are many issues affecting safety ranging from drainage to hay storage. Experienced horse people know that hay storage needs to be vented and riding rings and stalls need the proper amount of space to keep a horse happy. We design our barns to take this into account, so even if we aren’t the firm you decide to hire, make sure that any contractor or builder knows how to safely build a barn.
- Also know that tack and feed rooms need to be climate-controlled so tack does not get ruined. And you should already know that horses can overheat indoors even in winter, so proper living quarters’ ventilation is vital.
- [Does this fit here?] As a horse owner, you know that these majestic creatures have specific needs that a standard carpenter or builder isn’t going to know. We grew up around horses and know exactly what it takes to make a horse happy and keep a horse safe.
- Local building codes can be tricky. Depending on your town or city, there may or may not be laws that govern miscellaneous or livestock use buildings. Be sure that you explore these requirements before you start a barn or dressage arena project.
Overall, just ask questions until you’re satisfied that the builder you’re about to contract with is right for your custom barn. If you have any doubt, sit back for a second and think about the fact that you’re buying a relationship and a structure that is going to last generations. Also realize that a custom barn can be a large financial investment. It’s worth every penny, but as we’ve said before, we want you to be satisfied--forever.
At Custom Barns, we prefer to work with an educated consumer. After you’ve read all these pointers, take a moment to consider if our approach matches your needs. Then contact us if you have more questions. It’s in everyone’s best interest that you know what’s best for you, your property, your location and your horses.