Barn Construction Basics

Know barn construction basics before designing your barn
By L. Newton Knowledge of barn construction basics are a must for any farmer. Barns are a common sight on most farms and serve multiple purposes. Barns house livestock, protect equipment from weather damage and store feed products and supplies. Some barns serve working purposes. Farmers use them for milking cattle, poultry farming, and horse-breaking.
 

There are several factors to consider when deciding to build a barn on your farm. There are steel barns, metal barns, and wooden barns. Builders of barns should think about some of the following:

1. What purpose will your barn construction serve?

2. What type of barn do you wish to build?

3. Whom do you consult for barn construction companies?

Consider the type of material for your barn construction

Barns were once a construction primarily of wood. However, much barn construction today makes use of metal and steel. Many farmers who do the barn construction themselves choose wooden frame barns with metal sides or roof. Farmers who have land with timber can use their own wood to cut down costs. Supplies for wooden barn construction are also more readily available to farmers. If you plan to hire barn builders to construct your barn, you may prefer a steel frame and metal sides and roof. Steel is stronger and more weather-resistant.
Try: General Steel Barn Building offers some benefits of building a steel barn. Old House Web discusses the various styles of barns.

Determine the size for your barn design and construction based on its purpose

If you plan to use your barn to store large equipment, you will a need a tall barn with open space inside. If your barn will be used for milking, pig farming, or chicken farming, the height will need to be shorter and the length of the barn longer. Some barns have an upstairs, called a loft, for storing hay, feeds, and supplies. Barn designers help create a barn perfect for your needs.
Try: Barns Barns Barns sells barn floor plans and offers pictures of barns. Stable Wise discusses a safe barn layout for horses.

Choose amenities that you want added to your barn construction

Some farmers need a barn with more than just four walls. A basic barn is good for housing large equipment. However, determine if you need more. Horse barns need stalls for the horses and rooms for storing tack. Horse owners will want to consider adding saddle hangers and riding circle inside the barn. Poultry and milk barns will need to meet certain specifications set up by the company that buys your products. You will need egg and milk housing areas. If you have hired help, consider a break room and restroom. In addition to physical amenities, think about adding components such as electricity, telephone lines, heating, and cooling. It is easier to add these during the barn construction than later.
Try: Extension.org discusses amenities for a horse barn. Hobby Farms gives you a look into the ideal barn.

• Before making your barn design and construction decisions, visit barns that serve your desired purpose. Look at a variety of barn layouts. Choose the things that you like best about each and incorporate them into your barn.