6 Popular Types of Horse Barn Structures - STABLE STYLE (2024)

6 Popular Types of Horse Barn Structures - STABLE STYLE (1)

When it comes to horse barns, there are countless design and building material options. However, there are only a handful of different types of structures. Read on to learn about the various horse barn types and how to decide what is best for your future barn. This helpful blog post is brought to you by American Stalls.

Post & Beam Barns

6 Popular Types of Horse Barn Structures - STABLE STYLE (2)

One of the most common barn structures is post and beam. It is also referred to as a pole barn, framed barn or panelized “prefabricated” barn. Popular on the East Coast, a post and beam barn is cost effective for several reasons. Usually the barn ispre-engineered for most land sites or not engineered at all.A pre-engineered building is a metal building that includes a structural frame and standard roof and wall support. Pre-engineered simply means that it is pre-built in a factory and then erected on the site. In contrast, a “non-engineered” barn would be where the builders use materials to build the structure onsite.

These barns are usually made with 6’x6’ or 4’x4’ timbers on 12’ or 14’ centers, covered using a single wall construction of tongue and groove lumber (T&G).

Often a general contractor can put up the shell and leave the remaining work to the builder which saves money.Luxury barn builders will go one step further when insulation is required. In these cases, the barn’s exterior will be framed with a sheer wall and a finished wall on the barn interior.

There is a little less flexibility with a post and beam barn. Wood is a great choice for these barns, but it’s important to acknowledge that these barns have a limited lifespan.This is because the wood needs to be protected from the horses who may chew, crib or eat the exposed edges. Column spacing limits what can be done with the barn’s interior which means this single use structure is limited by its configuration.

Panelized/Prefab Barns

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Above, a new prefab barn at True North Show Horses.

Panelized barns are also known as “prefab barns”. These barns kits are commonly sold under brand names and are often found in California, Oregon, Washington and Texas. Panelized barns are cost-effective structures that do the basic job of housing your horses. These structures can also be built quickly without much permit issues. That being said, sometimes these barns offer little to no flexibility for custom design options.

Framed Barns

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Above, a framed barn at Arbor Hill Stables.

Framed barnsprovide the most flexibility and functionality when it comes to post and beam construction, they are a more substantial version of a post and beam barn. These particular buildings are commonly used when there must be an upper story to the barn for an apartment, office, or other application.

Framed barns are built similarly to homes because they use a double wall construction. This construction allows for more architectural detail and creativity in building materials. The sky (and a client’s budget) is truly the limit in these buildings.

Clear Span Buildings – Steel & Wood

Clear span barns (both wood and steel) may or may not have a framed wall. They do use a truss to clear the span in the shorter side of the building. Trusses are usually one of three types: timber trusses, metal tube trusses or scissor trusses. These engineered buildings require experienced builders due to the need for a foundation.

Once permitted and the foundation is done, a clear span building can be built quickly offsite and “assembled” (bolted) together on the job site. In terms of budget, clear span buildings can be utilitarian – using inexpensive siding and roofing materials. They can also be extremely costly if you add stone walls, slate roofs, and steeper roof pitches.

Clear span steel barns are fantastic in terms of longevity since horses do not have places to chew.

Block Barns (CMU)

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CMU is commonly known as cinder block. Block or CMU barnsare becoming increasingly popular in geographies with warmer climates, prone to inclement weather. Block barns are very popular in Florida because of their strength against hurricanes and tropical storms.

CMU barns provide adurable structure that will last against the elements – including weather and horses’ day-to-day wear and tear. American Stalls recommends you to find a high-quality builder for any barn structure, but especially block barns. This is because there are certain details that need to be done right to ensure your barn is safe for your horses and built to last.

For example, some horse owners express concerns about the block’s hardness in stalls. Cinder block walls can be covered with padded rubber in the stalls. Additionally, block edges and corners must be either ground down or covered with a steel angle iron.

If you are considering a block barn, it’s important to let American Stalls know well in-advance to ensure there is sound communication between the builder, their team and the architect(s). This is to make sure the openings are accurate for the stalls, doors, partitions, windows and other components in the barn.

Indoor Arenas with Stabling

Covered or fully enclosed arenas are growing in popularity – especially in regions that have a harsher climate. Although you might have a barn in addition to the arena, it can be worth it to also plan limited stabling with the arena. Horse stalls can be installed off the arena’s long side or short side depending on your quantity needs. An indoor arena also offers flexibility as the side spaces can accommodate everything from stalls to office space to vehicle storage.

Do you need help with a barn project? Contact American Stalls at (855) 957-8255 or complete theirinquiry form. The American Stalls team is here to be a resource to help you build a barn that is elegant, safe, and built to last.

For even more helpful blog posts from American Stalls be sure to read Tips for Finding the Right Contractor for Your Barn,4 Tips for Designing a Safer Aisle for Your Horse Barn,The Benefits of Mesh Stall Frontsandon Stable Style.

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6 Popular Types of Horse Barn Structures - STABLE STYLE (6)

6 Popular Types of Horse Barn Structures - STABLE STYLE (2024)

FAQs

6 Popular Types of Horse Barn Structures - STABLE STYLE? ›

There are two main types of stables, traditional stabling and barn stabling.

What are the different types of horse stables? ›

There are two main types of stables, traditional stabling and barn stabling.

How big is a 5 stall barn? ›

5-Stall Horse Barn (36' X 30')

The center aisle barn design means that a large interior aisle has stalls coming off it on either side. This center aisle allows you to have a space to work with your horses in all weather conditions.

What are the different types of horse stall fronts? ›

  • Standard Stall Series. Our most economical stall front choice. ...
  • Rockwood Stall Series. Ideal for high-use training and boarding facilities. ...
  • Finish Line Stall Series. The go-to option for most Standardbred and Thoroughbred training centres. ...
  • Competition Stall Series.

What are the 4 different types of horses? ›

Classification of Horse Breeds

Horse breeds can be divided into four groups: light horses, draft horses, gaited horses, and ponies. Light horses are suited for riding and racing, draft horses for heavy work, gaited horses for smooth, long rides, and ponies are small yet strong and versatile.

Is a stable a type of barn? ›

Barns and stables are almost the same, but the two have some essential differences. For example, barns are typically used to store hay and other farm equipment, while stables are used to house horses and other livestock. Here are some other key differences to keep in mind.

What is the difference between a horse stable and a barn? ›

Generally speaking, a stable is a timber building that is used to house horses. A barn is also usually made of timber, but it is most often used to keep livestock, or to store machinery or equipment. There are instances where the two terms may be used interchangeably, so it is always worth specifying your design.

What is the cheapest way to build a horse barn? ›

The cheapest way to build a horse barn involves using cost-effective materials and simplified construction methods. Some cost-saving strategies include opting for a shed row-style barn. This has a simpler design and requires fewer materials compared to traditional barn styles.

What is the best housing for horses? ›

Open-sided or free-stall housing is good to use when you want to maintain horses in the open-air while providing protection from inclement weather. This type of system is used to house a group or horses that get along well with each other. Run-in sheds are often used.

Is a 10x10 stall big enough for a horse? ›

An average (15h) horse can be comfortable in a 10×12 or even a 10×10 stall. For a mare and foal, consider two normal horse stall height and size with a removable partition. If you need an odd size stall, like a 10×14 or 12×16, we can do it and it won't cost you anything extra.

What is a 5 bent barn? ›

A barn with five bents has four bays, etc. In stone barns the so-called end bay is the area between the last bent and the adjacent stone gable or end wall. Therefore, two end bays appear in these barns.

How tall should a horse stable be? ›

Thirty-six feet is a common building width (12' wide alley, flanked by 12' wide stalls on each side) and 10' for height. Length will depend on number of stalls, stall length, and additional rooms: tack room, wash bay, bathroom, lounge/office, and storage for feed, hay and equipment.

What is the best stall for a horse? ›

A 12 x 12 stall is the standard recommended size for horses that weigh in around 1000lbs. but 10 x 12 stalls can also work for horses of this size. Smaller horses, ponies, and miniature horses do well in stalls that are 10 x 10. Larger breeds may require 14 x 14 stalls or larger.

What is the difference between stalls and stables? ›

What is the difference between a stall and a stable? A stable is typically the structure where stalls are housed. Stalls are the individual spaces in the stable for the animals.

What is the door on a horse stall called? ›

Horse Barn Doors, Barn Doors, Dutch Doors, Barn Loft Doors | Classic Equine Equipment.

What are the 3 horse categories for breeds? ›

Horse breeds are loosely divided into three categories based on general temperament: spirited "hot bloods" with speed and endurance; "cold bloods," such as draft horses and some ponies, suitable for slow, heavy work; and "warmbloods," developed from crosses between hot bloods and cold bloods, often focusing on creating ...

What are the main types of horse enterprises? ›

Types of Equine Businesses
  • Breeding & Racing. Two equine business types that are generally the least profitable and riskiest ventures are breeding and racing. ...
  • Management. ...
  • Riding and Training. ...
  • Sales.
Nov 2, 2022

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