Discover the Best Horse Barn Designs for Your Horses

Choosing the right horse barn is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your horses.

At Double D Trailers, our mission is simple: ensure the safety and well-being of your horses. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality products and solutions that align with our commitment to equine safety. This dedication extends beyond our horse trailers to include the best horse barn designs. Choosing the right horse barn is crucial for providing a safe and comfortable home for your horses. Horse barn designs vary greatly, each offering their own benefits as well as considerations. Before exploring the different types of horse barns available, it’s important to understand what factors that you should consider when making this significant decision. 

Buyers Checklist: Key Considerations When Choosing a Horse Barn

Budget

Begin by establishing a clear budget for your horse barn project. It's essential to account not only for the initial construction costs but also for the ongoing maintenance expenses over the years. This comprehensive approach ensures that your investment remains viable and sustainable in the long term.

Space Requirements

Determine the number of horses you plan to house and calculate the space each horse will require, both for their comfort and safety. It's also wise to consider potential future expansion—whether you might need additional stalls or storage space down the road—so your barn can grow with your needs.

Climate

Evaluate the climate in your region when selecting your barn’s materials. Different materials provide varying levels of insulation, weather resistance, and durability. For instance, metal barns are ideal for regions prone to harsh weather conditions due to their resilience against temperature fluctuations and severe weather events.

Maintenance

Assess how much time and effort you’re prepared to invest in maintaining your barn. Some materials, like wood, require regular upkeep such as painting and treating, while others, like metal, offer a more maintenance-free experience. Your choice will impact the barn’s longevity and your peace of mind.

Safety

Safety should be a top priority when choosing a barn. Focus on features such as fire resistance, structural integrity, and pest protection. For instance, metal barns are non-combustible and offer robust protection against pests and environmental hazards, making them a safer choice for your horses.

Aesthetic Preferences 

Consider the aesthetic appeal of your barn, as it will be a prominent feature on your property. Some materials and barn styles provide more flexibility in customization, allowing you to match the barn’s design to your personal taste and the overall look of your property. Whether you prefer a traditional wooden look or a sleek, modern metal design, there’s an option that will fit your vision.

Environmental Impact

Reflect on the environmental impact of your chosen materials. Opting for sustainable and recyclable materials, such as steel, not only minimizes your ecological footprint but also ensures that your barn is contributing positively to the environment. Additionally, the durability of materials like metal means fewer resources are needed for repairs and replacements over time.

Local Building Codes

Always verify local regulations and building codes before finalizing your barn design. These regulations can influence the materials you choose, the size of your barn, and even its placement on your property. Ensuring compliance with these codes from the outset can prevent costly changes down the line.

Traditional Horse Barn Options

Wooden Barns

Wooden horse barns have been the cornerstone of equestrian architecture for centuries, celebrated for their timeless beauty and natural warmth. The versatility of wood allows for extensive customization, accommodating a wide range of styles and functional needs. Whether you’re aiming for a classic barn design or something more rustic, wooden barns offer the flexibility to bring your vision to life.

Pros:

• Aesthetic appeal
• Customization options
• Good insulation properties

Cons:

• Higher maintenance
• Susceptible to fire and pests 

Modular Barns

Modular barns are the epitome of convenience and flexibility. Pre-fabricated in sections and assembled on-site, these barns reduce construction time and can be more cost-effective than traditional builds. They are an excellent choice for those looking for a quick, efficient, and budget-friendly solution that doesn’t sacrifice quality.

Pros:

• Quick assembly
• Cost effective
• Expandable design for future growth

Cons:

• Limited customization
• Potentially less durable 

Fabric Barns

Fabric barns, also known as tension fabric structures, offer a unique and cost-effective alternative to traditional barn materials. These barns consist of a robust steel frame covered with high-quality, durable fabric. They are lightweight, easy to install, and provide excellent ventilation, making them a practical choice for specific climates or temporary setups.

(Fabric Horse Barn.)

Pros:

• Lower initial cost
• Easy to install
• Good ventilation

Cons:

• Shorter lifespan
• Limited insulation

The Rise of Metal Horse Barns

Metal horse barns are rapidly becoming the go-to choice for equestrians who prioritize durability, safety, and low maintenance. According to a recent survey we conducted, horse owners are choosing metal barns for three primary reasons: their unparalleled longevity, minimal upkeep requirements, and superior safety features. These barns are constructed from high-quality galvanized steel, ensuring a strong, long-lasting structure that comes with a 20-year rust-through warranty.

But the benefits don’t stop there.

5 Main Benefits of Metal Horse Barns

1. Durability and Longevity

Metal horse barns are built to withstand the test of time, enduring harsh weather conditions and wear that would quickly deteriorate other materials. Unlike wooden barns, which are vulnerable to pests, rot, and fire, metal barns offer a resilient structure that ensures your horses remain safe in virtually any environment. Whether you're dealing with the intense heat of summer, heavy snow in winter, or the threat of wildfires, a metal barn stands strong, providing peace of mind that your horses are protected.

2. Low Maintenance Requirements

One of the standout advantages of metal barns is their low maintenance needs. While wooden barns require regular treatments, repairs, and constant vigilance against pests, metal barns demand minimal upkeep. The galvanized steel used in our barns resists rust, corrosion, and the wear-and-tear that other materials suffer from. This not only saves you time but also money in the long run—allowing you to focus more on enjoying time with your horses rather than worrying about barn maintenance.

3. Safety

Safety is paramount when it comes to housing your horses, and metal barns excel in this area. Metal barns are non-combustible, providing a critical layer of protection against fires—a significant concern for many horse owners. Additionally, the sturdy construction of metal barns ensures they can withstand external impacts, further safeguarding your horses from potential harm.

4. Cost-Effectiveness

While the initial investment in a metal barn may be higher compared to some other options, the long-term savings are substantial. The reduced need for repairs, combined with the barn’s longevity, makes metal barns a cost-effective choice. Over time, the savings on maintenance and repairs can far outweigh the initial costs, making metal barns not just a safe and durable option, but a financially sound one as well.

5. Customization and Design Flexibility

Modern metal horse barns offer a level of customization that allows you to tailor the structure to your exact needs. Whether you require specific stall layouts for different horse sizes, integrated storage solutions, or particular ventilation systems, metal barns can be designed to meet your requirements. The flexibility in design means you can choose from a traditional barn aesthetic or opt for a more contemporary look, ensuring that your barn not only meets functional needs but also aligns with your personal style. The possibilities are truly endless—from the placement of doors and windows to the color and finish of the exterior, your barn can be as unique as your vision.

Why Metal Horse Barns are A Smarter Choice

Environmental Considerations

In an era where sustainability is increasingly important, metal horse barns stand out as an eco-friendly option. The materials used in these barns are often recyclable, significantly reducing their environmental impact. Moreover, the durability of metal barns means fewer resources are needed for repairs and replacements over time, making them a greener choice for environmentally conscious horse owners.

Safety and Comfort for Horses

Beyond durability and cost-effectiveness, metal barns provide a safe and comfortable environment for your horses. The robust construction offers superior protection from external elements, while modern ventilation systems can be integrated to maintain a healthy atmosphere inside the barn. Proper ventilation is crucial for preventing respiratory issues in horses, and metal barns can be designed to optimize air flow, keeping your horses comfortable year-round.

Endorsement of a Trusted Manufacturer 

At Double D Trailers, we are proud to partner with a reputable metal building company owned by Austin Howard. Austin is not only a trusted family friend, but also extremely knowledgeable in the field. Customers will have the opportunity to work with Austin directly and utilize his online 3D builder tool to customize their horse barn to meet their specific needs.

Your Dream Metal Horse Barn Starts Here

When considering the price, the average cost for a metal horse barn installed on your property ranges from $15,000 - $30,000. This price includes the barn itself but not the stalls, which are chosen and installed separately. 

By partnering with an expert like Austin, Double D Trailers ensures that you receive a high-quality, customized metal horse barn that meets all your requirements and provides a safe and comfortable environment for your horses. Get started now!

Austin says, “I have always been passionate about building structures that stand the test of time. Expanding into horse barns is exciting for me because it combines my expertise in metal buildings with my love for creating safe, reliable spaces for animals. Working with Double D Trailers allows me to bring my knowledge and passion to a new audience, helping horse owners design barns that truly meet their needs.”  

ABOVE: Austin and his dog Finn enjoying a beach day!

Image Source:

Fabric Horse Barn. (n.d.). GC Fabric Buildings. https://www.gcfabricbuildings.com/assets/images/Uses/Horse-Arena/equestrian-barns-horse-arena-builders-near-me-3.jpg