Site Prep - Prebuilt Horse Barns or Run-In Sheds

All shed row barns and run-ins (loafing sheds) should start with a level pad of stone dust or other fine stone. Ideally, the pad should be 3” – 4” deep and 1' larger than the perimeter of the structure. For example: a 12’ x 36’ building would require a pad at least 13’ x 37'. Extending the pad will allow for better drainage around the base of the barn. Rain and/or snow melt dripping off the eaves will creates a muddy area and splashes up onto the barn siding. The stone dust base prevents this and extends the life of the building. We recommend stone dust rather than gravel because it is easier on your horse’s feet and will shift less as they move around over it.

To prepare the pad, remove the sod from an area slightly larger than the anticipated structure. Level the site by removing dirt where necessary, and spread the stone dust to a depth of about three or four inches. Using more "fill" to elevate or angle the pad slightly will improve drainage. To finish, tamp the stone dust down with a piece of 4x4, or metal tamper, until it is evenly distributed, flat and level.
A "frame" of pressure-treated 4x4's (railroad ties or cement block) will help keep the stone in place and create a neater appearance; however, it is not required.

After the barn or shed is in place many people like to backfill the interior with more stone dust or clay. Installing rubber mats over the fill will prevent damage from horses pawing or digging.

Because all our buildings have a pressure treated base, they may be set directly on the ground. Run-in sheds are more suited than barns to an unprepared base. There are no doors or windows to jam or stick should the building settle unevenly. Additionally, run-in sheds are often relocated within a pasture or to a different pasture. If this is the case, spending alot of time and money on site prep doesn't make sense. A dry, level spot will suffice.

However, if you plan on keeping your run-in shed in a permanent location, the stone dust base is a good idea. Horses can churn the inside of their shelter into mud in no time. A stone dust "floor" is less vulnerable to standing water and easier to maintain. Just add more gravel as needed.

Cement pillars, or other, more extensive, foundations are required by some municipalities. Check local regulations for guidelines. If using pillars, or "piers", we're happy to provide a diagram showing recommended placement and dimensions.

Finally, although our wooden prefab barns and run-in sheds are heavy and solidly built, consider tie-downs or an anchor kit for your peace of mind and your horse's safety. The standard built-in tow hooks make it a snap to tie down a building. We also sell anchor kits. Install it yourself or have us do it when we set up your building.