{"id":1263,"date":"2021-02-25T23:08:25","date_gmt":"2021-02-25T23:08:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.horseproperties.net\/blog\/?p=1263"},"modified":"2021-02-25T23:08:25","modified_gmt":"2021-02-25T23:08:25","slug":"restoring-an-old-horse-barn","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.horseproperties.net\/blog\/restoring-an-old-horse-barn\/","title":{"rendered":"Tips for restoring an old horse barn"},"content":{"rendered":"

Looking at that old horse barn, it slowly starts becoming obvious that it has seen better days. Time flies by, the wear and tear start to show, and the years of heavy rain, snow, and baking summers don\u2019t forget to leave their mark. But now, while the construction still bravely defies gravity, it\u2019s time to set it to rights. Be it for a cosmetic update or radical renovation – we\u2019ve rounded up some tips for restoring an old horse barn that will help you give its four-hoofed lodgers a proper home.<\/p>\n

Structural soundness<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The primary purpose of your stabling system is to provide security and maintain wellbeing. Hence, the critical step of revitalizing a dilapidated horse barn is keeping it from falling down and restoring the building\u2019s original structural integrity<\/a> and soundness. It is well to remember that repairing any structural damage typically entails hiring an experienced contractor.<\/p>\n

Roofing<\/strong><\/h3>\n

A leaky roof is a considerable weak point: by ignoring it, you risk compromising everything from the foundation to the barn frame. Water infiltration is likely to cause significant moisture issues and, consequently, mold breeding and pest infestation. All of this poses a risk to you and your horses\u2019 health and safety.<\/p>\n

Contacting a professional roofer should help you decide whether you need a simple fix or a complete tear-off. If the latter, bear in mind that an increasing number of barn owners keep turning to steel panels for their longevity and ability to withstand harsh elements<\/em>. Although a bit pricey, this purchase is cost-effective because it will keep the animals inside safe and perfectly comfortable when the temperatures drop<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Foundation and drainage<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Foundation, the unsung hero of any building, supports the complete frame of the barn and keeps the groundwater out of your property. Consult a professional for a permanent solution for your foundation<\/em>, and don\u2019t waste money or time on other fixes until the central part is sound. Also, if there are any drainage issues, address them in order to avoid mud everywhere once the rain starts.<\/p>\n

Siding<\/strong><\/h3>\n

If the building\u2019s siding is too good of an indicator of its age, it\u2019s another sign that your old horse farm needs some restoration work. Weathered siding with holes or missing sections threatens the integrity of the structure<\/em> in its entirety. Therefore, painting and repair are essential for siding preservation. However, if not salvageable, an upgrade to a new, watertight siding will solve water infiltration. Typically, wood is preferable to metal, vertical lines to horizontal, and hardwoods to softwoods.<\/p>\n

Framing<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The decay of the structural beams is something to be especially mindful of when restoring an old horse barn. Any structural defects can be extremely hazardous and even cause an entire frame and roof to collapse. So, make sure to check sill timbers, their joints, as well as support posts, basement footings, rafters, ridge-beam, floor joists<\/em>. If you detect any splits, cracks, or any other weak points or problems that should indicate stresses on the structure or even cause its movement, intervention is needed ASAP. Also, look for insect infestation and damage, fungus growth, rotting wood, seek appropriate treatments.<\/p>\n

The repair on the inside<\/strong><\/h3>\n

As for the interior repair, you ought to think about updating the flooring, electrical work, and ventilation. Also, orchestrating separate tack, feed, and tool rooms will allow for a higher level of organization and practicality, which is an essential point of consideration when tackling this project. Besides, if each item has its place, it\u2019ll be easy to navigate when movers start delivering all of your equipment. When packing your tools and other barn items for the move, use the guidelines that zippyshelllouisiana.com<\/a> and other moving websites include in their blogs. This way, you\u2019ll make sure everything arrives in top-notch condition.<\/p>\n

Flooring<\/strong><\/h3>\n

When it comes to flooring, in older barns, you can usually find poured-cement aisles, and upon tackling your renovation project, you need to stay away from hard footing. Choosing softer kinds of flooring is an effective way to protect your horse from laminitis<\/a>. Concrete flooring is becoming less popular among horse owners, but an upgrade with solid drainable rubber matting<\/em> will make a big difference. It provides a non-skid surface with cushions that are gentle to the horses\u2019 joints. Plus, it\u2019s easy maintenance.<\/p>\n

Electrical work<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Contact a professional electrician and schedule the inspection of the barn\u2019s electrical work: they should examine the fuse box and wiring in your barn to see if there are any faulty electrical connections<\/em>. Of course, rodents chewing on electric cables can also create a hazard. Place new light fixtures in each stall, at least 8 feet high, and on the back wall instead of above the center to decrease shadows in the stalls.<\/p>\n

Ventilation<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Of course, everything is so much more pleasant with natural light. Open up the dark old barn by replacing the old windows with new wood-frame barn ones. If they\u2019re not at least 7 feet high, protect them with mesh or sturdy bars. But, besides letting in the daylight, windows to the outside are crucial for proper ventilation. A closed-up stale barn may cause moisture, as well as polluting gasses to build up<\/em> and cause respiratory issues for both you and the horses. Windows, eave openings, and a dome that allows airflow in and out of the barn contribute to proper ventilation, but be careful not to allow for cold air or drafts.<\/p>\n

Stalls<\/strong><\/h3>\n