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Action Sheds Australia Reminds Horse Owners: Be Careful When Selecting a Horse Barn

Announcement posted by Action Sheds Australia 25 Nov 2013

Leading provider of barns and stables in Perth reveals important design considerations to keep horses safe, healthy and comfortable.
Perth, WA, November 25, 2013 - Recently, Action Sheds Australia published a blog post containing what they consider to be essential design considerations for horse barns and stables. They used feedback from numerous customers in the Perth area and the opinions of industry professionals to provide a list of factors that they feel cannot be ignored or neglected when deciding on a barn or stable design.

Placing a Barn

The placement of a barn and stables on a property is very important. If the barn is positioned correctly, it can help the owner control the environment and make it safer and healthier for the horses. Prevailing seasonal winds should be taken into consideration, as should the barn's orientation to the sun.

In the hot Perth climate, the barn should be positioned so that indirect sunlight gets in but direct sunlight should be shaded or blocked.

First Impressions Count

The appearance of a barn and stables projects an image to visitors. Professional breeders, for example, should try to project an air of prosperity. This can be done by the quality of fittings, finish and architectural style of the barn.

Ventilation is Crucial

A horse barn or stable must have adequate ventilation to keep the animals and those who work in the barn healthy. Horses and people alike can develop respiratory problems in a barn that doesn't have sufficient ventilation. Bacteria, fungus, dust and chemical odours can cause “stale” air to become a health risk.

Action Sheds Australia recommends a ridge vent along the peak of the roof and a pitch of 45 degrees, meaning that for every 2 units of length, the roof rises one unit in height, allowing maximum ventilation.

In addition, it is recommended that there is a door opening out on every stall. Full view doors are recommended because they provide better ventilation and allow for more indirect sunlight.

Floors

The most popular of contemporary flooring products is popcorn asphalt. It is durable and has superior drainage characteristics. For wash and veterinary areas, rubber bricks are recommended due to durability and the fact that they sanitise easily.

Fire Safety

The average barn has a lot of combustible materials. Paint, petrol, equipment and electrical wiring can all be fire hazards. Wood products should be treated with a flame-retardant coating and bulk hay, which is very flammable, should not be stored in a barn.

Size is Important

It is recommended that anyone considering a new barn or stable gives careful consideration to the size, making sure that the barn is large enough for their needs. The general feedback is that there is no such thing as a barn that is too large.

Quality of Materials

According to most in the industry, horse barns and stables should be built of the strongest materials to ensure maximum safety and durability.

Max Italiano, owner of Action Sheds Australia, has provided numerous barns and stables to horse owners in the Perth area. According to Mr Italiano, “A new barn or stable is a huge investment. Our most satisfied customers are the ones who were the most thorough in the selection process. In other words, you should get it right the first time because your horses deserve nothing but the best.”

Action Sheds Australia provides barns, stables and sheds to Perth and surrounding areas. They provide an extensive range of customisation options for commercial, residential and agricultural applications. For more information, call 1300 778 628 or visit their website: http://www.actionsheds.com.au/.