Horse barns have evolved a great deal since the first-ever horse barn was built.

It is said that the world’s oldest horse stables were discovered in Egypt in 1304 BC. The barn was 182,986 square feet and could house over 480 horses.

Horse barns were constructed solely of wood and the floors were either cobblestone or brick.

Just like today, most stables had a hayloft and the interior was sectioned into stalls for each horse.

It was no surprise to see a small area of living quarters in a horse barn where the hired hands that tended to the horses would sleep.

Horses were treated like royalty back in those days since they were once the only means of transportation and were vital to the economy.

They were high-valued and extremely well-taken care of, so it was unlikely to find a horse barn that was less than perfect for these beautiful creatures.

Today, the styles of horse barns may have changed, but the love for our horses has not.

We want the absolute best for them, which means we’ll provide the absolute best roof above their heads with everything they could ever need inside.

In this blog, we’ll talk about the advantages of a post frame horse barn, and which Indiana post frame builder you can call to bring your equine dream to life.

Continue reading to see which post frame company is right for you.

What Is a Post Frame Horse Barn?

The terms “pole barn” and “post frame” are often used interchangeably and mean the same thing, for the most part.

When pole barns were first built, they got their name from the round poles that were driven into the ground.

In today’s industry, laminated columns or Perma columns, also known as posts, are now used in construction, hence the name post frame.

These posts are driven into the ground and secured by a precast concrete pad with uplift anchors. Columns support the roofing system, so no interior stud walls are needed.

Next, let’s take a look at some of the advantages of building a post frame equine barn as opposed to a traditional stick-built structure.

What Are the Advantages of Building a Post Frame Horse Barn?

There are numerous advantages when it comes to building a post frame style structure.

Below are just a few advantages you can expect when building your dream post frame horse barn:

1) Quick Construction Timeline

One of the many benefits of post frame construction is that it does not require as many materials as traditional stick-built construction does.

Because of this, your post frame horse barn can be constructed much quicker than a traditional wood barn could be.

Plus, advancements in the post frame construction industry have allowed building timelines to be cut even further.

One advancement is our QLYFT system, which allows our construction crews to finish the majority of the work on the ground before the building is lifted into position.

Since our crews are planted firmly on the ground, they can better focus on the quality of your building and not worry about losing their balance and sliding off.

QLYFT not only allows for higher-quality of workmanship, but it allows for much safer and more efficient construction of your equine pole barn and.

2) Exceptionally Energy-Efficient

When it comes to energy efficiency, post frame construction offers significant advantages.

Studs in stick-built barns are placed every 16’’ to 24’’ on center. These gaps allow less space for insulation, which creates room for heat transfer (loss). 

Whereas, pole barn columns are spaced 8’ or more apart. Long spans of fiberglass batts or spray foam insulation can be placed in-between posts, resulting in fewer breaks (or air leaks).

Not only will you cut down on utility costs, but your horses will be kept cool in summer and warm in winter.

3) Minimal Exterior Maintenance

Your main focus is on riding or training, so the last thing you want to worry about is constant maintenance and upkeep on your equine pole barn.

Post frame horse barns are extremely durable and can withstand almost anything that’s thrown it’s way.

The metal panels that side your pole barn and the metal panels that make up your roof are exceptionally sturdy and won’t require much upkeep.

TIP! If you have a horse that enjoys kicking and bucking, you can add 3 feet of plywood at the bottom to prevent the horse from kicking through the metal panels and requiring repairs, and to prevent your horse from injuring itself.

You’ll always want your post frame horse barn to look as good as new, which is easy with our Kynar-500 paint system.

This top-of-the-line paint easily withstands the sun and won’t fade under it’s harsh rays.

Kynar-500 paint is also resistant to chipping, eliminating the need to repaint panels every time a noticeable chip makes it’s appearance.

Quality materials produce a quality product, which means you can happily focus on your horses and not worry about constant maintenance on your equine pole barn.

4) Ample Design Options

For some, riding horses is a way of life and they enjoy competing and racing at events across the state or the country

For other riders, horses are a hobby and they enjoy leisurely rides on their property and the company that horses offer.

Riding styles vary, and because of this, so does the purpose and style of a horse barn.

Serious riders that like to compete might want an indoor riding arena where they can practice year-round in rain or shine conditions.

Hobby riders might not need the extra space for an indoor arena, so they’ll just need ample space for stalls to house their horses.

Other features that can be included in your post frame horse barn are as follows:

• Hayloft
• Tack room
• Viewing area
• Wash bay for the horses
• Office space
• Seating area/kitchen

To truly get a feel for what your equine pole barn can look like, don’t forget to check out our Design Online tool which allows you to design a pole barn the way you want.

This tool is completely free and helps you to see what your post frame horse barn can look like in 3D.

5) Outstanding Structural Longevity

As we mentioned before, quality materials create a quality product.

If your post frame horse barn is built correctly with structural integrity in mind, your pole barn will last 40-60 years to come.

Quality materials such as Kynar-500 paint, Perma-columns, and stainless-steel screws will keep your equine pole barn structurally sound and looking great.

The less time you have to spend calling a post frame repair crew for repairs on your horse barn, the more time you’ll have to spend riding your horses.

Which Pole Barn Companies Build Post Frame Equine Barns in Indiana?

We took the liberty of researching local post frame companies that build pole barns across the Hoosier State.

Based upon reviews, experience, and knowledge, we’ve narrowed down our list (in no particular order) to bring you the following post frame horse barn builders in Indiana.

Milmar Buildings

Based in northeastern Indiana, Milmar Buildings serves customers throughout the Midwest. They have years of experience building Amish-style pole building barns in Ohio and the surrounding region. They have stayed true to their roots, even with their impressive growth. Their customers know that they will get the best quality work at affordable prices.

Cleary Buildings

Since 1978, Cleary Building Corporation has sold over 114,000 buildings that include cabins, homes, and horse, farm, and commercial structures. They are located in Verona, WI, and are a national, family-owned company that prides themselves on putting their customers first.

FBi Buildings, Inc.

Located in Remington Indiana, FBi Buildings has a reputation as an industry trailblazer who stands behind integrity and excellence before, during, and after the sale. A family-owned company with innovative ideas, they have been in the post frame industry for over 60 years and continue to grow. Their current service area is Indiana, Illinois, Eastern Iowa, Southern/Western Michigan, Southern Wisconsin, and Ohio.

Morton Buildings

Morton Buildings has been serving its residential, agricultural, and commercial communities since 1965. This employee-owned company has over 100 construction centers throughout the country to assist you with both your building and repair needs. They also have eight manufacturing facilities where many of their building components are produced.

Pacemaker Buildings

Located in North Webster, IN, Pacemaker Buildings is a regional leader in designing, manufacturing, and constructing Post Frame Buildings for the Agricultural, Commercial, Equestrian, and Suburban Markets. By specializing exclusively in post frame construction for more than 39 years, Pacemaker Buildings has been able to perfect the art of crafting beautiful, durable, cost-effective structures that meet the needs of their clients.

Are You Ready To Build Your Post Frame Horse Barn?

Now that you’ve read about the top post frame equine builders in Indiana, are you ready to pick up the phone and get the ball rolling?

We understand the process can seem a bit daunting, especially if it’s your first time putting up a post frame building, but the good news is we’re here for you every step of the way.

Our post frame professionals are here to answer any and every question you might have about how the process looks and what you can expect when building.

Just give us a call when you’re ready for a quote and we’ll provide you with the necessary resources to construct your dream horse barn.

If you want to get an idea of what your vision will look like in real life, check out our Design Online Tool. You can virtually create your horse barn, virtual horse and hay bales included, to see your equine barn in 3D.

No matter how you choose to design your post frame horse barn, we’re certain you’ll love the result.

Just remember to always build with confidence.

Do you have more questions about post frame horse barns that aren’t covered in this article? If you need help designing and planning, please contact FBi Buildings at 800.552.2981 or click here to email us. If you’re ready to get a price, click here to request a quote, and a member of our Customer Engagement Team will determine the next steps of your project.