7 min read
March 24, 2025

Read This Before Buying an Animal Shelter (Loafing Shed) for Your Horses or Livestock

If you’re looking for a durable and well-built shelter for your horses or livestock, an animal shelter (also known as a loafing shed) is an excellent option. These structures provide essential protection from harsh weather, giving your animals a safe and comfortable space to escape from the elements. But before you make a decision, here’s everything you need to know about our loafing sheds, including their standard features, specifications, and available upgrade options.

Standard Features of Our Animal Shelters

Our loafing sheds are built with high-quality materials designed to withstand the elements and keep your animals safe. Every animal shelter we build comes with:

Floor

  • Treated 4x6 Band Board – Ensures a solid and long-lasting foundation.
  • Four Pin Anchors – Provides stability and helps secure the structure in place.

Walls

  • 8FT Back Wall – Offers ample height and durability.
  • 8FT Front Entrance Height – Provides easy access for animals and equipment.
  • 2x4 Wall Studs 24" On Center – Built to withstand wear and tear while ensuring structural integrity.
  • Treated 4x6 Front Posts – Extra durability for long-term use.
  • 29g Metal Siding / LP Smart Side – Choose between durable metal siding or LP Smart Siding, which allows for more color customization.

Roof

  • SaltBox Roofline – A practical and aesthetically pleasing design that improves water runoff.
  • 40 Year Metal Roof – Long-lasting protection against harsh weather conditions.
  • Open Front Design – Allows animals to enter and exit freely while still providing ample protection from wind, rain, and sun.
  • 2x6 Kick Boards – Standard along the interior lower walls, these boards protect both the structure and your animals from damage.
  • High Wind Resistance – Our shelters are designed to stay put in strong winds when properly anchored.

Upgrade Options for Customization

We understand that every farm or ranch has unique needs, so we offer several customization options to enhance the functionality of your animal shelter.

1. Tack Room Addition

A tack room is a great option if you need storage space for feed, tools, or equipment. These rooms are available in widths of 4, 6, and 8 feet, and the space is taken from the interior of the shelter. You can choose to place the tack room at one side or centered in the building. Additionally, you can select your preferred barn door style for access.

2. Stall Divider Walls

If you need to separate animals, our stall divider walls are an excellent upgrade. These walls are approximately 4 feet high and allow you to create individual stalls within your shelter to keep animals separate when needed.

3. Stall Gates

For added security, stall gates can be installed at the front openings to keep animals enclosed. These sturdy metal gates ensure your horses or livestock stay safe inside when necessary.

4. Siding Options: LP Smart Siding vs. Metal Siding

We offer two siding options to suit your needs and preferences:

  • LP Smart Siding: Offers a more traditional wooden look and can be painted in a variety of colors.
  • Metal Siding: A low-maintenance, highly durable option that provides excellent protection against the elements.

5. Solid Plywood Kick Boards

While our standard kick boards are made from 2x6 lumber, you have the option to upgrade to solid plywood kick boards for a seamless and extra-durable interior.

Why Choose Eagle Ridge Barn Builders?

When investing in an animal shelter, you want a structure that’s built to last. At Eagle Ridge Barn Builders, we take pride in our craftsmanship, durability, and customer satisfaction. We offer high-quality materials, expert construction, and customization options to ensure you get a shelter that meets your exact needs.

  • Built to Last – Quality materials and expert construction mean your shelter will withstand years of use.
  • Customization Options – Choose upgrades that make sense for your specific needs.
  • Hassle-Free Delivery – We deliver and set up your shelter for you, ensuring a smooth installation process.

Get a Quote Today!

If you’re interested in purchasing a loafing shed for your horses or livestock, we’d love to help! Visit our Animal Shelter Page here