Necessary Upgrades You Should Make To Your Horse Farm

Maintenance and upgrades are key on a horse farm. If you have an especially old property, this task may be a bit daunting. For many horse ranches, these tasks are not only expensive but physically demanding. Many farm owners even spend their entire lives maintaining the integrity of their farm.

A functional space that keeps your horses healthy with a good resale value requires sacrifice. However, with the right information, maintenance doesn’t need to be a taxing chore. Instead, you can have the farm of your dreams in little to no time.

Repair Existing Damage

Before you even begin to think about upgrades, you need to evaluate damages. Take a long, detailed tour of your entire farm and make a list of exactly which areas need repairs. Keep in mind that most damage may not even be visible. However, you may be able to hear it. Ignoring sounds on your property like hissing behind outlets could lead to an electrical fire. Scratching noises in the walls could mean a pest infestation.

If you need help identifying what to look for, then a list of common barn repairs will start you on the right track. For instance, in older barns, the roof can tend to sag or leak, which could cause it to fall through entirely. You should also inspect potential damage in the rafters, which can often suffer due to water damage.

Those with older properties built before the 1980s may also face the threat of asbestos. This dangerous chemical was part of many building materials in the past. What makes it dangerous is the fact that fibers can get stuck in the lungs of people and animals alike. Since asbestos is hard to find, the damage is often caught too late. Common effects of asbestos include lung cancer and mesothelioma. If you have an older farm, it is highly recommended that you look out for this deadly chemical.

Upgrades

Now that you have fixed any underlying issues, it is time to think about upgrades. By adding some fancy additions to your property, you can make it more user friendly and attract potential buyers. You can start by installing hooks and shelves around horse stalls that can easily hold various equipment. You can also create an extra separate space to hold larger items like wheelbarrows and cleaning supplies.

An awesome upgrade that will impress any potential buyer is an automatic watering device. Horses drink up to 5-10 gallons of water a day, so easy access is key for their health. The device is also cost-effective due to its water conservation. It only provides as much liquid as the horse needs at a time. They are usually easy to install, and with a warranty, maintenance is a breeze.

Along with your waterer, consider installing new flooring in your horse barn. One of the most popular flooring options among farm owners is porous asphalt. This option, among others, will provide many benefits. For one, you are creating a non-slip surface, which is safer for you and horses with shoes. On top of that, a flat floor is easier to clean than bare earth. Add a drain or two, and that excess standing water will no longer be an issue. If budget is an issue, calculate the square footage of the areas you want to refloor to determine which type of flooring will be best for your animals and as well as your wallet.

Horse Health Considerations

While many upgrades will increase the real estate value of your property, you also need to keep your horse’s health in mind. There are many upgrades you can make that will resolve both of those needs. For starters, look at the condition of your stables and necessary areas of improvement. Your stalls should be at least 10-by-10 feet. This will allow your horses to move, roll, and turn without the danger of hitting a wall. The larger the stall, the happier the horse.

Next, think about proper ventilation. This is just one factor in proper air quality, but the more fresh air available, the better. Fresh air is good for the horse’s lungs and will prevent the accumulation of polluting gases like carbon dioxide. To provide this ventilation, you will want plenty of windows. Add bars to keep the horse safely inside, but make sure they are narrow enough so the horse cannot get its head stuck.

To ensure the health of your animals, it is best to have a separate area for new or sick horses, so they can quarantine. Add to the value of your property by creating a separate infirmary area where the sick horses can recover. You can even build this separate area within your barn as a cheaper alternative. Make this area secure and easy to clean in any case to ensure the safety of all of your horses.

If you love your horses, then it is only right to give them an environment where they can thrive. Make the necessary repairs and upgrades, and you can provide that care and have a farm you will be proud to own.