Agricultural Buildings in Pittsburgh: 10 Tips to Make Your Pole Barn Safe for Animals

Saturday, 11 November 2023 12:00

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Many small farm business owners require sturdy agricultural buildings in Pittsburgh to house their animals. Most prefer a pole building in Pittsburgh over other kinds of structures. If you are designing farm buildings in Pittsburgh, follow these tips to ensure they are safe for your horses, cows, goats, sheep, dogs, or anything else you may have inside.

Tip #1 – Build Wide Doorways

Agricultural buildings in Pittsburgh should have large entrances because animals, especially horses and cows, dislike narrow doors. Wide doorways make it easier for your animals to move in and out without feeling claustrophobic.

Tip #2 – Choose a Floor Fit for Your Animals – Agricultural Buildings in Pittsburgh

Carefully consider the type of floor you want to install. If it’s not suitable for your animals, they may slip and injure themselves. A concrete floor may be too slippery for horses and cows. Instead, opt for rubber mats or textured concrete to provide better grip. Dirt floors may hold excessive moisture and lead to hoof diseases.

Tip #3 – Install Adequate Ventilation – Agricultural Buildings in Pittsburgh

Proper ventilation is critical for agricultural buildings in Pittsburgh, especially those housing animals. It helps reduce the accumulation of ammonia from urine and manure, which can cause respiratory problems for your animals. Good ventilation also keeps the air fresh and free of dust and mold, improving overall air quality.

Tip #4 – Keep Your Building Well Lit

Animals need natural light just like humans do. Make sure your pole barn has enough windows and skylights to let in plenty of sunlight. If possible, position the building to face south and take advantage of natural light throughout the day. Artificial lighting can supplement natural light, but it’s not a substitute.

Tip #5 – Ensure Proper Drainage – Agricultural Buildings in Pittsburgh

Your agricultural building should have effective drainage systems to prevent water from accumulating inside. Excess water can produce mud and make hard surfaces slippery.

Tip #6 – Build a High Roof for Maximum Air Circulation

A high roof allows for better air circulation, which is essential for the health of your animals. Hot air naturally rises and can create an uncomfortable environment inside the building. A high roof will help keep the barn cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

Tip #7 – Install Strong Barriers

Animals can be curious and may try to escape their enclosures. Reinforce areas designated for your animals to ensure they can’t damage your building.

Tip #8 – Avoid Noisy Door Openers – Agricultural Buildings in Pittsburgh

Some animals are easily spooked by loud noises. Most door openers are loud enough to startle horses, sheep, and more. We suggest you install sliding doors on hangers with ball-bearing sliders.

Tip #9 – Use Non-Toxic Materials

Be careful what materials you use to build your new farm buildings in Pittsburgh. Some are toxic to animals. This could include paints, stains, and structural materials like treated wood.

 

Tip #10 – Keep the Temperature Regulated – Agricultural Buildings in Pittsburgh

Just like humans, animals are sensitive to extreme temperatures. Ensure your pole barn is well insulated and has proper ventilation to regulate the temperature. This will provide a comfortable environment for your animals year-round.

MQS Structures – Custom Post Frame Builders in Pittsburgh

At MQS Structures, we are post-frame and pole barn building specialists. If you want to build a new post frame garage in Pittsburgh, we can work with you to ensure you get exactly the building you want. We can build a highly functional and attractive building no matter what you need.

Are you looking for Amish barn builders in Pittsburgh? Our founder and owner, Caleb Miller, began his building career with his Amish Mennonite family and applies the same work ethic and expert craftsmanship to every building we put up.

Call us today at (855) 677-3334, or contact us online for a free quote on your next project. We look forward to hearing from you soon! We also offer a free mock-up service on our website to help you visualize how your new pole building in Pittsburgh will look.