Choosing the right size field shelter for your horse is an important decision. After all, a well-designed shelter gives protection from harsh weather and gives your horse a place to rest comfortably throughout the year. But how large should it be? What materials are best? Should it be mobile or fixed? Here’s how you can make the right decision for your horses and your land too.
Size
The size of your field shelter should depend on how many horses will be using it and how they interact. As a starting point, most recommendations suggest a minimum of 3.5 to 4 square metres per horse. However, that’s a general guide. In practice some horses are more dominant, while others will need more space to feel secure. For two horses, a shelter around 24 feet wide usually offers enough room. If you’re housing more than that then it can be worth installing two separate shelters to avoid overcrowding and conflict.
Fixed Vs Mobile
Both fixed and mobile shelters have their advantages, and the best choice depends on your setup. Mobile shelters offer flexibility. If you rent your land or rotate grazing areas often, then a movable structure lets you adapt to changes in ground conditions and weather patterns. In some areas, mobile shelters are able to help you avoid the need for planning permission.
Fixed shelters are sturdier and offer more design flexibility. If you own your land and are planning a long-term setup, a permanent shelter can be tailored to your needs and built to withstand tough conditions. At Norton’s Fencing, we design and build both fixed and mobile shelters using high quality timber from the De Sutter Naturally range. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for flexibility or a more permanent solution, we can help you find the right fit.
Material
Timber is the most popular material for horse field shelters, and for good reason. It’s naturally insulating, long lasting and blends well into rural settings. Horses generally prefer wooden structures over metal ones which can become hot in summer and noisy during rain.
At Norton’s Fencing, we use timber from the De Sutter Naturally collection, which is known for its strength, durability and professional appearance. This high-grade wood is slow grown and pressure treated for long term outdoor use.
Fencing and Layout
A good shelter is only part of the setup. Reliable fencing is essential for safety and for managing how your horses access the field and shelter. Norton’s Fencing offers a complete range of paddock fencing, gates and layout services. We can design and build a setup that works with the land that you have as well as your needs, that could be traditional post and rail fencing, electric options or custom gate installations.
Need Help Planning Your Shelter?
If you’re not sure what size or style of shelter is best, Norton’s Fencing are able to help. With experience designing and building both fixed and mobile structures as well as full paddock layouts, we’ll guide you through every step of the process.
Contact us today to create the right shelter for your horses using only the finest timber from the De Sutter Naturally range.
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