When it comes to building a home for your horses, you want more than just a mere shelter. You’ll want (and need) a space that guarantees their safety, comfort, and well-being, while also fitting your specific needs. That is where custom built horse barns come into play. Choosing the right builder to bring your barn vision to life plays a huge role in your decision-making. After all, the builder you hire can make or break your structure’s overall durability.
So, how exactly does one find the right builder for the job? Here is a guide on what to look for when hiring someone to build your dream custom built horse barn:
Look for Specialised Expert Experience
Building a horse barn is not the same as constructing a regular building. Horses have specific needs, from ventilation and stall space to proper drainage and durable materials. You will want a builder who has experience with custom built horse barns and understands these unique requirements. One way to go about this is to ask potential builders about their past projects. Have they built barns that house animals before? Can they show examples of barns that align with what you are looking for?
A builder who knows how to balance practicality and comfort for your horses is pivotal to guaranteeing that the final product meets all your expectations.
Check References and Reviews
As soon as you’ve found builders with experience in building customisable horse barns, take the time to dig a little deeper. Research for online reviews and client testimonials can give you more insight into a builder’s professionalism, their work ethic, and overall reliability. Or, better yet, you can ask the builder directly for references from their past clients. Reach out to those clients and try to get a first-hand account of their experience, like, were they satisfied with the project? Did the build finish on time and within budget? Was the builder responsive and easy to communicate with? These questions will help you pre-determine if the builder is someone you want to work with.
Look for Licenses and Insurances
Building a custom built horse barn also comes with potential risks, as with any other large construction project. To make sure you’re protected, always double check to make sure that the builder you choose to work with is properly licensed and insured. Licensing guarantees that they are able to meet local building standards and regulations. Insurance, on the other hand, protects you from liability in case of accidents during the build. Do not hesitate to ask for proof of both before signing any contracts. A professional builder should be happy to provide this information—if they are not, it is a red flag.
Understand Their Design Flexibility
One of the key benefits of having custom built horse barns is their flexibility to be tailored to your exact specifications. Whether you need extra storage, a specific layout for stalls, or even space for equipment, it is important that the builder understands your vision and can deliver on it.
Be sure to discuss your specific needs with the builder early on. Be privy to details and ask pertinent questions like their potential to create the design you are looking for or their flexibility in modifying the barn plan to meet your requirements. Remember, a competent builder will always work closely with you, and will constantly offering solutions that enhance both functionality and aesthetics without compromising on quality.
Budget Transparency
Nobody likes unexpected costs, which is why it is crucial to have a clear understanding of the total cost upfront. When discussing your custom built horse barn project, make sure the builder provides a detailed estimate. This should include material costs, labour, timelines, and any potential additional fees. It is also important to ask if they offer guarantees or warranties on their work. A reliable builder will be transparent about all costs and ensure there are no hidden surprises later on.
Remember, the cheapest option is not always the best. You want a builder who uses high-quality materials and employs skilled labour—sometimes, spending a little more up front saves you from expensive repairs down the road.
Communication is Key
Building a custom built horse barn is a significant investment, so maintaining open and clear communication with your builder is vital all throughout the project. You’ll want a builder who will listen to your needs, keeps you in the loop, and is responsive to any concerns you may have. Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, delays, and added stress.
Before you hire anyone, be sure to assess how responsive they are during the initial discussions. If communication feels easy and natural from the start, chances are it will continue that way throughout the project.
Evaluate Their Materials
The quality of materials used in your custom built horse barn will directly impact its longevity and durability. One other thing that you want to make sure of is that your builder uses high-grade materials that is suitable for the local climate and your specific requirements. For instance, barns in areas with heavy snowfall may need reinforced roofing, while barns in hot climates require good ventilation. Ask your builder about the types of materials they use and why.
Here at KAM Constructions we only use COLORBOND® steel because of it being made specifically for harsh Australian climates and conditions.
Hiring the right builder for your custom built horse barn is one of the most important steps in bringing your vision to life. By choosing a builder with specialised experience, strong references, and good communication, you are setting your project up for success. Remember to take the time to evaluate your options, and always prioritise quality over quick fixes. After all, your horses deserve the best, and so do you.
If you are ready to start your barn project, contact our expert team of shed builders today to get started. We are here to help turn your dream barn into a reality.