Loafing Shed: Solution to Sheltering Your Livestock

Whether you’re a seasoned farmer looking to improve your livestock or a beginner embarking on a small farm for a better livelihood, this comprehensive blog post provides all the necessary information about loafing sheds. From the basics of “what is a loafing shed?” to the intricacies of “how much does a loafing shed cost?” we’ll take you on a journey from A to Z, addressing all your questions along the way.

What is a Loafing Shed?

First, let’s answer the basic question: what is a loafing shed?

A loafing shed is a type of shelter that is specifically intended to give animals a safe and comfortable place to rest, eat, and socialize while also shielding them from the elements. These constructions are typically open on one side for easy access, but the other sides and roof give protection from wind, rain, snow, and direct sunlight. A loafing shed can be made of a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and even fabric, and can be created in a variety of sizes and forms to meet the demands of various animal species and herd sizes.

A loafing shed can be a smart investment for any farm or ranch in addition to offering a comfortable environment for animals. The shelter can also be used to store farm equipment such as tractors, feed, and tack. It can also assist in keeping animals healthy by providing a dry and clean environment, reducing the danger of illnesses and infections. A loafing shed can also lessen animal caretakers’ workload by providing a concentrated area for feeding and watering, as well as dispensing veterinary treatments.

In conclusion, a loafing shed is a necessary construction on any farm or ranch that keeps animals. It serves as a functional storage and work space for farm equipment while also providing a safe and comfortable location for animals to rest and mingle.

Why Is It Called a Loafing Shed?

A loafing shed is a type of outdoor shelter that is constructed with the specific purpose of providing animals with a covered area where they can rest, socialize, and seek protection from adverse weather conditions. 

The name “Loafing Shed” originates from the idea that the shelter serves as a place where animals can “loaf” or relax without being confined or restrained. Typically, a loafing shed is built with three sides to allow for easy access, while the fourth side remains open to allow animals to move freely in and out. 

This design also facilitates air flow, keeping the shelter well-ventilated and reducing the accumulation of moisture and unpleasant odors. Overall, the loafing shed provides a safe and comfortable space for animals to spend their time outdoors.

Loafing Shed Uses

Loafing sheds are multi-functional portable structures that serve various purposes in agriculture. They provide a safe and comfortable shelter for livestock, protecting them from extreme weather conditions such as rain, snow, and harsh sunlight. Loafing sheds are commonly used as a horse shelter, providing a space for horses to take refuge and rest. 

They can also be used as a run-in shed, allowing livestock to move freely in and out of the shed. Additionally, loafing sheds can serve as a cow shelter, goat barn, sheep shelter, or any other type of livestock shelter. 

These structures can also be used as a tack room, where horse equipment and gear can be stored, and as a storage area for feed and supplies. Overall, loafing barns are essential structures in agriculture that provide a safe and comfortable space for livestock and help to ensure their health and well-being.

What Direction Should a Loafing Shed Face?

There are various aspects to consider when it comes to the placement and orientation of your loafing shed. The first and most significant consideration is the weather. To give the finest shelter for your animals, position your loafing shelter such that it blocks chilly winter winds while still giving adequate shade during the summer months. In general, the north side of your loafing barn should be the most wind-protected. Orient the south and west sides to give shade during the warmest parts of the day.

The best location for your loafing shed is usually on a high, dry area where horses and other livestock congregate. This guarantees that the structure is easily accessible to the animals and provides the best possible shelter. Consider the contour of your land as well as any wooded areas on your property. If your property is sloping, you may need to level the area where you intend to put your loafing shed. Wooded locations can provide additional shade and wind protection, but they can also pose issues in terms of sunlight and accessibility.

Overall, the direction and placement of your loafing shed are critical to its success in sheltering your animals. You can guarantee that your loafing shed provides the finest possible shelter for your animals by carefully considering these criteria.

What Size Loafing Shed Do I Need?

When deciding on the suitable size loafing barn for your purposes, take into account both the number of horses you have and the quantity of area you have available on your property. Loafing shelters exist in a number of sizes, but the 1018 and 1224 models are the most popular.

The 10×18 loafing shed is excellent for 1-2 horses, providing plenty of cover from the weather. This size is an economical choice for tiny farms or those on a tight budget. The 12×24 loafing barn, on the other hand, is larger and can comfortably house 3–4 horses. This size is ideal for larger farms or those who want to provide their animals with more space and comfort.

It’s crucial to note that when you add more horses, the size of your loafing shelter will need to be increased correspondingly. It is recommended that you add 12 feet to the length of your loafing shed for every 1–2 additional horses. This guarantees that your animals have ample room to wander around and seek shelter from the elements.

While it may be tempting to invest in one enormous loafing shelter to accommodate all of your horses, having many smaller sheds is typically more practical. This allows you to give shelter in different areas throughout your property and ensures that your animals always have access to a nearby shelter in the event of bad weather.

In conclusion, when selecting the right size of loafing shed for your needs, it’s important to consider both the number of horses you have and the amount of space you have available. By selecting the appropriate size of loafing barn, you can provide your animals with a safe and comfortable shelter that will keep them healthy and happy for years to come.

Why You Need a Loafing Shed?

A loafing shed is an essential investment for any farm or property that keeps livestock, providing a safe and comfortable shelter for animals to take refuge from the elements. Whether you have horses, cows, goats, or sheep, a loafing barn can help to protect them from the rain, snow, wind, and extreme heat.

By providing your animals with a dedicated shelter, you can help to prevent a variety of health problems that can arise from exposure to the elements. For example, horses that are frequently exposed to the rain and wind are at risk of developing respiratory problems, while cows that are exposed to extreme heat may suffer from heat stress.

In addition to protecting your animals from the elements, a loafing barn can also provide a secure space for them to rest, sleep, and eat. This can help to reduce stress and promote a healthy living environment for your animals, which in turn can lead to better overall health and productivity.

A loafing shed can also serve to safeguard your property from animal damage, such as chewing on trees or damaging fences. By establishing a defined shelter for your animals, you may help to guarantee that they stay within a specific area and decrease the danger of damage to your property.

Overall, a loafing barn is a useful and cost-effective addition to any farm or property that keeps cattle. By providing a safe and comfortable home for your animals, you can assist to improve their health and well-being while also protecting your property from potential damage.

How Much Does a Loafing Shed Cost?

When purchasing a loafing shed, it is critical to consider both the cost and the structure’s durability. The 10×18 loafing shed, which costs roughly $3500, is a low-cost solution that is excellent for tiny farms or those on a limited budget. This construction is made of solid wood, ensuring that it will last for many years and will provide adequate shelter for your livestock.

If you need additional space, the 12×24 loafing shed is a larger choice that will give your animals with even more shelter. Although more expensive at roughly $6500, this larger loafing shed is nevertheless constructed from the same robust wood as the smaller one, ensuring that it will last for years and provide reliable shelter for your animals.

It is vital to note that purchasing a low-cost metal loafing shed may not be the best long-term investment. Although these structures are less expensive in the short term, they may not always give the same level of longevity and protection as a solid wood structure. Cheap metal loafing shelters are more prone to rust, corrosion, and damage from adverse weather conditions, and may require more frequent replacement.

Finally, investing in a long-lasting wood-built loafing shelter, such as the 10×18 or 12×24 versions discussed above, is a good long-term investment. These structures provide dependable shelter for your livestock and will last for many years, making your investment well worth it.

Loafing Sheds for Sale in Louisiana

If you’re in the market for a loafing shed in Louisiana, GEMCO Building Systems is an excellent choice. With a reputation for quality craftsmanship and durability, GEMCO Building Systems offers a range of loafing shelters for sale to suit your needs.

Our loafing sheds are made with high-quality materials and experienced craftsmanship to endure the elements and provide secure and comfortable shelter for your animals. GEMCO Building Systems can help you choose the ideal loafing barn for your horses, cows, goats, or sheep.

Plus, we also offer a multitude of customization choices in addition to their high-quality loafing sheds to help you design the right shelter for your animals. You may get a loafing shed that not only provides shelter but also looks fantastic on your property by selecting from a variety of colors, roof types, door options, and shed siding options.

When you buy a loafing shed from GEMCO Building Systems, you can be confident that you are obtaining a high-quality, long-lasting product. Our sheds are low-maintenance, so you can concentrate on caring for your animals rather than worrying about repairs or upkeep.

So, why wait? Give your animals a shelter they can enjoy. If you care at all about your animals, then you already know why you need a loafing shed or a horse run-in shed.

Feel free to give us a call if you have any questions about the loafing sheds, or if you are in the area, come visit us. We would love to see you.