According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), livestock diseases like bovine respiratory disease (BRD), mastitis, and foot-and-mouth disease account for losses worth billions of dollars annually (Source). Moreover, as per the American Farm Bureau Federation, health issues in livestock can increase veterinary expenses by as much as 20% than usual in cases of poorly maintained environments. Based on the data, it is highly advisable to maintain the health of your livestock by housing them properly in steel shelters.

So, what are some types of steel shelters, why are they good for your livestock, and how can they best protect them? Let’s dive deeper and find out!

What Are The Different Types Of Steel Structures For Livestock?

• Steel Barns

Steel barns are designed to protect livestock. Using high ceilings and large doors, steel barns can house cattle, horses, and goats. There are two types of barns—step-down barns and continuous-roof barns—based on their roof structure. Their standard sizing ranges between 36 and 60 feet in width, 36 and 100 feet in length, 12 and 16 feet for the central structure’s height, and 8 and 12 feet for lean-tos’ height.

• Steel Loafing Sheds

Open-sided or partially enclosed loafing sheds offer space for livestock to take cover and rest. Usually built with sloped roofs, these structures shield animals from environmental factors like the scorching sun and high-speed winds. They typically house horses, cattle, and other livestock. They are usually 12 to 24 feet wide,  20 to 48 feet long, and 10 to 12 feet high.

• Steel Stables

These are enclosed structures that are designed to accommodate horses and other large animals. They feature an open layout with clear-span designs. They usually have wide aisles, ventilation systems, as well as durable flooring. Steel stables are often used to train and breed animals to maintain good health. They are large enough to shelter multiple animals. Their size typically ranges from 36 to 48 feet in width, 48 to 96 feet in length, and 10 to 14 feet in height.

• Steel Chicken Coops

With proper ventilation, perches, as well as nesting boxes, steel chicken coops are especially designed to protect poultry. Often considered a type of steel barn, these have expansive indoor spaces with flexible partition options and are specifically tailored to house chickens. Several structures also feature wire mesh surroundings for continuous airflow and protection from predators. They offer a safe environment for laying hens and broilers. Also, because of their steel structure, they are highly easy to clean and disinfect, which helps in maintaining the health of flocks. Essentially, they are 8 to 12 feet wide, 12 to 24 feet long, and 6 to 8 feet high.

• Steel Quonsets

Also known as Quonset huts, these are prefabricated semi-cylindrical structures built with galvanized steel. They have a high load-bearing capacity and a clear-span interior, allowing for maximum use of space. They are used for sheltering animals and storing agricultural equipment and produce. Depending on their usage, they can be 20 to 100 feet wide, 20 to 200 feet long, and 12 to 24 feet high.

Why Steel Structures Help Maintain The Health Of Livestock?

• Protection From Harsh Weather

Steel shelters provide a stable environment for livestock, protecting them from adverse temperatures and extreme environments. Using a vertical roof and 12-gauge steel can help enhance the stability and strength of the steel structures. Improved protection from rain and snow by using a vertical roof allows steel shelters to protect livestock from respiratory issues and foot rot.

• More Biosecurity

As steel structures are easier to clean and disinfect because of their non-porous properties and moisture resistance, they reduce the risk of transmission of diseases among livestock. By maintaining a clean environment, they can prevent the spread of diseases. It is also easier to set up quarantine areas for sick or new animals within steel structures.

• Better Air Quality

Steel structures ensure a continuous flow of fresh air by properly integrating ventilation systems. This reduces the concentration of ammonia and helps prevent respiratory issues in livestock. Adequate ventilation will also control the humidity levels within the building.

• Pest Prevention

With their resistance to pests and rodents, which are carriers of diseases, steel structures reduce the possibility of health issues relating to pest infestations. Their sturdy construction also helps protect livestock from predators.

• Dry And Clean Feeding Areas

Designated feeding areas can be easily incorporated within steel buildings, which can reduce the risk of feed contamination that can often lead to digestive infections. Offering a controlled feeding environment, steel structures can also make sure that animals have consistent access to food and clean water.

• High Durability Provides Stable Environment

Steel structures are highly durable and require low maintenance, ensuring they remain fully functional for decades. This provides a stable environment for livestock over a long period of time.

Catering To Your Livestock’s Every Need

Metal buildings can easily be customized into numerous designs depending on your cattle sheltering needs, such as clinical rooms, grooming areas, boarding pens, or open play areas. You can also install partitions to provide individual rooms for your cattle.

What Are The Major Considerations Before Buying A Steel Structure For Livestock?

• Size and space: Determine the number of animals and the potential for future growth to decide the size, layout, and enclosure of the shelter.
• Climate factors: Depending on the climate conditions in your area, the 12-gauge or 14-gauge steel, vertical or horizontal roof, and the strength of braces in the structure will be figured out. 
• Location: It is vital to inspect the site of the steel shelter to ensure it is level and has at least three feet of extra space on every side. The site should also help decide on the structure's foundation type, whether it is gravel or concrete. 
• Budget: Find out the regional costs of raw materials and prefabricated steel shelters. Then establish a budget considering climate, terrain, installation, and long-term charges. 
• Permits: Local building codes, zoning regulations, and necessary construction permits should be acquired before construction to avoid fines. 

How Do We Best Maintain The Shelter For Healthy Livestock?

• Daily clean, disinfect, and manage the drainage system of the shelter.
• Inspect roofs, walls, and the foundation to ensure stability. 
• Use insect repellents and seal gaps to avoid damage.
• Clean automatic feeders and watering systems regularly. 

Whether you are a farmer, rancher, or horse owner, metal buildings offer enhanced protection from various environmental elements and predators. A wide range of metal buildings can be chosen from and customized to suit your specific needs. So, find a steel shelter dealer near you today to maintain the health of your livestock for years to come!