How to Build an Isle Barn

Design the Barn

• 1

  Lay out the design and floor plan for the barn. The number of animals, size of stalls and dimensions of the center aisle are of primary importance. This will produce an overall set of dimensions and interior requirements.

• 2

  Design the trusses, rafters and roof structure. Since aisle barns require a disproportionately sized interior passageway or aisle, this must be given high priority when designing the structure and trusses. Decide if additional space is required above ground level for hay storage or human habitation. If this is the case, an open-plan truss (trapezoidal space) or storage-plan truss (rectangular space) will be required. If this is not the case, use a single-span, parallel-chord truss design. They are the strongest support for the space required and can be purchased as pre-built units of structural plywood.

• 3

  Consider weather, drainage and barn location in determining footer and slab requirements. Most aisle barns have an open-air design that requires no ventilation or HVAC considerations.

• 4

  Design the pitch of the barn roof. Unless the location is in northern or heavy snow climates, a flat hip roof will suffice. Choose the roof design and construction. In this situation, standard rafter designs will suffice. Animals do not like metal roofs so opt for a simple shake roof over tar paper and plywood sheathing.

• 5

  Design the interior of the barn, including stall dimensions, connectivity materials and inside and outside stall gates. Design any other interior support, food storage or tack rooms. Design the exterior doors with both humans and animals in mind, and with wiring and plumbing for both lighting and water.

Erect the Barn

• 6

  Level-grade the site and stake the dimensions of both footers and slab. Lay down several inches of pea gravel. Dig, frame and install rebar in the foundation pits. Pour the concrete and snap lines for the location of J-bolts to support vertical beams. Allow seven days for the concrete to cure.

• 7

  Erect the 6-by-6-inch vertical stanchions onto the concrete post anchors and connect them to the J-bolts. Erect the side and corner 4-by-4 posts and stake temporarily. Nail the horizontal beam support and sill members together. Attach the skeletal structure to the vertical stanchions with 2-by-12 lumber. Lift and attach the truss above the vertical stanchions. Frame and nail the king post, rafters and eaves.

• 8

  Lay the roof sheathing, paper and shingles. Square, cut and nail all the outside materials or shingles -- front, back and sides. Frame, cut and install the stall separators and gates.

• 9

  Install all interior and exterior doors. Install both wiring and plumbing lines. Attach lights and plumbing fixtures.