How to Convert Your Metal Red Barn into a Multipurpose Agricultural Facility

Are you thinking about transforming your red steel barn into a multi-functional agricultural facility? It is indeed an exciting and innovative project that will maximize your farm's potential. You will need to jot down strategic planning and creative thinking to convert the barn into a versatile unit that can address a variety of farm needs. Consider adding partitions to create separate areas for livestock, storage, or processing stages. Have a look at the detailed guide below for more.

Here Are Some Tips To Convert Your Red Steel Barn Into An Agricultural Building

Assess Your Current State Of Your Barn

Before starting any remodeling project:

1. Conduct a thorough structural survey.
2. Determine the load-bearing ability of your barn building and foundation.
3. Do not forget to calculate the existing load on them.
4. Ensure the structural integrity before carrying out further projects.

Building Zoning & Permits

Another thing that you should take care of is the local zoning and permits. Make sure that your conversion meets and exceeds the local building and zoning rules and regulations. If you are planning to expand or increase the height, it is better to reconsider setback rules.

Planning & Designing The Layout

What would you like your metal red barn to be used for? Planning must be done to address multiple agricultural functions. First, plan the design on paper. Make sure it includes all essential features.

Here are some features that you must include to create a multi-functional layout.

Ventilation

The ventilation system helps reduce moisture and humidity in the air, making it comfortable for animals and farm workers. The vent system is of two types:

Passive: It does not need power to work. It is suitable for barns located in open space without obstruction. Some examples of passive vents are clerestory windows, louvers, turbine vents, ridge vents, and gravity vents.

Active: It needs electric power to function. It is suitable for barns situated in areas with large trees and beside large buildings. Some examples of passive vents are – exhaust fans, floor/ ceiling fans, inlets, electrical roof vents, and AC.

Insulation

Insulation minimizes heat transfer from and to the building, thereby reducing the chances of rusting. It also helps increase the structure's energy efficiency. Insulation must be added to the roof, side walls, and sometimes the floor. Opt for high-quality insulation with an accurate R-value according to your location.

Insulation regulates temperature and makes the HAVC system work effectively. This reduces energy consumption.

Upgrade Utilities & Infrastructure

You can upgrade the current utilities installed in your red steel barn to increase efficiency and functionality. Here are some utility upgrades that you can add to your structure.

Natural | Artificial Lighting

Natural lighting will reduce power consumption during the day and improve comfort for livestock and workers. For artificial light, you can add Energy Star-certified LED lights, which last longer and create less heat.

Water Pipelines

Having a water source inside will make the lives of farm workers easier and less time-consuming. You can install dump valves, floats, or paddles for livestock so that the bowl fills on its own. Also, you can section off an area to wash and bathe animals.

To upgrade the infrastructure for your barn, you can choose the following:

Quality Gauge Steel Roof | Side Wall

For a large steel red barn, you can opt for 24 to 26-gauge roof and wall panels that are sturdy enough to withstand daily wear and tear.

Durable Flooring

A durable floor can withstand heavy machinery and foot traffic. Concrete slabs are generally recommended for large barns, but for livestock, you can opt for concrete, brick, or stone slabs as durable options. Avoid material that can cause injuries or discomfort to cattle or horses.

The red metal barn can become an efficient hub for all agricultural activities with the right design and features. 

Implement Storage Solution

Since you are converting a steel red barn into a multi-purpose, there must be proper space for storing equipment, feed, hay, and other supplies for livestock or other purposes. For instance, you can create a loft area above for a living or storage place. Alternatively, you can install lean-to on either side to create a shaded region.

Create an Area For Livestock

Livestock needs proper housing and care facilities. You can section and install individual stalls for horses. For dairy cattle, make sure there is a proper drainage system and soiled bedding to keep them comfortable.

You can create a section for processing, packaging, and other tasks in the workspace area. With clear-span steel barns, creating internal sections is easy.

Utilizing Technology

Install new monitoring and smart home features to monitor and manage operations within the facility. You can add surveillance cameras, wireless camera systems, and outdoor wireless systems that work over a distance of 1 km.

Safety Measures

Lastly, farm animals are an asset to farmers & ranchers. The safety of farm workers is crucial as well. Hence, there must be proper security for both workers and animals. Generally, safety measures that you can consider for your metal red barn are:

1. Emergency first aid kit
2. Emergency numbers like local police or fire station
3. Fire safety
4. Encase wiring and switches to avoid electric shocks
5. Lightning rod for proper grounding

Other than this, you must take care of a few things, such as removing trash or debris to prevent injuries and insects and keeping the aisle area free from obstructions or sharp objects. Do not add any ornamental plants that can be poisonous to your livestock. Put a ‘no smoking’ sign to prevent accidental fire.

Build Your Dream Agricultural Facility With Carports Advisor

Transform your red steel barn into a thriving hub according to your agricultural needs and preferences. Structural steel is easy to work with and an extremely versatile design you can reuse for multiple applications. Call (336)-914-1654 to learn more about metal barn building designs and get a free quote!