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I know how important it is to provide shelter for horses without spending too much money. Building a shelter can protect them from bad weather like rain, wind, and extreme temperatures. This means your horses stay safe and comfortable year-round.
In this article, I will share 17 cheap horse shelter ideas that are easy to build and budget-friendly.
These ideas can help you create a practical space for your horses while saving money and using simple materials.
1. Field wooden shelter with galvanized roof
You do not have to compromise on quality if you want a cheap shelter for your horse. This high-quality field shelter offers you all that you want at an affordable price.
It is cost-effective and should last for a long time compared to other cheap temporary shelters. Also, its super versatile.
2. Pallet and tarp horse shelter
A pallet and tarp shelter for your horse offers temporary protection from the sun and rain, but it sure comes in handy, and it’s super cheap to pull together.
This method takes little time to build and costs less than many other options. It works well for stalls, runs, or paddocks.
3. Portable horse shelter with loafing sheds
Building with pallets saves time, and you don’t need special tools. It’s a simple way to build a functional horse stable on a budget. Also, this type of shelter costs less than wood or metal.
4. Welded wire fence panels secured to wood posts
I like using welded wire fence panels for horse shelters because they are strong and affordable. These panels attach easily to wooden posts, creating a safe enclosure.
The wire mesh keeps horses secure while letting them see outside. The wood posts add stability and are easy to replace if needed.
5. Portable run-in sheds with metal roofs
I like portable run-in sheds because they offer easy shelter for horses. The metal roofs last a long time and protect well from rain and sun.
These sheds are simple to move, which helps keep pastures healthy. I can position them where horses need shade or wind protection the most.
They are affordable and fit different needs. Adding insulation or walls can improve comfort without much cost. The metal roofs are low-maintenance and strong.
6. Wooden pallet barn construction
I use wooden pallets to build barns because they are cheap and easy to find. Pallets provide sturdy walls and a solid frame for shelters.
Recycling pallets makes my barn more affordable and eco-friendly. I can customize the size based on how many horses need shelter.
The pallets work well for protection against wind and rain. I also added a roof on top for extra cover and comfort.
7. Post-frame loafing shed kits from Menards
I found that Menards offers post-frame loafing shed kits that work well for horses. These kits come in different sizes and are made to be easy to build.
The open design lets horses move in and out easily, giving them shelter without needing doors. The kits include treated wood and steel siding for durability.
If you like DIY projects, these kits provide all the parts and hardware to assemble the shed yourself. Prices start around $2,300, making them a budget-friendly option compared to custom builds.
8. 12×12 Shelter Logic shelter
I like the Shelter Logic 12×12 shelter for its portable design. It offers good shade and protection for horses and other livestock.
The frame is sturdy and has a powder-coated finish to prevent rust. The cover is waterproof and UV-treated, which helps in different weather conditions.
This shelter fits most corral panels but comes without panels included. It weighs lightly for easy moving and setup around the farm or pasture.
9. Custom-built run-in shed with a metal panel fence
This design is made strategically to help your horses feel safe while still getting fresh air. The fence side faces away from prevailing winds to give the best shelter from the weather.
In addition, the shelter provides basic comfort to the horse while being eco-friendly and cost-effective.
10. Simple three-sided wooden shelter
I chose a three-sided wooden shelter because it offers good protection with minimal materials. It blocks wind and rain from three sides while leaving one side open for easy access.
Building one is cost-effective and quick. I used wood planks and posts, which are easy to find and work with. It also fits well in most pastures without taking up much space.
11. Steel-framed horse run-in shelter
I like steel-framed run-in shelters because they are strong and last a long time. The steel frame can resist weather like wind, rain, and snow better than wood. This makes it a practical choice for keeping horses safe.
These shelters usually come with a steel frame and a roof. Some have open sides for easy horse access and good ventilation. The all-steel design often has a powder-coated finish to prevent rust.
Steel-framed shelters are also low maintenance. You don’t have to worry about painting or repairing wood. For a durable and simple shelter, steel run-in sheds work well and are affordable options.
12. DIY solar-powered horse shelter
I built a solar-powered horse shelter to save on energy costs and use renewable power. Solar panels on the roof power LED lights and small fans inside the shelter.
This setup helps keep the space well-lit and ventilated without raising my electricity bill. I used affordable solar kits available online and made sure the wiring was safe and weatherproof.
13. Basic tarp and pipe frame shelter
I built a simple shelter using metal pipes and a tarp. The pipes act as the frame, making it sturdy and easy to set up.
The tarp covers the frame, providing shade and protection from rain. It’s affordable and can be moved if needed.
This type of shelter works well for small areas. It keeps horses safe from the sun and light weather without much cost or effort.
14. Half barn using reclaimed wood
I used reclaimed wood to build a half barn for my horses. It saved me money and gave the structure a rustic look.
The wood came from old pallets and barn scraps. It was still strong and perfect for walls and support beams.
I made the half barn open on one side. This lets my horses go in and out easily while staying protected from wind and rain.
Building with reclaimed wood takes some extra work to clean and prepare the materials. But it is worth it for the lower cost.
15. Small A-frame wooden shelter
I like the small A-frame wooden shelter for its simple design. It uses two slanted sides that meet at the top to form a strong roof. This shape helps rain and snow slide off easily.
Building it requires basic woodworking tools and some lumber. I can make it compact or a bit larger, depending on how many horses need shelter.
The A-frame is a good option for a budget shelter. It protects horses from sun, rain, and wind without needing many materials or complicated steps.
16. Open front PVC pipe shelter
I like using reinforced PVC pipes to build open front horse shelters. They are light and easy to move if needed. The pipes are strong enough to hold up a roof and walls.
You can adjust the size by cutting and joining pipes quickly. It works well for protection from wind and rain.
I also find it simple to cover the frame with a tarp or plastic sheets. This lets in light but keeps bad weather out. It is a good choice for a budget shelter.
17. DIY inexpensive solid roof shelter
I find a solid roof is key for protecting horses from rain and sun. Building one with affordable materials like metal or corrugated plastic saves money.
This type of shelter often uses simple frames made from wood or metal. The solid roof keeps horses dry and shaded while letting fresh air flow.
I recommend measuring your space well and choosing materials that last. A solid roof shelter is a straightforward way to give horses reliable shelter without spending much.
