None can deny the fact that timber is a great material when it comes to construction. Also, if you consider using timber for making stables, it would be great for your horses.
It is a natural insulator that offers comfortable stables. Timber can perform 15 times better than masonry, 1770 times better than aluminium and 400 times better than steel. Being hygroscopic, it is breathable to exchange moisture with the outside.
According to several studies, the construction industry considers a staggering 40% of carbon emissions. However, the construction of timber stables is a non-energy-intensive process. Thus, it is capable of collecting carbon from the atmosphere.
On the other hand, timber plays a role of a barrier to changes in temperature. This denotes that wood stables need less energy to get cooled or heated. Thus, it is better both for temperature and pocket.
Spring is knocking at the door. Thus, you should pay attention to the health of your stables. At this time of the year, the air is dry and warm, and the ground is solid. Conducting any maintenance for your timber outbuildings at this time is the best.
Professionals always advise checking the condition of your stables and outbuildings once a year, minimum. This will significantly assist you in recognizing anything that needs immediate attention. Through this, you can prevent any further attention in the future.
The deterioration of timber stables is mainly caused by sunlight and water. Wood can decay if left damp or unprotected. Eventually, this can destroy the structure. It can damage the buildings by creating a problem area where water penetration can start its destructive impact.
What Should be done to Maintain Timber Stables?
Below are some of the major tips that can be taken for maintaining wooden horse stables.
1. Inspect your stables properly
The first thing you have to consider doing is inspecting your buildings. Walk the outside of your buildings around and identify any evidence of dampness and leaks. You must notice any areas of staining and storm damage on the wood. Keep in mind that through these areas, rainwater may have entered.
Also, you should use a torch for inspecting dark areas when looking inside. Through this, you will be able to find out any spoiled debris or hay that can cover damaged wood. You should not forget to note down possible problem areas.
Moreover, you can replace any damaged kickboards with high-end plywood. You are advised not to use OSB Strand boards as they have very little impact strength. As a result, your horses can get potentially harmed if they make a hole in this boarding. Their hooves can get caught in the created holes. You can use structural grade plywood for its strength. It won’t get punctured, just like inferior boards.
Besides, you can check the guttering for any blockages. Often, a built-up of fallen leaves can stop the gutter from flowing effectively. Also, you can check the roof to find out any wind damage. Here, it can be stated that getting assistance from a professional for inspecting your stables can be a good idea. With proper experience and skills, he can easily assess the condition of your stables and outbuildings. Also, he can give an estimate if your settings need any repairs.
2. Make a plan
You must develop a maintenance plan after assessing the condition of your buildings. Moreover, you have to decide your repair priorities. Once done, you need to establish a timescale for doing the work. Also, you should try to stick to it. Hiring a professional in Ireland means getting the job done faster and more effectively.
3. Conduct external re-treatment
On the other hand, you must recoat the outside of your buildings every 2-3 years. You should provide your wooden horse stables with a top-notch treatment.
Here, Cuprinol is considered an excellent animal-friendly product. As it is easy to use with a brush, using it can be a great idea. Moreover, you can get it in various colours that can effectively get significant aesthetic beauty.
Tanalised timber is likely to bleach out, and it can be grey after some time. Using a couple of Cuprinol coats can bring life back to the wood again.
Before applying your new wood stain, check whether you find any indications of other issues. You can carry out any repairs. Not only that, but also you can brush any dry mud off using a wire brush. Besides, gentle power washing can be effective if you let surfaces dry several days before staining.
4. Maintain windows and doors of stables
Windows and doors come with moving parts. Thus, you have to offer more maintenance than other features. You should check latches and hinges to see whether they should be reset or adjusted.
Furthermore, you should oil all the hinges and bolts. Also, you need to check them over to confirm they smoothly open and close.
Heavy rain can make a door swollen. In this event, simply sanding or planning an edge off can do the job. If any damage happens and makes a door re-hanging, take help from professionals.
Moreover, all cobwebs need to be cleaned from windows and doors. You should check the glass for breakages and cracks. Also, you have to opt for replacement if required.
5. Check your electrical wiring
You must get a qualified electrician to check your electrical systems regularly in your stable. This will help you understand that they are safe and updated with modern safety standards. Here, replacing old and tired electrical fixtures and wiring can make sense.
With this preventive maintenance, you can make your timber stables in Dartmoor last longer. It can be safer for your horses. You must remember that preventive maintenance is always more cost-effective than major emergency repairs.
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