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Riding Arenas and You: What to consider when building an arena for your business or backyard.

Riding Arenas offer a great way to practice and train your horses without having to be exposed to the sun, rain and snow. When deciding what building material to choose for your riding arena, you may be considering a pre-engineered building or a wood structure/pole barn. While both have their advantages and disadvantages, pre-engineered buildings are typically a better option when it comes to building a space large enough to accommodate a regulation riding arena.



A pre-engineered building is made from high-grade steel and is designed to withstand the elements while providing a safe and secure environment for riders and horses alike. They are engineered and manufactured to the exact code requirements of the jobsite. The steel used in pre-engineered buildings is extremely strong and durable, meaning that it won’t rot or decay like wood can. This makes them a great choice for horse riding arenas, as they provide a safe, reliable and secure environment that won’t be affected by the elements. Additionally, they require practically no maintenance or upkeep over the life of the building. Wood buildings, however, can be extremely costly to maintain and re-straighten.


Another factor to consider with new riding arenas is your soil. Since the primary framing of wood buildings is set in the soil rather than on top of a concrete pad or pier, the entire structure is subject to movement. Soil conditions can change over time, which makes this aspect of wood structure design especially inconsistent and even potentially dangerous for horses and people who are using the building. As the ground shifts, the wooden poles are liable to move, which is likely to compromise the structural integrity of your building. More information about expansive soils can be found here. Even minor expansive soil at your jobsite can seriously jeopardize your building, making a pre-engineered metal building a much better choice for your project. In contrast to wood, Pre-engineered structures utilize piers that are set in concrete which are sized to accommodate the soil type your jobsite has. This makes them a much, much safer option for projects with expansive soil, or freeze/thaw cycles that can affect the soil condition.



When it comes to putting the buildings together, pre-engineered steel buildings are much easier to assemble and install. The fact that they are so easy to assemble means that you can have your horse riding arena up and running in no time. This can be especially beneficial if you are on a tight budget and need to get your arena up quickly.


Overall, pre-engineered buildings provide a great option when it comes to building a horse riding arena. They are strong, durable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly, making them a great choice. Are you thinking about putting a new riding arena on your property? Contact us today or use our 3D designer to get the process started with Peak today!


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