There are hundreds of small decisions to be made when building a stable or renovating an existing one. Seemingly insignificant details, like the height of horse stall doors, can have large impacts on everything from the comfort of horses to the ease of cleaning and maintenance.
How Thick Are Horse Stall Doors?
The most practical and least expensive exterior horse stall doors are sliding doors that open outward. They are available in four feet wide by seven or eight-foot-tall sizes and are insulated for warmth and sound control horse stall door. They also feature an easy-to-clean stainless steel surface that resists rust and is easy to clean with water and can be upgraded to include galvanized hinges for longevity.
A good door will be strong and well-fitting to ensure the horse cannot snag a halter or other item on it when closing. For extra durability, it may be constructed with exotic hardwoods that are extremely dense compared to domestic hardwoods and softwoods. These materials are less likely to warp or twist over time, and are also more rot-resistant than other types of lumber.
Stall doors should be fastened securely with a top bolt that is spring-loaded and curved at the end to reduce the risk of a horse getting its head stuck between the door and the frame. A bottom bolt should be fitted to provide additional security against kicks.
A dividing wall on the inside of a stall should be at least 7V2 feet high to prevent horses from getting their legs over and into the feeders of each other (Fig. 5.3). This will also reduce the chances of horses hitting their heads on the roof or light fixtures when they rear up. Window openings on stall walls are usually made of perspex or safety glass with a metal grill fitted between them to provide protection against shattered glass. These windows allow natural light into the stall and increase airflow without causing a draught, making the stall more comfortable for the horses.