How to Insulate a Barn

Barns in cold areas require some additional insulation to keep the horses warm.

Barns are typically constructed out of steel or wood and often lack insulation. Usually the roof is the only insulated part in a barn. There are several reasons for this, the most important of which is to keep insulation out of reach of horses, as horses are prone to chewing and eating things within reach. In cold areas, however, it's important to keep livestock warm, and insulation might become a necessity. When it comes to insulating a barn, the choices include fiberglass, radiant barrier and foam board.

Things You'll Need

• Dust mask
• Goggles
• Gloves
• Baffles
• Stapler
• Wood planks (1 inch by 4 inches)
• Plastic sheets
• Tape measure
• Fiberglass insulation
• Utility knife

Instructions

1. Install the baffles (available at any home improvement shop) in any areas where it will be necessary to hold insulation in place. The most likely area for installing insulation is where the ceiling joists intersect with roof rafters. Staple the baffles in place in each opening between the rafters.

2. Take note of any electrical outlets or fixtures, and be sure to plan on keeping insulation a safe distance away. Fix 1-inch-by-4-inch pieces of wood around the electrical fixtures to create a box that will act as a retaining wall against the insulation.

3. Lay your plastic sheeting against the backside of the siding or roofing material where you intend to install the insulation. This creates a vapor barrier, which will allow for airflow, and prevent moisture from building up on the siding. Lay the sheets of plastic between the ceiling joists. Use your staple gun to tack the plastic to the sides of the joists.

4. Measure and cut the fiberglass insulation (available at home improvement stores). Insulation should be tucked snugly into the space between ceiling joists, with no gaps next to the ceiling joists or baffles. Do not compact the insulation as this will defeat the insulating effect. Lay the fiberglass insulation long-wise between the joists, and fix it to the baffles using the tools that came with the fiberglass insulation.

5. Cover the fiberglass insulation with rigid paneling to hide and protect it. Place the paneling over the insulated area and use the staple gun to tack it into place. Always follow manufacturer directions in regard to tools and safety when you're doing construction.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear a dust mask and protective eye wear to prevent breathing in fiberglass and dust. A long-sleeved shirt and gloves will help prevent fiberglass from making skin contact. Fiberglass is extremely irritating if it comes in contact with your skin.

• For extra insulation in the barn, a second layer may be installed. The second layer should not have a vapor barrier as well, as moisture could get trapped between the two layers. Lay the second layer perpendicular to the ceiling joists.

• Fiberglass is unsightly if left exposed, and allows for the added hazard of birds and mice making nests out of it.

• Loose fill cellulose insulation should never be used in horse barns. Even treated with a fire retardant, this insulation is a highly flammable material, and horse barns are already prone to fires.

References

• Technology Fact Sheet: Ceilings and Attics, Install Insulation and Provide Ventilation
• Easy2DIY: Insulating an Unfinished Attic
• Horsekeeping, LLC: Insulating a Metal Barn