Concrete or gravel under barn wings

phiferpharm · Mar 5, 2012

I'm starting a new pole barn that will have an interior of 48' X 36', then have extensions on each side with just the roof overhang running on both sides (12' X 36'). I plan on using one of those to store items like my BB, trailers,etc, that don't need to be inside, and the other will be an overhang by the side housing my dog kennels. The main part of the barn will be on a concrete slab, but I'm wondering if I would be better to have the two open sides be just gravel instead of poured concrete. The price is not a part of the decision either way, but I was wondering if anybody had any thoughts one way or the other.

MMagis · Mar 5, 2012

For me, prince WOULD be part of the decision, and it would all be gravel.

For the kennels, concrete would be the better choice. Easy to hose off, and easier on the dogs feet. For the equipment side, I’d actually prefer gravel. I think the transition between it and the dirt would be much better when backing in and pulling out implements.

rsewill · Mar 5, 2012

Concrete now or concrete later are your choices given cost is not a factor.

powerpace · Mar 5, 2012

I prefer gravel for equipment storage. Not good for horses or cows unless mixed with sand and soil. Concrete is in the shop area. I don't mind being in the gravel for some maintenence.

phiferpharm · Mar 5, 2012

The replies are really helpful. Thanks. I tend to think my best bet is to have the side opposite the kennel be gravel. I think I'd prefer to be putting my non-wheeled attachments on gravel.

BeezFun · Mar 5, 2012

If your dogs generally relieve themselves in the kennel then concrete is easier to clean and more sanitary. But it's kind of hard on their feet and bodies. We put down rubber stall mats, they're easy to pick up and clean under, also hose right off, more healthy for the dogs skin, feet and joints. If your dogs get out regularly and don't relieve themselves then the only issue is digging. Rubber mats will usually stop diggers, but some dogs go absolutely bonkers in kennels and destroy everything. In that case concrete is your only resort (or more exercise for the dogs).

I'm forced to keep my equipment on gravel and hate it. Things are never quite level enough to pick up easily, like the FEL or 3pt attachments. Working on something, even a minor repair, and you get gravel dust or wet slime all over you. In the winter things freeze into the gravel and big hunks come up when you move it. As soon as I get a permanent structure up I'm making everything concrete. Might make the pasture concrete too and just paint it green.

Some municipalities won't allow equipment on gravel because of fluid leaks. Check your local code if applicable.

Jesse11 · Mar 6, 2012

glad to read ,thanks. I haven't done it ever,maybe i will consider your idea if have good feedback.Thanks again.

bcp · Mar 6, 2012

If your implements are on concrete, they can be on dollies, so they can be moved around and stored compactly.

Bruce

EddieWalker · Mar 6, 2012

I'm at a loss how gravel would be prefered over concrete. A clean, smooth surface that doesn't shift, doesn't move around, doesn't need to be smoothed out and is easy to roll things on, stack things on and clean up over gravel that never stops moving, having rocks work their way to the surface, is dusty and you can't roll things on as easily as concrete.

If money isn't a problem, then concrete is ALWAYS better the gravel!!!!!!

Eddie