Boost Your Farm’s Efficiency with a Metal Monitor Barn

Agriculturists have been using barns to carry out farm operations for decades now. However, with the advancement of time and technology, there have been evolved buildings offering better functionality and efficiency. One such strong and durable structure delivering promising returns is a prefabricated raised monitor barn. It is highly flexible because of its construction and maximizes space to perform a myriad of tasks. 

Let’s dive in to understand why metal monitor barns are not just the preferred choice for efficient performance but also for optimum livestock housing and proper crop storage!

What is a Metal Monitor Barn?

Monitor barns are also popularly known as raised center aisle barns and Carolina barns. As the name suggests, these structures feature a raised central structure along with two lower lean-tos attached to it on both sides. The side structures slope down from the main unit, creating two slopes – one at the center and the other at the sides. These barns provide paramount interior space, which can be used in numerous versatile ways. 

You can think of a raised aisle barn as a central structure with three boxes — one on each side and a third one rising from the center. These structures are known to provide better air circulation, ventilation, and light penetration. 

There are various layout possibilities for these structures, depending on your usage and needs:

• Three enclosed separate units with different access points to carry out different farm operations.
• A large, enclosed, open interior space connecting all three units. 
• The raised central structure as a separate unit.
• Partially open or completely open side units.

How do Raised Center Style Barns Improve Farm Efficiency?

Split layout for separate activities

• Central (ground): You can designate the central unit for essential tasks like sheltering livestock, housing crops, or storing meat and dairy products. 

• Raised loft space: You can efficiently use this space to store tools, seasonal equipment, feed bags, and other lighter storage essentials. 

• Side bays: You can opt for open, enclosed, or partially closed lean-to side bays to house livestock, store heavy-duty equipment, or park large farm vehicles. 

Enhanced lighting

Around the raised central structure, you can efficiently add windows to enhance the penetration of light, allowing ample daylight and reducing the need for artificial lighting. 

Better air circulation and ventilation 

Moreover, because of the raised center, the hot air rises up and escapes while the cool air settles down, promoting better air circulation as well as allowing better air quality to circulate throughout the metal barn keeping your animals at comfort. 

Tip: Consider installing ridge vents and cupolas in order to easily let the warm air escape through the roof. 

Traditional charm with a modern structure

A raised aisle barn has a traditional barn appeal to them. You can choose red panels, frames, posts, fasteners, and wainscot for vintage aesthetics and a finished look. 

Diverse Applicability: AG Monitor Barn Applications

Customizations In Raised Center Style Barns To Maximize Farm Productivity

Lean-tos

You can install additional lean-tos on either side of the structure for extra space with shade. You can use this to park any farm vehicles or let animals out to graze in shade. A wraparound can also be installed around the structure for maximum utility. 

Insulation

Opt for high R-value insulation for added comfort of your cattle. Choose among double-bubble, woven R-17, or spray foam insulation depending on the size of your barns and requirements. If you are storing hay in the barn, then it is imperative to have a properly insulated structure to keep the monitor barn dry and moisture-free. Install insulated roofs to preserve heat transfer. 

Interior zoning

For the efficient functioning of farm operations, you can consider dedicating separate zones for different activities. Different spaces for housing livestock and feed will also reduce the risk of contamination risks and streamline the feeding routine. 

Stalls for livestock

You can install removable or modular stall panels for your livestock. These are extremely helpful in case you need to modify the layout of your monitor barn. You should consider equipping each stall with automated feeders and waterers for overall efficiency and to save time on daily chores. 

Barn doors and shutters

There are a range of metal barn shutters to choose from, including single-hung, double-hung, sliding, or casement shutters. 

Even for doors, there are a variety of options, such as roll-on, sliding, walk-in, or double-panel doors. 

Gutter and downspout

It is crucial that you work towards keeping your raised aisle barn dry by installing a proper gutter and downspout system. With automated systems, you can direct rainwater from the roof and direct it to collection tanks. Utilize this water to wash animals or keep the floors clean.

Flooring

A raised monitor barn is essentially a large structure with at least 28 feet to 30 feet of width. Hence, it is advisable to install concrete slabs of 4 inches to 8 inches thick. Concrete is the most durable and strong flooring material with the highest load-bearing capacity among alternatives. 

Common Dimensions Of Raised Center Style Barns

The width of these structures can be as high as 300 feet, depending on utility and need. It is crucial to note that as you opt for larger structures, the per-square-foot cost of monitor barns reduces, providing you with a better deal. 

Monitor Barns Deliver Optimum Results

With an in-depth understanding of monitor barns, you can improve the efficiency of your farm operations. These structures are simple and affordable farm buildings, maximizing your functionality and delivering optimum results. Enhanced ventilation and light penetration also help maintain the comfort within!