What are skids on stables?

Have you ever felt the urge to simply rearrange your entire barn, as easily as shifting furniture in a dollhouse? While horses might raise a collective eyebrow at such sudden relocations, the concept isn’t entirely fantastical! Skids make this possible.

Forget the static, the permanent, the “set-in-stone” notion of equestrian housing. Instead, picture stables not as steadfast structures but as adaptable entities, capable of a graceful, albeit earthbound, migration. This mobility is all thanks to the ingenious addition of skids – robust runners forming the base of the stable.

Built using galvanised steel or wooden skids, these clever supports turn a traditional stable into a mobile shelter. They’re sturdy foundations designed to allow the entire stable unit to be skidded or dragged across paddocks or fields. Are you intrigued by this concept of mobile mansions for our equine companions? This guide will explore how skids work, the benefits of choosing the right materials, and what you need to know about planning permission when opting for a mobile field shelter.

If you’re interested in finding a mobile stable that suits your needs, call 01233 740944 or email info@nationalstables.co.uk to discuss your requirements — our team is ready to help.

What Are Skids, And Why Are They Used In Stables?

Skids are a clever, movable foundation used in stables and field shelters, allowing them to be easily relocated across your land. These strong, sturdy runners are attached to the base of your shelter, providing a reliable and flexible solution for horse owners who need the ability to move their structures. Skids come in two main types: wooden and steel skids, each offering benefits.

 

• Wooden skids: Wooden skids are a popular option because they’re cost-effective and practical for many horse owners. They are sturdy and durable for a wide range of uses.
• Steel skids: Steel field shelters offer superior durability for those seeking a longer-lasting solution. Steel skids are galvanised to prevent rust and offer an impressive lifespan, often lasting 30-40 years, even in harsh weather conditions.

The ability to move these shelters without the need for permanent foundations is what sets them apart from traditional, fixed stables. This mobility allows you to protect your land from overgrazing and create a flexible environment for your horses, making these mobile stables on skids an appealing option.

 

Benefits Of Choosing Stables On Skids Over Traditional, Fixed Stables

When comparing stables on skids to traditional, fixed stables, the benefits are clear and impactful:

• Mobility and flexibility: Mobile stables on skids can be easily moved, making it simple to rotate grazing areas or adjust to changing conditions, unlike permanent stables fixed in place.
• Cost-effective: Without expensive foundations, field shelters on skids provide a budget-friendly alternative to traditional stables that require groundwork.
• No foundation needed: Stables on skids don’t require the installation of a foundation, offering a hassle-free solution that saves time and money.
• Durability: Whether you choose wooden skids for affordability or steel field shelters for long-lasting protection, both options offer excellent durability for varying conditions.
• Versatility: From temporary grazing shelters to housing for young stock, stables on skids are versatile and can be used for various purposes, while traditional stables are typically less adaptable.

Need expert stable planning advice? Explore helpful tips and expert guidance to create the perfect space for your horses. With over 40 years of experience, National Timber Buildings is a trusted name in bespoke wooden stables.

 

Do You Need Planning Permission For Stables On Skids?

One of the most significant advantages of stables on skids is their flexibility, but this can sometimes lead to questions about whether planning permission is required. The good news? In many cases, mobile stables on skids may not require formal planning permission. However, there are some circumstances where you may need to obtain approval.

When You Might Need Planning Permission

• Permanent placement: If you’re placing your field shelter on skids in a specific location for an extended period, it could be considered a permanent structure, which may require planning permission.
• Large-scale structures: Larger shelters or those intended for commercial use might be subject to stricter regulations.
• Location restrictions: If your land is in an area with specific zoning regulations or is near certain protected areas, you may need to seek permission before placing your shelter.

It’s always best to check local guidelines or speak with a planning authority to ensure your obligations. For more details on when you might need permission, read our blog on mobile field shelter planning permission.

 

Choose National Timber Buildings For High-Quality Stables On Skids!

At National Timber Buildings, we bring over 40 years of expertise in designing and manufacturing high-quality timber structures. Our stables on skids are designed to provide a flexible, durable, and cost-effective solution for your equine needs. Our stables are:

• Built with galvanised steel skids, providing enhanced mobility and protection against rust
• Designed for easy relocation across paddocks, fields, and yards
• Equipped with towing eyes on all four corners, making movement simple and secure
• Constructed with high-quality timber for superior strength and longevity
• Cost-effective and durable, offering a long lifespan of 30-40 years

When you invest in a stable on skids from National Timber Buildings, you’re not just investing in a structure but in the mobility and longevity of your equine housing. Planning to invest in the best mobile stables for your equine needs? Contact us today on 01233 740944 or email info@nationalstables.co.uk for a free consultation.