Hay Feeding Shelter with Hinged Loading Ramp

Construct a durable hay feeding shelter that protects hay from weather and allows livestock to feed slowly through specially designed openings. Includes a hinged side wall that lowers into a ramp for easy loading and unloading of large square hay bales directly from a truck bed.

Intermediate 24 hours $1200
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Site Preparation:
- Choose a flat, well-drained area.
- Mark out a 16' wide × 9' deep main shelter area plus a 9' ramp extension.
2. Post Installation:
- Dig eight 2-ft deep post holes for 6x6 posts at corners and midpoints.
- Pour gravel for drainage, set posts in concrete, ensuring they are plumb and aligned.
- Allow concrete to cure 24-48 hours.
3. Frame Construction:
- Attach 2x6 horizontal beams between posts to create the frame for walls and roof.
- Build the 15' × 24' hay storage area frame adjacent to the feeding shelter.
4. Build Hinged Side Wall/Ramp:
- Construct a sturdy 16' wide × 9' high framed wall panel using 2x6 and 2x4 lumber.
- Attach heavy-duty galvanized hinges along the bottom edge connecting it to the base frame.
- Install metal latches/hooks at the top to secure the wall in upright position.
5. Feeding Openings:
- On remaining side walls, frame multiple vertical feeding slots approximately 12" wide and 24" high.
- Cover openings with wire mesh to allow slow hay feeding and prevent waste.
6. Roof Installation:
- Attach 2x6 rafters spaced evenly across the top frame.
- Secure corrugated metal roofing panels to rafters with appropriate screws.
- Ensure proper overhang to protect feeding openings.
7. Hay Storage Area:
- Frame and cover the 15' × 24' hay storage with plywood or OSB.
- Install a weatherproof roof similar to the feeding shelter.
8. Finishing Touches:
- Seal all exposed wood with wood sealant or paint for weather protection.
- Ensure ramp lowers smoothly and is secure when raised.
- Add gravel or a concrete pad beneath the ramp area for stable loading/unloading.
9. Testing:
- Lower the hinged side wall to verify ramp functionality.
- Load a large square hay bale from a truck bed to test ease of use.
- Check stability and safety for livestock and handlers.
Materials
Pressure-treated lumber:
- 6x6 posts (8 pieces, 10 ft)
- 2x6 boards (20 pieces, 12 ft)
- 2x4 boards (15 pieces, 12 ft)
- 1x4 boards (10 pieces, 8 ft)
Plywood or treated OSB sheets (4 sheets, 4'x8')
Corrugated metal roofing panels (6 panels, 3'x8')
Galvanized steel hinges (heavy duty, 2 sets)
Galvanized nails and screws
Exterior wood screws (3" and 1.5")
Metal latches and hooks (for securing ramp)
Wire mesh (for feeding openings)
Concrete mix (for post footings)
Gravel (for drainage)
Wood sealant or exterior paint
Safety gear (gloves, goggles)
Tools needed:
- Circular saw
- Drill with bits
- Hammer
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Wrench or socket set
- Ladder
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