Metal Buildings Guide

Riding Arenas

Clear-span indoor arenas with tall eaves and controlled ventilation. Protect footing from weather, add natural light, and size openings for trailers and maintenance equipment.

Clear Span & Height

Red iron rigid frames deliver open spans for standard (60×120) to larger (80×200) arenas. Eave height commonly 16–24′ for safe headroom.

Red IronOpen SpanTall Eaves

Footing Protection

Plan door thresholds, apron grades, and interior drains to keep footing clean and dry. Use wall kick protection where horses track.

ApronsThresholdsKick Plates

Ventilation & Light

Ridge vents, cupolas, and wall louvers manage humidity and dust. Skylights/translucent panels add even daylight without glare.

Ridge VentsLouversSkylights

Doors & Access

Large sliding/roll-up doors for trailers and grooming tractors. Add man doors for safe egress and cross-breeze.

SlidingRoll-UpMan Doors
Popular Sizes

Footprints that Work

60×120 • 70×140 • 80×200. Extend length in 20–25′ bays; check sightlines around columns for trainers and spectators.

Heights & Doors

Clearances

Eave height 16–24′ typical. Sliding/roll-up doors 12×14+; add high clear openings for airflow and grooming passes.

Codes & Loads

Engineer It Right

Wind/snow/seismic to local code. Consider snow drifting at canopies and ventilation loads on cladding.

Next Steps

  1. 1. Run CodeSmart™ to note wind, snow, and seismic for your site.
  2. 2. Select clear span, length, and eave height around your riding program.
  3. 3. Plan footing protection, ventilation, daylighting, and door locations.
  4. 4. Coordinate slab edges, aprons, and interior drains to keep footing clean.
  5. 5. Verify with your local building department, then request a quote from the supplier recommended by CodeSmart™.

Confirm arena occupancy, egress, and snow/wind exposure with your authority having jurisdiction. Door wind ratings and skylight specs vary by region.