Horse barn stall windows provide a way to let fresh air into the stall while protecting the occupant from intruders. The window may also serve to provide a visual stimulus, something many horses seem to enjoy.
Ideally the windows are located at eye level for the intended equine resident but this will vary depending on the size of the animal. Smaller mini or pony stalls may need windows much lower than standard stall front doors. Regardless of window horse stall windows height, it is important to remember that these windows must be easily cleaned to remove hay and bedding that tends to carry a variety of dangerous materials.
Most prefabricated and modular horse barns come with a pre-designed stall design that includes a standard window for each stall. On site pole and stick built construction firms will normally charge extra for special window styles or sizing.
The windows are typically made of a solid upper section and a welded grille or bars mounted in the middle. Typically the bars are positioned on 4″ centers and will prevent the horses from reaching in to try and break the glass or to get their hooves caught between the door and frame. These bars will also protect the window from being smashed by the horses trying to climb on it to relieve boredom or stress.
A welded grille or bar window frame can be added to a wooden stall or to a metal stall with an existing glass window. These windows are very secure as the bars are welded to the frame and the window and cannot be broken by horses climbing or kicking on them. These window frames also have a large area surface and will be very easy to clean.
Often the lower portion of the window has an open area for a Stall Wall Vent and/or a stall door for water buckets. This type of window can be latched open for ventilation when the stall is not occupied. This is a particularly useful feature for stalls located in warmer climates and where hay or straw may be stored in the aisle. Keeping this hay or straw out of the stall improves ventilation and can help to keep respiratory infections at bay.
Simple sliding windows are also available for stall fronts or walls. These offer the same convenience as the grilled hinged windows and are very easy to clean. However, this style of window will have to be carefully managed to prevent drafts in winter and to avoid snow or rain entering the stall during stormy weather.
The stall window is connected to the partition frame using two “U” channels. One of these has three connectors and a pin attached at the end to connect with your partition board(s). The other channel has a single connector with a pin that will either connect to wall mounted brackets or will fit into the gap between your stall fronts (depending on the design). The lumber is placed into the channels with tongue side up and the connections are pinned in place.