DIY Sheep Shelter and Pen Setup | Ranch Project Update
Ewes comfortably resting inside the new shelter, safe from the elements at Sandy Patch Ranch.
It’s been another exciting week here at Sandy Patch Ranch! If you follow us on social media, you’ve probably seen some of the behind-the-scenes videos of us working on our DIY sheep shelter. If you’re not following along yet, now’s a great time to join us and see more of our everyday ranch life
Close-up of welded pipe fence with top rail and attached cattle panels for the sheep enclosure.
Why We Built a Year-Round Sheep Pen
Last year, we dedicated a lot of time to fencing projects. One of those was a 50’x50’ pen we built specifically for our sheep to use during the winter. It worked so well that we’ve decided to use it year-round as a nighttime enclosure for our ewes, offering extra protection from predators and the elements.
Detailed view of added risers and two strands of barbed wire atop the sheep pen posts for enhanced security
Materials and Design of the Sheep Pen
To keep things consistent, we matched the pen with the pipe fencing around our front two acres. We used structural tubing for the posts, welded on a top rail, and attached cattle panels for secure containment.
Later, we added risers to each post and installed two strands of barbed wire at the top for extra height and security. When we made those additions, we already had a plan in mind: to build a three-sided shelter in one corner of the pen.
Front corner of the sheep pen showing taller risers and square frame welded for the three-sided shelter
Horizontal 2x4s installed on the shelter frame to support tin siding for the sheep shelter
Hurricane ties and 12-foot roof rafters installed to create an overhang on the sheep shelter
Framing and Building the Sheep Shelter
We picked a front corner and welded taller risers to the three main posts, forming a square frame across the top with an additional support post. This week, we added horizontal 2x4s to the outside of the fencing to attach the tin siding, and installed hurricane ties at the top to hold the roof rafters.
Custom-cut tin panel fitted snugly between the post and fence for the interior wall of the sheep shelter.
Close Up Custom-cut tin panel fitted snugly between the post and fence for the interior wall of the sheep shelter.
Finished three-sided sheep shelter within the pen, providing protection from wind and rain.
Shelter Dimensions and Final Touches
The shelter footprint is roughly 10’x10’, with 12-foot rafters to create a slight overhang and better rain runoff. For the interior wall, we custom-cut one tin panel to fit snugly between the post and the fence for a clean, tight fit.
And in true ranch fashion—we were one roof panel short! So add that to the supply list for the next trip to town.
Ewes comfortably resting inside the new shelter, safe from the elements at Sandy Patch Ranch.
Gratitude and Growing Ranch Life
Our sheep are already enjoying their new shelter and can finally stay warm and dry no matter the weather. We’re so grateful for the opportunity to care for our animals and for every project we get to build together as a family.
“The Lord will keep you from all harm—He will watch over your life.” — Psalm 121:7
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