Why Timber Is The Best Material For Mobile Field Shelters

It’s the middle of winter, and the wind is howling across the fields. Your horses seek shelter from the rain, but your chosen structure isn’t holding up—metal shelters feel like an icebox while plastic ones lack durability. You need something sturdy, warm, and built to last. That’s where a mobile field shelter made of timber comes in.

In this blog post, we’ll explore why timber is the superior choice for mobile field shelters, offering strength, insulation, and long-term value.

Looking for a reliable, high-quality timber shelter? National Timber Buildings has over 40 years of experience designing and manufacturing durable, bespoke mobile field shelters. Built with Tanalised® timber, our shelters are designed for the unpredictable British weather, keeping your horses safe and comfortable year-round.

Give your horses the field shelter they deserve! Contact us today to discuss your perfect timber field shelter. Call us on 01233 740944 or email us at info@nationalstables.co.uk to request a free brochure to explore your options.

Benefits Of Timber-Framed Mobile Field Shelters

1. Durability And Structural Strength

Timber, particularly Tanalised® timber, is one of the most durable building materials for mobile field shelters. Unlike metal, which can dent and rust over time, or plastic, which can become brittle, timber provides long-term structural integrity.

Key durability benefits of timber-framed mobile field shelters are:

• Impact resistance – Timber can absorb impacts from animals and the environment, reducing the risk of structural damage.
• Rot and decay protection – Tanalised® timber is pressure-treated, which resists fungal decay and insect infestation.
• Withstands harsh weather – Timber shelters are designed to endure strong winds, rain, and snow, ensuring reliable protection in all seasons.
• Longevity – A well-maintained timber-framed field shelter can last 30–40 years, offering long-term value.

2. Natural Insulation And Climate Control

Unlike metal, which overheats in summer and freezes in winter, timber offers natural insulation that comforts your animals year-round.

Why does timber provide superior insulation?

• Maintains warmth in winter – Timber retains heat naturally, ensuring your horses and livestock stay warm during colder months.
• Keeps cool in summer – Unlike metal, which absorbs heat, timber shelters provide a cooler environment in hot weather.
• Prevents condensation – Timber regulates moisture levels, reducing the risk of condensation build-up, which can cause damp conditions and health issues in animals.

National Timber Buildings uses high-quality timber with roof linings and ventilation systems, ensuring your animals stay comfortable in any weather.

3. Customisation And Aesthetic Appeal

Timber is highly customisable, allowing you to design a bespoke mobile field shelter tailored to your needs.

Customisation options available with timber shelters:

• Adjustable stable doors – Customise door height and width for better access and security.
• Roofing options – Choose from onduline roofing or felt tiles for durability and aesthetics.
• Additional features – Add double doors, increased eaves height, roof lights, or gates to meet your specific requirements.
• Natural and traditional look – Timber blends seamlessly into rural landscapes, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your farm or equestrian facility.

With National Timber Buildings, you can create a fully custom mobile field shelter to fit your space and requirements.

4. Cost-Effectiveness And Low Maintenance

Timber mobile field shelters are cost-effective, providing high durability at a lower cost than metal or composite materials.

How timber saves you money:

• Lower initial cost – Timber shelters are more affordable than metal, offering better insulation and durability.
• Minimal maintenance required – Pressure-treated timber is resistant to rot and decay, requiring only occasional wood preservative application.
• No need for expensive foundations – Mobile timber field shelters can be placed directly on the ground, avoiding costly concrete foundations.
• No planning permission needed – Many portable horse shelters don’t require planning permission, reducing legal and administrative costs.

Investing in a well-built timber shelter means lower expenses in the long run, as it lasts decades with minimal upkeep.

Also Read: Timber Garages For Homes

5. Environmentally Friendly And Sustainable

Sustainability is an essential factor when choosing building materials. Timber is a renewable resource, making it an eco-friendly option for livestock housing.

Why timber is the greenest choice:

• Sourced from sustainable forests – National Timber Buildings only uses responsibly harvested wood.
• Lower carbon footprint – Timber production has significantly less environmental impact than steel or plastic.
• Biodegradable and recyclable – Unlike metal or plastic, timber naturally decomposes, reducing waste.

Choosing a timber mobile field shelter contributes to a sustainable future while providing the best shelter solution for your animals.

6. Portable And Adaptable To Any Land

One of the biggest advantages of timber-framed mobile field shelters is their portability. Timber structures can be easily relocated without compromising their durability.

Key benefits of timber portability:

• Easily moved with skis or wheels – Our mobile timber shelters are fitted with galvanised steel skis, allowing for effortless repositioning.
• Perfect for rotational grazing – Move your shelter to fresh grazing areas.
• No permanent foundation needed – Unlike brick or concrete shelters, timber field shelters do not require permanent footings.
• Ideal for areas with planning restrictions – In most cases, mobile timber shelters do not require planning permission, making them a hassle-free solution.

National Timber Buildings designs portable horse shelters that can be moved as your needs change, ensuring flexibility for years.

7. Protection Against Rust And Corrosion

Metal field shelters are highly susceptible to rust, especially in wet and humid conditions. Over time, corrosion weakens the structure, leading to safety hazards and expensive repairs.

Why timber outperforms metal in wet conditions:

• Rust-free and weather-resistant – Tanalised® timber does not corrode, ensuring longevity.
• Less maintenance than metal – No need for constant repainting or anti-rust treatments.
• Safer for horses and livestock – Metal shelters can have sharp, rusted edges that pose injury risks.

With timber, you avoid costly rust-related repairs and enjoy a long-lasting, safe structure.

Also Read: Manage Your Field Shelter

Shop High-Quality Timber Mobile Field Shelters From National Timber Buildings Today!

With over 40 years of expertise, National Timber Buildings provides high-quality timber mobile field shelters and horse stables designed to withstand the British climate. Our structures are:

• Built from Tanalised® timber for superior strength and longevity
• Designed with animal welfare in mind, ensuring optimal comfort
• Bespoke and fully customisable to suit your needs
• Portable and cost-effective, making them an excellent investment

Ready to invest in the best material for field shelters? Contact us on 01233 740944 or email us at info@nationalstables.co.uk today for a free consultation.