Steel Frame Shelter Solutions
About Hilltop Shelters
Hilltop builds steel frame shelters, typically from 2 3/8 and 3 1/2 drill stem, 2x6 strapping and 1x6 lumber, typically tin is galvanized but custom color options are available.
Looking for something different? We build custom projects as well.
Contact Hilltop to get a delivery cost, Hilltop is located in Pincher Creek, serving southern Alberta...
10 X 18 HORSE SHELTER
The frame is built from drill stem, the skids are 3 1/2" and the frame is 2 3/8 drill stem, giving a sturdy portable shelter, there are chain hooks on the skid for pulling the shelter around. The strapping is 2x6 with 1x6 lumber as the vertical boards and the tin is galvanized.
The front is 8' tall the the rear wall is 6.5'.
Hilltop most commonly stocks 10 x 18 shelters but the below sizes are available on order.
- 10 X 12
- 10 X 18
- 10 X 24
- 10 X 30
10 X 18 CALF SHELTER
The frame is built from drill stem, the skids are 3 1/2" and the frame is 2 3/8 drill stem, giving a sturdy portable shelter, there are chain hooks on the skid for pulling the shelter around. The strapping is 2x6 with 1x6 lumber as the vertical boards and the tin is galvanized.
The front is 6.5' tall the the rear wall is 4'. Calf shelters come with a removable bar cross bar on the front to prevent cows from entering the shelter.
Hilltop most commonly stocks 10 x 18 shelters but the below sizes are available on order.
- 10 X 12
- 10 X 18
- 10 X 24
- 10 X 30
24' VERTICAL WIND FENCE
Vertical wind fences are stocked in 24' lengths but 30' can be ordered.
- Vertical boards are 1x6x8'
- Chain and hooks are installed on both sides of the wind fence
- Top cross bar allows a lifting an moving
24' LEANING WIND FENCE
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24' LEANING WIND FENCE/SHELTER
24' leaning wind fence/shelter are stocked in 24' options but 30' options are available
- The bottom half of the wind fence is "solid" wood to keep wind from blowing through
- Steel angle iron on edges to protect animals and the wind fence tin and wood edges
- Chain hooks to pull the wind fences around pastures
BALE FEEDER SOLUTIONS
Hilltop typically stocks 2 bale cradle feeders but custom options are available.
FENCE POSTS
Here are the commonly stocked fence post sizes.
7" posts
3 1/2" posts
2 3/8 posts
1. How much space does a horse need in a shelter?
The general rule is a minimum of 10 square feet per horse inside a shelter. For a single horse, a 10' x 12' enclosed space is workable; for larger breeds or horses that spend extended time inside, 10' x 18' is more appropriate.
A good run-in shed allows horses to enter and exit freely, lie down comfortably, and turn around without constraint. Interior height should be a minimum of 8 feet to prevent injury from sudden head movements.
2. Open front vs. enclosed shelter
A run-in shed (three solid walls + open front) is the most popular choice for Alberta horse properties. It allows horses to self-regulate — coming in and out as they choose — which reduces stress and improves natural behavior. It also provides excellent passive ventilation, which is critical for respiratory health.
3. Orientation matters more than most people think
In southern Alberta, prevailing winds typically come from the northwest. Positioning your shelter so the open face points south or southeast is standard practice — it shields the interior from the worst wind and snow while still allowing light and airflow. Ask us about placement when you request a quote and we'll share what's worked best for other customers in your area.
4. Single unit vs. multi-bay
For two or more horses sharing a shelter, you have two options: one large open bay (herd-friendly, lower cost) or individual bays with partitions (better for dominant/submissive herd dynamics or horses that need to be separated for feeding). We can build either configuration.
5. Foundation and site prep
Our horse shelters are portable so you can move this shelter around your farm or yard. There is little to no site preparation required.
6. Sizes & options
The most common size is 10' X 18' and Hilltop generally stocks this size. We also offer 10' X 24' and 10' X 30' sizes.
Q: Does Hilltop Manufacturing build custom horse shelters in Alberta?
A: Yes. Hilltop Manufacturing builds fully custom horse shelters and run-in sheds from our shop near Pincher Creek, Alberta. We build to your size, layout, and specifications — contact us at (403) 627-1885 for a free quote.
Q: What sizes of horse shelters do you build?
A: We build to any size. Common configurations include 10' x 18', 10' x 24', and 10' x 30', but we can fabricate custom dimensions to suit your herd size, property layout, and budget. There's no standard size we're locked into.
Q: How much does a custom horse shelter cost in Alberta?
A: Cost varies significantly based on size, features, and materials. A basic single-bay run-in shed starts lower than a multi-bay enclosed shelter with partition walls and a feed room. Contact us for a quote.
Q: How long does a steel horse shelter last?
A: A properly built steel horse shelter will last 6–12+ years with minimal maintenance. Steel doesn't rot, warp, or get chewed by horses the way wood does. Our shelters are fabricated from heavy-duty steel.
Q: What is a run-in shed?
A: A run-in shed is a three-sided horse shelter with an open front that allows horses to enter and exit freely. It's the most popular shelter style in Alberta because it provides wind and weather protection while allowing natural horse behavior and passive ventilation. Hilltop builds run-in sheds in any size.
Q: Do I need a building permit for a horse shelter in Alberta?
A: In most rural Alberta municipalities, a horse shelter on agriculturally zoned land doesn't require a building permit, but setback rules vary by county. We recommend verifying with your local municipal office (Rocky View, Foothills, Pincher Creek No. 9, Lethbridge County, etc.) before placing an order.
Q: Can you add a tack room or feed storage to a horse shelter?
A: Yes. We can integrate enclosed tack rooms, feed storage, or utility rooms into any shelter design. Just let us know during the quoting process and we'll design it in from the start.
Q: Do you deliver horse shelters across Alberta?
A: Yes, delivery can be arranged. Contact us to discuss delivery logistics and costs to your location. Depending on the size of the structure.
Q: Where is Hilltop Manufacturing located?
A: We're located just outside Pincher Creek, Alberta. We serve customers across southern Alberta, including Lethbridge, Fort Macleod, Claresholm, Nanton, High River, and surrounding areas.
Building Excellence