[caz]

What type of barn is best for housing square bales of hay? I need to keep costs down as much as possible so tge least foundations/groundwork that needs doing the better. Does it need verticle wood slats that have gaps between each slat  for ventilation? I can't have an open sided structure as it would end up knicked or the kids would be in setting fire to it so I need something secure from oportunists.

[Marches Farmer]

We store ours in a pole barn.  Good ventilation helps keep the hay fresh.  I recommend leaving a 30cm gap around the edge of the bales so you can bait for rats - just the kind of cosy hotel they prefer for the Winter.  I think you're referring to Yorkshire boarding for the sides?

[caz]

Thanks for the reply. Yes that's it Yorkshire boarding. Is that what I need for hay? I've heard of hay spontaneously combusting and would like best barn from the outset to avoid this if it's possible.
 Is a soil floor ok? Obviously we will sit the hay on pallets or something so it's not directly on the floor. 

[Me]

It goes on fire if its made wet rather than due to the barn design

[cloddopper]

Caz ,roughly how many bales of hay are you looking to store ??

[caz]

I'd say no more than 500. Just wanting to build the most suitable , practical building from the outset.