How to Build the Perfect Manure Shed for Your Backyard Composting Needs

Having a designated manure shed in your backyard can make composting much easier and more efficient. Here's how to build the perfect manure shed that meets your composting needs:

Choosing a Location

The first step is picking the right location for your manure shed. Here are some factors to consider:

Sun exposure - A spot that gets partial to full sun is ideal to help keep things dry. Too much shade can lead to excess moisture.
Accessibility - Choose a spot that's easy for you to access with a wheelbarrow or tractor to dump waste into the compost pile.
Drainage - Make sure the area doesn't puddle when it rains. Good drainage is key.
Airflow - Allow space around the shed for adequate airflow to help compost break down.
Distance from house - Far enough away to avoid odor issues but not so far it's inconvenient.

Once you've identified the perfect spot, mark it off and prepare the ground by removing any grass or weeds.

Size and Layout

Figure out the size shed you need based on your composting volume. Bigger is better to allow sufficient aeration and access. A 10x12 or 12x16 shed is ideal for most backyard composters.

As for layout:

Have double doors on one side for wheelbarrow access.
Add windows on the other sides for ventilation.
Create separate bins with dividing walls to organize materials as they break down.
Allow 3-4 feet between bins and walls for turning piles.

Constructing the Shed

Now it's time to build. Here are some tips:

Use pressure-treated lumber for the frame since it will be exposed to moisture.
The floor should be dirt or gravel - not wood - to allow drainage.
Use galvanized screws and hardware to prevent rusting.
Waterproof the roof with shingles or metal sheeting to keep interior dry.
Add wire mesh walls on interior sides for ample airflow.
Install shelving to keep tools organized.
Paint the exterior to protect the wood and match your backyard aesthetic.

Take your time constructing a sturdy shed that will hold up for years to come.

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is critical for effective composting. Here are some tips:

Install vents near the roofline on multiple sides.
Keep doors open when actively working in the shed.
Evaporative coolers can be added to increase airflow on hot days.
Fans can help circulate air when wind is minimal.
Wire mesh walls allow passive airflow without compromising security.

Adequate ventilation provides the oxygen needed for aerobic decomposition. Monitor conditions and make adjustments as needed.

Accessories and Tools

Having the right gear on hand makes manure management much easier:

Wheelbarrows, shovels, and pitchforks - For transporting and turning piles.
Hoses - For adding moisture to dry piles.
Sifters - To separate finished compost from unfinished chunks.
Thermometers - To monitor internal temperatures of piles.
pH meters - To test acidity levels during decomposition.
Protective gear - Like dust masks, gloves, boots, and coveralls.

Organize tools on shelving units and hooks to keep them neat and accessible.

Safety Tips

Proper precautions are necessary when working around manures:

Wear protective gear to avoid contact with waste.
Wash hands and clothes after working with manure piles.
Avoid breathing dust by wearing masks when turning piles.
Monitor piles for internal hot spots which can combust.
Have a fire extinguisher and first aid kit on hand.
Keep children and pets away from active piles.
Control access to the shed by locking doors when not in use.

Stay vigilant and use common sense when managing manures. Your safety is paramount.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance keeps your manure shed composting smoothly:

Remove finished compost regularly to clear space for new waste.
Use a hose to add moisture to dry piles as needed.
Monitor internal temperatures - ideally between 130-150°F.
Turn and mix piles to distribute moisture, nutrients and oxygen.
Repair any damage to structure, doors, roof, etc immediately.
Clean tools and equipment regularly to prevent corrosion.
Inspect walls and flooring for gaps that allow pests. Seal any openings.

Like any equipment, proper care and upkeep is essential for best performance.

Troubleshooting Issues

Despite best efforts, composting problems sometime arise:

Slow decomposition - Increase turning frequency and monitor moisture levels.
Odors - Too much nitrogen. Add carbon-rich materials like sawdust, wood chips, or straw.
Pests/rodents - Eliminate access points, remove food sources, and traps as needed.
Temperature too low - Piles may be too small, wet, or need turning.
Temperature too high - Provide ventilation to release excess heat.
Fire - Shut off oxygen supply and use water or extinguisher to control.

Don't hesitate to adjust practices if issues emerge. A well-managed shed should produce quality compost with minimal headaches.

Conclusion

Constructing the perfect backyard manure shed takes planning, time and labor. But the payoff is home-produced compost and an efficient system for recycling organic waste. Locate it in a convenient spot with ample ventilation. Outfit the interior to easily manage piles at various stages. Keep safety top of mind. And perform regular maintenance to avoid problems. With a well-built and organized shed, you'll be mastering manure management and making compost in no time!