IT almost goes without saying , animal welfare is a major issue for farmers and hugely important is providing appropriate shelter . Yet the peaceful environment can be utterly shattered each time it rains if the right roofing solution isn ’ t in place .

Lightweight roofing specialist Onduline has this covered , with its bituminous corrugated sheets being up to four times quieter than a metal alternative when the weather turns nasty . Onduline roofing products have been a ‘ go to ’ solution for stable owners and those caring for animals for years .

Along with their durability , ease of fitting and eco-friendly qualities , their acoustic benefit is a key reason why they are such a favourite .

The noise generated by rain pounding on a metal roof can be extremely disturbing for any livestock within .

Compare this to the noise deadening impact of Onduline ’ s bituminous sheets and the difference is obvious .

An attractive look that fits in with rural surroundings

In fact , comparative testing commissioned by the company has shown its corrugated sheeting is around 23 decibels quieter .

Potential customers can put this to the test on an acoustic rain simulator , which has been developed to give people the opportunity to hear the evidence for themselves .

“ While the rain simulator cannot match the stringent controls required for laboratory testing , it does offer a realistic practical demonstration of the products ’ sound dampening qualities ,” explained Ardit Strica , Onduline ’ s Technical Manager .

Happy horses

Stables owner Fran Wilkinson looked to Onduline for roofing protection when developing a stable block for her family ’ s three horses and a further two on livery .

She chose the company ’ s CLASSIC roofing sheets for the 85m2 project , which nestles in the East Lothian countryside .

The block is designed in an ‘ L ’

Onduline Classic , for large agricultural buildings

shape and contains four stables , a wash bay , a tack room and a hay stable .

Fran said : “ When it came to designing the new stables , I was keen to have something that was not only practical and durable , but that looked beautiful too . Having something that blended in with the loveliness of our surrounding area was the key goal really .”

The stables were crafted by a local joiner and builder using Siberian Larch , topped with Onduline ’ s CLASSIC brown