Dairy Buildings Ontario

Ontario dairies have shifted decisively toward fabric-covered free-stall and calf housing in the past decade. Cow comfort metrics — lying time, milk yield, somatic cell counts — measurably improve under translucent membranes versus dark insulated steel barns. Building Depot, as Ontario's Authorized MegaDome Dealer, delivers turnkey dairy buildings from foundation to final commissioning.

MegaDome HP and XP series frames provide the clear-span widths needed for modern free-stall layouts — typically 90, 110 or 140 feet wide with no interior columns. Natural ventilation through ridge vents and curtain side-walls keeps ammonia and humidity in check year-round without expensive mechanical systems.

Calf barns benefit especially from MegaDome's natural light profile. Vitamin D synthesis, reduced respiratory disease and improved weight gain are documented outcomes in published dairy research comparing fabric to conventional housing. Pair with hutches under cover or as a stand-alone group-pen barn.

Foundation choices for permanent dairy use are typically poured concrete pony walls 4–8 feet high, with the MegaDome frame springing from a continuous top-plate. Building Depot pours every foundation in-house — no second contractor, no scheduling gap.