Building Type:
Farrowing BarnNew Farrowing Barn Marks Next Chapter in Family–Builder Legacy
This farrowing barn wasn’t just a practical upgrade. For the owner, it carried forward a decades-long connection between his family and their trusted builder. Built to improve sow and piglet care, the facility combines a smart, sanitary layout with durable materials and everyday efficiency. See how a proven partnership and thoughtful design brought this Wick building to life.
What the owner wanted
John X. and his family needed a smarter solution for their sow-related operations. Their farrowing barn had outlived its usefulness, and the once-essential corn crib nearby was now just taking up space. They decided it was time to build a modern facility that would help take their operation into the future.
Their goal was to have a building that improves sow care and supports piglet health from birth to weaning. That meant it had to be durable, promote labor-efficiency, and provide a safe, consistent environment for both sows and piglets. The new facility also needed to integrate seamlessly with their overall livestock workflow.
What was special about the project
Before this barn took shape, the site held two outdated structures—one of which had been used for farrowing by John’s great-grandfather. Replacing those buildings wasn’t just a smart move for the operation. It was also a chance to continue a trusted relationship with Dave River Construction (see more on this builder below).
“My grandpa would’ve worked with Dave’s dad for a long time, and now I’m the third generation that got to work with Dave.”
The significance of that continuity wasn’t lost on John.
“The word ‘relationship’ means a lot to me, actually,” says John. “You kind of grow together over the years. Once you start working with someone, and you have a good experience with them, and everything kind of clicks, that really means a lot.”
Who helped build it
Dave River Construction is an authorized Wick builder with a long track record of agricultural building success. Owner Dave River and his crew understand livestock facilities and how they need to work day-to-day.
On site, Dave turned John’s goals into a clear plan—refining layout, clarifying options, and keeping communication steady from first stakes to punch list. It’s a relationship that continues to evolve as John’s farm expands.
“We actually have two more Wick buildings we’re designing right now to finish this project up,” says John.
Why a pole barn from Wick Buildings was the right choice
The new farrowing building sets the stage for a more modernized operation that will continue to grow. Because it’s a Wick building, John and his family have gained a number of long-term advantages:
Superior lumber. To make our buildings stronger and last longer, we use only lumber that meets or exceeds machine-graded specs for all structural components, from trusses and columns to girts and purlins. In addition to the visual benefits of this cleaner lumber, it’s at least 15% stronger than regular lumber.
Durable steel. All Wick pole barns include full-hard exterior steel, with 80,000 PSI hardness or better, resulting in fewer dents. That steel is also G-90 galvanized for better corrosion protection.
High-performance paint. Our paint coating is warrantied not to chip or crack for 40 years and comes in a spectrum of colors. Color details for the new farrowing barn include red for the exterior steel walls and white for the trim and wainscotting.
Exceptional quality. Wick buildings are low maintenance and therefore incredibly reliable. That means this farm family can keep their focus on all the steps that go into effective farrowing—not on building upkeep.
Interested in a project like this? Find a builder in your area!
