How to Make Your Own Cattle Guard with a Reusable Concrete Form

Creating a safe and effective livestock crossing doesn’t have to involve costly prefabricated solutions. The reusable concrete cattle guard form from Barn World provides a simple and economical way to pour your own HS-20-rated concrete cattle guard—on-site and on your schedule.

cattle guard form
Cattle Guard removal from the form

This purpose-built form allows you to cast professional-quality cattle guards as needed, making it a valuable asset for ranchers, landowners, and contractors who require strong, reliable livestock barriers across property entrances and driveways.


Specifications: Reusable Concrete Cattle Guard Form

FeatureDetails
Weight75 lbs.
Finished Concrete DimensionsApproximately 6′ L × 21.5″ W
Concrete Requirements12 bags of 80 lb., 4,000 PSI concrete mix per pour
Reinforcement½” rebar (user supplied)
Release AgentRequired to ease the form removal and avoid damage
Load RatingHS-20 highway rated (DOT-compliant when installed properly)
Form ReusabilityYes – built for repeated use

How to Use the Form

Using the cattle guard form is straightforward:

  1. Prepare the Site
    Level and compact the area where the cattle guard will be installed. Ensure proper drainage to prevent water buildup beneath the guard.
  2. Position the Form
    Place the reusable form on a flat, stable surface. Make sure it’s properly supported to hold the weight of the concrete.
  3. Apply a Release Agent
    Thoroughly coat the inside of the form with a release agent before each pour. This critical step helps ensure easy removal of the form once the concrete has cured and prevents damage to the form itself.
  4. Insert Rebar
    Set ½” rebar inside the form to add structural reinforcement to the guard. This step is essential for achieving proper strength and meeting the HS-20 load rating.
  5. Mix and Pour Concrete
    Use 12 bags of 80 lb., 4,000 PSI concrete mix per pour. Vibrate the form lightly to eliminate air pockets and ensure even distribution.
  6. Cure the Concrete
    Allow the concrete to cure fully according to standard curing times. Protect it from moisture loss during the initial stages to prevent cracking.
  7. Remove the Form
    Once the concrete is cured, remove the form carefully and clean it thoroughly. It’s now ready for reuse or storage.

The Benefits of Making Your Own Cattle Guard

  • Cost Savings – Avoid the higher cost of pre-cast or fabricated cattle guards.
  • On-Demand Availability – Pour and install whenever you’re ready.
  • HS-20 Load Rated – Suitable for public roads and heavy traffic when installed correctly.
  • Customizable Installation – Choose your own concrete mix, reinforcement, and site location.
  • Reusable for Multiple Pours – Designed for repeat use with proper care.
Concrete Cattle Guards

Build Permanent Crossings with Professional Results

Whether you’re managing ranch operations or simply looking for a secure vehicle crossing that doesn’t require opening a gate, this reusable cattle guard form is a durable and practical tool. With each pour, you’ll have a professional-grade livestock barrier that meets highway load requirements and saves you money over time.


Order Your Form Today

Ready to start pouring your own cattle guards? Visit Barn World’s Cattle Guard Forms to learn more and order your reusable form today. It ships nationwide and puts the power of permanent livestock control right at your fingertips.

BarnWorld.com | (720) 238-2190 | Sales@BarnWorld.com

concrete cattle guards

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