Machinery Storage Buildings from Zipperlock

In order to provide shelter for his farm equipment, Kirby Lohr was looking for a machinery storage building. Kirby and Kelli farm at Shelby, Montana. Their major crops are winter wheat, spring wheat and barley, with only 300 acres, of the 3,000 acres, used as pasture or hayland. Kirby was looking for a complete machinery storage building package; building set-up, foundation, and doors. He got what he wanted. Choosing the right size machinery storage building was a simple enough process. He wanted it to be wide so it is, 70'. Kirby thought the building should be 120' long, Kelli suggested 150' and they laugh "we decided on 160". The most important requirement, however, was wide overhead doors to accommodate his widest implements. Double overhead doors, with a common centre post that lifts out of the way to provide a clear width span were developed to meet these needs. Kirby can back his farm equipment in without problem.

Kirby learned of Zipperlock Steel Buildings through a trade show in Lethbridge, Alberta. The first time he saw one he liked it. When the decision was made to purchase a steel building, Kirby phoned the Zipperlock sales office. A salesman came out to see him almost immediately and it didn't take long to reach a purchase agreement.

The Lohrs were impressed by the service of Zipperlock representatives. "They treated me real good, listened to what I was concerned about and didn't treat me like I knew beans about it," says Kirby. "Initially they were going to use a wood jamb for the overhead door. I wanted metal. They put in metal." He expressed concern about the strong prevailing west winds, so Zipperlock provided a reinforced end wall. Zipperlock also assisted Kirby in levelling the site. His building was completed in a timely manner, another positive note from Zipperlock.

For enjoyment, Kirby raises a half-dozen head of cattle. They're kept in a beautiful brick barn built by his father, over 40 years ago. The yard features a number of interesting buildings, many of which contain antique farm machinery.