Tarping farm equipment and livestock shelters provides critical protection from the elements that can wreak havoc on operations. Whether it's equipment like tractors and harvesters or animals in barns and pastures, weathering takes a serious toll over time if left unprotected. The UV rays from the sun, pounding rain, and extreme temperatures from heat and cold all break down materials.
Different Types of Tarps for Farming
There are several main types of tarps suitable for protecting farm equipment and livestock from weather extremes:
Vinyl Tarps
Vinyl is a lightweight and inexpensive Tarpaulin material. However, it is only suitable for light duties like keeping sun and occasional rain off equipment in storage. Vinyl tarps are thin and will rapidly deteriorate in heavy weather.
Canvas Tarps
Made of tightly woven cotton or polyester fabric, canvas tarps are thicker than vinyl for withstanding heavier rain, snow, and wind. These Heavy Duty Tarpaulins UK are mid-weight duty options good for covering equipment and small shelters.
Polyethylene Tarps
Commonly known as poly tarps, these are heavy-duty tarps made of woven polyethylene fibers. Polyethylene provides the best waterproofing protection against moisture. Polytarps are best for high-use applications like livestock barns that see lots of snow melt and rain.
Breathable Fabric Tarps
Material like cotton canvas woven with a waterproof yet breathable laminate allows airflow while still keeping rain and snow out. Breathable tarps are important when covering livestock areas as trapped moisture can lead to health issues for animals if the shelter is non-porous.
Properly Covering Farm Equipment
Properly securing tarps over equipment is essential to protect the investment and prevent flapping or blow-offs in windy conditions. The following best practices should be followed when tarping farm equipment:
Remove or Secure Loose Items
Before covering, remove any loose parts, tools, or other small objects that could blow away once the tarp is installed. This avoids lost or damaged items.
Park on Level Ground
For best coverage and water runoff, park equipment on an area of flat, level ground if possible. This ensures the tarp lays smoothly.
Anchor the Corners and Edges
Use stakes hammered firmly into the ground at each corner of the tarp, pulling it taut. Also, stake along the perimeter edges to prevent flapping. In very windy areas, additional stakes every few feet are recommended.
Use Tension Lines
Lay out ropes or bungee cords in a crisscross pattern underneath the tarp and connect them to the stakes or equipment frame for added tension without billowing or sagging.
Inspect After Storms
Check the tarp fastenings and re-stake securely if any stakes were loosened by strong winds or rain to maintain protection. Over time, replace worn stakes for continued secure coverage.
Effectively Tarping Livestock Shelters
While farm equipment can simply be covered and secured, livestock shelters require tarping methods that still allow for ventilation and access. The following guidelines will help effectively tarp shelter structures:
Create a Frame
Use poles or ropes to erect a simple framing system that the tarp will be secured to. This raises the tarp off the shelter to prevent moisture and allow airflow below.
Anchor the Perimeter
Install metal or plastic grommets around the Plastic Tarpaulin edge at regular intervals compatible with your framing system. Use heavy-duty rope or chains to tighten and secure the tarp to the framing.
Provide Roof Ventilation
Leave space at the peak and along the top back portion of the shelter for moisture, heat, and gases to escape. Ensure the opening is covered with mesh or slats to block the entrance of rain and snow.
Secure Doors and Openings
Use straps or ties to close any shelter accesses when not in use to prevent drafts and moisture infiltration. Animals can still enter and exit as needed with the straps removed briefly.
Monitor Animal Comfort
Check livestock are not exhibiting stress behaviors from the new covered housing. Adjust ventilation or structure as needed if overheating or poor air quality is observed. An effective tarp balances livestock protection with welfare needs.
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