Agriculture tarps, also known as ag tarps or crop tarps, are an essential tool for many agricultural operations. They serve various purposes from protecting crops and livestock to covering equipment and structures. You'll feel confident choosing the right tarp for your farm needs by the end.
Types of Agriculture Tarps
There are several main types of agriculture tarps used for different applications on farms:
Silage Tarps
Used to cover Silage piles and bunkers, Silage Tarpaulins protect feed from environmental elements like rain and sunlight which could negatively impact the nutritional value and digestibility of the feed. Keeping Silage dry allows it to ferment properly so cattle receive optimal nutrition.
Crop Tarps
During harvest, storage, or transport, Crop Heavy Duty Tarpaulins UK are utilized to protect crops from the weather. For hay, tarps prevent rain damage which reduces nutritional content. Tarps also keep straw and produce from getting wet so they remain in good condition from the field to the packing facility.
Equipment Tarps
To prevent deterioration from UV rays, snow, rain, and other weather, Equipment tarps are used to cover farm vehicles, tractors, implements, and machinery when not in active use. This extends the life of expensive assets.
Livestock Tarps
Whether providing shelter in barns, paddocks, or pastures, Livestock tarps offer shade and protection from the elements which helps regulate animals' body temperatures and protects their health and comfort.
Structure Tarps
Temporary or semi-permanent structures can be constructed using Structure tarps to house livestock, equipment, or other farm needs. These tarps provide coverage for various on-farm functions.
Choosing the Right Tarp Size
When selecting an agriculture tarp, properly sizing it for the intended job is crucial. An undersized tarp will not adequately cover the area, while an oversized tarp can pose potential safety hazards and be difficult to install and anchor properly. Consider these key factors when determining the right tarp dimensions:
Item Being Covered
Measure the actual dimensions (length by width) of the object such as a silage pile, piece of equipment, livestock shelter, etc., and add extra coverage as outlined below.
Overhang Allowance
Most experts recommend a minimum 12-18 inch overhang on all sides to prevent water runoff under the tarp edges. More overhangs may be needed depending on specific site conditions.
Terrain Features
Account for any surface irregularities like hills, dips, or obstructions below the covered item that may require additional tarp material. Measure these dimensions as well.
Anchoring Method
Tarps anchored by posts, tires, concrete blocks, or other weights require greater square footage for grommet/rope clearance compared to tarps pulled tight by straps or ropes.
Weather Conditions
Higher winds or heavy snowfall areas necessitate a larger tarp that can withstand greater forces without becoming detached or damaged.
Choosing Material Types
The material used is an important consideration when selecting agriculture tarps. The most common materials include:
Polyethylene (PE)
PE is one of the most durable and affordable tarp materials. It is waterproof, breathable, and withstands abrasion and impact forces well. PE resists rot and corrosion, making it a good standard option. However, it is not as puncture or tear-resistant as other options.
Polypropylene (PP)
More puncture resistant than PE, tarpaulin is well-suited for high-traffic areas with livestock, machinery,, or other potential puncture hazards. It is fade-resistant and retains flexibility in cold temperatures for easy installation. While more resistant than PE, it still risks punctures from sharp objects.
Polyester
Offering maximum strength and tear resistance, polyester tarps provide long-lasting protection in demanding applications. The material withstands UV rays very well, so polyester tarps maintain their properties for many years. However, polyester also carries a higher cost compared to PE and PP.
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