Every livestock farmer knows the crushing disappointment of opening a silage pile only to find spoiled, moldy feed. Poor silage protection doesn't just waste your harvest—it directly impacts your bottom line and your animals' health. The right tarp can mean the difference between high-quality feed that keeps your livestock thriving and costly feed losses that eat into your profits.
Why Proper Silage Protection Matters
Silage is essentially controlled fermentation, and like any fermentation process, it requires the right conditions to succeed. When oxygen infiltrates your silage pile, it creates the perfect environment for harmful bacteria and mold growth. This leads to:
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Nutrient degradation that reduces feed quality
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Dry matter losses of up to 20% or more
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Potential mycotoxin contamination that can harm livestock health
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Wasted time and money from your entire silage-making process
A quality tarp acts as your first line of defense, creating an oxygen barrier that preserves the anaerobic environment your silage needs to ferment properly.
Key Features to Look for in Silage Tarps
UV Resistance
Your tarp will be exposed to intense sunlight for months at a time. Look for tarps with UV stabilizers that can withstand prolonged sun exposure without breaking down. A tarp that deteriorates under UV rays will fail when you need it most.
Thickness and Durability
Thicker isn't always better, but you need enough material to resist punctures from equipment, animals, and weather. Most quality silage tarps range from 6-12 mil thickness, with 10-12 mil being ideal for most operations.
Oxygen Barrier Properties
The primary job of your silage tarp is to keep oxygen out. Look for tarps specifically designed with low oxygen transmission rates. This isn't just about thickness—it's about the material composition and how well it seals.
Weather Resistance
Your tarp needs to handle everything Mother Nature throws at it: driving rain, snow loads, temperature fluctuations, and high winds. Look for tarps with reinforced edges and strong seams that won't fail under stress.
Material Options: What Works Best
Polyethylene (PE) Tarps
The most common choice for good reason. PE tarps offer excellent oxygen barrier properties, UV resistance, and durability at a reasonable cost. They're available in various thicknesses and can be manufactured with specific additives for enhanced performance.
Vinyl Tarps
More expensive but extremely durable. Vinyl tarps excel in harsh weather conditions and have excellent puncture resistance. They're often the choice for operations that need maximum longevity.
Multi-Layer Composite Tarps
The premium option combining different materials for optimal performance. These tarps often feature an oxygen barrier layer, a UV protection layer, and a reinforcement layer, all in one product.
Proper Installation Techniques
Even the best tarp won't perform if it's not installed correctly. Here's how to maximize your investment:
Create a Smooth Surface
Before covering, ensure your silage pile has a smooth, rounded top without sharp edges that could puncture the tarp. Remove any protruding stems or debris.
Secure the Edges
Use tire sidewalls, sandbags, or purpose-made weights to secure tarp edges. The key is creating a complete seal around the perimeter—any gaps allow oxygen infiltration.
Monitor and Maintain
Regular inspection is crucial. Check for damage, loose areas, or water pooling. Small repairs made early can prevent major problems later.
Cost vs. Quality: Making the Right Investment
It's tempting to go with the cheapest option, but consider the total cost of ownership. A tarp that fails mid-season could cost you thousands in spoiled feed. Quality tarps that last multiple seasons and provide superior protection often deliver better value despite higher upfront costs.
Factor in:
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Replacement frequency (how often will you need to buy new tarps?)
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Feed preservation effectiveness (how much feed loss can you prevent?)
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Labor costs (how much time do repairs and replacements require?)
Sizing Your Tarp Correctly
Proper sizing is critical for effective coverage. Your tarp should extend at least 6-8 feet beyond the base of your silage pile on all sides. This provides enough material to create a proper seal and allows for some settling of the pile over time.
Measure your pile carefully and account for:
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Pile height and slope
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Settlement over time
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Adequate overlap for sealing
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Agricultural Plastic Instead of Silage-Specific Tarps
General-purpose plastic sheeting lacks the oxygen barrier properties and durability needed for silage protection. It's a false economy that leads to poor fermentation and feed losses.
Inadequate Weighting
Loose tarps allow air infiltration and can be damaged by wind. Proper weighting is essential for tarp performance and longevity.
Ignoring Maintenance
Tarps require regular inspection and maintenance. Small tears or loose areas can quickly become major problems if left unaddressed.
Maximizing Tarp Lifespan
With proper care, quality silage tarps can last multiple seasons:
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Store properly during the off-season in a cool, dry place away from UV exposure
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Clean before storage to remove debris and prevent degradation
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Inspect regularly for damage and make timely repairs
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Handle carefully during installation and removal to prevent unnecessary wear
The Bottom Line
Investing in the right silage tarp is investing in your operation's success. Quality feed storage directly impacts milk production, weight gain, and overall herd health. While it might seem like a significant expense upfront, the right tarp pays for itself through preserved feed quality and reduced losses.
Remember, your silage represents months of work and significant investment in seed, fuel, labor, and equipment. Don't let poor storage protection undermine all that effort.
Ready to Protect Your Investment?
When you're ready to invest in quality silage protection, Tarp Supply Inc.® offers a comprehensive selection of professional-grade silage tarps designed specifically for livestock operations. With options ranging from economical polyethylene to premium composite materials, they can help you find the right solution for your specific needs and budget. Their expertise in agricultural applications ensures you'll get a tarp that delivers the protection your silage—and your bottom line—deserve.
