Why Use Tarps on the Farm?
There are several key reasons why farmers rely on Tarpaulin to cover hay bales and equipment around the farm. Tarps provide an affordable and effective solution for protecting valuable resources from rain and sunlight.
Covering hay bales with tarps helps prevent moisture damage which can cause mold growth and decrease the nutritional value of the hay. When uncovered, rain can soak into bales, ruining the top layers and reducing their weight and usability for livestock. Tarping bales allows farmers to safeguard their hay until it's time to feed animals.
Choosing the Right Tarp Material
Polyethylene Tarps
Polyethylene tarps are very affordable and lightweight, making them easy to use but they have less resistance to sunlight damage over time.
Vinyl Tarps
Vinyl tarps block both water and UV rays, offering improved longevity for a moderate cost.
Canvas Tarp
The most heavy-duty option is canvas tarping which provides maximum strength and shelter against all weather conditions, though for a higher price point.
Farmers in wetter climates may prefer vinyl or canvas to polyethylene for higher-performance materials. However, polyethylene still works well for drier areas or shorter-term seasonal cover needs.
Tarp Sizes for Hay Bales
When covering hay bales with tarps, it's important to select a size that will adequately cover the bales without excessive extra material. Most farms will want tarps designed for the typical bale sizes they produce.
Round Bales:
Round bales are commonly 4x4 feet, 5x5 feet, or 6x6 feet diameter. Tarps sized at least 18-24 inches wider than the bale diameter work well, allowing space to securely anchor the tarp edges down. For example, an 18x18-foot tarp could cover two adjacent 5x5-foot round bales.
Square Bales:
Square bales are usually handled in batches, so it's common to find tarps for 8, 10, or 12 square bales at once. Tarps should be long and wide enough to overlap the outer bales by 1-2 feet on each side when pulled taut. This helps prevent moisture from wicking in.
Storage and Maintenance Tips
Proper storage and maintenance are essential to maximize the lifespan of Tarpaulins used on the farm. Here are some best practices:
Storage:
Fold tarps neatly and tightly after each use, not in loose piles. Store in a dry, sheltered area out of direct sunlight when not in use. Elevate off damp/muddy ground to prevent moisture damage
Inspection:
Check tarps thoroughly before each season for cracks, holes, or worn areas. Inspect grommets, ties, and anchoring tools for functionality.
Cleaning:
Brush off dirt and debris before storage to discourage mold/mildew. Use mild soap and water as needed; air dry completely.
Repair:
Seal small punctures with vinyl patch kits during annual inspection. For large tears, apply adhesive vinyl or contact cement and patch. Replace the tarp if the repair area is over 25% of the surface area.
Additional Uses for Farm Tarps
Tarps have several other uses on the farm besides hay bales and equipment cover. Their versatile, weather-resistant properties make them useful for:
Temporary Shelter
Tarps can be rigged up quickly as an emergency livestock shelter or calving area, workshops during events, or portable shade for workers.
Canopies
Anchor tarps overhead to provide cover for tasks like equipment maintenance, firewood splitting, produce washing, or woodworking.
Bedding
Lay tarps underneath fresh straw or hay for absorbent, easy-to-clean calf, horse, or pig bedding that stays dry undercover.
Stall Liners
Reinforce stall floors and walls with tarped layers for easy cleaning and dry footing in inclement weather.
Feed Storage
Cover feed bins, silage piles, or bulk supplement bags with Clear Tarpaulin to protect quality from moisture and sun.
Ground Cover
Lay tarps as a weed barrier under pasture fences or around planting areas to suppress weeds organically.
Equipment Padding
Use scrap pieces as cushioning and insulation underneath sharp or heated implements being transported or stored.
Temporary Fencing
Tarps make effective, portable electric fence or livestock barrier materials in a pinch.
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