As an experienced hay producer, you know the effort that goes into growing and harvesting a quality crop. Now, it’s time to protect that investment with the right cover. We understand that choosing the right hay covers can be challenging, and there are many details to consider when using them. That’s why we created this e-book! In this chapter, we’ll break down the different types of hay covers and their materials, helping you make informed decisions for your specific needs.
In subsequent chapters, we’ll explore factors like hay type, storage preparation, securing techniques, and troubleshooting common issues. By the end of this e-book, you’ll be well-equipped to purchase and use your new hay covers to provide top-quality feed for your livestock year-round.
Basic Tarps
Tarps are a common choice for hay protection due to their versatility and affordability. However, understanding the characteristics of different tarp materials is crucial to selecting the best option for your specific needs. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular choices.
Canvas Tarps
Canvas tarps, made from durable cotton or linen and treated with waterproofing agents, have a long history of providing reliable hay protection. The strength and breathability of canvas tarps ensure optimal air circulation while safeguarding your hay from rain, snow, and sun.
However, canvas tarps typically weigh 10-12 oz per square yard, which can make them challenging to deploy, particularly for large single-piece covers. While tear-resistant, canvas tarps require regular maintenance to prevent mildew and rot. Proper drying and occasional cleaning are essential for maximizing their lifespan. Canvas tarps generally have a higher cost compared to other materials.
Lightweight Polyethylene Tarps
Lightweight and economical, poly tarps are woven from polyethylene and often coated with UV inhibitors and waterproofing agents. They provide reasonable protection against rain and sun and are generally suitable for indoor and outdoor storage. With a typical thickness of 6-8 mil (roughly 3-4 oz per square yard), they are significantly lighter than canvas and easier to handle and install.
However, poly tarps can be prone to tearing, especially in windy conditions or with rough handling. They need good securing and careful handling to maximize their lifespan. While poly tarps offer good water resistance, adequate ventilation is also necessary to prevent moisture buildup.
Woven Fabrics
Woven fabrics are a top-of-the-line choice for hay protection. They're tough, breathable, and durable, making them ideal for long-term storage or situations where maximum protection is called for. They're typically woven from polypropylene or polyethylene fibers to create a strong, water-resistant yet porous material that promotes air circulation and minimizes condensation. While some woven fabrics achieve water resistance through their tight weave, others are enhanced with coatings or laminated layers for superior weather protection.
Reinforced Polyethylene
For a balance of affordability and durability, reinforced polyethylene covers are an excellent option. This material features a reinforcing scrim—a grid-like layer of woven fabric embedded within the polyethylene—which significantly increases their tear and puncture resistance while remaining relatively lightweight.
BTL Liners offers high-performance RPE covers in the ArmorCover line. These covers are engineered for long-term outdoor storage and can withstand harsh weather conditions. They are available in 9, 12, and 16 mil thicknesses and offer exceptional UV resistance, high tensile strength, and superior durability for a long, trouble-free service life.
Woven Polypropylene Fabric
Woven polypropylene fabric is an established standard for hay covers. Its strength, UV resistance, and breathability keeps your hay dry and in top condition, and it's available in a variety of weights (typically 6 oz. to 10 oz. per square yard), weave densities, so it offers flexibility for different needs and budgets. While it’s one of the more expensive options, its durability and long-term performance can make it worthwhile.
Coated Woven Fabrics
Coated woven fabrics can be a good option for particularly harsh conditions. The basic fabric is enhanced with a waterproof coating, usually polyethylene or PVC, that increases their resistance to rain and snow. While this coating also increases durability and tear resistance, remember that coated fabrics may not breathe as well as uncoated ones, so adequate ventilation is especially critical.
Plastic Films
Plastic films provide an excellent barrier against moisture and UV radiation, making them a popular option for hay stored in wet or humid climates or where intense sunlight is a concern.
UV-Resistant Polyethylene Film
UV-resistant polyethylene films are specifically designed for agricultural use, with built-in UV inhibitors that shield your hay from damaging radiation. Available in several thicknesses (typically 1.5 mils to 2.5 mils) and widths, these films can accommodate a variety of bale sizes. Polyethylene films can also provide effective moisture protection, but remember to maintain adequate ventilation to keep condensation from building up. In addition, while generally durable, these films can be susceptible to punctures, so handle them with care during installation and storage.
Stretch Wrap
Stretch wrap is a highly flexible film that tightly conforms to your bales to create a weatherproof barrier. Often used together with net wrap for added security and stability, stretch wrap is highly effective at keeping out moisture and UV rays. Consider using an additional outer cover like a tarp to prevent damage in extremely wet or windy conditions or when rough handling is anticipated. Remember that, while stretch wrap offers excellent protection, it is a premium option requiring specialized equipment.
Net Wraps
Net wraps have become a go-to choice for many farmers, especially when covering round bales. Made from woven polypropylene or polyethylene mesh, they offer a thoughtful balance of protection and breathability. They are lightweight, easy to handle, and a breeze to apply. They're often combined with other types of covers for even more protection.
It’s important to note that while mesh wraps offer some protection against UV radiation, they are not designed to be a primary defense against the sun’s harmful rays. If you’re storing hay in a sunny location, consider pairing your mesh wrap with a UV-resistant tarp or cover.
Fine Mesh Net Wrap
Fine mesh net wrap features a tightly woven mesh. The tiny openings (1.5 mm to 2.5 mm) do a good job at deterring birds and rodents while allowing air to flow freely. It’s an excellent choice for hay stored for shorter periods or in well-ventilated areas, such as barns or sheds. However, it may not be suitable for long-term outdoor storage on its own due to limited protection against rain and snow. Consider using it with a tarp or other outer cover for enhanced protection.
Woven Polypropylene Net Wrap
Woven polypropylene net wrap is a reliable option for situations that demand greater strength and weather protection. Constructed from thicker polypropylene strands, it provides enhanced durability and better resistance to the elements than fine mesh wraps. The larger mesh size (typically 3 mm to 4 mm) still permits some air circulation while providing a substantial barrier against the elements. Its increased durability and weather protection make it a worthwhile investment for many farmers, especially for hay stored outdoors or for extended periods.
Using Net Wraps with Other Covers
Net wraps are often used with other hay covers like tarps or plastic films. The net wrap helps secure the outer cover while it prevents direct contact with the hay. This separation improves air circulation, reduces condensation and minimizes the risk of mold under the outer cover. Combining the breathability of net wrap with the weather resistance of an outer cover creates an optimal storage environment for your hay.
Wrapping it Up
Now that we’ve covered the types of materials used for hay covers, it’s time to move on to the next step: assessing your storage needs. The next chapter will guide you through considerations like the type of hay you’re storing, your storage location, and your local climate, to help you narrow down the options.
