Man, it’s been a hot one this summer! The entire Midwest has felt like a sauna (and not in a good way!) over the last few weeks, and there is little respite in sight. Some are pointing to 2016 being the hottest summer on record. We humans have many ways to quell the brutal heat (thank the Lord for air conditioning!). But for your farm animals and crops, the temperature outside can be very harmful. That’s why this summer it’s important for you to ensure you’re doing everything in your power to keep your barn as cool as possible.
Here’re a few handy tips on how to achieve best results:
Install Cooling & Exhaust Fans: Be it a ceiling fan, exhaust fan or a ventilation system, the key to any temperature controlled barn is consistent airflow. It’s bad enough to experience stifling heat, but having zero circulation can turn your barn into an oven. A sophisticated ventilation system eliminates condensation, which contributes to unbearable conditions. Often, the disparity between air and ground temperatures causes sweating, and that can lead to unhealthy crops and livestock due to your relative humidity being out of whack. In times of intense heat, it’s important to give your animals a reprieve through a cooling, misting or fogging system. Comfortable animals are happy animals!
Landscaping: If you have the resources, planting trees or strategically positioning your barn in the right place can create a natural tunnel, so to speak, that directs wind into your barn.
Open Windows: To hammer home the need for circulation, make sure to use every available window open. The Wind naturally will flow through based on a lack of impediment. The same holds true for doors, as well. When designing a barn, be sure to consider these features in the decision-making process. Ventilation can save you in the long term as far as cooling systems or A/C units.
Feel free to contact us at MilMar about your upcoming project. Our team of professionals is happy to answer any and all questions you may have.