Why Steel Shelters are Ideal for Hay Bale Storage

By Michelle Mason on December 17th, 2024

Effective hay bale storage is essential in both traditional and modern farming. Steel shelters offer the perfect solution for storing hay outside, providing weatherproof protection, long-lasting durability and easy maintenance. For horse owners, high-quality hay is not just a feed, it’s a cornerstone of your horse’s health and well-being. Proper storage ensures your hay retains its nutritional value and remains free from contaminants, safeguarding your horse’s diet and performance.

Keeping your hay safe from weather elements such as snow, rain and wind is vital for preserving its quality and preventing spoilage. At Steel Shelters Direct, we understand the importance of hay as a primary feed for livestock and for landscaping purposes.

So, in this article, we’ll share with you the key benefits of using steel shelters for hay bale storage and why they’re the ideal choice for farmers.

How Steel Shelters Protect Hay Bales

Unlike regular wooden barn storage, steel shelters offer weather-resistant storage that protects your hay from the many challenges posed by nature. Here’s how steel shelters ensure your hay stays in top condition, season after season: 

  • Weatherproof Design: Steel shelters can withstand the harshest of weather. They ensure your hay stays dry, nutritious and free from moisture. This is especially crucial for horse owners, as wet or mouldy hay can lead to serious health issues, such as colic and respiratory problems.
  • Enhanced Durability: Made from robust galvanised steel, they are designed for long-term use. The sturdy structure ensures your hay stays intact for years.
  • Protection From UV Rays: If your hay is exposed to the sun for prolonged periods of time, it will dry out and lose essential nutrients. When stored in a steel shelter, your hay will be shaded, maintaining its quality. For horses, this means preserving the vital nutrients that contribute to energy, digestion and coat health.
  • Protection From Pests and Animals: Steel shelters are the perfect hay bale storage solution to protect against unwanted pests. By providing an enclosed space with shelter, your hay remains uncontaminated and damage-free.
  • Low Maintenance: Their robust design allows them to withstand extreme weather conditions, without needing frequent repair.
  • Ventilation: Steel shelters are designed to enable airflow. The constant ventilation when storing hay outside prevents the build up of moisture and heat.

Why Quality Hay is Important on a Farm

Nutrition

Like any other living thing, livestock requires a healthy, balanced diet to maintain productivity and good health. Properly looked-after hay is responsible for a large portion of nutrients they receive.

Weight Management 

Hay acts as an appropriate energy source without having too many calories.  The amount of hay you provide enables you to monitor whether the livestock are losing, gaining or maintaining their weight.

Dental Health

Chewing hay is a natural behaviour for livestock and is crucial for their dental health. The fibrous texture helps wear down their teeth, preventing overgrowth and other dental problems.

Good Digestion

Hay is rich in fibre, which supports smooth digestion by keeping food moving efficiently through an animal’s digestive system. This helps prevent potential issues in the future.

In horses, consistent fibre intake is vital for preventing colic, ulcers and other digestive problems.

Choose the Right Steel Shelter for Your Hay Bale Storage

Selecting the right steel shelter is essential for protecting your hay and ensuring it remains in top condition. At Steel Shelters Direct, we understand the challenges of storing hay outside and offer tailored solutions to meet your specific needs. 

Whether you’re looking for a durable pitched shelter to withstand harsh weather or a versatile field shelter for flexible hay bale storage, we’ve got what you need. 

Contact us today for steel shelters tailored to your requirements.

Written by

Michelle Mason