How to Select The Right Cover For Your Grain Bunker

Choosing the right cover can make a huge difference to the quality and safety of your stored grain, keeping it protected from the elements and maintaining its value. With plenty of options available, knowing how to pick the best grain bunker cover for your needs is key to a smooth harvest operation and reducing your grain loss. 

Key Factors to Select Bunker Covers

1. Understanding grain bunker covers 

Grain bunker covers are protective tarpaulins used to shield bulk grain stored in bunkers from environmental elements. They play a vital role in preventing moisture, pests, and contaminants from compromising the stored grain. The primary function of these covers is to maintain the grain’s quality by keeping it dry and protected. 

There are several types of bunker covers available, including: 

1. Polyethylene tarps: Basic covers that provide short to medium-term grain protection against weather conditions. 

2. Polypropylene & PVC tarps: Designed for medium to long-term grain protection and with an expected lifespan of 3+ years. 

3. Customised covers: Tailored to specific requirements for optimal fumigation and grain protection. 

Each type has its advantages, and the choice depends on factors such as the size of your bunker and length of time you expect to store your grain. 

2. Material quality matters 

The quality of the material used in grain bunker covers is crucial for ensuring durability and effectiveness. High-quality materials provide better grain protection against moisture, UV rays, and physical wear and tear. When choosing a cover, look for features such as waterproofing, UV resistance, and tear resistance.  

Waterproofing prevents moisture buildup, UV resistance ensures that your cover does not degrade over time due to sun exposure, and tear resistance guarantees long-term durability and resistance to wind-flap. 

Investing in high-quality materials ensures a longer-lasting cover that performs effectively under varying conditions. 

3. Customisation options 

Polytex offers custom solutions to meet specific storage needs, providing covers with fumigation zips strategically placed to allow for maximum fumigation effectiveness. Our customisation options include: 

Size: Covers are designed to match the exact dimensions of your bunker. 

Additional features: Options such as reinforced corners or rounded end shape for large concrete/steel wall bunkers. 

4. Size and fit 

The size and fit of grain bunker covers are crucial for complete coverage of your bunker. To determine the correct size, start by measuring your bunker pad accurately including the surrounding walls whether they may be earth, cement or poly walls. Input your pad dimensions into the Polytex Bunker Calculator along with your Grain Type to determine the correct size of your tarps. The Bunker Capacity Calculator uses the grains angle of repose, width of your pad and wall height to work out the suitable tarp size. The extra tarp is allowed beyond your walls in order to secure the tarp and form a seal for fumigation. 

Not sure what size bunker you need for your produce? Use our handy Grain Bunker Calculator to get precise dimensions. 

5. Installation and maintenance 

Proper installation and maintenance of your grain bunker cover are key to its longevity and effectiveness. Here are some tips: 

1. Installation: Once your grain has been in-loaded, ensure the cover is secured with sufficient weights (for earth walls or no walls) or tarp clamps (cement walls). 

2. Maintenance: Regularly inspect the cover for any signs of damage and perform necessary repairs. Repair tape and sealant is available from Polytex. 

Making the right investment

In comparison with silo storage or grain bags, storing grain in a bunker is more cost-efficient and quality can be maintained. Making the right choice of grain cover will significantly help during the busy harvest season in terms of labour and installation while providing superior protection for the medium to long term. 

How Polytex can help

Polytex offers a range of grain bunker covers designed to meet diverse storage needs. Our covers are made from high-quality materials, provide excellent UV protection, and have superior flex and crack resistance. With tailored options including the opportunity to add fumigation zips, we ensure you get the best protection for your grain. 

Explore our range of grain bunker covers here to find the perfect solution for your storage requirements. Contact us for more information and personalised advice on choosing the right cover for your needs at 1300 059 003 or sales@polytex.net.au.