Opportune Time For Silo Repairs

With many silos almost empty, it is now an opportune time to assess the condition of your silo and effluent collection facilities, and to decide if any repairs are necessary.

An essential first step is to pressure wash the walls and floor of the silo as many defects are not easily spotted. The most common areas of concern are cracks in the floor and walls, deterioration of the wall floor joint, and damage to effluent channels and transfer systems.

Where a floor is reasonably sound but has small cracks or unsealed joints these must be thoroughly cleaned and sealed with a proprietary primer and sealant. If badly cracked, the only solution may be to lay a new floor. Remember to allow sufficient time for the concrete to cure

Minor cracks in silo walls can be repaired successfully with a proprietary primer and sealant. However, where a wall is badly damaged, corroded or pitted then a more comprehensive repair job will be necessary.

When carrying out wall repairs, ensure that all loose or decayed material is removed before stabilising with a waterproof bonding agent. Once dry, a stipple coat of sand, cement and bonding agent mix is brushed on, followed by two thin coats of plaster. The newly plastered wall should be kept damp for at least seven days to prevent rapid drying out and cracking.

Wall floor joints are very prone to damage by silage effluent which tends to collect here. Small cracks should be primed and sealed and larger holes filled with concrete.

Silos may be leakproof but effluent can often escape from defective effluent transfer systems or storage tanks. The effluent channel across the silo entrance can often give rise to serious problems and may need to be replaced.

The Control of Pollution (Silage, Slurry and Agricultural Fuel Oil) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003, were introduced on 21 July 2003. Anyone proposing to construct, substantially enlarge or substantially reconstruct a silo, slurry storage system or fuel storage area, must notify Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) by completing a form specifying the type of structure to be constructed (or altered) and its location. Laying a new silo floor is an example of a substantial reconstruction. Notification must be received by EHS at least 28 days before the facility is to be used. A fully qualified engineer must sign the form to confirm that the work complies with the Regulations. EHS can be contacted on (028) 9262 3102 or (028) 9262 3280.

Many pollution incidents due to silage effluent could be prevented by a little more care and attention to detail. Spending a little now may save you a hefty pollution fine in the future.

If you would like further information on silo repairs contact your local Countryside Management Branch, DARD, or if carrying out substantial works, contact Environment and Heritage Service for further advice.