Silo repairs - getting your silo ready before first cut

Checking the condition of silos may not appear to be a priority at present, as silage making seems to be far off. However, now is the time to check silos and make repairs well in advance of first cut. By carrying out an annual inspection silo deterioration can be detected at an early stage, so repairs can be made before defects become a major problem.

Start with a thorough cleanup. Many defects only become apparent after the silo has been power washed. It is important that silo washings are collected and spread on suitable land. Washings have the potential to cause pollution if allowed to enter a waterway.

Carefully examine the silo floor, walls and effluent transfer channels, paying particular attention to the wall / floor joints as these are vulnerable to erosion. Clearly mark all suspected defects as you go along.

Carry out all necessary repairs as soon as possible to allow sufficient 'curing' time. Insufficient 'curing' will result in a weak repair and may reduce its effectiveness.

Always cover repairs with new 1000 gauge polythene sheeting. As well as offering protection to the repair this will provide a second line of defence. Routinely use perforated drainage pipes to reduce effluent pressure at internal wall / floor joints. This will reduce the possibility of leakage and will increase the lifespan of your silo.

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 must notify (by completion of a form) Environment and Heritage Service (EHS), an agency of the DOE, specifying the type of structure constructed (or altered) and its location at least 28 days before it is to be used. EHS Agricultural Regulations Team may be contacted on 028 9025 4882