A grain bin is a long-term investment that plays an integral role in your farm’s success. If you’re upgrading your operations or need a replacement, there are a few factors to consider. Keep the following in mind during your search to select the right grain bin for your farm.

What Factors Are Important for Grain Bins?

1. Build

The build is perhaps the most crucial part of a grain bin.

Start with the roof, which protects your harvest, but also undergoes the most stress. Roofs with ribs and additional bends are highly durable and will prevent leaks and damage.

You’ll also want a sturdy floor with breaks in the metal for added strength, and base anchors should be used to hold the bin to the foundation.

Additionally, determine whether your grain bin has narrow or wide cores. Narrow cores will have more ridges and will create more pressure as grain flows down.

2. Capacity Needs

An overflowing grain bin is susceptible to damage, and an oversized bin can be a waste of money. If you don’t anticipate a higher yield than usual and aren’t upping production, choose a bin size that matches your current one. If operations are growing, estimate how much additional product you’ll yield and size the grain bin accordingly.

3. Pest & Environmental Threats

As any farmer knows, insects and pests can cause serious problems in a grain bin. To prevent nesting, consider a smooth-walled bin, as this design prevents pests from feeding or multiplying.

If you use fumigants, they will be more effective in a grain bin with tight seals. However, if you live in a humid area, moisture can be a problem in an airtight bin, so make sure there’s ample ventilation.

If you’re in the market for a new grain bin, Merritt Mechanical-Fabrication can help. They’re backed by 50 years of experience and are proud to serve customers throughout the Southeast from their Cairo, GA, location. They can create metal buildings, conveyors, millwrights, and more. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (229) 377-5586 to discuss your construction needs with an expert.