Complete Guide to Long-Term Hay Stack Protection
Posted by CanopiesAndTarps on Feb 20th 2026
Protecting hay from moisture, wind, and UV exposure is essential for maintaining feed quality and reducing waste. Whether you operate a large commercial hay export operation or manage feed storage on a farm, selecting the right hay protection system can significantly impact long-term storage performance.
This guide explains when to use hay tarps vs side curtains, how to measure hay stacks properly, and how to choose between leading tarp systems such as Bull Flex™ and Performer™.
When to Use Hay Tarps vs Side Curtains
Top-Only Hay Tarps
Top hay tarps are designed to protect the upper surface of stacked hay from rain and sun exposure. They are ideal for short to mid-term storage and are commonly used for both round and square bale configurations.
- Protect against rainfall and snow
- Reduce UV degradation
- Help shed water off stack surface
Explore our full selection of Hay Tarps for available systems.
Adding Hay Stack Side Curtains
Side curtains provide additional vertical protection, especially important in high-wind regions or commercial export operations. Wind-driven moisture can penetrate exposed stack sides, making side curtains a smart addition for long-term storage.
Learn more about Hay Stack Side Curtains and how they complete a full protection system.
How to Measure Your Hay Stack Properly
Proper sizing ensures optimal performance. Always measure:
- Stack width (bale diameter or stack depth)
- Stack length
- Stack height
For square bale stacks, refer to our Performer™ Square Bale Hay Tarps size guidance.
For flexible multi-purpose coverage, see the Bull Flex™ Hay Tarp System.
Choosing Between Bull Flex™ and Performer™ Hay Tarps
Bull Flex™ Hay Tarp System
- Ultra-strong tie-down tabs
- Seatbelt webbing reinforced ends
- Innovative PVC pipe pocket option
- 3–5 year lifespan when properly installed
Performer™ Hay Tarps
- Heavy-duty 17 mil white/black coated poly
- Integrated sleeved PVC pipe support
- Patented Super Cinch™ tie-down system
- Arrives pre-assembled and ready to deploy
Performer™ is often selected for the most demanding commercial applications, while Bull Flex™ provides flexible multi-purpose performance across various stack configurations.
Why Side Curtains Matter in Export Climates
In western regions where hay is frequently stored outdoors prior to export, side curtains have become increasingly popular. They reduce wind-driven weather exposure and help preserve stack integrity over extended periods.
Pairing side curtains with top tarp systems and proper underlayment creates a more complete hay protection strategy.
Installation Tips for Long-Term Performance
- Maintain tight tie-down tension (guitar-string tight)
- Inspect periodically after weather changes
- Ensure proper drainage and stack elevation
- Keep sides secured to reduce wind lift
With proper installation and maintenance, high-quality hay tarps can significantly extend the storage life of your hay.
Build a Complete Hay Protection System
For maximum performance, consider combining:
- Performer™ Hay Tarps
- Bull Flex™ Hay Tarp Systems
- Hay Stack Side Curtains
- Proper underlayment solutions
Selecting the right combination ensures dependable protection in demanding agricultural environments.