Hay is a significant investment, whether you put up your own crop or purchase bales for the feeding season. Once the hay is stacked, protecting it from weather becomes part of protecting that investment. Rain, snow, wind, and prolonged sun exposure can all affect hay that is stored outdoors.

A properly sized and secured hay tarp provides a barrier between the hay and the weather while allowing you to store bales outdoors when a hay barn or other permanent structure isn't available. Barn World offers hay covers for both round and square bales, along with tie-down systems and side curtains designed to help keep a haystack covered.

Start by comparing the Hay Tarps at Barn World to see the current selection of hay covers, sizes, and accessories.

Why Cover Hay Stored Outdoors?

Hay is vulnerable to moisture after it has been baled. A tarp cannot eliminate every storage problem, but a properly installed cover can help reduce the amount of rain, snow, and other precipitation that reaches the stack.

Sun exposure is another consideration. The outer portions of an uncovered stack are exposed to weather throughout the storage period, while wind can move moisture into areas that initially appear protected.

The goal of a hay tarp is straightforward: keep the bale stack covered, keep the cover secured, and make it practical to remove and replace the tarp as hay is used.

Hay Tarps for Round Bales and Square Bales

Not every haystack has the same shape, so hay covers are available in configurations intended for different bale arrangements. The dimensions and shape of your stack should be considered before selecting a tarp.

Round-bale stacks and square-bale stacks can require different approaches to coverage and tie-down. The height, width, length, and shape of the finished stack all affect how much tarp is needed and where the cover needs to be secured.

Barn World's hay-tarp selection includes covers designed for both round and square bales. Current products are available in several widths, with the standard tarp length extending to 52 feet on the 16-mil hay tarp.

Choosing the Right Hay Tarp Size

Getting the size right is one of the most important parts of buying a hay tarp. A tarp that is too small may not provide adequate coverage, while an unnecessarily large tarp can be more difficult to handle and secure.

Before ordering, determine the approximate dimensions of the finished haystack rather than simply counting the number of bales. Stack height, width, length, bale diameter, and the way the bales are arranged all affect the required tarp size.

Barn World's hay tarp products include sizing charts for round and square bale applications. Use the manufacturer's sizing information for the particular tarp before selecting a size.

Consideration	Why It Matters
Bale type	Round and square bale stacks have different shapes.
Stack length	The tarp needs enough length to cover the entire stack.
Stack width	Width determines how far the cover extends down each side.
Stack height	A taller stack requires additional tarp width.
Tie-down method	The tarp needs enough material and attachment points for proper securing.

What Makes a Hay Tarp Different From an Ordinary Tarp?

A haystack is a large, irregular load that can be exposed to substantial wind. A tarp simply laid over the top of the bales is much different from a hay cover designed with attachment points and features specifically intended for securing it to a stack.

Barn World's 16-mil hay tarp, for example, uses 7-ounce polyethylene fabric, high-strength 2-inch webbing loops spaced every three feet, and pockets along both sides that can accommodate pipe for additional tie-down support. It is designed for both round and square bales.

Other Barn World hay-tarp designs use pre-installed PVC pipe sections and Super Cinch tie-down assemblies to distribute tension along the tarp. The Performer system is available in configurations for round and square bale stacks.

Securing the Tarp Is Just as Important as Choosing It

A durable tarp still needs to be properly secured. Wind can work underneath a loose cover, causing movement that can wear the tarp and expose portions of the haystack.

The attachment system should keep the cover pulled down against the stack without creating unnecessary stress at individual attachment points.

Barn World offers Hay Tarp Tie-Down Kits at Barn World for both round and square bale applications. The kits use the Super Cinch system with rot-resistant, UV-stable poly rope and are designed for 52-foot hay covers.

When selecting a tie-down system, consider the shape of the stack, the tarp you are using, and how you plan to remove and replace the cover as hay is consumed.

Hay Tarp Tie-Down Options

Different hay covers can use different attachment methods. Traditional tarps may rely on grommets, while purpose-built hay tarps can use webbing loops, sewn pockets, pipes, cleats, ropes, or combinations of these features.

The Super Cinch system uses a pull-through cleat to maintain tension in the rope. Barn World's tie-down kit is designed so the ropes can be tightened without relying on ratchets or tools.

The important thing is not simply having a large number of attachment points. The system should be appropriate for the tarp and stack and should allow the cover to be tightened securely.

Side Curtains Can Add Protection

The top of a haystack isn't the only area exposed to weather. Wind-driven moisture can reach the sides of a stack, particularly when the stack is located in an exposed area.

Hay tarp side curtains are designed to extend protection down the sides of the stack. Barn World's current hay-tarp collection includes side curtains along with the main hay covers.

A side curtain can be particularly useful when the goal is to provide additional coverage along the sides without replacing the main tarp with a substantially larger cover.

Where You Store the Hay Matters

A hay tarp works as part of a larger storage plan. Whenever possible, place the stack on a well-drained surface rather than directly on wet ground.

Good drainage can help reduce moisture reaching the bottom of the stack. The surrounding area should also allow enough room to install, inspect, and remove the tarp safely.

Think about access before stacking the hay. A location that is convenient for loading and feeding can make tarp installation and removal considerably easier as the season progresses.

How to Install a Hay Tarp

The exact installation method depends on the tarp and tie-down system, but the basic objective is the same: cover the stack completely and maintain enough tension to keep the tarp in place.

1. Build the haystack as evenly and securely as practical.
2. Confirm that the tarp is the correct size for the finished stack.
3. Position the tarp so the intended outside surface faces upward.
4. Center the cover over the stack and make sure the sides are positioned correctly.
5. Attach the webbing loops, ropes, or other tie-down components according to the tarp design.
6. Tighten the tie-down system so the cover remains secure without placing unnecessary stress on the material.
7. Inspect the tarp after installation and again after significant wind or weather.

Barn World's hay tarp instructions also recommend regularly checking and retightening the cover as the stack settles.

White Side or Silver Side?

Some hay tarps have different colors on their two sides. Follow the manufacturer's installation instructions for the particular tarp you purchase.

For Barn World's 16-mil hay tarp, the fabric is white on one side and silver on the other. The product instructions specify placing the white side outward during use.

Using the tarp as directed by the manufacturer is important because the fabric, coatings, and construction can vary between hay-cover designs.

Inspect Your Hay Tarp During the Storage Season

Putting a tarp over the stack isn't necessarily the end of the job. Periodic inspection can help identify problems before a small issue becomes a larger one.

• Check for holes or tears.
• Look for loose or damaged tie-downs.
• Make sure the tarp remains properly positioned.
• Check areas where the cover may be rubbing against equipment or other objects.
• Retighten the system if the haystack settles.
• Inspect the stack after severe weather.

If damage is discovered, address it before continuing to use the tarp. Keeping a repair kit or suitable tarp repair tape available can also be useful for routine maintenance.

Storing the Tarp When Hay Is Gone

Proper storage between uses can help keep a hay tarp ready for the next season. Remove dirt and debris, allow the cover to dry, and fold it according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Before putting it away, inspect the fabric, seams, webbing, pockets, and attachment points. Marking the location of any repairs can make it easier to check those areas when the tarp is used again.

Store the folded tarp in a dry location away from sharp objects, chemicals, and anything that could damage the fabric.

Comparing Hay Tarp Options

Barn World offers several approaches to covering hay, so it helps to compare the features that matter for your particular stack.

Feature	What to Consider
Tarp size	Match the dimensions to your round or square bale stack.
Fabric	Compare thickness, weight, and construction.
Attachment system	Consider webbing loops, pockets, ropes, cleats, and other features.
Tie-down kit	Determine whether the tarp includes a system or requires a separate kit.
Side protection	Consider whether side curtains would benefit your stack.
Bale type	Make sure the tarp is designed for the shape of your bales.

Hay Tarps From Barn World

Barn World's current hay-tarp selection includes the 16-mil hay tarp, 17-mil Performer hay tarps, tie-down kits, and side curtains. The available products vary in construction, size, and securing system, so the best choice depends on your bale type and the way you store your hay.

If you're replacing an older tarp, start by measuring the stack you actually need to cover. If you're buying a tarp for a new stack, determine the expected dimensions and bale configuration before selecting a size.

Browse the Hay Tarps at Barn World to compare current hay covers, tie-down systems, and side curtains.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hay Tarps

What is the best tarp for covering hay?

The appropriate hay tarp depends on the type and size of the bale stack, the storage location, and the way you intend to secure the cover. Purpose-built hay tarps offer features specifically designed for covering round and square bale stacks.

What size hay tarp do I need?

Measure the length, width, and height of the finished stack and use the sizing chart for the tarp you are considering. Round and square bale stacks require different calculations because of their different shapes.

Can one hay tarp cover both round and square bales?

Some hay tarps are designed for both round and square bale applications. Always check the specifications and sizing information for the particular tarp before ordering.

How do you keep a hay tarp from blowing off?

A properly sized tarp combined with an appropriate tie-down system helps keep the cover secured. Barn World offers tie-down kits using Super Cinch cleats and poly rope for its compatible hay covers.

Are hay tarps waterproof?

Hay tarps are designed to provide weather protection, but performance depends on the tarp construction, installation, condition, and how well the cover is secured. Proper installation and regular inspection are important.

Should I use a side curtain with a hay tarp?

A side curtain can provide additional protection along the sides of a haystack where wind-driven moisture may reach the bales. Whether one is appropriate depends on the stack location and the amount of side protection desired.

How long can a hay tarp last?

Service life depends on the tarp construction, weather exposure, installation, storage, and maintenance. Following the manufacturer's instructions and repairing damage promptly can help maximize the useful life of a hay cover.

Protect Your Hay With the Right Cover

A hay tarp is more than a sheet placed over a stack. The size of the cover, fabric construction, attachment points, tie-down system, and storage conditions all affect how well the system works.

Whether you're covering round bales, square bales, or a large haystack, start with accurate measurements and choose a cover and securing system designed for the job.

Browse the Hay Tarps at Barn World to compare hay covers, tie-down kits, and side curtains, and find the combination that fits the way you store your hay.