Why Traditional Covers Fall Short
Standard covers allow oxygen that harms silage quality
In modern forage management, protecting the quality of silage is paramount. As feed costs continue to rise and margins tighten, every ton of harvested forage must deliver maximum nutritional value. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by using a reinforced, oxygen-barrier silage cover—a solution engineered to minimize spoilage, reduce dry matter losses, and improve feed quality. Midwest Canvas' SilageSeal™ is the ideal reinforced, oxygen-barrier cover to protect your feed investment.
Standard plastic silage covers provide basic protection from the elements, but they are often insufficient when it comes to controlling oxygen ingress. Even small amounts of air infiltration can trigger aerobic spoilage, particularly in the critical top yard of the silage mass. This leads to heating, mold development, and a significant decline in forage quality and palatability.
Even small air leaks can degrade valuable forage.
The Advantage of Oxygen-Barrier Technology
Special layers protect silage from harmful oxygen
Oxygen-barrier silage covers are specifically designed to prevent this kind of deterioration. Midwest's SilageSeal™ cover incorporates a multi-layered film with an oxygen impermeable core—made from EVOH (ethylene vinyl alcohol)—that drastically reduces oxygen transmission rates compared to conventional polyethylene sheets.
This barrier limits the presence of oxygen throughout the storage period, preserving the anaerobic environment necessary for stable fermentation. As a result, producers can expect:
• Significant reduction in dry matter losses
• Lower yeast and mold counts
• Improved intake and feed conversion rates
• Greater nutritional consistency across the feed-out face
Preserve your feed quality from top to bottom.
Durability That Delivers
Strength to last all season and beyond
Reinforced silage covers are also built to last. Unlike regular plastics that can tear or degrade under UV exposure, string reinforced films are engineered for strength. The special scrim reinforcement grid provides resistance to physical damage from handling, weather, and wildlife—offering season-long protection and peace of mind.
This durability also means the covers can be more easily managed during application and removal, minimizing labor costs and reducing risk of damage to the silage surface.
Tough enough to handle the season’s worst.
Better ROI for Progressive Producers
Long-term value with less waste and better feed
While string-reinforced, oxygen-barrier covers may represent a higher upfront investment compared to standard films, the long-term return is significant. By preserving more of the crop's original value, reducing waste, and supporting better animal performance, these covers directly contribute to operational efficiency and profitability.
Conclusion
For producers who are serious about maximizing feed value and reducing losses, investing in a string-reinforced, oxygen-barrier silage cover, such as SilageSeal™, is a smart, proven strategy. It’s not just about covering the pile—it’s about protecting your investment, enhancing herd health, and positioning your operation for long-term success.
A better cover means a stronger bottom line.