While some stock had to be housed a couple of weeks ago due to wet weather conditions, the majority of stock remains at grass. While it is likely too late for any major development work to commence on housing, servicing and maintaining what is already there ahead of stock heading into sheds is important.

1. Slats and agitation points

If it hasn’t been completed already, slats and cubicles should be power-hosed and disinfected. Wetting agents can be used to soften the dried-in dung, with disinfectants used afterwards to kill any remaining bacteria.

The surface of the slat should then be inspected for any cracks or signs of weakness. Precast slats have a working life of approximately 20 years, with gang slats generally lasting longer than single slats.

It’s vitally important to inspect the underside of the slat although it is not advised to enter in an emptied slurry tank without the necessary breathing equipment. Slat manufacturers will be able to carry out inspections for you if you contact them.

Agitation points, especially those located internally or may have machinery crossing over them, should be checked for any corrosion or signs of weakness and should be repaired or replaced if needed.

2. Water troughs and pipes Each pen of livestock should have free access to clean water, usually through a plumbed water trough. Regular maintenance on water systems is needed to ensure they either do not leak or that water can still flow through them freely. Ball cocks should be checked to ensure they are set at the correct level and freely moving, with fittings checked for leaks.

Leaking troughs over the winter period can decrease the slurry storage capacity of tanks and wet bedded areas. Fittings can be tightened or plumbing tape can be used to seal joints. Rubber bungs should also be checked, as these are prone to crack and perish which may cause leaking.

3. Lights, electricity and cameras

Adequate lighting in a shed is a must, especially for part-time farmers who carry out feeding and stock checks in the early morning and late evening. Blown bulbs should be replaced, as well as any broken covers.

Where replacement lights are needed, the recommendation would be to install LED lighting. Not only is it brighter and requires less maintenance, but it will also lower the energy costs of the farm through lower electricity usage.

Calving and lambing cameras should be checked to make sure they are working properly (clear picture, rotating, etc) and serviced if not.

4. Gates and barriers

All gates and barriers should be properly hung and latched. Any brackets or latches that are bent or damaged can be heated and straightened, or if they are past repair, they can be cut off and new ones welded back in.

5. Roofing and gutters

Leaking roofs will wet bedded areas and drip down on livestock lying underneath. Any holes should either be patched temporarily or the sheet removed entirely. Older clear roof sheets are particularly prone to breaking due to degradation from UV rays from the sun.

All gutters should be cleaned, with particular attention paid to the outlet. Valleys between sheds are notorious for leaking, so check these thoroughly and seal and fix leaking areas as appropriate.