Every farmer knows that autumn weather in the UK can turn rough fast. One week it’s mild and manageable, the next it’s sideways rain and wind strong enough to lift a sheet off a clamp.
Strong winds and driving rain can turn sheds cold and damp, soak bedding overnight, and create unhealthy environments for cattle. Over time, those minor problems become big ones: higher bedding costs, more labour, and increased cases of illness.
If you’ve been struggling to keep your sheds warm, dry, and comfortable through the worst of the weather, it’s time to take a closer look at how wind and rain are getting in, and how to stop them.
The Real Cost of Poor Weather Protection
Wet bedding is one of the biggest frustrations for dairy farmers through autumn and winter. It’s not just the replacement cost; it’s the time spent forking out wet straw, the higher risk of mastitis and lameness, and the knock-on impact on cow comfort and milk yield.
Once bedding becomes damp, bacteria multiply quickly. In cold, wet conditions, cows burn extra energy to stay warm, diverting it from milk production. Respiratory issues also rise as draughts and stale, moist air create the perfect conditions for disease.
And then there’s the structure itself. Repeated rain and wind exposure take a toll on your shed. Wooden frames stay damp longer, metal corrodes faster, and once insulation or lining gets wet, it rarely dries properly without intervention.
That’s why getting ahead of the weather isn’t just about keeping things tidy. It’s about protecting your stock, time, and bottom line. 
Finding the Right Balance: Fresh Air Without the Draughts
Good airflow is essential for livestock health, primarily when cows are housed for long periods. But there’s a fine line between ventilation and draughts. Block off too much air, and moisture and ammonia build up. Leave too many gaps, and you end up with cold, damp sheds where cows can’t stay comfortable.
That’s where Secure Windbreaks and Secure Econoblinds come in. These simple, practical solutions help farmers control their shed environment without creating more work.
Secure Windbreaks reduce wind speed by up to 75%, allowing airflow and natural light. That means your sheds stay drier and warmer, but the air remains fresh. They’re made from tough, UV-stable knitted HDPE mesh that won’t fray when cut to size, so you can fit them easily to any opening — doors, gable ends, feed passages, or ventilation gaps.
Secure Econoblinds are another smart option for high-traffic areas. They’re built to keep out wind and rain but can be rolled up or down quickly, giving easy access for machinery or livestock movement. They’re ideal for dairy sheds where daily access is essential, and they make a big difference when you’re trying to keep bedding areas dry.
Both products are designed for long-term use. They don’t rust, rot, or tear easily and can withstand nasty weather. 
The Weather Isn’t Getting Any Kinder
Farmers across the UK have faced some of the harshest conditions in years. Recent storms have brought damaging winds and heavy rain across Wales, the South West, and Ireland. Some areas have seen gusts above 70 mph, widespread flooding, and significant disruption.
When weather like that hits, sheds bear the brunt. Rain gets driven sideways, even through small openings, soaking bedding and leaving floors slippery. Cows bunch up in sheltered corners, reducing airflow and increasing stress. Over time, that kind of environment affects milk production and herd health more than many realise.
You can’t control the weather - but you can control how much of it gets inside your sheds.
Installing Windbreaks or Econoblinds is one of the simplest ways to improve your housing before the next storm hits. They go up quickly, require little maintenance, and can transform a damp, draughty shed into a more stable, comfortable environment.
Built to Last, Backed by Farmers
Farmers who’ve switched to Secure Windbreaks often notice the difference almost immediately. Bedding stays drier for longer, air quality improves, and cows spend more time resting comfortably. Many say they’ve cut bedding costs over winter, reduced respiratory issues, and improved overall animal comfort without any loss of ventilation.
They’re also a long-term investment. The HDPE material is UV-stable, rot-proof, and built for durability, meaning it’ll last season after season.
