Controlling the environment in a livestock facility is more than just a convenience—it’s essential for animal health, comfort, and productivity. One of the most effective tools for managing airflow, temperature, and barn climate is the rolled curtain system. Whether you operate a dairy barn, calf facility, or multi-species livestock operation, rolled curtains provide unmatched control over the environment, protecting your animals and your investment.

Why Rolled Curtains Matter

Rolled curtains allow farmers to take control over when, where, and how air moves through a facility. Unlike fixed ventilation systems, these curtains are adjustable, providing flexibility to respond to changing weather conditions and herd needs.

Key benefits include:

1. Improved Airflow Management – Rolled curtains let you direct fresh air exactly where it’s needed while minimizing drafts in sensitive areas. This helps maintain consistent barn temperatures and reduces stress on livestock.
2. Animal Comfort and Productivity – Livestock perform best in a controlled environment. Curtains help maintain an animal-centered environment by regulating temperature, humidity, and airflow, ultimately supporting higher milk production and better overall herd health.
3. Protection from the Elements – Made from durable, weather-resistant materials like clear poly, rolled curtains shield animals from wind, rain, and snow without sacrificing ventilation.
4. Flexible Control Options – From manual systems to fully automated motorized curtains, these systems can be integrated with barn controls for hands-off operation, giving you the ability to manage ventilation remotely or locally.
5. Long-Lasting Durability – Premium rolled curtain systems use corrosion-resistant aluminum roll tubes, reinforced splices, and support strips. Combined with sealed limit switches and self-braking motors, these systems provide years of reliable performance, even in challenging barn conditions.
   

Types of Rolled Curtain Configurations

Rolled curtain systems can be customized for your facility’s unique needs:

• Top-Opening, Downward Roll – Ideal for maximum airflow from the top of the barn while protecting from weather.
• Bottom-Opening, Upward Roll – Perfect for drawing air from lower barn levels and directing it toward the animals.
• Single or Double Rolling Systems – Offers flexibility in controlling multiple barn zones independently.

By connecting these curtains to an automated barn control system, you can create a fully integrated ventilation solution. Automated controls ensure that curtains open or close based on temperature, humidity, or time of day, providing consistent environmental management with minimal effort.

The ROI of Rolled Curtains

Effective ventilation is essential in dairy barns to maintain air quality, remove heat and moisture, and create a comfortable environment for cows. Ventilation can be achieved through mechanical systems, using fans and controls, or natural systems, which rely on thermal buoyancy and wind pressure.

In the Upper Midwest, where hot, humid summers and cold winters are common, natural ventilation has long been the preferred choice. Approximately 85% of free-stall dairy barns in Wisconsin and surrounding states use natural systems, employing sidewall curtains and ridge vents to promote airflow without the need for fans.

When properly designed and managed, natural ventilation offers energy efficiency year-round, but it is weather-dependent. Barns must be carefully engineered to perform effectively in both summer heat and winter cold, ensuring consistent cow comfort and productivity across all seasons.

Investing in rolled curtains delivers tangible returns:

• Healthier Herd – Reduced stress and consistent ventilation help prevent respiratory issues and disease.
• Increased Productivity – Comfortable animals perform better, producing more milk or growing faster.
• Lower Energy Costs – Curtains work in conjunction with fans and other systems, optimizing energy use while maintaining ideal airflow.
• Reduced Maintenance – High-quality materials and durable designs mean less downtime and fewer repairs.
  

Choosing the Right Rolled Curtain System

When selecting a rolled curtain solution, consider:

• Barn size and airflow requirements
• Integration with existing ventilation and control systems
• Manual vs. motorized operation
• Material durability and weather resistance
• Flexibility for seasonal adjustments
  

At VES-Artex, our rolled curtain systems are built for longevity, precision, and ease of use. With clear poly materials, corrosion-resistant components, and flexible motorized options, our curtains help dairy and livestock farmers maintain a healthy, animal-centered environment year-round. Rolled curtains are more than a ventilation solution, they are an investment in your herd’s health, comfort, and productivity. By controlling airflow with precision and protecting your animals from the elements, these systems provide measurable benefits to your operation. When combined with automated barn controls, rolled curtains become a cornerstone of a modern, efficient, and animal-focused facility. Get started on a quote today, we’ll help you find your closest dealer!