Barn Curtains
February 13, 2026Natural ventilation in free-range barns and curtains
Natural Ventilation in Free-Stall Barns: Previously, barns were isolated by thick walls. In this case, animals had to carry out all their activities in the same enclosed space and climate conditions. Barn Curtain systems contribute to animal comfort in terms of barn climate by natural ventilation.
Barn walls should be openable to allow breathing; The cow is essentially a northern animal and prefers a dry and cold environment to a hot and humid one. In the summer, the barn should have a breeze to provide air exchange (fresh air), as this is the only way to avoid heat stress. While protecting sun exposure UV and prevents insects and tick parasites that cause discomfort, skin damage, reduced milk/weight production.
The side walls of a free-stall barn should be openable. The barn climate should meet the welfare and needs of the animals 100%.
In a modern barn in winter, it needs to be ventilated with sufficient air intake 4-6 times an hour. In summer, it is necessary to reduce the body temperature of the animals as much as possible, so the barn should be ventilated 60-100 times an hour.
Barn curtain systems
The MAXI FOLDING and CABLE movable curtain systems feature top-down, bottom-up, and bidirectional mechanisms. Single-motor, single-arm models are available for movable curtains. Additionally, fixed curtain types essentially perform the same function, providing natural ventilation and lighting for the barn while enhancing animal welfare and comfort. The special double-layer curtain system, with its fire-resistant, seamless, durable barn curtains, breaks the wind while contributing to barn ventilation and lighting, and prevents birds from entering the barn. The system can be operated using a winch and crank, manual remote control, or motor. Optionally, a climate computer can be connected. All movable systems can be controlled automatically or manually via remote control or climate computer.
MAXI System
The Maxi System retracts with robustly designed straps and remains taut and secure at all times thanks to our in-house designed spring mechanism. It opens from top to bottom and rolls down from the bottom with stainless steel fasteners.
FOLDING System
It enhances animal welfare and comfort while providing natural ventilation and lighting to the barn. Thanks to special tubes inside, it’s more resistant to harsh weather conditions and strong winds. It’s a top-down folding/collecting curtain system. Easy to assemble and maintenance-free.
CABLE System
The system is controlled by a stainless steel cable that passes through pulleys at the top of the system. Nylon cables are attached to this cable, smoothly retracting the fabric. As the fabric lowers, the lower axle wraps around it tightly. In this way, the fabric always remains taut.
The air inlet is located at the top, contributing to optimum barn ventilation. The system is integrated into the existing structure, requiring 15 cm at the top and 30 cm at the bottom.
FIX System
It provides natural ventilation and lighting for the barn while increasing animal welfare and comfort. More resistant to winds up to 110 km/h for facades constantly exposed to wind; Top-down tension mounting – Left-to-right tension mounting. Fixed and removable models are available. Easy to assemble and requires no maintenance.
BIRD Net
Upon request, bird netting can be integrated into the system to prevent birds from entering the barn
Installatıon and Use
Drop Top-down opening curtains with stacked bottoms, featuring stainless steel fasteners
The Maxi System is controlled from above and below by a chain-driven system. Belts are mounted on the upper axle, running the entire width of the system, ensuring smooth fabric retraction. Two patented spring elements are located on the left and right sides of the fabric’s lower tube. It always remains highly wind-resistant, air intake is at the top, and contributes to optimum barn ventilation.
For maximum windbreak, the netting is fixed to an aluminum frame and mounted in front of the netting wall.
This keeps birds out. If the system is automated with a remote control or climate control computer, the bird cage provides extra security. Children cannot reach the rotating roller, minimizing the risk of accidents. When the bird netting is mounted outside the opening, the rain netting may naturally need cleaning.
The system is fully integrated into the existing structure; only a 20 cm section at the top and a 35 cm section at the bottom of the mounting infrastructure is required.
Motors and Controlling
For all moving systems, HUIMA motors with 5 RPM and 600 Nm of torque can be controlled automatically or manually via remote control or climate control computer. Available in single and double arm models, these motors are sufficient to move patented and lightweight curtain systems up to 120 meters. The chain-driven system uses the extremely durable B12 chain, which has been in use for over 18 years.
Curtain Fabrics
Our factory can weld and combine all types of windbreak weaves and tarpaulins to order. We strive to find the best solution for every project and application by producing custom-sized, tailor-made products! We offer fire-retardant (fire resistance class M2) CE certified blinds that can be customized with logos and images. Should the blind fabric be completely waterproof and windproof? Or would you prefer a more breathable fabric?
WIND BREAKE FACTOR & WIDE RANGE OF COLORS
Specially designed for challenging conditions, these single-piece blinds provide superior wind resistance and are available in widths of up to 120m and heights of 4.75m, with windbreak factors ranging from 0 to 100 and various color options. Bird (net) blinds with various windbreak factors are also available.
The recommended lightweight blind with 98% windbreak for the Maxi blind is a VERVAEKE patent and allows breathability inside the barn even when closed. A 2% airflow rate is excellent in winter conditions.
By adjusting the windbreak factor, you can determine how much air your barn needs. You can even make this continuous with hybrid blinds.
Color selection is entirely a matter of preference, however, VERVAEKE curtain dyes have a much higher UV resistance thanks to their sunlight reflection properties, therefore their lifespan is longer than other curtains.
Transparent curtains are directly exposed to UV rays because they let light through, and therefore they wear out faster.