New Style Calf Hutch Has Fabric Covering

New Style Calf Hutch Has Fabric Covering DAIRY EQUIPMENT & IDEAS Dairy Equipment & Ideas 8-3-14 Latest new development in low-cost calf shelters is the fabric-covered "Calf Inn" from FOF Products, Delavan, Wis. Two types of fabric coverings are available ù a natural material that transmits the sun's rays to the inside of the Calf Inn, and a white cover with a black backing which reflects solar heat and is geared toward states with consistently warm weather. Dick Roeder, FOF president, points out that the natural material which acts like a greenhouse in transmitting solar heat to the interior is popular with farmers in northern states. He notes that the open end of the hutch and a vent flap (which can be closed) help keep solar heat from building up inside the shelter. Testing hasn't been done during the summer but, due to air flow, Roeder doesn't think excess heat build-up will be a problem. If there is a problem, you can throw a canvas over the natural material, or replace it with the reflective type covering, he points out. The covers are made of a woven poly fabric that won't tear, even if punctured. The material is moisture proof, rot proof, treated to resist ultraviolet breakdown and cleans off easily, according to Roeder. The one-piece cover fits over a 1 1/2 in. tubular steel frame which slides together and sets up into a shelter 45 in. wide, 70 in. long and 48 in. high. It assembles in minutes and, when staked down, will withstand rough weather. It has attachments for confinement fencing. Sells for $150, with one covering. Additional coverings cost $80 apiece. For more information, contact: FARM SHOW Followup, FOF Products, Inc., P.O. Box E, 1505 Racine St., Delavan, Wis. 53115 (ph 414 728-2686).

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