When to Schedule a Silo Inspection for Optimal Results

Following a consistent Silo Maintenance Schedule ensures the longevity and safety of your storage structures. Experts recommend inspecting silos every two to five years, whether steel or concrete. Each type has its own weaknesses. Steel frames rust and deform, while concrete frames crack and accumulate material buildup. Structural silo inspections identify these issues early and prevent costly repairs.

Silo inspections take time, so owners should plan to oversee the process. Following a well-organized Silo Maintenance Schedule simplifies this task and keeps operations running smoothly. These guidelines will help silo owners schedule inspections effectively.

Know the Reason for Your Silo Maintenance Schedule and Inspection

Every silo inspection serves a unique purpose. The two to five-year rule offers a guideline, but specific events may demand an inspection sooner. A well-maintained Silo Maintenance Schedule helps owners stay ahead of potential issues. Key reasons include:

• Aging of the Structure: This common reason highlights the need for regular inspections. Silos and their components deteriorate over time. Regular checks lead to cost-saving preventative maintenance.
• Moving the Structure: Owners should schedule an inspection whenever relocating a silo. Silos are built for specific geographic conditions. New soil types or foundations can affect structural integrity. The move itself may damage materials, so inspecting after relocation is crucial.
• Changing Storage Material: Owners should never switch stored materials without an inspection. Each material exerts different pressure on silo walls. For example, bean meal exerts different pressure than corn. An inspection ensures new materials won’t worsen existing structural issues.
• Adapting to New Safety Standards: While most standards apply only to new builds, proactive owners can update existing silos. Scheduling an inspection ensures compliance with current safety regulations and legislation.

Decide Whether to Clean the Silo During Your Maintenance Schedule

Companies like Mole•Master offer both cleaning and inspection services. Many owners schedule cleaning and inspection consecutively to save time and maximize maintenance budgets. Discover the value of preventative maintenance in our Return on Inspection article. Integrating cleaning into your Silo Maintenance Schedule ensures the structure remains in top condition.

Set Aside Time to Oversee the Inspection Process

While professionals conduct inspections, owners should remain available to oversee the process. Open communication between the inspector and owner ensures smooth progress before, during, and after the inspection and cleaning. Sticking to your Silo Maintenance Schedule will simplify this process.

Explore Additional Silo Maintenance Resources

For further insights into silo safety and maintenance, explore these trusted resources:

• Silo Safety Checklist by WorkSafeNB: A comprehensive checklist to ensure all safety protocols are followed during silo operations.
• Silo Maintenance Guide by NASD: Detailed guidelines on maintaining various silo components to prevent structural failures.
• Silo Cleaning Best Practices: Best practices for cleaning silos in the food production sector, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance.

Mole•Master recommends scheduling inspections during off-seasons. Though not applicable to every industry, staying present and engaged during inspections ensures success. For a stress-free inspection, contact the experts at Mole•Master. Visit our inspections page for a full list of services or call 740.374.6726.