Are you looking to increase your on-farm grain storage with a new grain shed? Wondering what size grain shed you need?
When it comes to grain sheds, size matters.
A lack of storage space can increase stress at harvest, hold up logistics, impact grain quality and lower grain prices.
So, it is important to get grain shed sizes right!
This article looks at storage requirements for different types of grains, common grain shed sizes and how to calculate what size shed you need to store your grain.
If you are asking; what size grain shed do I need? Or, what is the best grain shed size? Then keep reading and use the examples and explanations in this article as a grain shed size guide.
There are a few points to consider before deciding on a grain shed size, including:
- How much grain do you need to store?
- What type of grain are you storing?
- Do you need extra space for sorting, segregating or treating grain?
- Do you need to accommodate truck access and tipping? How will you load and unload the shed?
- Where will the grain shed be located? Will the site dictate shed size or configuration?
- What are your future grain storage plans?
- Will you use the shed in the off-season for machinery or hay storage?
Answering these questions will help determine the best size for your new grain shed.
How Much Grain Do You Need To Store? What Type Of Grain Are You Storing?
The amount of grain you need to store will largely determine what size your grain shed needs to be, but it is also important to consider the type of grain you will be storing.
This is because different grains have different physical properties such as size, shape and bulk density. These will influence the amount of grain that can be stored in a shed.
It is also worth noting that not all types of grains are suited to shed storage.
For example, while grains like feed-grade wheat, faba beans, canola and barley can be safely and effectively stored in grain sheds, grains that cannot have protectants applied may be better suited to silo storage.
Read our article – Grain Sheds Versus Silos (Pros, Cons & Prices) – to work out what storage option will work best for your grain.
And keep reading to learn about bulk density, angle of repose and popular grain shed sizes.
What Is Bulk Density?
Bulk density is the total mass of the product divided by the total volume of the space it occupies.
This means it takes into account the air space between the particles so, generally, the more slender the grain, the lower the bulk density.
For example, barley has a bulk density of 600 – 650kg/m³ whereas faba beans have a bulk density of 750 – 800 kg/m³.
What Is The Angle Of Repose?
The angle of repose is “the steepest angle at which a sloping surface formed of loose material is stable.”
The angle of repose is different for different grain types.
For example, the angle of repose for barley is around 28° and the angle of repose for wheat is around 25°. The actual angle will vary due to factors like the moisture content and quality of the grain.
What Size Grain Shed Do I Need To Store My Grain?
As we have discussed the best size for your grain shed will primarily depend on the type of grain you are storing and how much you need to store.
Also, remember to consider factors like the off-season use of the shed, site logistics and future storage and infrastructure plans before committing to a grain shed size.
For example, if you require space for turning around inside the shed, a standard 27 metre span will work best.
Next up, let’s look at our grain storage calculators and some suggested grain shed sizes.
Grain Storage Calculator
We’ve developed a grain storage calculator that allows you to easily enter the shed size you are considering, and the type of grain being stored, and the calculator will work out the rest!
To find out the bulk density of grain, volume of grain and the storage capacity of your planned shed, simply fill out the information in the calculator below.
Enter your shed size and grain type and the storage volume and total tonnage will be calculated.
Popular Grain Shed Sizes
Here are some popular grain shed sizes and price estimates to give you an indication of what size grain shed you will need, and approximately how much the project will cost.
As you can see from the examples below, generally the larger the capacity, the more cost-effective per tonne.
Keep in mind that these are just suggestions and our building consultants can easily tailor your grain shed size and design to suit your specific storage requirements and needs.
Note: These price estimates are based on grain sheds that are fully-enclosed with sliding door access, concrete panels and a concrete floor slab.
- A 30m (L) x 18m (W) grain shed stores 1,500 tonnes and costs approx. $150 – $190 / tonne
- A 36m (L) x 24m (W) grain shed stores 3,000 tonnes and costs approx. $130 – $160 / tonne
- A 56m (L) x 27m (W) grain shed stores 6,000 tonnes and costs approx. $100 – $135 / tonne
- An 80m (L) x 30m (W) grain sheds stores 10,000 tonnes and costs approx. $85 – $115 / tonne
What Wall Height Is Best For Grain Sheds?
A concrete panel wall height of 3 metres or 3.5 metres are the most common for grain storage sheds. These heights take into account the angle of repose of common grains.
What Roof Pitch And Height Is Best For Grain Sheds?
We recommend a steeper roof pitch for grain sheds, around 18 – 25 degrees, to accommodate the internal angle of repose of the grain stack.
It is also important to consider whether you will require clearance for truck tipping inside. If so, we can design the roof pitch and eave height to accommodate this.
Useful Resources
A collection of resources and articles that you may find useful for planning your grain storage shed project.
For more information and advice on grain shed sizes and recommended designs, speak with a building consultant on 1800 687 888.
