Pig Flooring Systems

Benefits of Quality Swine Flooring

Improved Animal Health

Quality flooring for pigs reduces the risk of injury and disease transmission among pigs by providing a non-slip, comfortable surface. Proper flooring minimizes exposure to harmful pathogens, contributing to healthier herds.

Enhanced Welfare

Pig flooring systems designed with animal comfort in mind can significantly improve the overall welfare of pigs. Features like proper hardness, temperature control, and elimination of sharp edges ensure that pigs can rest, feed, and move comfortably, which is essential for their growth and development.

Efficient Waste Management

Swine flooring facilitates effective waste separation and drainage, improving farm hygiene and reducing the labour and costs associated with manure management. This not only enhances the farm environment but also contributes to better air and water quality.

Types of Hog Flooring

Integra Farrowing Flooring

Integra Farrowing Flooring is made from non-corrosive compressed composite and is naturally cool to the touch. It is designed with the well-being of sows and piglets in mind. It is rugged yet gentle on the sow’s skin and has excellent traction. Integra flooring offers a durable and comfortable surface that supports the sows and piglets. This flooring type is notable for its longevity and ability to withstand the rigorous daily activities of farming environments. It ensures a comfortable and safe area for piglets while promoting health and productivity among sows.

Seamless Summit Nursery Flooring

Tailored for the nursery phase, the Seamless Summit Nursery Flooring stands out for its ease of cleaning and enhanced comfort for young pigs. The unique seamless joining system not only simplifies pig nursery flooring maintenance but also aids in the early detection of diseases, providing a healthier environment for pigs up to 100 lbs. This innovative pig nursery flooring combines practicality with efficiency, making it an ideal choice for nurturing young pigs.

Cast Iron/Plastic Toplock Flooring

The Cast Iron/Plastic Toplock Flooring system blends the strength of cast iron with the comfort of plastic. The cast iron component locks everything securely in place, providing a sturdy base that also aids in cooling sows in farrowing rooms through integrated temperature control features. Meanwhile, the plastic flooring is tailored for weaning and nursery pigs, offering a warm, comfortable, and insulated surface that’s not only easy to install but also built to last.

Cast Iron Flooring

Cast iron pig flooring is known for its exceptional durability and traction, offering a stable and safe surface for sows. The flooring is designed to prevent slips and injuries, featuring a smooth surface with textures that enhance sow traction. Its compatibility with other flooring systems allows for seamless integration, ensuring a robust and reliable foundation for your pigs.

Tips for Selecting the Best Flooring for Pig Pens

Understand Breed and Lifecycle Needs

Different breeds and ages of pigs have unique requirements. For instance, younger piglets might need softer, warmer pig flooring in nursery pens, while older pigs could benefit from more durable surfaces in active areas. Select flooring that supports the growth and comfort of your pigs throughout their lifecycle.

Consider the Climate

The climate plays a significant role in choosing the right swine flooring material. In hotter months, materials like cast iron can help dissipate heat, keeping pigs comfortable. Conversely, in cooler seasons, you might want a material that holds warmth. Consider swine flooring that provides water-heated and cooling options routed to the floor to keep pigs comfortable.

Match Flooring to Barn Zones

One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to barn flooring. Each area of your barn has different requirements based on the activities and pig life stages it supports. For feeding zones, prioritize durability and ease of cleaning. In farrowing and nursery pens, focus on warmth and comfort, choosing softer, more insulating materials. This tailored approach ensures that every section of your barn supports your pigs’ needs optimally.

Adaptability and Ease of Installation

Look for hog flooring options that offer modular designs or adjustable features. This makes installation easier and allows for future expansions with minimal disruption. Modular swine flooring systems can be easily updated or reconfigured to suit evolving farming practices or to accommodate changes in the barn’s layout.

Durability and Easy Maintenance

The long-term viability of your hog flooring depends on its durability and how easy it is to maintain. Consider materials like fibreglass, cast iron, and high-quality plastics, which are known for their longevity and resistance to wear. Assess how simple it is to clean and repair the flooring. Options that are resistant to aggressive cleaning agents and that can be easily accessed for repairs offer more value in the long run.

Accessories

Fibreglass rails offer a durable, flexible foundation for any flooring choice, ensuring longevity and stability with their corrosion-resistant design. Meanwhile, heat plates & hot water heating pads provide consistent, customizable warmth for better productivity.

Selecting the proper swine flooring is crucial for the pigs’ health, comfort, and performance. Tailoring pig flooring to suit your barn’s specific needs, seamlessly incorporating it with environmental controls, and opting for professional installation can dramatically enhance your farm’s productivity and sustainability.