Every farmer knows the importance of keeping livestock hydrated and having a long-lasting, durable water trough. Keeping your livestock cool is vital for their health and wellbeing as heat stress and high body temperature can be known to cause production losses. Troughs and drinkers ensure your animals have access to fresh drinking water all day everyday. However, it can be difficult to select your trough, whether it is concrete, plastic or galvanised we’ve pulled together the pros and cons of each to help you make the right decision.

When you are looking to select a water trough there are multiple considerations to think about. The main considerations being; desired livestock, durability and installation. Take a look at our summary below which should help you decide which trough to choose!

Plastic Water Troughs

Best Seller: Paxton AT1 Water Trough

  • Plastic water troughs are generally lighter in weight and also price! This makes them perfect for smaller farms or if you need to buy in bulk. Although these troughs can be less expensive this doesn’t mean that the quality is lower. Polyethene troughs are tough and impact resistant and designed to withstand heavy use.
  • Being made from a more flexible material plastic water troughs can come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Perfect for farmers who have different types of livestock. Some troughs can be built to hold larger volumes of water.
  • Plastic is much less conductive than it’s steel counterpart allowing farmers to keep the water cooler for longer.

Galvanised Steel Water Troughs

Best Seller: IAE Galvanised Water Trough

  • Most steel water troughs are manufactured with feet which means you won’t have to create a concrete base. This also makes moving the trough easier during peak heat times of the day or for tactical grazing.
  • Galvanised troughs are built to withstand large force so livestock with hooves and horns should not be an issue.
  • The longer, narrower shape of these troughs allows more headspace for animals making it easier for them to drink water if there is multiple animals at the trough. In particular, animals with horns such as cattle or goats.
  • Many farms have their own welding equipment making it easy to repair damage to galvanised troughs. However these should be undertaken safely, speak to our workshop team if you need help with any repairs or visit our workshop Monday – Thursday 8-4pm.

Concrete Water Troughs

Best Seller: Concrete Water Trough

  • With concrete being readily available worldwide these troughs are highly cost effective and a mid range price option. Compared to other trough materials, concrete is more economical in maintenance and construction.
  • Concrete is a particularly poor conductor of heat making a great choice for keeping water cool
  • Concrete tanks are highly durable and can function for around 50 years (Dependant on conditions).

If you still need advice on which water trough to choose for your livestock, speak to a member of the team today! Call 01451 830400 or email [email protected].