Dust, commonly found in animal environments, provides a surface on which acids and gases can react, significantly accelerating the rate of corrosion. Common bacterial colonies found in barns tend to form biofilms on building and equipment surfaces, allowing bacterial growth and the production of other corrosive acids. Properly Ventilate the Building. A good ventilation system should move enough fresh air through the building to reduce the levels of moisture, gas and dust to acceptable levels. A well designed system will minimize corrosion problems.
Proper ventilation requires good building design and good ventilation management.
A ventilation specialist, equipment supplier or building contractor can help to ensure that ventilation is not contributing to the corrosion problem. Often, an owner tightens up a barn to raise the building temperature or to save on supplemental heat. Unfortunately, this reduces the ventilation rate and allows the humidity level to increase. For fan ventilated barns, it is important to keep at least one exhaust fan operating to constantly remove the respired moisture. Similarly, naturally ventilated barns require a constant exchange of air to control moisture.