Tag Archives: greenhouse shape

The benefits of going to a bigger structure

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What are some of the benefits of going with a bigger structure over a smaller structure?

Budget often dictates that someone needs to start small, especially when a person is just starting out as a grower with a greenhouse.
There is also the perceived notion that staying smaller means less heating cost. In itself, that is true, since heat loss is in direct proportion to surface area exposed to the outside.

As I have mentioned before, it is very important to weigh expense
against return.

A smaller air volume has less natural circulation.
Proper air circulation for plants is critical regardless of the season.
Think of a deep pond versus a shallow pond. The deep pond never has algae on the surface because of the increased movement.

Going with a taller greenhouse will automatically increase the circulation the same way.

Another point to consider with a taller greenhouse, is that there is more open space above the plants.

This open space is where moisture can go, away from the plants even before the greenhouse ventilation system does its job.

With a lower greenhouse, moisture is always in close proximity to the plants. In a taller structure, the plants will be dry much sooner.

Moist plants in a stagnant air mass are prone to disease. These plants will, as a result, produce less.

As always, be aware of the bigger picture.

Greenhouses 101: Shapes & Configurations

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There are many choices for shapes, styles and sizes of structures. These choices, more then any other, will force you to strike a balance between strength and cost or return and cost. There are many variables that will affect the cost per square foot of your building. Only by careful research and evaluation will you determine if a particular choice is a valid consideration for your application. Our planning checklist can also help to ensure you have all your bases covered.

The focus of Multi Shelter Solutions structures are those that are ground to ground with a gothic shape due their versatility, strength and economy. Gothic refers to a shape that is slightly rounded coming up from the base going up to a peak to maximize snow shedding and wind deflection. By modifying the shape and reducing or expanding the hoop spacing, we can accommodate interior space requirements while achieving ruggedness to deal with the elements for years to come.

Ground to ground style refers to individual units as opposed to multiple units that share a common base. Individual structures deal with snow more effectively and will allow someone to easily customize a building for different applications or uses. Ground to ground units still have the inherent flexibility of being mounted on various bases as the specific application requires. This includes mounting the building on concrete blocks or a short wall. The width of a ground to ground structure can easily be modified or the length increased to create and area to suit a required need.

From our perspective, when we understand what it is that you are trying to accomplish and what you are dealing with, we can best advise the shape and size that would best get the job done in the context of your budget. Feel free to give us a call and discuss the planning of your project. We are happy to help.

Check out the presentation video and the rest of the series Norm spoke on Greenhouses 101 here. Stay tuned for the end of  January 2016 when he presents Greenhouses 202!

Greenhouses 101: Knowing the Basics Before you Buy

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Knowing the basics when you are starting the process of purchasing a shelter includes having a firm handle on what you are trying to accomplish and what you are dealing with. This applies for both greenhouses or storage structures. By efficiently choosing from all of our structure choices in combination with your goals and the restrictions or challenges in the best possible way, you will be creating a structure package that is going to serve you well for years to come.

Structure choices include not only size and profile but many choices of coverings. Anchoring choices will be determined by soil conditions and the possibility of relocating the building. Ventilation requirements will impact which structure package you choose. Size, spacing and shape of the hoops will allow you to effectively deal with the weather in your location.

Your goals will need to be specifically spelled out and will likely be modified once the realities of some of the obstacles have been determined. Goals should always include both short and long term plans since some structures and layouts are easier to expand then others.

Restrictions or challenges are not just limited to wind, snow load and other climatic issues. Accessibility of water, power, roadways and market opportunities will impact where and what you can or should build. As each of these parts are researched and developed, they will be impacted by the reality of your budget. By knowing your options, you will be able to get best value for your investment

Check out the presentation video and the rest of the series Norm spoke on Greenhouses 101 here. Stay tuned for the end of  January 2016 when he presents Greenhouses 202!
Download our STEPS TO YOUR SHELTER CUSTOMIZATION for your Project for reminders of items to consider before you purchase.