![common work contexts for nursery and greenhouse managers common work contexts for nursery and greenhouse managers](https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/04433131-cbb7-4d56-8eab-043900564722/20200712_043445.jpg)
This material can then be formed into rafters, side posts and other structural components. Aluminum may be extrude in various shapes and thicknesses. Of these three, aluminum is by far the most economical and longest lasting. Among the most popular are aluminum, steel and wood. Greenhouses may be constructed from several different materials. Sidewalls may also be vented to provide cooling and insulation. These structural components deter-mine the height of the production area and greatly influence efficiency. Side posts and columns are vertical supports usually ranging in height from 1-10 feet. These provide additional support and may be required in areas where high winds are frequent. Purlins may sometimes be connected by a cross tie. These structural components are usually spaced 4-8 feet apart depending on the size of the greenhouse. Purlins are horizontal supports that run from rafter to rafter. Basic structural components of a greenhouse: A) rafter, B) end wall, C) side post, D) side wall, E) purlin. Generally speaking, greenhouses over 50 feet wide require a reinforced truss construction.įigure 2. Rafters may be of the truss type, or curved arch depending on the width of the greenhouse. They are generally placed on 2, 3, or 4 foot centers depending on strength requirements. Rafters are the primary vertical support of a greenhouse (Figure 2). Several connected ridge and furrow greenhouses are often referred to as a “range”. glass, fiberglass) while curved arch houses are covered with lighter materials (i.e. Gabled houses are usually suitable for heavy coverings (i.e. Ridge and furrow greenhouses may be gabled or curved arch. Generally an internal wall below the gutter is not present allowing for increased efficiency. Ridge and furrow greenhouses are connected at the eave by a common gutter. This reduces efficiency as well as productivity. Quonset greenhouses are suitable for the production of most crops, but the growing area is somewhat restricted near the side walls.
![common work contexts for nursery and greenhouse managers common work contexts for nursery and greenhouse managers](https://venturebeat.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/36a698b4bba9efce118683d4a9fbc361.jpg)
These houses are constructed from arched rafters and usually have solid end walls for additional support. The most common type of detached greenhouse for commercial production is the Quonset. However, they may be connected to a work area or access another greenhouse through a corridor. Commercial greenhouse structures: A) gutter connected, B) free standing quonset, C) single gable.ĭetached greenhouses stand independently from one another.