Foundation Wall
The standard 16" high foundation wall is built from 2 x 4
lumber studs and plates clad. It is insulated with R-12
insulation, sealed and lined with galvanized metal flashing.
Outer Glazing
Standard Quality:
Twin wall 120 microns rigid polycarbonate structured
sheets ready for installation.
Premium Quality:
Triple wall 200 microns rigid polycarbonate structured
sheets pre-cut into triangles ready for installation.
Location and Orientation
Proper greenhouse site selection, location, and
orientation are very important for profitable
commercial production or satisfactory hobby or part-time
operations. The following factors
should be considered:
- Orient and locate the house for maximum sunlight. In
southern latitudes, the ridge
should run north-south and northern latitudes east-west.
- Avoid placing the house near objects east, west or
south which will shade the house.
Keep away a distance equal to at least three times the
height of the object.
- Place in an area sheltered from northerly and
north-westerly high winds if possible.
- Locate on a soil which is well drained and where
surface water does not run into the
house. Use drain tile if necessary.
- Avoid sloping beds or floors in the greenhouse.
- Locate the greenhouse near adequate and reliable
sources of utilities-- electricity,
water and gas.
- Provide good access roads, parking, and turn-around
area.
- Position headhouses or supporting facilities on the
north side.
- Arrange initial construction so that the range can
be expanded.
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Uses and Types
The basic purpose of a greenhouse structure is to provide a
reliable enclosure within which an environment favorable to
plant growth and production can be created. This section
summarizes some of the main features and data on Greenhouse
Structures. There are several types of greenhouse structures
and methods of construction with special characteristics that
are widely adaptable or sometimes suited only for certain
uses. Most all houses should have the following basic
features.
Basic Features Desired:
Strength - To be structurally adequate and resist
local wind speed and rainfall.
- Adequate foundation to support the structure.
- Covering - Easy covering attachment and proper
support, sometimes with double-layer covering for
heating economy.
- Light - Minimum overhead structural members, or size
of members to minimize shading.
- Openness - Clear-span design desirable for easy
working and easy equipment or operating maneuverability.
- Wide doors and height as necessary for equipment and
crop operations.
- Environment - Capable of utilizing efficient and
economical heating and ventilation systems.
- Cost/Life - A cost/life ratio that is most suitable
for your needs. Maintenance should be considered.
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Included with the Growing Dome are the Following Features
North Wall Insulation:
Green House Constructions insulation pre-cut panels are
provided to cover the northern 2/5ths of the Dome, cutting
down heat loss in the winter months. The reflective surface
increases the available light inside the Growing Dome.
Automatic Vents:
Solar powered activators open and close the vents and prevent
the Growing Dome from overheating. The activators are
adjustable and work by heating and cooling a tube of
compressed wax. The 26 ft. domes come with thermostatically
controlled, solar powered, cooling vent fans. The larger domes
having cooling fans which require an electrical power supply.
Solar powered cooling fans are available at additional cost.
Under Soil Heating:
A small fan blows warm air under the soil, raising the soil
temperature to enable plants to grow better during cold
weather conditions. The kit contains the fan and distribution
box. The fan is powered by an included photo-voltaic cell that
is mounted high on the outside of the dome.
Water Tank:
The main thermal mass of the Growing Dome is a large vesica
pisces shaped water tank. This is an oval tank similar to an
aboveground swimming pool. Pre-drilled brackets, hardware,
pool liner, and plans are provided. Locally purchased items
include sheet metal and 4 pieces of lumber to complete the
tank. Can be used as an indoor pond to grow aquatic plants and
fish.
Please see the installation
page for more information on installation.
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