ABG June 2015 - page 40

40 www.Farms.com/Used-Farm-Equipment Ontario | June 2015
There has been an explosion of types of cover materials in the last couple of decades. Many
more people, who need to protect something from the elements, now have come to
appreciate the usefulness of these types of economical shelters. It used to be that green-
houses were exclusively for “plant people”.
It is not just about economy however. You must answer the question “Can these buildings
provide value for me?”There are many shapes and sizes available with each manufacturer
providing their own spin to things.
By going through the following check list you can be better prepared to ask appropriate
questions to avoid pitfalls.
1. Pick a Location:
Your building should be level from side to side. If you can’t excavate, check what it would
cost to design a variation. End to end slope is ok but if it is more then 1%, it would require
another variation. If you are building against a building, there may need to be some extra
ribs (hoops) in the first 12’ of length for the extra snow load. Building behind another build-
ing does not provide extra shelter since there is actually increased wind turbulence.
2. Pick a width:
Some of the standard widths can be modified and others not so easily. Some manufactur-
ers go wider then others but often at a premium. As the building goes wider, the framing
must go heavier as well to support the extra snow and wind loads for a given area. 25%
wider will require at least 50% more and heavier framing.
3. Pick a length:
Any length is possible; simply by adding ribs. If the building must fit between
2 fixed points, make sure the last section can be modified to fit the spot.
4. Pick a height:
Some manufacturers offer more height variation then others. It is important to determine
your minimum height requirements. Building higher will improve the snow shedding
characteristics of the building. Building higher also provides more interior space close to
the wall. Since building higher catches more wind, the structure may require reduced
hoop spacing. Building higher will be a little more costly to heat but does improve natural
air circulation.
Building lower will decrease snow shedding and may required closer hoop spacing.
5. Pick a base or foundation:
Structures can be ground mounted or on blocks, posts, slab or shipping containers. If the
intent is to make the structure moveable, be sure the base is appropriate. Anchor posts
for direct anchoring often require setting into concrete piers. Please remember that there
simply is no such thing as too many anchors.
6. Pick a cover:
There are numerous choices out there. The easiest way to compare is to get a replacement
roof cover price and divide by the number of years of expected life span. This will clarify if
the cost is as economical as it seems. Choosing double plastic with air between gives you
many more options for temperature control, condensation reduction and stiffening the
building in extremely windy locations. Buildings that have reduced rib spacing, can use
lighter covers because of the increased frequency of support.
7. Determine ventilation:
Roll up sides are an economical add on to greenhouses or livestock shelters to provide nat-
ural ventilation Roof vents and exhaust fans are available options. Storage buildings also
need to be vented properly to get rid of ground moisture.
8. Building ends:
You will need to have flexibility with the ends to be able to have proper access. Many times
it is easier to determine how you should complete the ends after the building is standing.
This allows you to freely move your equipment as you will likely have to later.