THAT'S ONE PROFESSIONAL TOOL POUCH
The other day, we assembled all the bows for the new high tunnel greenhouse and today we stood it up. Erecting the skeleton took the better part of the day and unfortunately we ran out of sunlight before getting the last two bows up. Overall, the process was more time consuming than challenging, although there were elements that required intense physical exertion. So many places we've volunteered have had existing greenhouses in place, and it's a delight to see how one is set up.
First we took measurements and drove rebar stakes into the ground in each of the four corners. We ran string along the perimeter, and double checked the angle measurements using the pythagorean theorem. Adam said being an inch or two off here or there could lead to a disaster in the end. Once we knew exactly where the greenhouse would stand, we mowed the grass to ensure if and when we dropped equipment, we wouldn't have to needlessly rummage through high grass to find an important part. We then started raising each bow, one at a time, and secured them to each other using purlins as supporting beams. Each bow has five purlins that get attached, and we used a template to assure each bow is precisely four feet apart at all five locations. We quickly realized if we only used the template near each base and on the top, the bow could still bend, and it would be bowed out, which would compromise the overall integrity of the structure.
From an engineering standpoint, the skeleton isn't too fancy. It's mostly just tightening lots of nuts and bolts. But when we put the skin on in a few days, Adam's custom design will shine through. Most greenhouses have a small door on each end with a fan to circulate air, but the flow is often limited and the air is stagnant. This design features entire roll-up walls, so the air never hangs heavy. That combined with its rolling ability makes this particular greenhouse revolutionary...or so Adam keeps insisting.
No comments:
Post a Comment