An ounce of prevention ...

A good maintenance program anticipates problems and takes action to minimize their occurrence. Maintenance should include a thorough inspection and any corrective action needed to keep the structures and equipment in good operating condition. Cleaning and tightening up the greenhouse can save money and increase energy efficiency. The following checklist identifies the major areas:

Greenhouse frame

• Inspect diagonal frame bracing to see that it is in place and tight. This bracing is important to prevent racking of the frame and the loosening of the glazing from wind and snow loading.
• Tighten collar tie and truss bolts. These loosen from expansion and contraction due to heat and movement of the structure in the wind.
• Inspect the gutters. Clean leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts. Caulk any joints that may be leaking water with a gutter caulk. Inspect for rust. Wire brush and coat these areas with a cold galvanizing spray or asphalt coating.

Glazing

Light is usually the limiting factor in plant growth during the winter. The glazing should be clean.

• Repair any small holes or tears in the poly cover with a polyethylene tape or Poly Patch. If the poly has stretched or is loose, it may have to be tightened by removing the locking inserts and pulling the plastic taut. Inspect for soundness at the attachment edge. Replace plastic if it has exceeded its warranty life. Clean and inspect the inflation blower. Check the inflation pressure. It should be about ¼-inch water static pressure or about the same as an inflated balloon. Too much pressure will stretch the plastic and increase the space between the layers. Too little pressure will allow the plastic to ripple in the wind and tear where it is attached.

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Image by DC Studio on Freepik

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