Solid structures

Greenhouse Management: Conley’s has a host of structures available. How do they different from one another?

GB: Conley’s offers one of the widest ranges of greenhouses on the market from simple cold frames, all the way up to 50 foot wide, free span gutter connected designs. Greenhouses are grouped into several categories: covering configurations, ventilation designs, crop type and density, as well as regional loading considerations.

GM: How can growers determine which structure is best for them?

GB: In most cases, growers already have an idea of which structure is required. Conley’s website and literature does a good job of illustrating the various styles of structures offered. And of course, Conley’s sales representatives are always available to discuss the various options best suited for the grower’s particular application. A few of the guidelines growers should consider include: What’s the purpose of the structure — is it a production house? Is it a propagation house, a head house, or even a retail sales area? Some environmental considerations are location. Structures installed in Massachusetts might look a lot different than a house installed in Arizona. What light transmissions are required? What environmental control systems will be required to maintain a proper environment? Material handling is an often overlooked factor that needs to be taken into consideration. How do crops or people flow through the space? Are grow benches advantageous? What types of doors are required and where?

GM: How long do structures from Conley’s generally last, and should growers perform maintenance on them?

GB: Conley’s employs Rollform Mills to produce our truss, arches, roof purlin and framing girt assemblies. Rollformed components offer more strength per pound of steel and also promotes a galvanized finish on both the exposed and inside of each component. Using Rollformed products, Conley’s Greenhouses will last longer especially in higher humidity regions. Conley’s structures are still standing after 50 years of service. In so much as maintenance is required on the moving parts of systems within a greenhouse virtually no maintenance is required, if designed properly, for the structure itself.

GM: Why should growers consider Conley’s for their structure needs?

GB: Several reasons. The first is 75 years of experience and structural designs can be applied to almost any growing project. Second, superior strength Rollformed technology offers stronger products that are designed to stand up to the harshest environmental regions and last longer than traditional greenhouse components. Third, reduced manufacturing labor associated with Rollform mills equals very competitive pricing. Finally, Conley’s offers complete installation labor, as well as comprehensive instructions for growers who prefer to build their own package.