FAQ's

Yes. Growers in all climates are heating their retractable roof greenhouses. Flat roof greenhouses are usually heated primarily for crop protection. A-frame greenhouses are heated even in cold climates; however, most growers install a curtain system that also acts as a thermal curtain.

Retractable roof greenhouses have been installed most often using our detailed step-by-step installation instructions or by using the services of one of our installation instructors. In many regions, installation contractors are available who are experienced at installing retractable roof greenhouses.

A retractable roof greenhouse can have a layer of insect screening that is installed below the bottom cord of the truss. The insect net can be installed permanently or can be retracted seasonally or automatically. Get more information and pictures by clicking here.

Yes. It is extremely important to be able to open the walls to allow the wind to blow through the greenhouse. Wind helps reduce insect pressures, helps keep plants compact and helps cool the greenhouse during hot days, especially when the roof is closed 85% for cooling. Get more information by clicking here.

We now have CD presentations that outline best practices to help educate the growers on new crop management strategies These new strategies allow growers to take full advantage of growing in a controlled greenhouse and the natural outdoor environment. Contact Cravo to get more information about our growers’ seminars by clicking here.

View the presentation titled “ Guidelines to site selection…” by clicking here and download the Needs Assessment document .

There are two main reasons why retractable roofs do not blow away during a strong wind: Roof coverings are made using reinforced polyethylene to help prevent tears from running and Roofs are suspended from hooks below stainless steel wires to help prevent uplift. Get more information and pictures by clicking here.

Download “ A control strategy for retractable roof greenhouses” by clicking here.

Flat roof greenhouses use water porous coverings so the rain will pass through. The rain will tend to drip through in a rectangular grid pattern so the grower will need to determine whether it is better to leave the roof closed during a rain or retract it.

Retractable roof greenhouses offer one of the highest returns on investment of any greenhouse by having a positive impact on both revenues and expenses. The total cost to buy a retractable roof greenhouse can cost less, the same or more than conventional greenhouses depending on the size and design specifications. Please review Impact on the balance sheet and income statement.

During the planning stage, we ask you detailed questions about your short and long term goals to ensure that our solution and your investment meet both. To get more detailed information about what type of greenhouse design and layout could meet your goals, download the “Needs Assessment for a new greenhouse” by clicking here. Print it, complete it out and then contact Cravo. We will use this information to create the layout and specifications for your new project.

Retractable roofs provide the best possible growing environment when outside temperatures are warm enough since light levels can be optimised throughout the day, but can only be covered with flexible roof coverings.

Open hinged roof greenhouses can be covered with both rigid and flexible roof coverings. When roofs are open, crops receive significantly lower light levels during the early morning and late afternoon when light is already in short supply and maximum light levels during the midday when light levels can be excessive. For a short slide show outlining the differences between retractable and hinged click here.