Chapter 3

Greenhouse Curtain systems

Greenhouse Curtain Support Systems

Greenhouse curtain systems support the panels of curtain material on wires or nylon monofilament lines parallel to the direction of movement of the curtain. Lines are uniformly spaced across the greenhouse at distances of 18 to 48 inches (0.5–1.2m) on center, depending on the design of the system. Stainless steel is longer lasting. New monofilament is required each time curtain fabric is replaced. Greenhouse curtains can be supported two ways: they can slide on top of support wires or they can be suspended from wires.

Sliding System

PFor a sliding curtain, heavy-polyester wires or smooth stainless-steel wires are strung between the trusses or gutters about 16 to 18 inches (40-46cm) apart, and the curtain material lies on top. The curtain slides on top of the wires as it opens and closes. As the sliding curtain opens, the material bunches up and requires a gathering device to keep the curtain behind the leading-edge tube.

Suspended System

With the suspended curtain system, the curtain is suspended from stainless steel wires installed 3 to 5 feet (0.9–1.5m) apart. The curtain hangs from the wires by hooks, which are attached to a web sewn into the curtain. The hooks slide on the wire as the curtain opens and closes. As the suspended curtain opens, the material folds up like an accordion.

Click on the following topics for more information on greenhouse curtain systems.