Adequate ventilation is crucial for maximum season extension. Four Season Tools offers several different ventilation options to address your particular climate and preference. Ventilation can be achieved through the sidewalls, endwalls, or roof of the structure and can be manually or automatically operated.
Sidewall Ventilation | Endwall Ventilation | Roof Ventilation |
Drop-Down Sidewall Ventilation | See Endwall Ventilation Page Here | Ridge Ventilation |
Roll-Up Sidewall Ventilation | Plug-In Roof Ventilation |
Roll-Up Sidewalls feature a roll bar that runs the entire length of the structure to which the sidewall plastic is secured. Manual systems utilize a hand crank while automated systems utilize a thermostatically operated tube motor. Simple, yet extremely functional, this ventilation option is great for a wide variety of applications. An optional windbreak can be installed that provides protection to young plants and low-lying crops, even when the sidewalls are fully opened.
Manual operation with galvanized steel hand crank with tri-bar linkage | Automated operation with low-voltage motor and programmable controller operated by a single-stage thermostat |
Wood or metal hipboards/baseboards | Extruded aluminum roll-bar with integrated plastic attachment channel |
Baseboard to hipboard ventilation opening provides ample air flow | Optional windbreak upgrade to protect crops from desiccating and cooling winds |
Compatible with fixed and movable high tunnels | Compatible with FST Rainwater Capture System |
The Drop-Down Sidewall ventilation option not only provides ample ventilation, but also functions as a windbreak when in the open position, protecting delicate crops from the coldest air at the base of the tunnel. This sidewall ventilation option utilizes a rotating drive shaft running the length of the structure, which is connected to the curtain, raising and lowering using a manual hand crank or a thermostatically operated motor. A variety of customizations make this ventilation option ideal for many climates and budgets.
Manual operation with galvanized steel hand crank | Automated operation with low-voltage motor and programmable controller operated by a single-stage thermostat |
Wood or metal hipboards/baseboards | Woven super-poly curtain supported by 1/2" curtain conduit |
17ga 1-3/8" galvanized steel drive shaft | Built-in windbreak protects crops from desiccating and cooling winds |
Compatible with fixed and movable high tunnels | Compatible with FST Rainwater Capture System |
Ridge ventilation is perfect for warmer climates when hot air needs to be released quickly. A 3’ roll-up vent on the ridge of the tunnel extends the entire length of the structure. The position of this vent allows for the hottest region of the tunnel to be ventilated immediately upon opening.
Specifications:
1-3/8" Galvanized Steel Ridge Vent Frames | 3' Vertical Opening |
Extruded Aluminum Roll-Bar with Integrated Plastic Attachment Channel | Compatible with Fixed or Movable Structures |
Metal Construction:
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Wooden Construction:
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Manual Operation:
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Automated Operation:
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Our plug-in roof system was developed in collaboration with Eliot Coleman. He saw a need for venting the hot air that accumulates in the peak of the mid-section of longer greenhouses. Venting this air allows for longer plastic life and better crop growing conditions. Our vents are operated by wax cylindars, which automatically open between 75 and 85 degrees. That way there is no need to run electricity to them.