Why it’s worth to replace greenhouse screens on time
Often, growers wait far too long to replace their greenhouse screens. Understandable, since it’s a major investment. However, changing your greenhouse screens on time offers many advantages, which are often noticeable in the very short term. We name the four most interesting advantages.
Higher energy savings
The most important reason to replace screen material on time, is energy saving. The horticulture industry is very innovative, and producers of screen material keep on developing as well. Therefore, the fabric of new screens has better energy saving aspects than the types of screen material that were available 5 to 10 years ago.
Better light output
New screen material is free of dust and dirt and therefore clearer. This results in a better light output when the screens are closed. This is especially important with energy screens. The screens can stay closed for a long period, which will benefit the light output. Recently, a Dutch grower found out what difference new greenhouse screens can make: compared to the old screens that were installed 10 years ago, the new screens delivered 40 PAR more light (of the 80 PAR needed).
Oud en nieuw energiescherm naast elkaar: het nieuwe scherm levert 40 par meer lichtopbrengst (van de benodigde 80 par…. ) pic.twitter.com/ki54NetuSr
— Holland Scherming BV (@HollandSchermin) 16 mei 2017
We help avoiding fines related to light pollution
From September till April, the Netherlands and Belgium experience a light restriction period. In the Dutch Westland, but also in other areas and countries, greenhouses are strictly monitored for compliance with the rules regarding exposed crops. Make sure both horizontal and roller screen installations are in good shape. In that case, there’s no need to worry about the rules that apply to light emission.
Flame retardant properties
Since 1 January 2017, Dutch insurance company Achmea Agro demands flame retardant screens and foil in Dutch greenhouses. As per 1 January 2010, they only accept companies that have flame retardant screen material installed. Other insurance companies set the same requirements. All screen material installed by Holland Scherming, are applicable to the NTA 8825 standard that is used by insurance companies.