The greenhouse industry in the Netherlands is in constant development. Growing methods are becoming more intensive, installations more advanced, and the demands on climate control increasingly strict. Marco van Ardenne of T.C. v.d. Dool observes that many greenhouses are still technically sound but are running up against one clear limitation: height. "Raising a greenhouse is not a last resort, it is a strategic choice," he says. "Anyone who asks why they would raise a greenhouse quickly discovers that extra height directly contributes to yield, flexibility, and continuity."
© TC van den Dool
When a greenhouse is raised, more than just volume changes, so does the behaviour of light and air inside the structure. "The additional height allows light to penetrate deeper into the crop canopy and promotes more natural air circulation. Warm air has more room to rise, which reduces temperature differentials and results in a more stable climate. This has a direct positive effect on crop growth and quality. At the same time, a taller greenhouse allows modern systems such as hanging grow gutters and LED lighting to be applied optimally, without compromises in cultivation or technology," says Van Ardenne.
A key advantage of raising a greenhouse is that investment and improvement can take place without extended operational downtime. "That makes raising a greenhouse not only efficient, but also financially attractive," he explains. "A better-controlled climate also tends to reduce energy consumption, because heating, ventilation, and screening can be deployed more effectively." Van Ardenne sees a growing number of growers consciously choosing to raise their existing greenhouse rather than expand their footprint. "By making smart use of the existing structure, materials are saved, construction time is reduced, and CO₂ emissions are limited. Raising a greenhouse is therefore not only an economic choice, but also a sustainable one, consistent with forward-looking business practice."
At T.C. v.d. Dool, greenhouse raising is carried out using a proven method the company applies worldwide. A pneumatic jacking system lifts the greenhouse in a controlled and fully synchronised manner. Because all jacks are connected via air hoses, the entire structure moves simultaneously and with great precision. Throughout the process, stability is maintained through temporary shoring, ensuring the structural integrity of the greenhouse is preserved.
"The result is a raised greenhouse that meets the exact required dimensions, without damage to the existing structure," says Van Ardenne. "Every greenhouse raising project is fully engineered and meets applicable insurance standards. That means the greenhouse not only gains space, but is demonstrably operationally reliable and ready for the future."
With more than ninety years of experience in projects across the Netherlands and internationally, the company has in-depth knowledge of all greenhouse types, from Venlo glasshouses to complex horticultural projects. Engineering, production, and installation are handled entirely in-house, ensuring that design and execution are seamlessly aligned and that projects can be delivered efficiently.
For more information:
T.C. v.d. Dool B.V.
Aartsdijkweg 55
2676 LE Maasdijk
+31 (0)174 513094
[email protected]
www.tcvddool.nl
