Key Takeaways:
- Ontario’s updated building code includes stricter wind and snow load regulations for greenhouses, aimed at improving structural safety in extreme weather conditions.
- The new code aligns Ontario’s standards with those in other provinces, such as British Columbia, where similar regulations have been in place for years.
- Harnois Greenhouses confirms its existing structures already meet or exceed the updated code, ensuring no price increases for clients.
- Short-term impacts on construction costs and timelines are anticipated, but long-term benefits include greater resilience and sustainability for the greenhouse industry.
- Harnois continues to test its poly films for flame spread compliance, with results expected in the coming weeks.
Changes in Ontario’s Building Code for Greenhouses
The Ontario government has introduced new updates to its building code, focusing on increased safety regulations for greenhouses. The changes, which address wind and snow loads, are intended to ensure that greenhouses across the province are better equipped to withstand more frequent extreme weather events. These updates follow broader efforts across Canada to enhance structural safety in response to shifting climate patterns.
- Wind Loads: The updated code requires greenhouse structures to be designed to withstand stronger gusts, particularly in exposed areas such as the Great Lakes region and parts of Southern Ontario.
- Snow Loads: In regions with heavy snowfall, like Northern Ontario, the code now mandates stricter requirements to manage snow accumulation and prevent structural damage.
These adjustments aim to enhance the long-term safety and durability of greenhouse structures across Ontario, responding to the challenges posed by changing weather conditions.
Regional Impact and Comparisons to Other Provinces
The new building code will primarily affect regions where snow and wind loads are significant, such as Northern Ontario and the Maritimes. In the Maritimes, the combination of coastal winds and winter storms makes these updates particularly relevant. By aligning with the standards already in place in British Columbia, Ontario is taking steps to ensure that its greenhouses are as resilient as those in regions known for harsh climates.
Card Savard, Engineering Director at Harnois Greenhouses, explained, “The Ontario code updates now align with what we’ve been doing in Quebec for many years, even without the implementation of the 2020 Canadian Building Code. We’ve long designed our structures to withstand the toughest weather conditions, so we’re fully prepared for these changes.”
Immediate Impact on Construction Costs and Timelines
These building code changes will immediately drive-up structure costs as other greenhouse manufacturers reengineer their greenhouses. Hence, it may cause longer timelines for upcoming projects, particularly in regions facing high wind and snow loads. The need for more robust steel and engineering may increase growers’ expenses. However, Harnois Greenhouses has stated that its clients will not see price increases due to the code changes. `
“We’ve been compliant with the 2020 building code for several years, so the new Ontario requirements won’t impact our pricing. Our clients can move forward with confidence, knowing they’re already meeting or exceeding these new regulations,” said Savard.
Short-Term Adjustments for Growers
In the short term, some greenhouse projects may slow down as growers evaluate the impact of the new regulations. However, Harnois Greenhouses is well-equipped to assist growers in navigating these changes, as its structures are already designed to meet the 2020 building code standards.
Savard added, “Some growers might pause to evaluate their options, but for those working with Harnois, there’s no need for concern. Our greenhouses have been built to handle these conditions for years, so we’re ready to help them continue with their projects without disruption.”
Long-Term Benefits for the Greenhouse Industry
While the new building code may initially result in higher costs, the long-term benefits for the greenhouse industry are clear. By adopting more durable and energy-efficient designs, the industry can expect greater resilience to climate changes, reducing the risk of structural failure and ensuring year-round operation in even the harshest climates.
Savard commented, “These changes will push the industry toward stronger, more sustainable greenhouses. In the long run, it’s a positive step for ensuring that growers can keep their operations running smoothly, no matter the weather.”
Harnois Greenhouses’ Response to the Code Changes
Harnois Greenhouses, which has a long history of building greenhouses in high-wind and high-snow regions, has confirmed that its structures already comply with the updated Ontario code. As a Quebec-based company with experience in long winters, Harnois has been designing greenhouses that meet rigorous structural standards for years.
Savard emphasized, “We’ve completed projects in places like Kuujjuaq, where the weather conditions are among the harshest in North America. Our greenhouses are designed to handle whatever comes their way, so no significant changes are needed.”
In addition to meeting wind and snow load requirements, Harnois is currently testing its poly films for flame spread compliance as required by Article 2.2.1.12.(1) of the updated code. “We’re testing our materials to ensure they meet the latest safety standards, and we expect to have the results in the upcoming weeks,” Savard noted.
Mitigating Costs and Maintaining Quality
Harnois Greenhouses has confirmed that its in-house engineering team and use of advanced materials will allow the company to continue offering cost-effective greenhouse solutions that comply with the new code, without passing additional costs on to clients.
“Our designs have always been optimized for extreme conditions, and we have the flexibility to increase the structure’s capacity without altering the overall configuration. This means we can maintain the same width, height, and layout while still meeting the new requirements,” Savard explained.
Positive Client Feedback
Harnois has received positive feedback from its clients, many of whom appreciate the company’s proactive approach in anticipating these regulatory changes. Harnois works closely with growers in regions like the Maritimes and Northern Ontario to ensure that their structures not only comply with the updated building code but are also future-proofed for any potential regulatory changes.
“Our clients know that we’ve been ahead of the curve when it comes to structural integrity. They trust us to provide greenhouses that meet the highest standards, and we’ll continue to deliver on that promise,” Savard concluded.
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