The Cost Of Greenhouse Plastic: How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of greenhouse plastic varies depending on the type of plastic, its thickness, and the size of the greenhouse. Polyethylene plastic is a popular choice due to its lower cost and ease of installation compared to more expensive polycarbonate panels. The recommended thickness for polyethylene film is 6 mil, which offers great light transmission for plant growth and typically costs between $23.99 and $30.58. Hoop greenhouses, which use inexpensive plastic sheeting, usually cost between $5 and $10 per square foot, while rooftop greenhouses tend to be more expensive, ranging from $10 to $20 per square foot.

Hoop greenhouses cost $5-$10 per square foot

Hoop greenhouses, also known as half-tunnel-shaped greenhouses, are a straightforward method of extending the growing season. They are usually composed of steel frames and inexpensive plastic sheeting. Hoop greenhouses typically cost between $5 and $10 per square foot.

The cost of a hoop greenhouse will depend on the size, type, and materials used for the floor, framing, and walls. The recommended amount of plastic film for a hoop greenhouse is around 4 square feet of plastic film per square foot of greenhouse, which allows for sufficient overlap and surface tension for maximum infrared light transmission and insulation.

The type of plastic used for hoop greenhouses is typically polyethylene, which is a lower-cost option compared to rigid multi-wall polycarbonate panels. Polyethylene film in the 4-8 mil thickness range allows great light transmission for plant growth, with commercial greenhouse contractors recommending at least 6 mil, UV-treated polyethylene plastic.

Hoop greenhouses are a cost-effective option for those looking to extend their growing season, with the ability to customise the size and materials used to fit within a specific budget.

Rooftop greenhouses cost $10-$20 per square foot

The cost of a greenhouse depends on its size, type, and the materials used for the floor, framing, and walls. Half-tunnel-shaped greenhouses, known as hoop houses, are usually made of steel frames and inexpensive plastic sheeting. They cost between $5 and $10 per square foot. Rooftop greenhouses, which are becoming more popular, cost between $10 and $20 per square foot.

For most growers, single-layer polyethylene plastic is the best choice for greenhouses due to its lower cost and easier installation compared to rigid multi-wall polycarbonate panels. Polyethylene film in the 4-8 mil thickness range allows great light transmission for plant growth. Commercial greenhouse contractors and distributors typically recommend at least 6 mil, UV-treated polyethylene plastic. This provides sufficient overlap and surface tension for maximum infrared light transmission and insulation. Thicker plastic films have slightly lower light transmission, but the effect is minimal.

You can find polyethylene plastic sheeting for your greenhouse at Walmart, with prices starting at $23.99 for a 20' x 10' sheet. You can also buy it from Bootstrap Farmer, which offers a 5-layer film technology for added strength and longevity, and a 4-year warranty against UV degradation. KFFKFF also sells polyethylene film, with prices starting at $30.58 for a 10' x 25' sheet.

Polyethylene plastic is a cheaper option

In addition to its cost-effectiveness, polyethylene plastic is a popular choice for greenhouses because of its versatility and ease of use. It can be cut to any length and is simple to install, making it a convenient option for growers. The recommended amount is around 4 square feet of plastic film per square foot of greenhouse, allowing for sufficient overlap and surface tension to maximise infrared light transmission and insulation.

While polyethylene plastic is a more affordable option, it is important to consider the specific needs of your greenhouse. For example, thicker plastic films have slightly lower light transmission, which may be a factor to consider depending on the types of plants being grown. Additionally, the cost of a greenhouse will also depend on factors such as size, type, and materials used for the floor, framing, and walls. Half-tunnel-shaped greenhouses, also known as hoop houses, typically cost between $5 and $10 per square foot, while rooftop greenhouses can range from $10 to $20 per square foot.

Overall, polyethylene plastic is a budget-friendly and practical choice for greenhouses, offering durability, ease of installation, and optimal light transmission for plant growth.

Polycarbonate is more expensive but tougher

The cost of greenhouse plastic varies depending on the type of plastic, its thickness, and the size of the greenhouse. Regular single-layer polyethylene plastic is a popular choice for greenhouses due to its lower cost and easier installation compared to rigid multi-wall polycarbonate panels. Polycarbonate is more expensive but offers superior toughness and durability.

Polycarbonate panels are rigid and multi-walled, providing excellent strength and impact resistance. They are ideal for greenhouses as they can withstand harsh weather conditions and provide better insulation. However, they are more costly and may require professional installation, adding to the overall expense.

On the other hand, polyethylene plastic is a more affordable option. It is available in thicknesses ranging from 4 to 8 mil, with 6 mil being the most commonly recommended thickness by commercial greenhouse contractors. This thickness allows for optimal light transmission, which is crucial for plant growth. Polyethylene film is also UV-treated, ensuring that it can withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight without degrading.

The cost of polyethylene greenhouse plastic can vary depending on the brand and features offered. For example, Walmart offers Farm Plastic Supply's 6 mil clear greenhouse plastic sheeting with a 4-year UV resistance warranty for $257.26. Bootstrap Farmer also offers a high-quality 6 mil thick greenhouse plastic with a 4-year warranty, although the price is not mentioned.

When considering the cost of greenhouse plastic, it is important to factor in the size of the greenhouse. A hoop greenhouse, for instance, typically costs between $5 and $10 per square foot, while a rooftop greenhouse can range from $10 to $20 per square foot. Therefore, the type of greenhouse and its size will influence the overall cost of the plastic required.

Plastic sheeting costs $23.99-$30.58

The thickness of the plastic sheeting is 6 mil, which is the recommended thickness for greenhouses. This thickness allows for great light transmission, which is essential for plant growth. The sheeting also has a 4-year UV-resistant rating, so you can be confident that your plants will be protected from the sun for several years.

In addition to the cost of the plastic sheeting, there are other factors that will impact the overall cost of your greenhouse. The size of the greenhouse is a major factor, as larger greenhouses will require more materials and labour to construct. The type of greenhouse and the materials used for the floor, framing, and walls will also affect the cost. For example, a hoop greenhouse typically costs between $5 and $10 per square foot, while a rooftop greenhouse costs between $10 and $20 per square foot.

When choosing plastic sheeting for your greenhouse, it is important to consider the thickness and UV-resistance of the material. Thicker plastic will provide more strength and durability, while UV-resistant plastic will protect your plants from the sun's harmful rays. By considering these factors, you can choose the best plastic sheeting for your needs and budget.

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