Maya Ellison
Plastic sheeting is a popular choice for greenhouses as it is easy to install and less expensive than glass panels or polycarbonate sheets. When selecting a plastic covering for your greenhouse, it is important to choose a thickness of at least 6 mil, which is the standard set by the NCRS. This thickness will ensure that your greenhouse lasts for at least 4 years. To attach the plastic sheeting, you will need a few additional tools and hardware, such as ladders, bolt cutters, push brooms, and tennis balls. The process involves unrolling the plastic film lengthwise along the structure and working with the wind when lifting it over the hoops to avoid any rips. One popular method for securing the plastic is the Spring Wire Poly Lock Channel, which is attached to the metal framing using Self-Tapping Tek Screws.
Characteristics and Values Table for Attaching Plastic Sheeting to a Greenhouse:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Sheeting | UV-stabilized plastic sheeting made of 6 mil or thicker polyethylene plastic |
| Tools Required | Ladders, bolt cutters or hacksaw, push brooms, tennis balls, safety gear |
| Installation Process | Unroll plastic film lengthwise, grab corners, lift over hoops, work with the wind |
| Attachment Methods | Single Poly Lock Channel and Spring Wire, Double Channel Poly Lock and Spring Wire, Snap Clamps/Fabric Clips/Pipe Clips |
| Additional Hardware | Self-Tapping Tek Screws for securing Poly Lock Channel to metal framing |
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What You'll Learn
Use UV-stabilised plastic sheeting
When selecting plastic sheeting for your greenhouse, it is important to choose a type that will be durable and long-lasting. Regular plastic sheeting from hardware stores is not designed for greenhouses and will deteriorate quickly under intense sunlight. Therefore, it is recommended to use UV-stabilised plastic sheeting.
UV-stabilised plastic sheeting is designed to withstand UV radiation, which makes up at least 10% of the total electromagnetic radiation output from the sun. This type of plastic sheeting has UV stabilizers added to the resin during the manufacturing process, which extends the lifespan of the film. Without this additive, the plastic sheeting would break down and become brittle, discoloured, and weak.
When selecting a plastic greenhouse covering, choose a thickness of at least 6 mil. This is the benchmark standard set by the NCRS because it is meant to last 4 years or longer. Thinner plastic may require replacement sooner. There are also thicker options available, such as 8 mil and 10 mil, which offer even more durability and strength.
UV-resistant plastic sheeting blocks part of the infrared spectrum, which can help to reduce common greenhouse pests like whiteflies, aphids, and gnats. However, if you rely on bees for pollination, you will need plastic sheeting with Open UV, which allows the UV spectrum to shine through so bees can find nectar sources. Additionally, many plants, such as roses and other aromatic flowers, need Open UV to enhance their fragrance and colour.
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Choose a thickness of 6 mil or more
When selecting a plastic covering for your greenhouse, it is recommended to choose a thickness of 6 mil or more. This thickness is a common benchmark as it provides a good balance between strength, longevity, light transmission, and affordability. While 3-4 mil plastic film is typically used for one year on narrow tunnels and overwintering houses, 6 mil plastic is the standard thickness for heavy-duty greenhouse film. It is designed to last 4 years or more and is suitable for most backyard gardeners and growers.
The durability of 6 mil plastic sheeting is further enhanced by its UV treatment, which protects it from degradation caused by intense sunlight. This feature ensures that the plastic does not disintegrate within a few months, a common issue with regular plastic sheeting that lacks UV stabilizers. Additionally, 6 mil plastic offers flexibility in cold weather while maintaining stability in hot conditions. This adaptability is advantageous for growers in varying climates.
While 6 mil plastic is a popular choice, thicker options, such as 8 mil, 10 mil, and 11 mil, are available for those seeking extra durability and protection against extreme weather conditions. These thicker options provide increased tear and rip resistance, making them ideal for growers concerned about durability. However, it is important to consider that thicker plastic allows less light to pass through, which may impact the growth of certain crops.
When deciding on the thickness of plastic sheeting, it is crucial to take into account factors such as local climate, the expected weather conditions, the greenhouse structure, and plant requirements. For instance, growers in regions with frequent thunderstorms and hail may prefer woven plastic, which offers superior strength and puncture resistance. Consulting an expert can help evaluate specific growing conditions and make informed decisions about the thickness and type of plastic sheeting best suited for individual needs.
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Prepare tools and safety gear
To prepare for attaching plastic sheeting to your greenhouse, you will need to gather the right tools and safety gear. The tools you will need depend on the type of frame your greenhouse has.
Tools for a Wooden Frame
If your greenhouse has a wooden frame, you will need a heavy-duty staple gun and 3/8-inch staples. It is also recommended to have a measuring tape to measure the height and length of each wall of the greenhouse.
Tools for a Metal Frame
For a metal frame, you will need Spring Wire Poly Lock Channel, Self Tapping Tek Screws, and a drill. The Spring Wire Poly Lock Channel is a popular method for attaching plastic to a metal frame. The channel must first be attached to the metal framing using the Tek Screws, which are designed to drill through the channel and into the metal.
Tools for a PVC Pipe Frame
If your greenhouse has a PVC pipe frame, you will need snap clamps (also known as fabric clips or pipe clips) to attach the plastic sheeting to the tubing or PVC pipe. You will also need a saw to cut the PVC pipes to the desired length.
Tools for a Hoop House
For a hoop house, you will need ladders (at least two), bolt cutters or a hacksaw, push brooms, and tennis balls. The bolt cutters or hacksaw are for cutting spring wire to length, and the push brooms and tennis balls help to ease the plastic over the hoops. Tennis balls can be placed on pole ends to protect the plastic, and they can also be tied into a corner of the plastic with rope to help pull it over the structure.
Safety Gear
Regardless of the type of frame, you will need safety gear when attaching plastic sheeting to your greenhouse. This includes gloves and goggles to protect your hands and eyes.
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Unroll the plastic lengthwise
When attaching plastic sheeting to a greenhouse, it is important to first unroll the plastic film lengthwise along the structure. This is a crucial step in ensuring a proper fit and avoiding any rips or tears in the plastic. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the process:
Begin by locating the end of the plastic sheeting that will be unrolled first. This end should have the label facing up, so that it is visible from inside the greenhouse once the sheeting is in place. This will make it easier to identify and align the plastic during installation.
As you unroll the plastic, take care to guide it over the hoops or frame of the greenhouse. For a hoop house greenhouse, it is recommended to have two people grab a corner of the plastic on the ends and lift it over the hoops. Working in sync, they can carefully pull and unfold the plastic over the structure. This step can be made easier by using soft-bristled brooms or poles with tennis balls on the ends to lift and guide the plastic.
It is important to work with the wind when unfolding the plastic. If you try to work against the wind, it can push the plastic onto the ribs or framework, making the job much more challenging. Communicate with your partner and adjust your movements accordingly to avoid any unnecessary strain or damage to the plastic.
While unrolling and lifting the plastic, pay close attention to corners, boards, or hardware that might catch and tear the plastic. Take your time and navigate around any potential obstacles to avoid rips. Once the plastic is fully unrolled and in place, you can proceed to secure it to the greenhouse structure using the appropriate attachment methods, such as spring wire poly lock channels or fabric clips.
By carefully unrolling the plastic lengthwise and following these instructions, you can ensure a smooth and efficient installation process for your greenhouse sheeting. Remember to work safely and always have extra hands available to assist you, especially when dealing with windy conditions or taller structures.
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Secure with spring wire or tek screws
When attaching plastic sheeting to a greenhouse, one of the most popular methods is to use spring wire or tek screws. This method is very easy to use and can be done without any heavy equipment. It is important to plan ahead and have the necessary tools and people available to help.
To begin, you will need to unroll your plastic film lengthwise along the structure, ensuring that the label is visible from inside. Have two people grab a corner of the film on the ends and start lifting it over the hoops of the greenhouse. It is important to work with the wind when unfolding, otherwise, the plastic will be pushed onto the ribs, making the job more difficult. Soft-bristled brooms or poles with tennis balls on the end can be extremely useful at this stage.
Once the plastic is in place, you can use spring wire to secure it. The spring wire must be cut to length with bolt cutters or a hacksaw. The spring wire is then attached to the poly lock channel, which is first secured to the metal framing of the greenhouse using self-tapping tek screws. These screws are designed to drill through the channel and into the steel tubing beneath. The tek screws can be driven without too much effort and will securely hold the poly lock channel in place.
Alternatively, you can use a double channel poly lock system, which is more rigid and can be used as a standalone hip rail. This system allows for separate removal and replacement of individual pieces of plastic. It also eliminates the need for lumber hip rails, which tend to deteriorate in the humid conditions of a greenhouse.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to use UV-stabilized plastic sheeting made of 6 mil or thicker polyethylene plastic. While it is more expensive upfront, it is under warranty for four years and will last well beyond that with good maintenance.
You will need the following tools: ladders, bolt cutters or a hacksaw, push brooms, tennis balls, safety gear such as gloves and goggles, and additional pieces of hardware such as spring wire poly lock channels and self-tapping tek screws.
Begin by unrolling your plastic film lengthwise along the structure, ensuring the label is visible from inside. Have two people grab a corner of the film and lift it over the hoops of the greenhouse, working with the wind to avoid rips. Use brooms or poles with tennis balls on the end to guide the plastic over the structure.
Yes, an alternative method is to use snap clamps (also known as fabric clips or pipe clips) to attach the plastic sheeting to the tubing or PVC pipe of the greenhouse frame.
