Maya Ellison
Covering a building with plastic is a common practice during remodelling and construction. It helps protect the building from dust, scratches, and other costly mistakes. While it is not recommended to wrap a house in plastic due to potential condensation issues, plastic sheeting can be useful for covering windows, walls, countertops, and floors. It is also commonly used in greenhouses due to its ability to trap heat. When using plastic sheeting, it is important to choose a high-quality product that is waterproof, UV-resistant, and durable. Proper installation techniques, such as using tape, staples, or lock channel and spring wire, are crucial to ensure the plastic stays in place and provides effective protection.
Characteristics and Values of Covering a Building with Plastic
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of plastic | Polyethylene, Poly, Translucent Reinforced Poly, White Reinforced Poly, Clear Reinforced Poly, White Fire Retardant Poly |
| Thickness | 5 Mil, 6 Mil, 10 Mil |
| Strength | 1000 denier, 8 x 8 mesh count per square inch, 7 x 7 mesh count per square inch |
| Weight | 2.5-ounce weight per square inch, 2.4-ounce weight per square yard |
| Durability | Weather-resistant, coated for added durability, resistant to UV rays, acids, rot, mildew, mould, tearing, punctures, chemicals |
| Installation | Calm day with warm temperatures, multiple people, unroll and unfold plastic, secure with channel and spring wire, staple gun |
| Purpose | Dust protection, scratch protection, containment, temporary walls, building wraps, enclosures, ground covers |
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What You'll Learn
Choose the right plastic sheeting
When choosing plastic sheeting, it's important to consider the specific requirements of your project. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the right plastic sheeting for covering a building:
Durability and Strength
Select a plastic sheeting that can withstand the demands of your project. Consider the thickness of the sheeting, which is often measured in "mils". Thicker plastic sheeting, such as 6-mil or 10-mil, offers superior strength and durability, making it ideal for heavy-duty applications and long-term use. This type of sheeting can better resist tears, punctures, and other damage.
Flexibility and Weather Resistance
If you're using the plastic sheeting outdoors, opt for a material that remains flexible in cold weather conditions. Look for sheeting that is UV-resistant, protecting it from degradation when exposed to sunlight. Weather-resistant treatments can enhance the durability of the plastic sheeting and ensure its longevity.
Waterproof and Moisture Control
To protect against water damage, choose a plastic sheeting that is waterproof. This is crucial for preventing moisture infiltration and condensation, especially when using the sheeting for roofing projects or covering buildings during construction.
Fire Retardant Properties
For construction sites or applications where fire safety is a concern, consider flame-retardant or fire-resistant plastic sheeting. This type of sheeting meets high safety standards and can provide peace of mind in the event of a fire.
Ventilation and Humidity Control
In some cases, using plastic sheeting to cover a building can lead to issues with humidity and condensation, especially during fall and winter. If necessary, consider installing additional HVAC tools to monitor and control humidity levels, such as smart thermostats and ventilation systems.
Application and Ease of Use
Different types of plastic sheeting are designed for specific applications. For instance, clear plastic sheeting allows for easy monitoring of the covered area, while black sheeting provides a more discreet cover. Consider the size and roll dimensions of the sheeting to ensure it fits your project's requirements.
Remember to assess the unique needs of your project and select a plastic sheeting that ticks all the right boxes. Whether you require durability, weather resistance, or fire safety, there is a plastic sheeting option that can handle the job.
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Prepare the building
Before covering a building with plastic, there are several preparatory steps to take to ensure the process goes smoothly and the plastic serves its purpose effectively. Here is a detailed guide on how to prepare the building:
Choose the Right Plastic Sheeting
Select a high-quality plastic sheeting that is durable and suitable for your specific needs. Consider factors such as thickness, UV resistance, waterproofing, and fire retardancy. Clear or translucent reinforced poly sheeting is a popular choice for construction sites as it is strong, flexible, and resistant to punctures, tears, mildew, and UV rays.
Measure and Plan
Determine the amount of plastic sheeting required by measuring the dimensions of the building, including the length, width, and height. Account for any additional length needed due to the structure's features, such as pipes or endwalls. It is generally recommended to have more plastic than less to ensure full coverage.
Ensure the building's surface is clean and free of debris. If necessary, protect corners, windows, and other vulnerable areas with cardboard or temporary coverings. This will help prevent damage during the installation process and while the plastic sheeting is in place.
Gather Tools and Equipment
Assemble the necessary tools and equipment, including the plastic sheeting, a staple gun or hammer tacker, spring wire or channel, a sharp cutting tool, soft-bristled brooms or poles with tennis balls attached, and repair tape for fixing any tears or rips that may occur.
Choose the Right Conditions
Select a calm and warm day for installing the plastic sheeting. Avoid windy conditions as they can make the process difficult and unsafe. Working on a warm day is ideal because plastic expands and contracts with temperature changes, so installing it when it's warm reduces the potential for loose plastic when temperatures fluctuate.
Assemble a Team
Enlist the help of several people to assist with the installation process. The specific number of helpers will depend on the size and complexity of the building, but it is generally recommended to have at least two people for pulling and lifting the plastic sheeting and additional helpers for unrolling and guiding.
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Pick the right time
Picking the right time to cover a building with plastic is crucial for a seamless installation process. Here are some key considerations for timing:
Firstly, aim for a calm day with minimal wind. Working on a windy day can be challenging as the plastic may be blown around, making it difficult to position and increasing the chances of rips and tears. Having a team of helpers can assist in managing the plastic, but the wind will still create obstacles. A calm day allows for a more controlled and efficient process.
Secondly, it is recommended to install plastic on a warm day. Plastic expands and contracts with temperature changes, so installing it in warm weather reduces the potential for loose plastic when temperatures rise. A sunny day with temperatures around 70 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal. Keep in mind that pulling your plastic tight during installation will also reduce movement during inclement weather and minimize wear and tear.
Additionally, consider the size of your structure and the amount of plastic required. Measure the length and width of the building to determine the necessary plastic coverage. Take into account any pipes, hoops, or endwalls that may impact the total plastic needed. Having an accurate measurement will ensure you have sufficient plastic on hand and avoid unnecessary delays during the installation process.
Furthermore, if you're covering a building with plastic to protect it during remodelling or construction, coordinate the timing with the overall project schedule. Covering the building at the outset of the project will provide the necessary protection from dust, debris, and potential damage. Ensure that any windows or openings that need to be exposed during the project are appropriately addressed, such as by covering window treatments in plastic instead of removing them.
By selecting the right time and taking into account weather conditions, the size of the structure, and the project's overall timeline, you can ensure a smooth and successful process when covering a building with plastic.
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Secure the plastic
When covering a building with plastic, there are several methods to secure the plastic sheeting. Here are some detailed instructions:
- Choose the right plastic sheeting: Select a durable, high-quality plastic that is suitable for outdoor use and can withstand weather conditions. Look for features such as UV resistance, waterproofing, and mildew resistance.
- Prepare the plastic: Unroll the plastic sheeting and ensure it is properly aligned with the building. If working with a team, coordinate with them to lift and unfold the plastic, working with the wind to avoid rips and tears.
- Secure the edges: Use lock channel and spring wire to secure the plastic to the building. Pull the plastic tight and wiggle the spring wire back and forth into the lock channel. This method creates a tight and secure attachment.
- Double up for reinforcement: For added security, especially at vulnerable points like the top of a wall, consider doubling up the layers of plastic. This provides a stronger hold and reduces the risk of tears or damage.
- Tape for smaller areas: When covering smaller areas, such as windows, use tape to secure the plastic. Tape the plastic to the top of the window casing, then tuck it underneath and behind. For openable windows, tape the plastic to the back of the window treatment.
- Choose the right conditions: Avoid windy days when installing plastic, as it can be challenging to manage. Opt for calm, warm days as the plastic expands and contracts with temperature changes. Installing on a warm day prevents loose plastic when the weather gets hot.
By following these steps and adapting them to your specific project, you can effectively secure plastic sheeting when covering a building.
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Avoid common pitfalls
Covering a building with plastic can be a tricky process, and there are several common pitfalls to avoid. Here are some detailed tips to help you sidestep potential issues:
Choose the right plastic: Opt for a high-quality, durable plastic that is suitable for construction use. Look for plastic sheeting that is reinforced, waterproof, and resistant to UV rays, tears, and mildew. Fire-retardant plastic is also a good option for added safety. Avoid using polyethylene as it has been replaced by synthetic housewrap due to functional reasons.
Prepare the worksite: Select a calm, warm day for installation. Plastic expands and contracts with temperature changes, so installing it when it's warm will reduce the potential for looseness when the weather heats up. Also, ensure that you have enough helpers to manage the plastic sheeting effectively.
Handle the plastic carefully: When unrolling and lifting the plastic, work with the wind to avoid it being pushed onto ribs or corners, which can cause rips. Keep the plastic taut to reduce movement during windy or inclement weather, minimising wear and tear.
Use the correct tools: Secure the plastic properly with the industry-standard lock channel and spring wire method. Pull the plastic tight and wiggle the wire back and forth into the channel for a secure attachment. Avoid using a hammer tacker, as it can damage the underlying structure. Instead, use a staple gun for a safer installation.
Consider humidity: Plastic breaks down rapidly when exposed to repeated heating and cooling cycles. If you're wrapping a house, be aware that you'll need to manage the home's humidity balance actively. Install a smart thermostat to monitor and adjust humidity levels automatically.
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Frequently asked questions
It is best to cover a building with plastic on a calm and warm day. The ideal temperature is 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This is because plastic expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations, and installing the plastic in warm weather reduces the potential for loose plastic when the weather gets hot.
Lock channel and spring wire are the industry standards for securing plastic sheeting. Spring wire, used in conjunction with the lock channel, forms a tight and secure attachment. Pull the plastic tight and wiggle the wire back and forth into the channel.
There are many types of plastic sheeting available, including clear, white, reinforced, and fire-retardant. The best type of plastic sheeting to use will depend on the specific requirements of the project. However, some key features to look for are durability, UV resistance, and waterproofing.
The amount of plastic sheeting needed will depend on the size of the building and the specific application. To determine the amount of plastic sheeting needed, measure the length and width of the building and account for any additional areas that need to be covered, such as windows or doors.
