Omar Khalid
There are several ways to fasten plastic to a greenhouse, and the best method for you will depend on the type of greenhouse you have and the conditions it will need to withstand. For example, if your greenhouse is in a windy area, you may need to take extra measures to ensure the plastic is secure. Common methods for fastening plastic to a greenhouse include using wiggle wire and lock channel, rope, batten tape, staples, PVC clamps, and trench and weight systems.
Characteristics and Values Table for Fastening Plastic to a Greenhouse
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Day and Time | Choose a day with low wind speed and unroll the plastic in the early morning |
| Tools | Ladders, scissor lift, bolt cutters/hacksaw, push brooms, tennis balls, rope |
| People | At least two people to grab and pull the corners of the plastic |
| Plastic Sheet | Should be equal to or greater than the height and length of the greenhouse walls |
| Fastening Methods | Spring Wire Poly Lock Channel, PVC clamps, rope, batten tape, staples, trench and weights |
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What You'll Learn
Using PVC clamps
If you are purchasing PVC clamps, you can find them online for a few dollars. These clamps have rounded edges that lower the possibility of puncturing the plastic. They also have reinforced edges that provide additional strength and comfort, making them easier to remove without damaging the film.
If you are making your own PVC clamps, you can cut a PVC pipe into short lengths and cut out a lengthwise section. When choosing to DIY your clamps, you may need to attempt making cutouts in several different sizes to determine which size cutout fits best. Make sure that it takes some effort to snap the clamps onto the hoops.
Snap clamps are a type of PVC clamp that is great for creating roll-up sides on hoop houses, high tunnels, and greenhouses. They are very simple to use and inexpensive. However, they are only applicable for structures with a set outer diameter and are not suitable for high wind pressure.
Another option is to use a snap-in PVC pipe clamp, which involves two parts that can be screwed to a wood frame and snapped in place.
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Spring wire and lock channel
The lock channel is typically made of aluminium or galvanised steel and is secured to the metal framing of the greenhouse using self-tapping Tek Screws. The spring wire is then used in conjunction with the lock channel to hold the plastic in place. The spring wire is wiggled back and forth over the plastic and into the channel, creating a tight and secure attachment. This method can be used to attach various materials, including greenhouse plastic, insect screens, and shade cloth, directly to the greenhouse frame.
To install the spring wire and lock channel system, first attach the lock channel to the metal framing at the desired points. Pull the plastic tight over the greenhouse structure. Then, wiggle the spring wire back and forth into the channel, securing the plastic in place. Each section of spring wire is typically 6.5 feet long, so you may need to cut the wire to fit certain areas of the greenhouse.
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Staples and batten tape
Using staples and batten tape is a quick and easy way to fasten plastic to a greenhouse. This method is suitable for wood-framed greenhouses that are covered with plastic film.
First, unroll the plastic film lengthwise along the structure, ensuring there is at least 2 feet of extra plastic all around the structure on the ground. It is best to choose a day with low wind speeds and unroll the plastic in the early morning to avoid the wind working against you.
Next, pull the batten tape taught and staple it to the wood frame. Use staples that are at least 5/16 inches long, spaced about every 4 inches. If you are in a windy location or applying the plastic in cold weather, use a double line of tape for extra security.
When it's time to remove the plastic, simply grab an end of the tape and pull. This will also remove the staples, leaving you with a clean frame.
Batten tape is a white vinyl strip that is typically 3/4 inches wide and 1/32 inches thick. It is designed to resist cold cracking and can be purchased in rolls of 500 feet long.
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Rope and grommets
Using rope and grommets is an effective and low-cost method for fastening plastic to a greenhouse. This method is ideal for large greenhouses and smaller structures such as caterpillar tunnels.
To begin, unroll the plastic film lengthwise along the structure, ensuring there is at least 2 feet of extra plastic around the structure on the ground. This process is best done on a calm, warm day, as the plastic expands and contracts with temperature changes. Having extra hands to help with this process is also beneficial.
Grommets are fasteners that can be used to create holes in the plastic, allowing you to thread the rope through and tie it tightly to the frame. When using metal grommets, it is important to attach them correctly to prevent tearing. Apply strong adhesive tape, such as Gorilla Tape or Contractor's Duct Tape, on both sides of the plastic before driving the grommets through. For best results, use an Eyelet Hole Punch Set.
Once the grommets are in place, weave the rope back and forth from one side of the structure to the hardware affixed to the other side. This creates downward pressure, helping to secure the plastic to the frame.
In addition to rope, other hardware such as spring wire and lock channels can be used in conjunction to create a tight and secure attachment.
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Trench and weights
To use the trench and weights method, start by digging a small trench around the perimeter of your greenhouse. Bury a portion of the plastic sheeting in the trench on one side, pulling it tight to remove any slack. Place weights on top of the buried plastic to hold it in place. Repeat this process on the other side of the trench, pulling the plastic tight and burying it with weights on top.
You can use a variety of objects as weights, such as large rocks, logs, or concrete slabs. However, it's important to note that these weights may not withstand strong winds, especially if your greenhouse is located in an exposed area. One way to mitigate this issue is to double-layer the plastic at the ends, drive stakes through it, and then place weights on top. Alternatively, you can use ground anchors, pegs, or stakes to secure the plastic in addition to the weights.
Another benefit of using the trench method is that it can be designed to capture water. You can do this by having the end of the trench dump into a barrel or another type of reservoir. This not only helps to stabilize your greenhouse but also provides a water source for your plants.
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Frequently asked questions
The best way to fasten plastic to a greenhouse is by using lock channel and spring wire. This is the industry standard for properly securing greenhouse plastic. The spring wire is used in conjunction with the lock channel to form a tight and secure attachment.
You will need a heavy-duty staple gun, plastic sheeting, and staples. You may also need a roll of greenhouse repair tape, ladders, bolt cutters or a hacksaw, push brooms, and tennis balls.
Measure the height and length of each wall of the greenhouse. Cut a piece of plastic sheeting to fit each wall. Hold the top left corner of the first plastic sheet to the top corner of the first wall, and staple it into place. Use 3/8-inch staples to fasten the plastic to the length of the horizontal wood framing every 6 inches, stretching it taut along the way.
One of the cheapest ways to fasten plastic to a greenhouse is by using batten tape. This method is designed to attach the poly film to a wood frame using staples, making it a permanent attachment.
You can use PVC clamps to fasten plastic to a greenhouse frame without poking holes. These clamps are designed to secure poly film over a pipe and have reinforced edges that provide additional strength.
