Alexei Volkov
Installing plastic film on a greenhouse can be a daunting task, but it is a rewarding part of building a greenhouse as it gives the structure its final shape. The best type of plastic for your greenhouse is UV-stabilized plastic sheeting made of 6 mil or thicker polyethylene plastic. This type of plastic is affordable, durable, and easy to install. When installing plastic film on a greenhouse, it is important to choose a calm day with minimal wind to avoid damage to the film. It is also ideal to install on a warm day, as the plastic expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations. The general process involves pulling the plastic over the structure, securing it with channel and spring wire, and repeating the process on the opposite side. The more people available to help, the better, as it can be challenging to install the plastic alone.
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right day
When it comes to choosing the right day to install greenhouse plastic film, there are several key factors to consider. Firstly, it is highly recommended to pick a day with low wind speeds. High winds can not only make the installation process more challenging, but they also increase the risk of damage to the film and can affect the tightness of the final product. A calm day will make it easier to handle the film and ensure a neater finish.
In addition to wind conditions, selecting a day with mild temperatures is advisable. Extreme temperatures can impact the flexibility of the plastic film, making it more difficult to work with. Opting for a warm day, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, is ideal as it helps to ensure the plastic won't loosen when the weather gets hotter, as the material expands and contracts with temperature changes.
The number of people available to assist with the installation is another important consideration when choosing the right day. Greenhouse plastic film installation is a task that requires multiple pairs of hands. A minimum of two people is generally recommended, but four or more helpers can make the process much smoother and faster. Ensure that you plan ahead and have enough assistance lined up for your chosen installation day.
Additionally, it is worth noting that the availability of certain tools and equipment can influence the chosen day. For example, if you are installing a tall hoop house, you may need to rent a scissor lift, which requires prior planning. Other useful tools to have on hand include ladders, bolt cutters or a hacksaw, push brooms, and tennis balls or rope to protect the plastic and guide it over the structure.
Finally, it is crucial to consider the condition of the greenhouse frame before choosing the installation day. The frame should be smooth, free from sharp edges and rough spots that could tear the plastic film. Sanding or using tape to cover any abrasive spots are recommended preparatory steps to ensure the frame is ready for the installation.
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Smoothing the frame
Begin by securing the plastic film across the baseboards, including the horizontal door and door frame pieces at the bottom. It is recommended to have at least 2 extra feet of plastic film all around the structure when fully rolled out. This ensures that you have enough material to work with and create a tight fit.
The next step is to secure the plastic to the top of the structure. Work from the centre of the plastic film outwards, smoothing it diagonally towards each end. Repeat this process on the opposite side, pulling the plastic tight as you work. This two-person process helps keep the plastic compact and prevents it from blowing away in the wind.
After securing the ends, move on to the sides. Starting at one long side, pull the plastic down tightly and secure it into the lock channel with spring wire at the hip board. Spring Wire Poly Lock Channel is the most popular hardware for this purpose and is often referred to as "U Channel," "C Channel," or "Zig Zag Wire." Work the plastic into the channel by wiggling it up and down.
Repeat the process for the opposite long side, pulling the plastic as tight as possible. This ensures that the plastic film is smooth and securely attached to the frame. Once completed, you can adjust the tension by removing a section of spring wire and pulling from the bottom.
By following these steps, you can effectively smooth the frame when installing greenhouse plastic film, creating a taut and secure covering for your greenhouse.
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Preparing the plastic
Before installing the plastic, it is crucial to choose a calm day with minimal wind to avoid damage to the film and to ensure proper tightness. Warm temperatures are also ideal, as the plastic expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations. Having at least two people to help with the installation is recommended, as more hands make the process easier and safer.
To prepare the plastic for installation, start by smoothing the greenhouse's frame to remove any rough spots or abrasions. This can be done by sanding or using tape to cover abrasive spots. A smooth frame will prevent excessive wear and tear on the plastic. Next, set out the plastic on the side of the greenhouse, separating the roof and end walls to achieve better tautness and squareness. As the plastic film comes on rolls, you may need to cut the end dimensions and set them aside.
To keep the plastic compact and manageable, roll or fold it towards the centre and secure it with a rope that is knotted several times. Repeat this process on the opposite side. Once the plastic is ready, you can begin pulling it over the greenhouse structure, ensuring it is taut and smooth.
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Attaching the plastic
Preparation:
Choose a calm, warm, and sunny day for installation to prevent wind from blowing the plastic away and to ensure optimal plastic expansion. Have at least two people assisting you, with more being preferable. Before beginning, ensure that you have enough plastic film to cover the greenhouse completely, with at least 2 extra feet of plastic all around the structure on the ground.
Smoothing the Frame:
Sand down any rough spots on the greenhouse's frame or cover them with tape. This step is crucial to prevent excessive wear and tear on the plastic during and after installation.
Positioning the Plastic:
Set out the plastic on one side of the greenhouse, separating the roof and end walls to achieve the desired tautness and squareness. Cut the plastic to the required dimensions, being careful when handling the film. Use ropes to pull the plastic sheeting across the greenhouse frame, ensuring everyone pulls in unison. If the plastic bunches up, use a ladder, broom handle, or baseball bat to push it up and prevent drag that could damage the film.
Securing the Plastic:
Once the plastic is pulled over the greenhouse, secure it with spring wire and lock channel, which is the industry standard for proper attachment. Start at the center of the greenhouse and work towards each end, installing the spring wire into the channel to secure the plastic in place. Ensure the plastic covers the ends of the greenhouse by at least 2 feet. Repeat this process on the opposite side, pulling the plastic as tight as possible before securing it with spring wire.
Final Adjustments:
After installation, you may need to retighten the plastic by removing a section of spring wire and pulling from the bottom. Cut off any excess plastic, leaving 2-3 inches for future adjustments.
By carefully following these steps, you can successfully attach the plastic film to your greenhouse, providing the ideal environment for your plants to thrive.
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Finishing touches
Once the plastic is pulled over the greenhouse, secure it in place to prevent it from blowing away. You can use spring wire, also called wiggle wire, to secure the plastic into the lock channel. The spring wire is installed into the channel on top of the plastic, forming a tight and secure attachment.
If you have double poly, only use one layer of wiggle wire. Install the wiggle wire in pairs, with one person pulling the slack out of the plastic in front of the other person, who installs the wiggle wire into the channel. Starting at the peak, work your way down each side, leaving about 12 inches of plastic overhanging. Repeat this process on the opposite side, pulling the slack to that side and installing the wiggle wire from the peak down.
After securing the plastic with wiggle wire, you can trim off any excess plastic, leaving 2-3 inches for future adjustments. If your greenhouse has a roll-up side, you can install a roll-up bar to assist in alignment. Cut the roll-up bar to the same length as the outside-to-outside length of the greenhouse and fasten it with self-tapping screws.
Finally, install any doors, fans, and shutters, and your greenhouse is complete!
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Frequently asked questions
It is best to install greenhouse plastic film on a calm and warm day, ideally around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid windy days as this can cause damage to the film and make it difficult to get the right tightness.
A minimum of two people is required, but four or more is ideal. The more hands, the better.
UV-stabilized plastic sheeting made of 6 mil or thicker polyethylene plastic is recommended. This type of plastic is affordable, durable, and easy to install.
When fully rolled out, the plastic film should have at least 2 extra feet all around the structure on the ground. Make sure you have enough to cover the sides completely.
Lock channel and spring wire are the industry standard for securing greenhouse plastic film. Spring wire is "wiggled" into the lock channel, forming a tight and secure attachment.
