Chloe Zhang
There are several ways to secure a plastic greenhouse, and the best method for you will depend on the type of greenhouse you have and the materials you want to use. For example, you can use spring wire and lock channel, staples and batten board, glue, or clips. You can also reinforce the structure by strapping it to the ground or adding weight to the base.
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What You'll Learn
Use spring wire and lock channel to secure plastic
Lock channel and spring wire are the industry standard for securing plastic to a greenhouse. This method is simple, economical, and effective.
Spring wire is used in conjunction with the lock channel to create a tight and secure attachment. The lock channel is installed on baseboards, hip boards, and the end wall hoops on the top/outside edge of the hoop. The channel can be attached to wood using wood screws, or with self-tapping screws for metal.
Once the channel is in place, pull the plastic tight over the greenhouse. Then, wiggle the spring wire back and forth into the channel to secure the plastic. Each section of wire is 6.5 feet long, so you will need to cut the wire to size using bolt cutters or a metal saw.
The spring wire and lock channel method is preferable to staples and batten board as it allows the grower to remove and reinstall the plastic without causing damage. It is also a more continuous form of attachment than screws or staples, which are attached at various points.
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Avoid wind damage by fixing the greenhouse to the ground
The cornerstone of protecting any plastic greenhouse from wind damage is to ensure that it stays firmly fixed to the ground. Here are some ways to do this:
One simple method is to use ground anchors. Dig the anchors into solid ground, and strap the greenhouse, cover and all, to the ground. You could also try mounting the frame onto wood and attaching the frame with pipe clips. Some people even bury the wood in a trench. Once the frame is reinforced and secured to the ground, there is little that can go wrong.
Another option is to use bags of compost, paving slabs, breeze blocks or bricks. If you have these materials lying around, store them on the base of your plastic greenhouse. This will weigh down the greenhouse and help to prevent wind damage. However, be aware that slugs may enjoy hiding underneath these objects.
A third option is to use small cable ties or zip ties to attach the racks to the frame. This will add rigidity to the overall structure and stop the bottom half from collapsing.
Finally, you could try adding plumber's glue to the inside of the plastic connectors during the build. This will secure the metal to the plastic and ensure a watertight seal around the edge of the poles, preventing any possible rusting.
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Use staples and batten tape to secure plastic without damaging it
Using staples and batten tape is a good method to secure plastic without damaging it. This method is recommended for wood-framed greenhouses. The batten tape is designed to be stapled or tacked to wood and plastic. It is formulated to resist cracking from the cold and can withstand wind, rain, and fluctuating temperatures. It is flexible and easy to install.
To use this method, first, pull the plastic tight. Then, run the batten tape over the plastic, between the hoops, to put tension on the plastic. Next, staple the tape in place. This will hold the greenhouse plastic in place very securely.
It is important to note that while this method is effective, some people prefer using spring wire and lock channel as it gives the grower the ability to remove and reinstall the plastic without causing any damage.
Additionally, when securing plastic to a greenhouse, it is recommended to choose a day with low wind speeds and to have extra hands available to help with the process.
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Use plumber's glue to secure the metal to the plastic
Plastic greenhouses are often secured using spring wire and lock channels, which are installed by wiggling the wire back and forth into the channel. However, if you are looking to use plumber's glue to secure the metal framing of your greenhouse to the plastic covering, there are a few steps you should follow.
First, it is important to choose the right glue. While plumber's glue is a common waterproof adhesive, it is not suitable for all plastics. Polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) plastics, for example, require a special adhesive such as Loctite Superglue All Plastics. For most other plastics, a standard super glue should work, but always check the manufacturer's instructions to ensure compatibility with both plastic and metal.
Next, prepare your surfaces. Clean both the metal and plastic surfaces thoroughly to remove any dust, oil, or dirt that could weaken the bond. If the surfaces are very slick, you may want to sand them with high-grit paper to create a rougher texture, which will help form a stronger bond.
Now you are ready to apply the adhesive. Follow the product instructions and be careful not to over-apply the glue. Firmly join the metal and plastic together, and consider using clamps to ensure the surfaces bond well. Remember to clean up any excess glue with a dry cloth before it sets, and always allow enough time for the adhesive to cure fully.
Using plumber's glue to secure the metal framing of your plastic greenhouse can provide a strong and lasting bond, as long as you choose the right adhesive, prepare your surfaces correctly, and give the glue enough time to cure.
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Add extra weight to the base of the greenhouse
Adding extra weight to the base of your plastic greenhouse is a great way to storm-proof it and make it stand strong for years. Here are some tips to help weigh down your greenhouse:
Use weights or anchors on the ground near the base of the greenhouse: Place heavy items such as bags of compost, paving slabs, breeze blocks, or bricks on the base of your greenhouse to add extra weight. This will help prevent the greenhouse from being lifted or blown away by high winds.
Utilize straps and ropes: Consider using straps to go over the entire structure, including the cover, and tie it down securely to the base of the frame or to nearby weights or anchors. Alternatively, use ropes or bungee cords attached to the ground with garden pegs or tent pegs. This will provide external tension, holding the frame together and preventing twisting or poles popping out of the frame.
Add weight to the centre poles: Place weights on top of the poles in the centre of the greenhouse to distribute the weight evenly. This will make it harder for strong winds to lift the greenhouse. Popular items used for this purpose include bags of compost, paving slabs, breeze blocks, or bricks.
Be mindful of potential drawbacks: While adding weight to the base of the greenhouse is effective, be aware of potential drawbacks such as providing hiding spots for slugs and other pests. Regular maintenance and inspection of your greenhouse are crucial to address these issues.
By following these tips and choosing appropriate weights, you can effectively secure your plastic greenhouse and protect it from strong winds and other adverse weather conditions.
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Frequently asked questions
Spring wire, used in conjunction with a lock channel, forms a tight and secure attachment of your greenhouse covering. Pull the plastic tight and wiggle the wire back and forth into the channel. This method is preferred over staples and batten board as it does not damage the plastic.
There are several ways to storm-proof your plastic greenhouse. You can use plumber's glue on the inside of the plastic connectors to secure the metal to the plastic. You can also reinforce the frame by strapping it to the ground with ground anchors or mounting it on wood and attaching it with pipe clips.
Choose a day with low wind speeds to unroll the plastic. Plan ahead and have extra hands available to help unroll and secure the corners. It is also a good idea to have a roll of greenhouse repair tape on hand to fix any small tears that occur.
