Maya Ellison
Greenhouse plastic sheeting is an essential component of any greenhouse, but is painter's plastic a suitable alternative? While some people have used painter's plastic for their greenhouses, it is not a long-term solution. Painter's plastic tends to deteriorate quickly, shattering into tiny shards, and is not UV-resistant, making it prone to cracking and falling apart. For a more durable option, woven polyester is recommended, as it is tear-resistant and UV-stable, lasting up to 5 years. Alternatively, horticultural-grade plastic from a greenhouse supply store is a good choice, and some construction-grade plastics have proven effective in the short term. The choice of plastic depends on the environment and the amount of light required for the plants. Opaque plastic, for example, can block up to 90% of light, which may be detrimental or advantageous depending on the natural light available.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Painters plastic | Gets gross and shatters into plastic shards |
| Woven polyester | Does not tear when punctured, UV-stable, lasts for 5 years |
| Horticultural grade plastic | UV-resistant, prevents cracking and falling apart |
| Opaque plastic | Blocks 10%-30% of light, cheaper |
| Shade paint | Reduces heat, increases polycarbonate longevity, cheaper than shade cloth, easy to apply and remove |
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What You'll Learn
The durability of painter's plastic
Painter's plastic is a type of plastic sheeting commonly used to protect surfaces during painting projects. It is typically made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and is designed to be durable enough to withstand paint drips, spills, and splatters. The thickness of painter's plastic is usually measured in mils, and it is available in various thickness options, such as 0.31 mil. Thicker plastic sheeting will generally be more durable and resistant to tears and punctures than thinner options.
One of the critical factors affecting the durability of painter's plastic is the environment it is used in. Painter's plastic is intended for temporary protection and should not be left exposed to the elements for extended periods. Prolonged exposure to sunlight, extreme temperatures, wind, and precipitation can cause the plastic to degrade, becoming brittle and prone to shattering or tearing. Therefore, it is essential to plan its use carefully and dispose of it properly after use.
Additionally, painter's plastic can be painted to enhance its durability and aesthetics. Painting plastic surfaces can be challenging due to their smooth finish, but proper preparation and the use of suitable paints can lead to better results. Before painting, the plastic surface should be cleaned, sanded to create a rougher texture, and wiped free of sanding dust to ensure proper paint adhesion. Multi-surface paints, such as Zinsser Allcoat, are specifically designed to adhere to a range of materials, including plastic, wood, metal, and masonry, offering a versatile option for customising and protecting painter's plastic.
To further increase the durability of painted plastic, it is essential to follow proper painting techniques. Light coats of paint should be applied in multiple layers, allowing for the recommended drying time between coats. This helps prevent drips and ensures a more even finish. Additionally, the use of a primer can improve paint adhesion and extend the lifespan of the paint job.
In summary, the durability of painter's plastic is influenced by its quality, thickness, and exposure conditions. While it is intended for temporary protection, proper handling, preparation, and painting can enhance its durability and longevity, making it a versatile and economical option for various applications.
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Installation of painter's plastic
Painters plastic is not ideal for greenhouses as it gets gross and shatters into plastic shards. However, if you still want to install painters plastic in your greenhouse, here is a detailed guide on how to do it.
Installation of Painters Plastic in Greenhouses:
Preparation:
- Choose a day with low wind speeds.
- Gather the necessary tools: ladders, bolt cutters or a hacksaw, push brooms, and tennis balls.
- Measure the length and width of the growing structure to determine the size of the plastic film needed. Account for the length of the pipes and endwalls, and add an extra 4 feet for roll-up sides.
Installation Process:
- Unroll the 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, working with the wind to avoid the plastic getting pushed onto the ribs.
- Use soft-bristled brooms or poles with tennis ball ends to guide the plastic over the structure and protect it from damage.
- Pull the plastic tight and secure it using lock channel and spring wire, "wiggling" the wire back and forth into the channel for a tight and secure attachment.
- Cut the wire to fit as needed, as each section is 6.5 feet long.
It is important to work efficiently when attaching the plastic, as the wind may blow it around and create challenges during the installation process. Having extra hands to help secure the corners and unroll the plastic will make the process smoother.
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Light filtration
The amount of light filtration in a greenhouse is an important factor to consider, as it will determine how much light your plants receive. While some plants may require more light than others, it is essential to ensure that they receive the appropriate amount of light for their growth.
Some plastics used for greenhouses can be translucent but not transparent, reducing the amount of light that enters. This can be beneficial if your plants require less light or if you want to create a more controlled environment. Opaque plastic sheeting, for example, can let through 70-90% of light, even though you may not be able to see through it. This makes it a good option for environments with abundant or excessive light, but it may not be suitable for low-light conditions.
The type of plastic you choose for your greenhouse can also impact light filtration. Horticultural-grade polycarbonate panels can be glazed to diffuse light better and allow more light through compared to standard glazed panels. Construction-grade plastic, such as HDX 6mil plastic, can also be used, but it may not provide the same level of light filtration as more expensive options. Additionally, consider the UV resistance of the plastic, as non-UV resistant plastic can become prone to cracking and falling apart.
If you want more control over light filtration without replacing the plastic, you can consider using shade paint. Shade paint can reduce the amount of heat that enters the greenhouse while still allowing the necessary photo-active radiation to reach your plants. It is easy to apply and remove, and it can increase the longevity of your polycarbonate glazing. However, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations for the best results.
Overall, the amount of light filtration you need will depend on the specific requirements of your plants and the amount of sunlight your greenhouse receives. By considering the type of plastic, its opacity, and the use of shade paint, you can create the optimal lighting conditions for your plants to thrive.
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Heat reduction
Greenhouse plastic sheeting is typically translucent, reducing the amount of light that enters the greenhouse. This reduction in light also results in a decrease in heat. For example, one source notes that using plastic that reduces light by 60% also reduces heat and has minimal effects on plants.
The type of plastic used for greenhouses is important. Horticultural-grade plastic from a greenhouse supply store is recommended. If it isn't UV resistant, it will be prone to cracking and falling apart. The plastic used in the paint department of hardware stores is not UV resistant.
Woven polyester is a good option for more permanent greenhouses. It does not tear when punctured, is UV-stable, and typically lasts for around 5 years.
Shade paint is another effective method for reducing heat in greenhouses. It can be applied when the temperature starts to increase above comfortable levels for plants. It is easy to apply and remove, and it is recommended to dilute the paint to achieve specific heat reduction levels. Shade paint is also advantageous because it can increase the longevity of polycarbonate and is significantly cheaper than other shading systems.
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Cost-effectiveness
The cost-effectiveness of using painter's plastic for greenhouses depend on several factors, including the desired longevity, the local climate, and the type of plants being grown.
For those seeking a long-lasting greenhouse, woven polyester is a cost-effective option. It is more expensive than some other materials, but it can last for up to five years. In contrast, painter's plastic or construction-grade plastic is cheaper but typically only lasts one season before needing to be replaced. This makes it a less cost-effective option in the long run, especially considering the additional labour required for frequent replacements.
The local climate plays a role in the cost-effectiveness of painter's plastic. In regions with intense sunlight, UV-resistant materials are essential to prevent cracking and disintegration. Painter's plastic is typically not UV-resistant, making it prone to degradation and requiring more frequent replacements. This adds to the overall cost and reduces cost-effectiveness.
The type of plants being grown also influences the choice of greenhouse material. Opaque plastic, for example, can significantly reduce light transmission, which may be detrimental for plants with high light requirements. However, in environments with excessive sunlight, opaque plastic can provide a beneficial light reduction. The climate and plant needs must be carefully considered to determine the most cost-effective option.
Additionally, it is worth noting that some cheaper plastics may not provide an optimal light spectrum for plant growth. Horticultural-grade polycarbonate can be more expensive but allows better light transmission and diffusion, potentially enhancing plant growth. While painter's plastic may be more cost-effective initially, the potential impact on plant growth due to light quality and quantity should be factored into the overall cost-benefit analysis.
Overall, the cost-effectiveness of painter's plastic for greenhouses depends on the specific context. While it may be a cheaper upfront option, its shorter lifespan, lack of UV resistance, and potential impact on light transmission can increase costs and labour over time. For long-term cost-effectiveness, investing in higher-quality materials like woven polyester or horticultural-grade polycarbonate may be more financially prudent choices.
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Frequently asked questions
Painter's plastic is not the best option for greenhouses as it tends to shatter into tiny plastic pieces. It is also not UV-resistant, so it will become prone to cracking and falling apart.
Alternatives to painter's plastic for greenhouses include horticultural grade plastic, woven polyester, and construction-grade plastic.
Horticultural grade plastic is UV-resistant, which prevents it from cracking and falling apart. It also allows more light through compared to other options.
Shade paint is a great way to reduce heat in your greenhouse. It can be applied once the temperature starts to increase above comfortable levels for your plants. It is also cheaper than other shading options and increases the longevity of polycarbonate.
