Sofia Martinez
Greenhouse plastic is an essential component of any greenhouse structure, acting as a barrier between the inside and outside environments. When selecting the right size of plastic for your greenhouse, it is crucial to consider various factors such as material, thickness, transparency, and additional features. The plastic should be large enough to cover the entire greenhouse in one piece, as using multiple pieces can lead to weathering issues. High-quality polyethylene plastic sheeting designed for greenhouses offers UV protection and high light transmission. Thickness is another critical factor, with the typical range for greenhouse plastic being 4 to 8 mils. Thicker plastic, such as 6 mil or 8 to 12 mil, tends to be more durable and insulating but may be less transparent and more expensive. Other features like anti-drip properties and anti-dust properties can also enhance the functionality of the plastic. Proper installation methods, such as using lock channel and spring wire, ensure a tight and secure attachment of the greenhouse covering.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Polyethylene, Polycarbonate, PVC |
| Thickness | 4 to 8 mils is typical, thicker plastic is more durable and long-lasting |
| Size | Available in various sizes, should span the greenhouse in one piece |
| Transparency | Clear plastic lets the most light through, thinner plastic is more transparent |
| Additional Features | Anti-drip properties, anti-dust properties, infrared tint, UV protection, double layer |
| Installation | Lock channel and spring wire is the industry standard, PVC-coated spring wire forms a tight attachment |
| Maintenance | Store horizontally away from direct sunlight, treat wooden parts with non-oil-based fumigant, paint surfaces with white acrylic paint |
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What You'll Learn
- Thickness: 4-8 mils is typical, with thinner plastic used for short-term structures
- Size: Buy a roll that fits your greenhouse in one piece
- Material: Polyethylene and polycarbonate are common materials
- Transparency: Clear plastic lets the most light through
- Features: Anti-drip properties, UV protection, and infrared tint are some features to consider
Thickness: 4-8 mils is typical, with thinner plastic used for short-term structures
When choosing plastic sheeting for a greenhouse, thickness is an important consideration. The thickness of the plastic will determine its durability, longevity, and insulating properties. Typically, greenhouse plastic ranges in thickness from 4 to 8 mils.
For smaller structures, 4 to 6 mil plastic is a good option and can be purchased for around $100 to $600. This thickness provides a good balance between cost and durability. Thinner plastic may be more susceptible to damage from heavy rain, snow, hail, or falling debris, and may need to be replaced more frequently.
On the other hand, thicker plastic, such as 8 to 12 mil, is more durable and long-lasting but also more expensive. It is commonly used for commercial-sized greenhouses and can cost $1,500 to $5,000 to install. Thicker plastic may also be less transparent, which can affect light transmission.
If you are looking for a short-term solution or have a small greenhouse, thinner plastic in the range of 3 to 4 mil can be a suitable option. It is more affordable and easier to work with, but it may not provide the same level of protection and insulation as thicker plastic.
When deciding on the thickness of greenhouse plastic, it is essential to consider your specific needs, such as the size of your greenhouse, the climate, and the types of crops you are growing. Additionally, look for plastic with UV protection to prolong its life and maintain light transmission.
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Size: Buy a roll that fits your greenhouse in one piece
When it comes to choosing the right size of plastic for your greenhouse, it's important to consider both the dimensions of your structure and the availability of the plastic sheeting.
Firstly, it is recommended to cover your greenhouse with a single piece of plastic. Using multiple pieces can compromise the integrity of the structure and make it less weather-resistant. Therefore, you should buy a roll of plastic that is long enough to cover the entire greenhouse in one piece. Measure the length and width of your greenhouse surfaces and add a few extra feet to be safe.
The size of your greenhouse will determine the ideal roll width and length. For example, if you have a small greenhouse, you don't want to purchase a roll that is excessively long, such as 150 feet. On the other hand, if you have a large greenhouse, you'll want to ensure the roll is wide and long enough to cover the structure adequately.
High-quality polyethylene plastic sheeting designed for greenhouses is available in various sizes. For instance, Bootstrap Farmer offers rolls with widths ranging from 10 to 60 feet and lengths from 24 to 80 feet. Larger sizes are also available, with widths of 16 to 54 feet and lengths of 30 to 150 feet.
When purchasing plastic for your greenhouse, it's essential to consider factors beyond just size. Thickness, material, transparency, and additional features, such as UV protection and anti-drip properties, should also be taken into account to ensure you select the best product for your specific needs.
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Material: Polyethylene and polycarbonate are common materials
Polyethylene and polycarbonate are the two most sought-after materials for greenhouses. Polyethylene is a versatile and cost-effective plastic polymer with impressive properties that have made it important in the plastic greenhouse industry. It is also known for its high light transmission and waterproof properties. Polyethylene film in the 4-8 mil thickness range allows great light transmission for plant growth. Commercial greenhouse contractors and distributors typically recommend at least 6 mil, UV-treated polyethylene plastic. SolaWrap, a transparent polyethylene film with integrated bubbles, is another example of polyethylene film. It offers energy savings, UV protection, and prolonged growing seasons.
Polycarbonate, on the other hand, is a type of thermoplastic polymer known for its strength and durability. It is highly impact-resistant, making it ideal for withstanding extreme weather conditions. Polycarbonate is also resistant to UV radiation, which is beneficial for the plants and the polymer itself as it contributes to its extended lifespan. Polycarbonate is typically available in thicknesses ranging from 10 to 25 millimeters. It is best suited for permanent commercial greenhouses due to its higher cost.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is another common material for greenhouse plastic. It is known for its durability and excellent light transmission properties. However, PVC has a negative environmental impact, as it can leach harmful chemicals if improperly disposed of and requires more energy to manufacture.
Other materials used for greenhouse plastic include ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), which combines light transmission capacity with resilience, and poly plastic, which can be secured with lock channel and spring wire.
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Transparency: Clear plastic lets the most light through
Greenhouse plastic is an essential component of any greenhouse, providing an ideal environment for growing plants. It acts as a barrier between the inside and outside environments, protecting plants from harsh weather, maintaining optimal temperature and humidity levels, and preventing insects and pests from entering.
When selecting the best greenhouse plastic, various factors need to be considered, including transparency, which influences the amount of light transmitted. Clear plastic is the most transparent option and lets the most light through, making it a popular choice for gardeners. It is ideal for locations that receive ample sunlight and for plants that require high light levels, such as tomatoes and peppers. Clear plastic is also suitable for areas with heavy snowfall or high winds, as it can be thicker and provide greater strength and durability.
However, it is important to note that thicker plastic can slightly reduce light transmission, although the effect is minimal. For example, going from 4 to 8 mils of thickness only reduces light transmission by 1-2%. Thinner plastic, such as 3 to 4 mils, may be preferred in warm climates to avoid overheating plants. It is also suitable for short-term structures or season extension on tunnels or cold frames.
Clear plastic is available in different thicknesses, with 6 mil being a common option that offers a good balance between strength and light transmission. Thicker options, such as 10 to 12 mil, provide greater durability and insulation but may be more expensive and require consideration of the greenhouse structure's weight-bearing capacity.
Overall, clear plastic is a versatile and effective choice for greenhouses, providing optimal light transmission and durability, especially when paired with proper installation and maintenance practices.
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Features: Anti-drip properties, UV protection, and infrared tint are some features to consider
When selecting the right plastic for your greenhouse, it is important to consider the features that will benefit your plants. Here are some key features to look for:
Anti-drip properties
Anti-drip or anti-condensate properties are essential in greenhouse plastic to prevent water droplets from forming on the inside of the covering. This feature helps reduce the risk of water dripping onto your plants, potentially damaging them or encouraging the growth of harmful bacteria. Anti-drip plastic also helps maintain a clear view through the greenhouse covering, as there will be no condensation obscuring your vision.
UV protection
UV-resistant plastic is ideal for greenhouses located in areas with high UV exposure. UV protection helps regulate the amount of sunlight reaching your plants, ensuring they receive the optimal light intensity. This feature can also help extend the lifespan of the plastic by preventing UV degradation, keeping your greenhouse functional for longer.
Infrared tint
Infrared tint is a feature that can enhance the insulation properties of greenhouse plastic. It helps retain heat during colder months, providing a more stable environment for your plants. This feature is particularly beneficial in regions with colder climates, as it can help reduce heating costs and maintain a comfortable environment for temperature-sensitive plants.
When choosing the right plastic for your greenhouse, consider the features that align with your specific needs and location. By selecting plastic with anti-drip, UV protection, and infrared tint properties, you can create an optimal environment for your plants to thrive.
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Frequently asked questions
The size of the plastic you need for your greenhouse depends on the size of your structure. Measure the length and width of your greenhouse surfaces and add a few extra feet to be safe. You want to be able to cover your greenhouse with one piece of plastic as using multiple pieces will not weather well.
The typical thickness range for greenhouse plastic is 4 to 8 mils. Thinner plastic (3-4 mil) works for short-term structures, whereas thicker plastic (8-12 mil) is better for larger, commercial greenhouses. Thicker plastic is more durable, long-lasting, and insulating but is also less transparent and more expensive.
Features such as anti-drip properties, anti-dust properties, and infrared tint can be beneficial depending on your climate and how long you plan to use the plastic for. Anti-drip properties cause water droplets to run down the sides of the plastic instead of onto the plants, reducing the risk of plant disease or leaf burning. Anti-dust properties are helpful if you plan to use the plastic for multiple years as dust collecting on the plastic can reduce light transmission. An infrared tint can be added to reduce heat loss in cold climates.
Polyethylene and polycarbonate are two common materials used for greenhouse plastic. Polycarbonate can last up to 10 years, whereas polyethylene may need to be replaced yearly depending on its thickness. Polyethylene is more flexible and comes in rolls of varying widths and lengths, making it highly customizable. Polycarbonate is a rigid, multi-wall plastic that provides better insulation.
You can buy plastic for your greenhouse from companies such as Bootstrap Farmer and Backyard Oasis.
