Choosing the best greenhouse covering material is critical because it will influence your heating costs and how much light your plants will get. There are various greenhouse coverings that provide different amounts of light transmission and light distribution. You have to be vigilant when choosing the right greenhouse covering because extreme light can burn your plants, while too little light can cause leggy plants and less crop yield.
Building your own greenhouse from scratch instead of buying a complete kit gives you the option to choose the best covering material for your needs. However, it can be daunting with the vast options. From polyethylene film to glass, we are covering all the different greenhouse glazing materials in this article.
Every greenhouse covering material has its unique benefits and drawbacks. It is vital to examine each one and apply it to your particular needs before concluding. Here’s a breakdown of things you might want to check before getting your greenhouse coverings.
The benefits of using greenhouse plastic
Greenhouse plastic rolls and sheets are one of the best greenhouse covering materials that are way different from regular plastic. They are hardy and do not easily tear even when cut. This is because frays do not happen to the ends when they are cut up.
They are also designed to stand up against all weather conditions. The woven greenhouse film design to the greenhouse plastic before they are formed into sheets or rolls is the singular feature that differentiates them from ordinary plastic.
They are an inexpensive option than purchasing a large frame of glass. They are also easy to set up, and can perfectly match different greenhouse shapes and sizes. These plastics are also capable of framing windows, doors, and vents.
Finally, the durability of greenhouse plastics means that much less plastic will end up as trash, reducing the amount of pollution in the area.
Different kinds of greenhouse plastic
These four different types of greenhouse plastics are all capable of lasting for two to three years before they need to be changed. However, extreme weather conditions such as severe frosting, tornadoes, hail, and hurricanes are factors that hasten the lifespan of the plastic.
Polycarbonate plastic
Polycarbonate plastic is considered as one of the best greenhouse covering materials. This plastic is a twin or double-wall made of Polyethylene plastic. If maintained properly, this type of covering can last for ten years or more. Year-round gardening is easy because of the heat and humidity-retaining feature.
Polyethylene plastic
There are two kinds of plastic strengths in Polyethylene. Large industrial projects usually use commercial grade Polyethylene. The utility-grade is the recommended strength to use for small or medium-sized personal greenhouse projects.
The most common one usually sold by online gardening sites is the utility grade. If maintained well, Polyethylene can last from one to two years. A poly repair kit is a handy thing to have around the greenhouse as a way of mending small tears.
Polyvinyl plastic
Polyvinyl is a pricier plastic compared to Polyethylene. The hardiness of the plastic is the justifying reason behind the higher price. It is because Polyvinyl can last for five years or more if kept in optimum condition. This means regular checks and cleaning to maintain its durability.
Copolymer plastic
The Copolymer is a notch higher than Polyethylene plastic regarding longevity and strength. If cleaned and checked regularly, it can last for three years or more. However, the plastic has been seen to become brittle, frail, and subject to breakage after the three years is up. There is an expensive type of Copolymer variety that is as clear as glass and far stronger than the lower-priced kind.
Want a full comparison of all greenhouse covering materials? Watch this video below!
Best options for greenhouse covering materials
It is exceptionally rare that there is a single product, in any market, that will fit everyone.
The same issue is with greenhouse coverings. It is quite different if you need to have products that will cover large areas and be used together with other tools. Or you just require a cold frame that will protect young and delicate plants from harsh temperatures.
Before you make your choice, you will need to know exactly what is it you need. Once you have your requirements ready, you can either opt to buy prefabbed products directly or to purchase a larger amount of coverage. Additionally, different materials should be used as previously explained.
Covering rolls
Easy to install and perfect for those who operate with volume, the Solexx Greenhouse comes in either XP or Pro models that you should use depending on your area and other circumstances.
The material is quite light and can be placed over any greenhouse structure. Additionally, it has a high rate of light diffusion and will ensure that all of your plants receive the full beneficial spectrum.
Finally, the twin-walled Polycarbonate is perfect at heat retention, and thicker layers will significantly decrease the price of heating inside the greenhouse. This fact makes the Solexx covering rolls the right choice for those who have serious produce production in mind.
Covering panels
This is a middle solution between highly adaptable rolls and full greenhouse panels. It is a perfect solution for those who want to bother more with the contents of their greenhouse than the covering itself. It is very easy to place and doesn’t require a lot of structure underneath to stay firm and propped up.
Additionally, it is flexible enough to bend completely over the corners and leave no spots uncovered. Finally, it is very easy to maintain while staying highly durable and resistant to almost all types of weather.
Solexx greenhouse panels come in two types of thickness, 1/8th of an inch for XP panels and 1/5th of an inch for Pro panels. Both are made twin-wall material that provides up to 77% of soft, diffused light, perfect for plant growth.
Woven greenhouse covers
For those who need a woven greenhouse cover, plant production is more than just a hobby. This is a professional product that comes in very large rolls and is best suited for professional greenhouse production. It diffuses a soft shiny glaze that is good for any type of plant. It provides exceptional defense not only from heavy snow and hail but UV radiation as well.
This cover is made with an anti-drip technology. It pushes all of the water right into the edges of the cover, preventing the formation of mold or any other pathogens. This is especially important for commercial grade greenhouses that are much taller than those found in gardens.
The light transmitted by the cover is reduced by around 30%. It focuses only on the visible spectrum. This ensures the safety of your plants from infrared and ultraviolet radiation. It only transmits the best wavelengths for plant production.
