What Is The Ideal Thickness For Plastic Used In Greenhouses?

The choice of the right thickness of polycarbonate for your greenhouse is crucial for its performance and longevity. Factors such as climate, greenhouse size, insulation needs, and specific requirements can impact the thickness and break point of a plastic sheet. For full-season greenhouses in moderate climates, 6 mil plastic is recommended for good performance. In cold climates and commercial operations, 8-12 mil plastic provides the greatest insulation and durability. Greenhouse covers are typically offered in a range from 3 mil – 12 mil, with 6 mil being the most common. A thickness of at least 6 mil is recommended for most greenhouse applications, as it provides a good balance between strength, longevity, and durability. The best greenhouse plastic is 4 year, 6 mil polyfilm, which comes with a 4 year warranty. Polycarbonate panels come in different thicknesses, typically ranging from 4mm to 25mm. The thickness you choose significantly impacts insulation, and a 6 mil thickness is preferred for longer-term projects, as 3.5 mil is very flimsy.

What thickness is greenhouse plastic?

Greenhouse covers come in a range of 3 mil – 12 mil, with the most common thickness being 6 mil. The thickness of plastic sheeting depends on factors such as the frame material, the application of the sheeting, and the expected weather conditions. A thickness gauge can help determine the thickness of your plastic sheeting. If your greenhouse is built from weaker material like PVC and the plastic sheeting material is too heavy, it may collapse, especially in strong weather.

Thicker films should be used on wood or metal structures. Growers should also consider that PVC or polyester frames can react chemically with polyethylene sheeting, resulting in faster erosion. Consult an expert to evaluate your specific growing conditions and choose the right thickness for your greenhouse.

Is 4mm polycarbonate ok for a greenhouse?

4mm polycarbonate sheets, available in clear, are optimal for use in greenhouses, cold frames, and shed windows as a replacement for glass and for allowing light while providing a slight degree of obscurity.

Can I use 4 mil plastic for a greenhouse?

4 mil poly plastic is a lightweight, cost-effective option for greenhouse coverings, offering basic protection and light transmission. It is suitable for temporary or seasonal greenhouses, but may require frequent replacements. 6 mil poly plastic is a commonly used material, providing better durability and strength compared to 4 mil poly plastic. It offers decent protection against weather elements, UV rays, and light transmission. However, its ability to tolerate wind, hail, and heavy snow loads can vary depending on the quality of the plastic, greenhouse structure, and prevailing conditions.

10 mil poly plastic is a thicker option, providing better resistance against punctures, tears, and other potential damage. It can withstand more challenging weather conditions, including higher wind speeds and heavier snow loads, but may slightly reduce light transmission compared to thinner options.

Is 10 mil plastic good for a greenhouse?

6 mil greenhouse plastic is suitable for backyard gardeners and growers, while 10 mil plastic is suitable for larger commercial operations. Both are strong enough for their needs, but 10 mil is commonly used in harsh climates and environments. For those looking for a covering between 6 mil and 10 mil, 8 mil greenhouse plastic sheeting is available. The range of sizes available for 10 mil greenhouse plastic is from 6 to 500 feet in length, with widths ranging from 6 to 60 feet. Custom sizing is available upon request.

What thickness is best for a greenhouse?

The optimal thickness for greenhouses in moderate climates is 6 mil, while 8-12 mil is recommended for cold climates and commercial operations. The longevity of quality greenhouse plastic is contingent upon proper installation and maintenance. In particular, ultraviolet (UV) protection is of paramount importance.

Is 4mm polycarbonate OK for greenhouse?

4mm polycarbonate sheets, available in clear, are optimal for use in greenhouses, cold frames, and shed windows as a replacement for glass and for allowing light while providing a slight degree of obscurity.

What plastic is best for a greenhouse?

Polyethylene (PE) is a widely used greenhouse plastic due to its competitive price and excellent mechanical properties. It is easily incorporated with additives to improve its characteristics. PE is classified based on density, with low-density being the most common. Medium-density plastic is used in small tunnels and mulch, while high-density plastic is used for pipes, bottles, caps, containers, irrigation, and drainage parts. Low-density polyethylene is the most commonly used in agriculture, offering four-year durability and resistance to sulphur. It can be yellow or colorless.

How long does 6 mil greenhouse plastic last?

Farm Plastic Supply offers a high-quality greenhouse plastic with a 4 year UV protection and greater than 90 light transmittance. Their clear 6 mil plastic polyethylene greenhouse film provides the necessary sunlight for plants, and they also offer all-in-one greenhouse kit solutions. This UV-treated plastic offers strength, longevity, and quality, with 20 light diffusion and a greater than 90 light transmittance.

Can you use regular 6 mil plastic for greenhouse?

6 mil contractor plastic is not suitable for greenhouses, high tunnels, or hoop houses due to its lack of UV stability. It will quickly break down if exposed to sunlight and wind. Other options include high tunnels, all high tunnels, peaked high tunnels, mobile high tunnels, round hoop houses, caterpillar tunnels, backyard greenhouses, greenhouse covers, polycarbonate, polycarbonate, shade cloth bulk, shade cloth finished edges + grommets, sidewall components, auto roller motors, and hardware.

What is the difference between 4mm and 6mm polycarbonate?

6mm polycarbonate sheets have 5-10 less light transmission than 4mm ones, allowing more even distribution of light in darker areas. These sheets are typically made from recycled material and have a shorter lifespan than 4mm ones, which are often UV treated and made for the lowest cost. They are often used in entry-level greenhouses, aiming for the lowest cost and enduring a few months under NZ weather conditions.