What Plastic Thickness Is Appropriate For A Greenhouse?

Sunview Greenhouse Film is a 6 mil greenhouse plastic film that reduces infrared and ultraviolet sunlight. A thickness of at least 6 mil is recommended for most greenhouse applications, as it provides a good balance between insulation, light transmission, and durability. Thinner plastic sheeting should be used for general applications like temporary walls and covering materials, while medium-thickness plastic can be used as greenhouse covers and enclosures.

Greenhouse plastics are predominantly clear, white, or opaque, with clearer plastics allowing more light through. They come in different thicknesses from 1/2 mil to 12 mil, but 6-10 mil is ideal for greenhouses or high tunnels. The higher the number, the thicker it is (while also letting less light through).

Greenhouse covers are typically offered in a range from 3 mil – 12 mil, with the most common cover thickness being 6 mil. The thick 11 mil takes up more space in the lock channel, so you may need to go with a double or deep lock channel depending on the design of your greenhouse. The typical thickness range for greenhouse plastic sheeting is 3 to 12 mils, though 4 to 8 mils is recommended for most uses.

The best greenhouse plastic is 4 year, 6 mil polyfilm, which has a 4 year warranty and is 6 mil thick. Home-store plastics do not meet the standards for greenhouse grade material, only available in 6 mil thickness, and is best for multi-year applications. Standard Clear Polyethylene is the workhorse of greenhouse sheeting, available in thicknesses ranging from 4 mil to 10 mil, offering good insulation.

In summary, choosing the right thickness of greenhouse plastic is crucial for longevity, insulation, light transmission, and durability.

Which is better, 4 mil or 6 mil plastic?

The 4 MIL provides robust protection for packaging heavy metal parts and nails, while the 6 MIL offers enhanced protection against punctures and tears on bulky or sharp-edged items.

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.

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.

How thick should my greenhouse plastic be?

Greenhouse plastic is a crucial component of greenhouse structures, providing a controlled environment for plants to grow. The typical thickness range for greenhouse plastic is 4-8 mils, with thinner 3-4 mil plastic suitable for short-term structures. Thicker 8-12 mil plastic offers maximum durability. The plastic covering or sheeting acts as a barrier between the inside and outside environments. The right choice of thickness is essential for optimal performance.

This guide will explore the typical thickness range, factors determining the ideal thickness, pros and cons of different options, and key considerations for selecting the right greenhouse plastic film for your climate and crops.

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.

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.

What thickness polycarbonate is best for a greenhouse?

Polycarbonate sheets are suitable for various climates, including mild to moderate, hot and sunny, cold and snowy, and cold and snowy regions. Mild to moderate climates use 4mm to 6mm polycarbonate sheets for insulation and impact resistance. Hot and sunny climates, like tropical or desert regions, prefer thicker sheets with thicknesses of 8mm to 10mm for thermal insulation and UV protection. Colder regions with heavy snowfall require thicker sheets with thicknesses of 10mm to 16mm for increased structural integrity and insulation, ensuring the greenhouse can withstand harsh winter conditions.

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.

Is 6mm polycarbonate good for greenhouses?

The 6mm thickness is the most common choice for greenhouses with solid polycarbonate panels due to its high impact strength and rigidity, making it suitable for any weather. When replacing a 6mm glass panel, a matching thickness polycarbonate panel saves time, money, and hassle, allowing you to focus on growing your greenhouse. If twin-wall polycarbonate is your preference, it’s worth investing in a thicker sheet for maximum support and cost-effectiveness.

10mm is a great thickness for insulation and strength, while 4mm twin-wall is not recommended due to its flimsiness and potential for blowout during storms or strong winds, making it more expensive to replace. Overall, choosing the right thickness for your greenhouse depends on your specific needs and preferences.

How thick should polycarbonate be for a greenhouse?

The thickness of polycarbonate sheets for greenhouses depends on whether they are solid or twinwall sheets. Solid polycarbonate panels are typically 6mm thick, suitable for any weather and offering a good balance of strength and cost-effectiveness. This thickness is also suitable for replacing a 6mm glass panel, as it simplifies installation and saves time, money, and hassle. If twinwall polycarbonate is preferred, it is worth investing in a thicker sheet for maximum support and cost-effectiveness.

10mm is a great choice for insulation and strength. However, 4mm twin-wall is not recommended as it is flimsy and can easily blow out during storms or strong winds, making it more expensive to replace. Overall, the choice of thickness depends on the specific needs of your greenhouse and the needs of your plants.