Greenhouse Plastic Calculator

FAQs

1. How do I calculate how much plastic I need for my greenhouse? To calculate the amount of plastic needed for your greenhouse, you need to determine the greenhouse’s dimensions (length and width) and the desired coverage per roll of plastic. Then, divide the total area to be covered by the coverage per roll. Adjust for plastic type and thickness, if necessary.
2. What is the best thickness of plastic for a greenhouse? The best thickness of plastic for a greenhouse depends on factors like climate, UV resistance, and insulation needs. Common options are 4mm to 6mm thick. Thicker plastic provides better insulation but may be more expensive.
3. How often do you need to replace plastic in a greenhouse? Greenhouse plastic typically needs replacement every 3 to 5 years, but this can vary depending on the plastic quality, climate, and UV exposure.
4. How many years does greenhouse plastic last? Greenhouse plastic can last anywhere from 3 to 10 years or more, depending on factors such as quality, UV resistance, maintenance, and environmental conditions.
5. Should I double the plastic on my greenhouse? Doubling the plastic on a greenhouse can provide added insulation and durability, especially in colder climates. However, it increases costs and reduces light transmission.
6. How do you calculate plastic quantity? Calculate plastic quantity by dividing the total area to be covered by the coverage per roll, adjusting for plastic type and thickness, and rounding up to the nearest roll.
7. Is white or clear plastic better for greenhouses? Clear plastic allows more light to enter the greenhouse, while white plastic diffuses light and reduces heat buildup. The choice depends on your specific needs and climate.
8. Is 4mm polycarbonate OK for a greenhouse? A 4mm polycarbonate panel can be suitable for a greenhouse, but thicker panels (e.g., 6mm or 8mm) offer better insulation and durability.
9. What is the best base for a plastic greenhouse? A level and stable base made of materials like treated wood, concrete, or paving slabs is ideal for a plastic greenhouse.
10. Should a plastic greenhouse be in full sun? A plastic greenhouse benefits from full sun exposure, as it provides maximum light for plant growth. However, some shading may be necessary in extremely hot climates to prevent overheating.
11. Do cheap plastic greenhouses work? Cheap plastic greenhouses can work well for seasonal or temporary use but may have lower durability and insulation compared to more expensive options.
12. Should I open my plastic greenhouse in the day? Yes, opening the vents or doors of a plastic greenhouse during the day helps regulate temperature and humidity, preventing overheating.
13. What are the disadvantages of plastic greenhouses? Disadvantages of plastic greenhouses include shorter lifespan compared to glass, susceptibility to UV damage, and potential for heat buildup in hot climates.
14. Are small plastic greenhouses any good? Small plastic greenhouses can be effective for hobbyists and limited space but may have limited insulation and durability compared to larger structures.
15. What greenhouse plastic lasts longest? Greenhouse plastics with UV-resistant coatings or films tend to last longer than non-UV-resistant options. The specific lifespan varies by product.
16. What color plastic is best for a greenhouse? Clear or translucent plastic allows maximum light transmission. White plastic diffuses light and reduces heat buildup, making it suitable for hot climates.
17. How do you stop condensation in a plastic greenhouse? To reduce condensation in a plastic greenhouse, ensure proper ventilation, maintain temperature consistency, and use dehumidifiers if needed.
18. Should greenhouse plastic be clear? Greenhouse plastic can be clear for maximum light transmission or other colors (e.g., white or green) for shading and temperature control.
19. What determines the price of plastic? The price of greenhouse plastic is influenced by factors such as thickness, UV resistance, brand, and supplier. Higher-quality and UV-resistant plastics tend to cost more.
20. How much plastic is used in one day? The amount of plastic used in one day depends on the size and type of greenhouse, as well as the specific tasks being performed.
21. How much plastic is single-use plastic? Single-use plastic refers to items like disposable utensils, bags, and packaging. The amount used can vary widely based on personal consumption and environmental practices.
22. What are the best types of greenhouse plastic? The best types of greenhouse plastic vary based on climate and needs. UV-resistant, high-quality plastics with good light transmission are often preferred.
23. Do plastic greenhouses work as well as glass? Plastic greenhouses work well but have differences compared to glass greenhouses, such as insulation and UV resistance. The choice depends on specific requirements.
24. Why do people paint greenhouses white? Painting greenhouses white reflects sunlight and reduces heat buildup, helping to regulate temperature and protect plants from excessive heat.
25. What thickness polycarbonate should I use for a greenhouse? Polycarbonate thickness for a greenhouse depends on factors like climate and insulation needs. Common options are 6mm or 8mm thick panels.
26. Does a polycarbonate greenhouse need a base? A polycarbonate greenhouse should have a stable and level base, similar to a plastic or glass greenhouse, to provide structural support and prevent shifting.
27. Is 6mm polycarbonate good for greenhouses? A 6mm polycarbonate panel is suitable for many greenhouse applications, providing good insulation and durability.
28. Can you put a greenhouse on paving slabs? Yes, you can place a greenhouse on paving slabs if the surface is level and stable. Proper anchoring and ventilation are essential.
29. Can greenhouse plastic touch PVC? Greenhouse plastic can come into contact with PVC, but it’s essential to ensure that the PVC is smooth and not sharp to prevent damage to the plastic.
30. What should I put on the bottom of my greenhouse? You can use materials like gravel, weed fabric, or concrete as a base for your greenhouse to provide stability and prevent weed growth.
31. Should I leave greenhouse door open at night? Leaving the greenhouse door partially open at night can help with ventilation and temperature regulation, depending on the climate and weather conditions.
32. Where should you not put a greenhouse? Avoid placing a greenhouse in areas with heavy shade, poor drainage, or where it may obstruct views or violate local regulations.
33. Can you get a tan in a plastic greenhouse? It is possible to get a tan in a plastic greenhouse if it allows UV rays to pass through. However, UV-resistant plastics may filter out some UV rays.
34. Where is the best place to put a plastic greenhouse? The best location for a plastic greenhouse is in a sunny area with good exposure to sunlight and protection from strong winds.
35. Can you grow tomatoes in a plastic greenhouse? Yes, tomatoes can be grown successfully in a plastic greenhouse, provided the environment is properly controlled for temperature and humidity.
36. Are unheated greenhouses worth it? Unheated greenhouses can be worth it for extending the growing season, protecting plants from frost, and getting a head start on spring planting.
37. Should I open the windows on my greenhouse? Opening windows in a greenhouse provides ventilation, regulates temperature, and prevents overheating, making it advisable, especially during warm weather.
38. Should I water my greenhouse every day? The frequency of watering in a greenhouse depends on factors like plant type, season, and weather. It’s essential to monitor soil moisture and adjust watering accordingly.
39. Can I put seedlings in a plastic greenhouse? Plastic greenhouses are suitable for starting seedlings and providing protection during their early growth stages.
40. What is the best color for a greenhouse? Green is often considered the best color for a greenhouse because it blends with the natural surroundings and provides a pleasant environment for plants.
41. Is a PVC cover better than a PE cover for a greenhouse? The choice between PVC and PE covers for a greenhouse depends on factors like climate, budget, and durability. PVC is often more durable but can be more expensive.
42. Which is better plastic or polycarbonate greenhouse? The choice between a plastic or polycarbonate greenhouse depends on factors like insulation, UV resistance, and budget. Polycarbonate offers better insulation but can be costlier.
43. How thick should my greenhouse plastic be? Greenhouse plastic thickness should be selected based on climate and insulation needs, with common options ranging from 4mm to 6mm.
44. How do you ventilate a small plastic greenhouse? Ventilation in a small plastic greenhouse can be achieved by using roof vents, side vents, or a combination of both to regulate airflow.
45. How often do you need to replace plastic in a greenhouse? Greenhouse plastic typically needs replacement every 3 to 5 years, but the exact frequency depends on factors like quality, UV resistance, and environmental conditions.
46. How do I keep my plastic greenhouse warm at night? To keep a plastic greenhouse warm at night, you can use heaters, thermal curtains, or row covers to trap heat and provide insulation.
47. How do you attach plastic to a greenhouse? Greenhouse plastic can be attached using channels, clips, or fasteners designed for securing plastic covers to the greenhouse frame.
48. Is white or clear plastic better for greenhouses? White plastic is often used in greenhouses to diffuse light, reduce heat buildup, and provide shading, especially in hot climates.
49. Should I get a clear or green plastic greenhouse? The choice between clear and green plastic for a greenhouse depends on factors like light transmission and temperature control preferences.
50. Why is my plastic greenhouse wet inside? Condensation can cause a plastic greenhouse to be wet inside. It occurs when warm, moist air inside the greenhouse meets cooler surfaces, leading to water droplets forming.
51. Why is my greenhouse wet inside? Greenhouses can be wet inside due to condensation, inadequate ventilation, high humidity, or leaks in the structure.
52. How do you winterize a plastic greenhouse? Winterizing a plastic greenhouse involves insulating it, sealing gaps, adding thermal covers, and using heaters or heat-retaining materials to keep the interior warm.