Greenhouse Shade Cloth Calculator

FAQs

1. How do you calculate shade cloth for a greenhouse?
   • To calculate shade cloth for a greenhouse, measure the greenhouse dimensions (length and width) in square feet. Determine the desired shade percentage (e.g., 30%). Multiply the greenhouse area by the shade percentage to find the square footage of shade cloth needed.
2. How much will 40% shade cloth reduce temperature?
   • 40% shade cloth can reduce the temperature in a greenhouse by approximately 10-15 degrees Fahrenheit (5-8 degrees Celsius) depending on factors like sunlight intensity and greenhouse ventilation.
3. What is the best percentage shade cloth for a greenhouse?
   • The best percentage of shade cloth for a greenhouse depends on the plants being grown and local climate conditions. Common options include 30%, 40%, and 50% shade cloth. Choose based on the specific needs of your plants and your location.
4. Is 50% shade cloth good for a greenhouse?
   • 50% shade cloth is suitable for greenhouse applications, especially in regions with strong sunlight. It provides moderate shade and can help protect plants from excessive heat and sunburn.
5. Does greenhouse shade cloth go inside or outside?
   • Greenhouse shade cloth is typically installed on the outside of the greenhouse structure to block or filter sunlight before it enters, reducing heat buildup.
6. Is 40% shade cloth too much for tomatoes?
   • 40% shade cloth can be suitable for tomatoes, especially in hot and sunny climates. It can help prevent sunburn and excessive heat stress on tomato plants.
7. Is white or black shade cloth better for a greenhouse?
   • White shade cloth is generally better for greenhouses as it reflects more sunlight and reduces heat absorption. Black shade cloth absorbs heat and may not be as effective in cooling the greenhouse.
8. How much will 50% shade cloth reduce temperature?
   • 50% shade cloth can reduce the temperature in a greenhouse by approximately 15-20 degrees Fahrenheit (8-11 degrees Celsius) depending on environmental conditions.
9. Is white shade cloth better than black?
   • White shade cloth is often better than black for cooling purposes in a greenhouse because it reflects more sunlight and heat. Black shade cloth may trap heat and be less effective for cooling.
10. What is the best color for greenhouse shading?
    • White or light-colored shade cloth is generally considered the best for greenhouse shading as it provides effective cooling by reflecting sunlight and reducing heat buildup.
11. Can you double up shade cloth?
    • Yes, you can double up shade cloth to increase shading if necessary. However, be mindful not to over-shade plants, as they still require some sunlight for photosynthesis.
12. What can I use instead of shade cloth?
    • Alternatives to shade cloth include shade netting, bamboo screens, or even applying a temporary layer of white paint to the greenhouse exterior to reflect sunlight.
13. Does rain go through shade cloth?
    • Most shade cloth is designed to allow rainwater to pass through while providing shade. However, the degree of water permeability can vary depending on the cloth’s design and manufacturer.
14. How do you calculate shade cloth percentage?
    • Shade cloth percentage represents the amount of light blocked by the cloth. To calculate it, measure the amount of light passing through the cloth and divide it by the total incident light. Multiply by 100 to get the percentage.
15. What is the disadvantage of shade cloth?
    • One disadvantage of shade cloth is that it reduces the amount of direct sunlight reaching plants, which may limit their growth if not used appropriately.
16. What is the cheapest way to shade a greenhouse?
    • The cheapest way to shade a greenhouse is to use inexpensive shade netting or apply a temporary shading material like whitewash on the exterior of the greenhouse.
17. Does shade cloth reduce heat in a greenhouse?
    • Yes, shade cloth reduces heat in a greenhouse by blocking or filtering sunlight, which reduces the amount of heat entering the structure.
18. Is white or black shade cloth better for tomatoes?
    • White shade cloth is generally better for tomatoes, as it reflects more sunlight and heat, helping to keep the temperature inside the greenhouse more suitable for tomato plants.
19. Will tomatoes grow under a shade cloth?
    • Yes, tomatoes can grow under a shade cloth, especially in hot climates, to protect them from excessive heat and sunburn.
20. How do you join shade cloth together?
    • Shade cloth can be joined together using clips, ties, or by sewing pieces together to create a larger shade area.
21. Does sun go through shade cloth?
    • Some sunlight does pass through shade cloth, but the amount depends on the shade percentage and design of the cloth.
22. What is the most popular greenhouse covering?
    • The most popular greenhouse coverings include single or double-layer polyethylene film, polycarbonate panels, and glass.
23. Which side of shade cloth faces the sun?
    • The reflective or lighter side of the shade cloth should face the sun to maximize its cooling effect by reflecting sunlight.
24. How much will 70% shade cloth reduce temperature?
    • 70% shade cloth can reduce the temperature in a greenhouse by approximately 20-30 degrees Fahrenheit (11-17 degrees Celsius) depending on conditions.
25. What percentage shade cloth should I use?
    • The percentage of shade cloth to use depends on the specific needs of your plants and the local climate. Common options include 30%, 40%, and 50% shade cloth.
26. What is the advantage and disadvantage of a white colored shade cloth?
    • The advantage of a white shade cloth is that it reflects more sunlight and reduces heat absorption, providing effective cooling. However, it may reduce the overall light levels for plants.
27. What are the two shade techniques for greenhouses?
    • The two common shade techniques for greenhouses are external shading (using shade cloth on the outside) and internal shading (using shading materials or paints on the inside).
28. How can I make my greenhouse look nice?
    • To make your greenhouse look nice, consider proper organization, aesthetics, and maintenance. Use attractive plant displays, keep it clean, and ensure good ventilation.
29. Is clear or green cover better for a greenhouse?
    • Clear covers are better for greenhouses as they allow more sunlight to enter, promoting plant growth. Green covers may filter some light but are less common.