Thick vs Regular Greenhouse Plastic Film: Which One to Choose?

Determining the ideal form of greenhouse plastic film is usually the biggest challenge for the planters; that is whether to use thick or regular film. This choice can impact the output of the crops, the condition of the plants, and in general the effectiveness of the greenhouse very much. Being able to differentiate the two types of greenhouse film, will not only add to your knowledge but most importantly may be instrumental in making a wise decision for your particular growth needs.

What is Regular Greenhouse Plastic Film?

Regular greenhouse plastic film is typically available in the range of 80 to 120 microns (3 to 5 mils) in thickness. This type of film is cheap and has many applications which are the reasons it is mostly used by different people. Below are some of the regular greenhouse film features:

Affordability: The thin film that is used to make the regular ones is usually cheap to produce as compared to the thick ones that is why they are preferred by thrifty farmers.

Light Transmission: Regular films, in general, offer a good level of light transmission that is good for the plants’ physiological process of photosynthesis. They usually give off 85-95% light that is sufficient for most crops to thrive.

Short-term usage: Normal polyethylene films are quite suitable for short-term use or rather soft weather conditions.

What does Thick Greenhouse Plastic Film Mean?

The thick greenhouse film is characterized with the thickness ranging from 150 to 200 microns (6 to 8 mils). Such a film is created for extended use and brings several advantages over the regular:

Increased Resistance: These thick films are not prone to ruptures and punctures and hence, they would be the best choice for those of you living in areas with severe weather. You can be sure that your crops will remain unharmed because the films can survive the wind’s blasts, the rain’s heavy showers, and even the hail’s blows.

Additional Insulation: The extra density offers a better barrier to heat loss, so that warmth is kept inside during the cold days of the year. That must be especially useful for the ones working as growers in the regions of low temperature who want to reduce their expenses

Longer Lifespan: The thicker the variety of film, the longer life it has. The life cycle could vary from 3 to 5 years for thick ones while regular films just last for 1-2 years.

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Choosing the Right Film for Your Needs

While choosing between thick and regular greenhouse plastic films, the factors that you should take into account for making the decision include the following ones:

1. Climate Conditions

Cold Climates: In case the region you’re in experiences very cold winters, the thick film has the potential to absorb and retain warmth.

Hot Climates: The use of regular, UV-blocking films in hotter regions can prevent greenhouse overheating. Another alternative is the use of sunlight diffusion films that can reduce the effect of the sunlight on crops and provide even light distribution.

2. Crop Requirements

Different types of plants need different light and temperature levels. A translucent film is advisable for light-reactive plants that also need some warmth to grow.

3. Budget Considerations

Thin films may be less expensive at the beginning of a project, but those funds may be overtaken by the saving resulting from the long-term use of thick films. Over several years, the thicker films might be considered economical.

The Role of Greenhouse Fans

No matter which film you prefer, keeping a good supply of open air in the greenhouse is of paramount importance. To this end, the greenhouse fan is of vital importance.

Preventing Hot Spots: Apart from ventilating the air, greenhouse fans are effective in eliminating the gathering of heat at a single place, which if not checked, would result in plants suffering from heat stress.

Controlling Humidity: When there is fluid air motion, the air in the greenhouse is known to be less moist, and this in return reduces the formation and proliferation of molds and fungus.

Strengthening Plant Stems: Regular but soft air circulation at the right time of the day will promote robust plant growth leading to good crop yield in future.

Conclusion

The decision to utilize a regular or thick greenhouse plastic film relies on a variety of factors, such as local climate, crop needs, and budget. Regular plastic films are recommended for the short term and for areas with not much adverse weather whereas thick films offer durability and insulation for long-term applications.

If it is time for you to take your greenhouse to the next level, check out our variety of PE films and circulation fans which are exclusively custom made to guarantee your growing conditions’ optimization!