Which covering material is best for a greenhouse. Covering material for a greenhouse: how to choose the best

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Covering material for greenhouses and greenhouses is a modern way to protect plants from pests, active sun and adverse weather conditions. It not only has protective properties, but also helps create an optimal climate for obtaining a good harvest. There are several types of covering materials on the market, each of which has its own advantages and features.

Covering material for greenhouses and greenhouses: characteristics, types and application features

Farmers and amateur gardeners know that planting plants indoors allows them to grow crops that are not always adapted to the local climate. Greenhouses and greenhouses of various designs are commonplace in fields and summer cottages. However, their effectiveness can become much higher if you use a modern covering material - agrofibre.

This non-woven synthetic material has the following features:

excellent moisture permeability, but has almost zero hygroscopicity;
environmentally friendly material, harmless to plants and humans;
protects plants from UV radiation;
protects against excessive precipitation and extreme weather conditions such as hail or hurricane winds;
serves as protection against pests and birds;
retains heat inside the structure during slight frosts on the ground and levels out day and night temperature changes;
allows air to pass through without obstacles;
does not contribute to the formation of condensation;
easy to use and store;
has strength and abrasion resistance;
does not rot or mold during operation;
service life - several years.

Note! Non-woven covering material is environmentally friendly. It consists of polypropylene fibers that are glued together under the influence of high temperatures.

The combination of these properties makes it possible to increase crop yields by 20% thanks to properly selected covering material. Its price is comparable to the cost of plastic film, which will be a pleasant surprise for many gardeners. At the same time, if we take into account the excellent characteristics and long service life of non-woven material, then purchasing it is more profitable. For example, tomatoes under a covering material can grow until they are fully ripened in open ground, while the film cannot guarantee a successful result.

Types of agrofibre greenhouse coverings

In specialized stores and on the Internet you can find a wide range of covering material for greenhouses and greenhouses. Its price varies widely and depends mainly on the manufacturer, application features, density and packaging method (rolls or cut sheets).

All types of covering materials from any manufacturer are characterized by color classification:

white covering material has different densities and is used for covering plants, forming greenhouses and greenhouses;
black is a covering material against weeds, it is always very dense and is only laid on the ground for mulching.

Important! Black and white covering materials are not interchangeable. Use each of them for its intended purpose: white - top, black - bottom.

The density of the covering fabric is the next determining parameter of sorting. To make it easier for consumers to navigate modifications, manufacturers indicate the density level in the product name. For example, Agrotex 30 has a density of 30 g/m², and Agrotex 60 has a density of 60 g/m², respectively. The larger the number after the name, the higher the density of the material.

The density value directly affects the use of agrofibre and its cost. With the same canvas sizes, the price of covering material for a greenhouse or greenhouse will always be higher for products that have a higher level of density than the cost of a similar thin material, for example, for frameless crop covering.

The most popular representatives of non-woven agrofibre on the domestic market are:

"Agrospan": manufacturer Russia, available in 7 density options and two colors (black, white), UV stabilizer.
"Agrotex": manufacturer Russia, available in 5 density options, there are additional 5 color solutions, in addition to the traditional white and black versions, UV stabilizer.
"Lutrasil": manufacturer Germany, available in 5 density options, has two colors (black, white), the company name can be used as a common name for all types of agrofabrics. The widest canvas of all types of material – up to 16.9 m.
“Agril”: manufactured in France, has four density options, UV stabilizer, 2 colors - black and white.

Let's take a closer look at what each of these materials is and get acquainted with their practical application for growing garden crops.

Protective properties and marking of the covering material "Agrospan"

“Agrospan” is the most durable in use among all covering sheets: its service life is up to 5 years. However, this is not its only advantage. Agrospan allows you to:

protect cultivated plants from diseases, pests, UV radiation, hail, acid rain and pesticides;
prevent the death of plantings from frost (it is guaranteed to protect plants at temperatures down to -4°C, but is able to retain properties down to -7°C);
stabilize the moisture level in the soil, thereby reducing the amount of watering;
optimize the air exchange regime in a closed area;
reduce the range of temperature differences between day and night;
reduce labor costs for growing crops by 5 times;
increase productivity by 20%.

Agrospan: the most durable material, increasing productivity by 20%

The form of production of the material is pieces of fabric 10 m long of various widths and densities. Color – black or white (depending on purpose).

Note! Agrospan creates an optimal microclimate, so a greenhouse or greenhouse does not require mandatory ventilation.

Labeling of "Agrospan" and its purpose:

Name	Color	Purpose	Season of use
Agrospan 17	white	covering crops and seedlings using a frameless method, protection from diseases and pests, protection from UV radiation	spring – autumn
Agrospan 30		frameless shelter or tension on a light tunnel-type frame, protection from diseases and pests, light frost protection, winter shelters for perennial plants	all year round
Agrospan 42		frame shelter, protection from gusts of wind and hail, protection from frost down to -2°C, winter shelters for perennial plants	all year round
Agrospan 60 Agrospan 90 Agrospan 110		covering material for greenhouses and greenhouses various designs, protection from gusts of wind and hail, protection from frost down to -4°C, winter shelters for perennial plants	all year round
Agrospan 60 Agrospan 80	black	mulching, ground weed film	spring - autumn

Range of colors and capabilities of the covering material "Agrotex"

The main characteristics of Agrotex fiber are plant protection, which is inherent in all types of non-woven covering materials, plus excellent performance in preserving the microclimate at sub-zero temperatures.

The advantages of the material include:

lightness of the canvas;
high thermal protection properties;
resistance to creasing, rotting, wear;
resistance to adverse weather conditions;
good light transmittance – up to 90%;
promotes the penetration of water and air, and repels dust;
does not form condensation inside;
has a high breaking load, which allows the material to be used for several seasons without loss of properties;
Availability of a wide range of canvas with reinforced edges.

Release form:

bags with classic material for a summer cottage, 1.6 m wide, in white and black colors;
rolls with classic canvas for farms, 1.6-1.9 m wide, in white and black colors with reinforced edges;
bags and rolls with reinforced and reinforced-laminated material 1.6 or 3 m wide.

Labeling of "Agrotex" and its purpose:

Name	Color	Purpose	Season of use
Agrotex 17 UV	white	covering crops and seedlings using a frameless method, protection from diseases and pests, easy protection from frost down to -2°C, protection from UV radiation	spring – autumn
Agrotex 30 UV		frameless shelter, protection from diseases and pests, frost protection down to -6°C, winter shelters for perennial plants, protection from UV radiation	spring – autumn
Agrotex 42 UV		frame shelter with arches, protection from gusts of wind and hail, protection from frost down to -7°C, winter shelters for perennial plants, protection from UV radiation	all year round
Agrotex 60 UV		material for greenhouses and greenhouses of various designs, protection from gusts of wind and hail, protection from frost down to -9°C, winter shelters for perennial plants, protection from UV radiation	all year round
Agrotex 60 UV Agrotex mulch 60-80 UV	black		spring – autumn

Note! All produced modifications of the Agrotex canvas contain a UV filter. In the labeling it is designated as UV.

In addition to classic color solutions, Agrotex is available in two-layer color options, the properties of which are significantly improved. Greenhouses and hotbeds under such material increase productivity and reduce the ripening time of fruits.

Characteristics of two-layer Agrotex fabrics:

Color	Purpose	Top layer properties	Bottom Layer Properties
Red-yellow	from frost and pests	top layer – red, accelerates flowering, increases productivity, keeps warm at night	bottom layer – yellow, actively fights pests without chemicals
White-red	from frost + growth rate	the top layer is white, protects against overheating and excess UV radiation	the bottom layer is red, protects from frost down to -9°C, retains heat well, increases growth, accelerates flowering, increases productivity
White-silver foil	extra light and warmth	the top layer and base are white, have all the properties of the classic “Agrotex” for greenhouses and greenhouses	internal silver stripes additionally direct light towards plants, compensating for its deficiency, speed up photosynthesis, increase productivity
White reinforced	for greenhouses	reinforcement increases the wear resistance of the material, resistance to deformation and extreme weather conditions, while maintaining breathability
White reinforced laminated	for greenhouses	the top layer is laminated, i.e. has the properties of polyethylene film not to allow water to pass through	internal – white reinforced, increases wear resistance, eliminates the “lens effect” from the top layer, prevents the formation of condensation

The use of covering material "Lutrasil" on a summer cottage

“Lutrasil” is the lightest of the covering materials discussed in this article, however, despite this property, it is able to protect plants from hail and frost. At a summer cottage, it is used to shelter seedlings from pests and bad weather, as well as to protect perennial plants in winter, for mulching and weed control. It simplifies plant care and increases crop yields.

Main characteristics of Lutrasil agrofibre:

excellent light conductivity – up to 92%;
permeable to water: you can water directly on top of the canvas without opening it;
allows air to pass through and does not create a greenhouse effect;
protects plants from frost down to -6°C;
is not afraid of frost, so it can be stored anywhere in winter;
good wear resistance: lasts 3 seasons without deterioration in performance and appearance, but can be used longer - up to 6 years;
easy to use: can be rolled, sewn, easy to unfold;
good tensile strength.

The material is produced in rolls with a width of 1.6 and 7 m. Color – black or white (depending on the purpose).

Labeling of "Lutrasil" and its purpose:

Name	Color	Purpose	Season of use
Thermoselect 17	white	covering crops and seedlings using a frameless method, protection from pests, easy protection from frost down to -2°C	spring – autumn
Thermoselect 23		frameless shelter, protection from pests, frost protection down to -3°C, winter shelters for perennial plants	all year round
Frostselect 30		lightweight frame shelter, protection from gusts of wind and hail, protection from frost down to -6°C, winter shelters for perennial plants, protection from UV radiation	all year round
Frostselect 42		for greenhouses and greenhouses, protection from gusts of wind and hail, protection from frost down to -6°C, winter shelters for perennial plants, protection from UV radiation	all year round
Frostselect 60 UV	black	mulching, UV protection, ground weed film	spring – autumn

Note! All produced modifications of the Lutrasil canvas are capable of protecting plants from frost.

Using covering material "Agril"

“Agril” is a thin non-woven covering material that is used to protect plants in gardening and horticulture from temperature changes, frost, dew, fog, wind, diseases and pests. It transmits light (80%), water and air. It copes well with maintaining the microclimate inside the shelter during temperature changes day and night, and also protects against frost down to -7°C. Promotes rapid seed germination and accelerates fruit ripening.

Related article:

Operating principle, advantages and disadvantages of the design. How to make and cover a frame with your own hands. Prices and features of finished structures.

The form of material release is bags and rolls of various widths and winding lengths. Color – black or white (depending on purpose).

Characteristics of the covering material "Agril":

Name	Color	Purpose	Season of use
Agril 17	white	attached in a frameless manner, pest protection, UV protection, light frost protection down to -2°C	spring – autumn
Agril 23		frameless shelter, protection from pests, frost protection down to -3°C, protection from UV radiation, winter shelters for perennial plants	all year round
Agril 30		lightweight frame shelter, protection from gusts of wind and hail, protection from frost down to -5°C, winter shelters for perennial plants, protection from UV radiation	all year round
Agril 50		for greenhouses and greenhouses, protection from gusts of wind and hail, protection from frost down to -7°C, winter shelters for perennial plants, protection from UV radiation	all year round
Agril 50	black, black and white	mulching, UV protection, ground weed film	spring – autumn

How to choose covering material for greenhouses or greenhouses

As the above characteristics of covering materials show, they have many common parameters. When deciding which covering material is best to choose, you should be guided not by the name and manufacturer of the fabric, but by its purpose. It is also worth considering climatic conditions, the duration of the warm period, the frequency of sudden frosts, wind, etc.

When using any type of agrofibre, first of all you need to pay attention to its density and color. For frame structures white fabric is used. Some manufacturers have modifications of it according to color scheme and increasing strength - reinforcement. These preferences are purely individual.

The optimal density of the covering material is determined by the following parameters:

time of planting plants in the ground;
height of growth of garden crops;
climate conditions;
height and type of structure of the shelter being constructed.

What covering material is better for a greenhouse or greenhouse? First of all, one whose density is more than 30 g/m², and also has a UV stabilizer. For greenhouse structures, the densest agrofibre is always chosen - 50 g/m² and higher. For greenhouses with low arc structures, a fabric marked with a density of 30-40 will be sufficient.

The UV stabilizer affects the durability of the covering material and the preservation of its original properties over several seasons. It is impossible to visually determine the presence of a stabilizer in agrofibre, so it is worth purchasing products that are packaged at the factory and have the appropriate manufacturer’s markings and protective marks.

Note! If you purchase agrofibre in rolls, you can save on covering a greenhouse or greenhouse. The remaining unused part of the roll is stored for an unlimited amount of time.

How to use covering material for greenhouses and greenhouses

Non-woven covering material is very low maintenance and easy to use. However, when using it for the first time, it is worth knowing several important aspects that will help preserve the properties of agrofibre, avoid financial losses and disappointments when growing garden crops. For example, it is necessary to consider which side to place the covering material on the greenhouse, whether it can be cleaned, what to do if the sheet is not enough to completely cover the structure, etc.

Let us dwell on the main aspects of using covering fabric.

Methods for laying covering material for greenhouses

Agrofibre sheets are never cut prematurely. Initially, a frame or arcs are installed for the greenhouse; work with the covering material begins only after this stage is completed. The canvas is placed on top of the arches, creating allowances on all sides of at least 20 cm, and is cut off only after all the necessary measurements have been completed. The length of the canvas is calculated not from the edge of the first arc to the last, but taking into account the closed ends of the greenhouse. Working with non-woven material is similar to the process of covering arcs with film.

Covering material is available in different widths. However, it may happen that it will not be possible to completely cover the entire greenhouse with one piece of agrofibre. In this case, the canvases are overlapped and the joints are glued hot glue gun or stitched with thread. You can use a sewing machine.

Before finally fixing the canvas on the arches, it is worth figuring out which side to cover. Covering material for a greenhouse has different properties top and bottom layers. This must be taken into account. It’s easier when the material is two-color: the manufacturer indicates on the packaging how to distinguish between the top and bottom sides. If the canvas is white, then this is determined visually and by touch: the smooth side is laid down, the “rough” side with holes is placed up.

You can check on a new piece from the package in which direction the fabric allows water to pass through. When purchasing a roll covering, you need to know that the material is wound top layer out. If the material is completely homogeneous (on both sides) it does not matter which side it is laid.

How and how to secure the covering material

When the agrofibre has been successfully laid on the arches, all that remains is to securely fix it. You can secure the covering material to the greenhouse arcs using either specialized materials or improvised means. In the shop gardening tools Special plastic clips or clamps for fixing are sold: they are suitable for both film and agrofibre. Knowing the diameter of the arcs, you can choose the right size.

If there is an old hose on the farm, then cut it into pieces, cut them lengthwise and put them on an arc with covering material as a clamp. However, if the hose is not rigid enough, the coating will come off in strong gusts of wind. Therefore it is better to replace the hose plastic pipe, from which a segment corresponding to approximately ¼ of the diameter is cut to length. It is recommended to sand the sharp edges of pipe cuts.

Some gardeners use ordinary stationery binders to fix agrofibre. big size. Such fastening requires additional padding, for example, with a piece of fabric, so that the fabric does not break through over time.

The bottom of the covering material on the greenhouse is fixed with special pegs or pressed with bricks, wooden beam and other weighting agents.

Note! When installing fasteners, it is worth considering that for plants that need pollination, it should be possible to open the greenhouse when they bloom.

Non-woven covering material allows you to sew a real cover for a greenhouse. Knowing the installation step of the supports, transverse “pockets” are sewn onto the canvas, into which the arcs are then inserted. In this case, the installation of a greenhouse involves changing the order of installation of the structure.

How to clean and where to store covering material

The service life of agrofibre always corresponds to the period of validity specified by the manufacturer. The material can last much longer if you treat it with care. After removal from the greenhouse, the canvas should be dried, folded and stored in a dry, dark place. The densest frost-resistant covering materials can remain on the site all year round.

If the covering product gets dirty during use, it is recommended to clean it with a sponge or soft brush. If the fabric is heavily soiled, it can be washed with soap or powder.

Any amateur gardener or farmer wants to get high yields every year, while spending a minimum of effort on caring for the plants. The use of non-woven covering material is the right step towards the implementation of this task.

General construction and covering materials are used to equip greenhouses. General construction materials include wooden and metal supports, angles and pipes. Wooden structures are easier and cheaper to build, and correct operation they serve for a long time. Covering materials for greenhouse construction include glass and various types of film.

What materials are needed for greenhouses

To build the frame, you can use coniferous and deciduous wood. Timbers used for construction include:

Round logs and poles various diameters and length 3-6.5 meters;
Beams, whetstones and slats, sawn on four sides;
Boards of various lengths and widths.

As a rule, the frame is built from beams and slats. They are bought in specialized stores or made independently, connecting parts of lumber together with nails or screws.

Note: Frame construction using bonded lumber is considered stronger than one made from solid wood.

Figure 1. Options for constructing a wooden greenhouse frame from beams and old window frames

To prevent the wooden frame from starting to rot, it is treated with an antiseptic solution of iron or copper sulfate. The lower part of the beams, which will be in the ground, is additionally treated with resin, bitumen or simply fired blowtorch. To reduce the viscosity of heated bitumen, kerosene, diesel fuel or used engine oil are added to it. Examples of wooden frame construction are shown in Figure 1.

In addition to wooden building materials, metal pipes are also used for the construction of greenhouses (Figure 2). This frame is more durable, and its elements can be connected to each other using bolts, rivets and welding. Metal carcass It can be easily made into the desired shape and size, but it also has some disadvantages:

Metal parts are susceptible to corrosion, so they need to be painted regularly;
A greenhouse made of metal holds the temperature worse due to the increased thermal conductivity of the metal;
Condensation that accumulates on the surface of pipes can fall on plant leaves, causing disease.

Aluminum frames are considered the best: they are not subject to corrosion, are durable and lightweight, but are much more expensive than steel or wooden ones.

Figure 2. Drawings for the construction of a frame made of metal profiles

Collect metal parts the frame can be used using steel or aluminum corners, and to connect wooden ones, wire, screws, nails or any other fastening materials are used. Asbestos cement sheets are used to strengthen the walls. They can also be used to form beds.

DIY greenhouse: choosing a shape

The greenhouse can be given almost any shape - it all depends on your taste and construction skills. But arched, gable and single-pitch structures are considered the most convenient to use (Figure 3).

Let's take a closer look at the features of common types of greenhouses:

Arched has the shape of an arc. This design ensures uniform distribution of light, and in winter snow will not accumulate on the roof of the room, which means the structure will not deform.
Single-pitch, as a rule, is attached to the wall of another room. This design is inexpensive and easy to install, and also saves free space on the site. In addition, if it is attached to a residential building, it will not need to be heated in winter. However, it should be borne in mind that snow from the roof will have to be manually cleared regularly so that the structure frame does not deform.
Gable- the most popular form. Its roof has the shape of a triangle, and a large inner space allows you not only to grow vegetables and herbs, but also to arrange a corner for relaxation.

Figure 3. Main types of structures: arched, lean-to and gable

In addition, greenhouses are divided into types depending on the season of use. They can be winter and summer. Winter ones must be heated, and for their construction it is necessary to install a foundation. In addition, to cover winter options use reliable materials - glass or polycarbonate, while summer ones can be covered with thick plastic film.

How to cover a greenhouse

For a long time, glass was used to cover greenhouses and greenhouses. Its main advantage is that glass allows infrared rays and delays ultraviolet radiation, providing optimal conditions for growing plants. In addition, glass has low thermal conductivity and guarantees support for the desired temperature regime(Figure 4).

Figure 4. Basic glazing methods

To let the glass through sunlight, they need to be washed regularly, and the strength of this material ensures that the structure will withstand even strong gusts of wind.

As a rule, greenhouses are covered with sheet window glass up to 4 mm thick. For this, you can use either transparent glass or glass with a slight bluish or greenish tint.

Note: For glazing, you can use not only smooth, but also wavy glass. It is believed that it scatters the sun's rays better and does not prevent plant burns.

But the use of corrugated glass is only advisable in large industrial greenhouses. It makes no sense to use it for the construction of ordinary greenhouses on standard garden plots, since the properties of these glasses are approximately the same. But it is important to consider that when using wavy glass, it is laid with the smooth side outward and the corrugated side inward. But glass also has several serious disadvantages:

May crack under the influence of high, low temperatures and directed impact;
It is heavy and requires the construction of high-strength frames;
It is quite expensive and is often replaced with cheaper plastic film.

Transparent polyethylene film - quite durable practical material, which can be easily cut into sheets the right size and fasten with a regular iron or soldering iron. There are several ways to connect film sheets (Figure 5):

Place the edge of one panel over the other, cover it with newspaper and go over it with an iron or soldering iron tip;
Clamp two strips of film between the metal plates so that their edges protrude about 1 cm above the metal. The edges of the film must be melted with a soldering iron.

Figure 5. Technology of covering with polyethylene film

The film can also be secured with glue, having previously degreased the surface. The glued surface must be heated with an iron. Modern industry produces special glue designed for gluing films. Such connections are durable and resistant to moisture or elevated temperatures. Superglue can be used to repair damaged film coating by attaching patches to the area of the tear.

To sew fabrics together with threads, the parts are overlapped. A paper spacer is placed between the seam, and the stitches are kept sparse. Despite the practical value of film coating, this material has some disadvantages:

Loses transparency and throughput when exposed to ultraviolet radiation;
Cracks in the cold;
Torn by strong gusts of wind;
Condensation forms on the inside of the film, which drips onto the plants and can cause disease.

There are several types of polyethylene film, which differ in performance characteristics:

Unstabilized It is light in weight and quite thick. In addition, it has high ductility and transparency, and can easily withstand elevated temperatures. Transmits up to 80% of thermal and infrared radiation (Figure 6).
Stabilized hydrophilic the film has antistatic properties. Thanks to this, practically no dust settles on the surface of the film and the material remains transparent for a long time.
Heat retaining antistatic hydrophilic the film has a slight yellowish tint. It has low thermal conductivity and retains heat indoors longer. In addition, it prevents overheating during the day, ensuring a stable microclimate and temperature regime.
Antistatic hydrophilic The film is similar in properties and appearance to heat-retaining film, but additionally has antistatic properties and does not become covered with dust.
Stabilized reinforced The film is made of mesh, which increases the density of the film and makes it more wind resistant. Despite the fact that this material allows less sunlight to pass through, it retains heat well.
Copolymer ethylene vinyl acetate hydrophilic the film has low weight, high strength and low thermal conductivity.

Figure 6. Types of polyethylene film for covering greenhouses

Non-woven fabrics can also be used for coating. transparent materials(for example, biofilm or agril). They are softer, allow enough light and air to pass through, but are not able to retain heat. Most often they are used to create additional shelters for plants, simply by covering them with non-woven materials.

Glazing

First of all, you need to make a wooden frame, treat it with an antiseptic and make grooves into which glass can then be inserted. The glass should not be cut exactly to size, but leave a gap of about 2-3 mm in the frame, since glass expands when heated.

Greenhouse glazing is carried out according to the following rules:

Parts of the required size are cut out with a glass cutter;
The glass is inserted overlapping, from bottom to top;
The upper windows should slightly cover the lower ones to prevent rainwater from getting inside. It is important not to overlap too much (10-15 mm will be enough), since dirt will accumulate in the gap between the glasses and the transparency of the coating will decrease.

To attach glass to a wooden frame, use special nails, putty and glazing beads. The putty helps improve the sealing of the room.

Installation of glass into the frame is carried out as follows:

A layer of putty is applied to the grooves of the frame;
Glass is placed on it. You need to press it lightly so that some of the putty comes out and fills the space between the frame and the glass;
The glass is secured with nails, and another layer of putty is applied along the grooves, which will help strengthen the next glass.

If the glass breaks in the future and needs to be removed from the frame old layer putty, use a chisel, knife or special solution. The putty can be successfully replaced by any sealing mixture or rubber gaskets. When using spacers, small pieces of rubber are first placed in the grooves, then glass is inserted and glazing beads are attached. This method of glazing is simpler, but it is important to consider that rubber does not provide complete sealing, and cold air will penetrate inside. You will learn more about greenhouse glazing in the video.

Film coating

Depending on the design of the building, the film can be stretched directly onto its frame or additional ones can be made wooden frames and tighten them before installation. Sometimes a combined covering method is used: the roof is covered with film-covered frames, and the side elements of the frame are simply covered (Figure 7).

Note: Attaching the film to the frame is much easier and faster, but in the future this coating wears out much faster.

In addition, if the material breaks, it is much easier to replace it on one frame than on the frame of the entire greenhouse.

All frame elements must be located in the same plane so that the material fits tightly to them;
Before covering, you need to cut the film into sheets, leaving a gap of 10-15 mm and secure them to the frame with pushpins;
For more secure fastening, it is better to use copper or aluminum nails. It is not recommended to drive nails directly into the film, as this may damage the material or reduce its sealing level. It is better to use a thin wooden strip or pieces of film folded in half. They are placed under each nail.

Figure 7. Technology of covering with polyethylene film

It is better to cover the frame with film in calm weather. This is important because you need to choose the optimal degree of tension. If it is stretched too tightly, temperature changes can damage it, and if the tension level is too loose, the film will fray and tear in the wind.

Additionally, it is necessary to install slats in the roof spans so that the film does not sag and is not damaged. For these purposes, you can use not only wooden slats, but also a mesh of wire or fishing line.

A double layer of film will help improve sealing. Attach first old material, and on top of it - a new one and fasten the two layers together.

Despite the high strength of modern film, it can be damaged in places of contact with metal. Therefore, all metal parts and parts of the film that will come into contact with them must be processed oil paint. The author of the video explains the recommendations for covering a greenhouse with film.

Use of polycarbonate

Cellular polycarbonate is one of the most popular coating materials. Despite the high cost of polycarbonate, it is much lighter than glass and stronger than film, so the service life of the finished greenhouse will be quite long.

Among the advantages of polycarbonate as a covering for a greenhouse, it is worth highlighting:

High resistance to physical and mechanical stress;
Long service life without loss of coating transparency;
The low weight of the material eliminates the need to build a heavy frame;
Resistant to high temperatures, combustion and toxic substances.

It should be borne in mind that polycarbonate has certain operational features that must be taken into account during construction. Thus, under the influence of high temperatures, the material expands, therefore, to create a thermal gap, the sheets are attached to each other along with a rubber gasket. In addition, it is advisable not to clean the finished sheets of dirt with sharp objects, so as not to accidentally damage the coating, and special fittings will be needed to install the sheets.

How to make frames, doors, transoms

Transoms, frames and doors that are used for service and ventilation can be glazed or covered with film. They may consist of one or more cross bars, crossed slats or cells.

The design and size of doors and frames depend on the type of greenhouse and its size. It is important that frames with a large number of cells are quite difficult to manufacture, and they do not have high strength. Optimal size the frame is 130-150 x 70-80 cm with cells measuring 60-80 x 30-50 cm. The size is selected in accordance with the overall size of the greenhouse frame. An example of making a transom for a greenhouse is shown in Figure 8.

Frames, doors and transoms are made from square-section wooden slats, which are additionally processed with a planer. The corners are tied or connected with nails, screws or glue. Metal corners provide additional strength to the structure.

Figure 8. Drawing and example of manufacturing a transom for a greenhouse

Frame bonding with glue will be very strong if you use synthetic resin glue. They are not susceptible to fungus and moisture. However, it is important to consider that when gluing the parts, they must be dry.

When making frames, you need to determine in advance what type of coating you will use. For glazed greenhouses, grooves need to be made in the frames, but if the structure is covered with film, they will not be needed. In order not to make grooves, you can simply attach slats of a smaller cross-section to the finished frame.

It is also necessary to mark places for attaching the hinges. Try to drill the holes for the hinges to the same depth so that the greenhouse can be tightly closed.

Today, summer residents have a wide selection of materials for covering greenhouses. On the one hand, this allows you to choose one that will meet all the gardener’s requirements, on the other hand, it has become quite difficult to decide on a purchase. Previously, plastic film was used to cover the greenhouse, so no questions arose. Now the range is so diverse that it is necessary to thoroughly study all the features and disadvantages of the covering material before choosing the best one.

Polyethylene film

Polyethylene film is still in demand today due to its low cost and availability. And it’s not scary that it lasts no more than one season, but it:

easy to install;
reliably protects garden crops from morning frosts and winds;
maintains the required temperature and humidity in the greenhouse.

When choosing a polyethylene film as a covering material, purchase a white one - it will not heat up in the sun, and therefore will last much longer. Don't worry about the thickness of the material. Even the most durable film will not last longer than one season, and its destruction does not depend on operating conditions. Therefore, buying a thick coating entails unreasonable expenses, nothing more.

Polyethylene film is an ideal and practical option for summer residents who plan to use a greenhouse for one season.

Reinforced film

Progress does not stand still, so ordinary polyethylene has been replaced by new coatings that, combining all its advantages, also have additional advantages. One of these is reinforced film, which has heat-retaining and light-transforming properties.

Externally, the reinforced film looks like a fishing net with cells filled with polyethylene. This film is more durable, elastic and resistant to external damage.

The peculiarity of the reinforced coating is that the thickness of the cells and threads of the frame can be different. How smaller size cells, the denser the film.

In any case, regardless of the manufacturer and density of the film, its service life does not exceed three years.

Choose reinforced film with mini-holes in the cells. It has good ventilation rates, and therefore your plants in a greenhouse with such a shelter will be more comfortable and warmer.

Reinforced film should be chosen by gardeners who plan to use the greenhouse for more than one season.

PVC film

Polyvinyl chloride film looks like polyethylene. However, it has completely different characteristics. PVC film does not produce the characteristic rustling sound of cellophane and is more dense.

As a covering for a greenhouse, polyvinyl chloride is good because:

provides high light transmittance;
perfectly resists harmful infrared radiation;
does not allow the greenhouse to cool down at night, which means the plants will be warm.

However, despite such obvious advantages, summer residents rarely use it as a covering for a greenhouse, since it cannot withstand frosts below 15 degrees. Considering the peculiarities of the Russian climate, such low frost resistance is clearly not enough. Another disadvantage of PVC film is that it attracts dust, which prevents sunlight from entering the greenhouse.

If you decide to purchase polyvinyl chloride film for a greenhouse, know that its service life is 8 years, but only on condition that it is removed at the end of each season.

Cellular polycarbonate

Many gardeners, when choosing which material is best for a greenhouse, give preference to cellular polycarbonate. And this is quite reasonable. This covering material combines the best advantages of glass and polyethylene, namely:

provides excellent thermal insulation;
transmits sunlight well;
reliably protects against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation;
perfectly withstands gusts of wind, climatic conditions and shock loads, which guarantees a long service life;
lightweight and easy to install.

You can find polycarbonate on sale in different color variations, various thickness and size.

Polycarbonate greenhouses are ideal for both seasonal growing of vegetables and year-round crops.

However, covering material is not without its drawbacks. The first and, perhaps, the main one is the cost - it is high. Of course, if you take into account the service life of the material and its advantages, the price for experienced gardeners is quite reasonable. But for novice gardeners who are just learning the basics of growing garden crops, it is difficult to decide on such an expensive purchase.

In an effort to spend less money, many summer residents purchase inexpensive polycarbonate from Chinese manufacturers. However, despite the fact that the Chinese economy has made a huge leap forward in last years, it cannot boast of success in the production of polycarbonate. Therefore, it is better to give preference to higher quality products or purchase another covering material.

The most the best manufacturers polycarbonate are considered Israel (Polygal), Germany (Palram), England (Breet Nartin), as well as domestic producers(Polygal East, Novattro). These brands have proven themselves well in practice in the harsh Russian climate, so they are highly popular, especially since manufacturers offer a wide range of products.

The second disadvantage of polycarbonate is that when building a greenhouse it is necessary to take into account its properties and change its dimensions when heating and cooling. In addition, it is important to choose the right thickness of polycarbonate. Material 4 mm thick is not suitable for arranging a greenhouse, as it has low thermal insulation characteristics. And a thickness of 8-10 mm is more suitable for industrial winter greenhouses.

Agrofibre

A relatively new covering material, which is offered to gardeners by numerous manufacturers, is agrofibre.

Agrofibre is a non-woven material made from polypropylene, polyamide, polyester and other fiber-forming materials.

Advantages of non-woven material for covering greenhouses:

It transmits the sun's rays and moisture well and protects against harmful ultraviolet radiation thanks to a UV stabilizer.
A greenhouse made of non-woven material heats up quickly and cools slowly (thermal insulating properties), which ensures low temperature fluctuations in the structure.
Agrofilm provides a special microclimate in the greenhouse: during heavy rainfall, excess moisture is not absorbed into the coating, and during drought, moisture does not leave the soil for a long time.
Agrofibre is convenient to use, easy to remove and wash, and does not crack.
The service life of non-woven material, depending on operating conditions, is 3-6 years.

Agrofibre is preferred by many gardeners, due to the fact that this material has excellent moisture permeability and ensures good air circulation. As a result, the owners of an agrofiber greenhouse have much less hassle with watering and ventilation.

In addition, non-woven material frees the summer resident from the puzzle of additional heating of the greenhouse - it will always maintain constant humidity and temperature. And the rapid ripening of fruits and long growing season are a pleasant bonus.

Tension awning

A rather unusual covering for a greenhouse is a stretch awning. It is made from non-woven materials. The most famous are such types of awnings as “Acrylic”, “Lutrasil”, “Thermoselect”. Tension awnings made of non-woven materials have a wide range of applications, so before purchasing them it is important to carefully study the characteristics of the product.

The advantage of this coating is that it heats up well and cools down slowly, which means that the seedlings will be warm at night. However, the awning is not designed for severe frosts and is only suitable for warm weather. In addition, it is not particularly popular among summer residents due to its high cost.

If you have already purchased an awning to cover a greenhouse, protect it from the influence of the external environment: when strong winds and precipitation, cover it on top with a polyethylene film, and in warm and sunny weather, remove it. This will extend the life of the coating.

This article lists the most common covering materials for greenhouses, ranging from inexpensive and most common to innovative and, accordingly, more expensive. Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each of them, as well as calculating your requirements and financial capabilities, you can easily determine which covering material is better in your case.

How are greenhouses covered? There is an incredible amount of materials, but each gardener has his own preferences regarding the quality, cost and, of course, the characteristics of the canvas. For quite a long time, glass, polyethylene, and in rare cases, polycarbonate were used to decorate greenhouses, and now you can find coatings such as non-woven covering material in almost every garden.

Non-woven material for greenhouses

Non-woven covering material has many advantages, which is why it is so popular today.

Advantages:

It is capable of transmitting moisture and sun rays, but the canvas contains a certain stabilizer, which is a component of the raw material from which a material is created that can prevent the penetration of harmful UV rays. It is the harmful rays that cause lasting damage to plants.
Greenhouses made of covering fabric heat up slowly and cool down over a long period of time, so the temperature inside the structure remains at the optimal level throughout the day.
Under such material, the soil cannot dry out, even in dry weather, and during heavy rains, excess moisture is absorbed into the greenhouse cover.
Removing and tensioning the fabric is not difficult and does not take too much time. Due to the high strength of the material, it cannot tear even under strong mechanical stress.

On average, the service life of nonwoven material is 3-6 years.

Features of working with non-woven material

There are some features when working with non-woven material that you should familiarize yourself with before purchasing the product and starting to install it on the structure. Experienced gardeners have a sufficient number of tricks that help extend the service life, as well as make the material more practical and convenient to use.

Secrets of operation:

By sewing a fabric strip along the central part of the fabric, as well as supplying it with bandages, the process of stringing the fabric onto the frame will be simpler and will not cause difficulty. To do this, you do not need to use a special tool, but only the skills to tie strong knots.
To reduce the sailing effect, you can make wooden slats along the edges of the canvas.
If you combine non-woven fabric and polyethylene film, you can significantly increase the service life of the material. However, it is worth remembering that the film does not allow moisture to pass through, which means that you only need to cover the second polyethylene layer in rainy weather.
If the structure is arched, then you don’t have to remove the canvas for the winter. It is worth noting that in this case the service life of the material will be significantly reduced.

When non-woven fabric can no longer be used to cover an entire greenhouse, pieces of it are used to insulate seedlings during seedlings.

What is better for a greenhouse: fabric, polycarbonate or film

What coating should be used to finish greenhouses so that plants have ideal conditions for germination and development? What to choose: woven or non-woven material? This is exactly the question that gardeners ask themselves when faced with the construction of greenhouses and greenhouses. The choice of paintings today is huge and it depends on various factors, for example, cost, characteristics or external data.

Types of coating and their characteristics:

Silicate glass has excellent light transmittance, as well as an unlimited service life, but it is more expensive, weight and the material is very fragile, which makes it less in demand. For greenhouses, it is worth using glass 4 mm thick.
Cellular polycarbonate is much stronger than the previous material, and it is also resistant to various temperature changes and ultraviolet radiation. It is elastic and can be used to finish a variety of designs. The thickness of polycarbonate is 6-16mm. In terms of service life, it is the most durable, since the canvas can be used for up to 20 years.
Polyethylene film is the most available material and is an excellent way to shelter plants from rain and wind. Unfortunately, the canvas is not durable and can be deformed with the slightest mechanical impact. Film is usually purchased for one season.
Acrylic canvases are rare for vegetable gardens, but the material has excellent strength and elasticity. There is no limitation on service life.
PVC sheets are an innovation in covering greenhouses and small greenhouses. This fabric has excellent resistance to mechanical stress, temperature changes, and harmful UV rays.
Non-woven covering material can be used for up to 6 seasons; it perfectly allows moisture to pass through and prevents the penetration of harmful rays of the sun.

Under such fabric, the plants will be in an optimal microclimate, which means it will be an ideal option for growing a rich and high-quality harvest.

How to choose covering fabric for a greenhouse

Now many gardeners have to deal with a lot of outlandish names that are written on the labels of various covering materials. At first it may seem that this is just a set of letters, but each non-woven fabric has its own distinctive features, cost and original appearance.

It is worth noting that, in general, non-woven fabric differs in density, each type of which is suitable for a specific type of plant:

17-30 g/m2 - suitable for protecting plants planted outside greenhouses from ultraviolet rays and frost, which have a detrimental effect on seedlings. Thanks to the excellent permeability of essential resources such as water, light and heat, plants are in an ideal microclimate in which they will perfectly develop, grow and bear fruit. The excellent quality of such a canvas is that it can protect plantings from birds and insects or, in other words, from major pests. Material with this density is usually used for covering shrubs, berries, vegetables and fruits, as well as ornamental plants that grow in open ground.
42-60 g/m2 is excellent for constructing a greenhouse on arcs, even for winter structures.
60 g/m2 is suitable for beginner gardeners. It has a lot of positive aspects, which significantly pays for its cost. In the manufacture of the canvas, a special stabilizer is used to prevent the penetration of harmful UV rays under the canvas. The material is strong, durable and wear-resistant. Due to the presence of carbon in the fabric, the fabric has a black color.

This color helps absorb sunlight and gives a large number of heat inside the structure. In other words, the plants are warm and do not fade under the influence of the sun. Weeds die in the absence of sufficient light. Such woven material perfectly helps to grow a rich and high-quality harvest.

Selection rules: non-woven covering material for greenhouses (video)

Making a greenhouse by choosing such fabric is not difficult. And the effect will be simply magnificent if you choose the right density.

How to cover a greenhouse: design options

In spring it is time to plant seedlings and sow seeds in the ground. The sooner this is done, the sooner the shoots will sprout and the harvest will ripen.

Therefore, we need to take care of creating comfortable conditions for plants. Buy or make your own greenhouses and hotbeds in which young plants can be protected from bad weather.

Greenhouse film

Covering materials have long been used to protect seedlings and crops. Nowadays there are more and more of them and it is not easy to figure out which of them are intended for what.

Indoor plants are not afraid of short-term spring frosts, wind and hail. But it all depends on the correct choice of the material itself.

What are the types of covering materials?

Covering material for greenhouses

Glass, polycarbonate and materials consisting of non-woven polypropylene fiber are used as coverings for greenhouses and greenhouses: Spunbond, Lutrasil, Agril, Agrospan.

This is a new word in the market of covering materials; they have improved qualities compared to conventional film. But not all of them are intended for greenhouses and greenhouses.

Their quality depends on the use of a UV stabilizer, and strength, functionality and durability depend on density. They serve to protect seedlings after planting them in a greenhouse and promote rapid rooting and growth. If you familiarize yourself with the properties of all materials, you can decide what is better to cover the greenhouse.

Comparative characteristics of film and cloth Agrospan

Covering option for greenhouses - non-woven material agrospan

Thanks to its qualities, Agrospan creates a special microclimate in the greenhouse and is superior to conventional film in many respects:

Permits moisture and sunlight in small doses, thereby protecting plants from drying out;
Maintains a stable temperature and reduces its fluctuations to a minimum;
Does not break when folded, is easy to clean and does not fade;
Strong and durable, can be used for 4-5 seasons;
It protects plants from frost down to -3 degrees, and if you cover the greenhouse with it in two layers, then down to -5.

The properties of conventional greenhouse film, the low price of which compensates for the shortcomings, are as follows:

Transparent, transmits light well;
Does not allow moisture to pass through;
Suitable for temporary shelters;
Ages quickly and is destroyed when exposed to low temperatures;
Poor transmission infrared radiation, therefore does not protect against temperature changes.

However, thanks to new scientific developments and modern technologies improved types of polyethylene film appeared.

They are used as a covering for greenhouses and greenhouses. This is very popular material for the needs of gardeners and gardeners.

Types of film coatings

Polyethylene film for plant protection

Polyethylene film is the most famous material used by gardeners and gardeners. It is produced in rolls and sleeves 3, 4 and 6 m wide, of different thicknesses. Gardeners have big choice how to cover a greenhouse.

What types of film coatings are there:

Reinforced - a fiberglass mesh inserted into it makes the film stronger;
“Breathable” - it allows moisture to pass through, since it has tiny holes through which air passes;
Colored light-converting - has special additives that convert ultraviolet radiation into infrared. Accelerates plant growth and protects from frost;
Air-bubble - has high thermal protection and mechanical strength.

The film helps preserve fertilizers in the soil and does not disrupt its structure and integrity. Helps earlier flowering and ripening of fruits, retains heat and even protects against bird attacks on the crop. A greenhouse with a film coating is easy to make with your own hands.

Note! The film is sold in black and white. It is laid on the ground inside the greenhouse with the white side up. It reflects the sun's rays, and black prevents weeds from growing.

What other types of coverage exist?

Photo of polycarbonate for greenhouses and greenhouses

It is not advisable to cover small greenhouses with glass. This is a fragile and heavy material. It transmits ultraviolet radiation, which can have a detrimental effect on plants.

In addition, glass greenhouses are difficult to install and there are problems with sealing. Imperfect glass was replaced by more quality material– polycarbonate.

It began to be used as a covering for a greenhouse relatively recently. It can be cellular or monolithic.

Its popularity is growing faster every year.

The properties of modern greenhouse polycarbonate, thanks to which it has replaced glass, are as follows:

Durability - does not crack or break;
Convenient for transportation - can be rolled up;
Transmits ultraviolet radiation necessary for plants;
Plastic and non-flammable;
Environmentally friendly;
Durable;
Easy;
Not afraid of hail and wind.

The instructions for assembling a polycarbonate greenhouse tell you what tools can be used to cut it and how to ensure sealing. Often stationary greenhouses are made in summer cottages. Previously, they were covered with glass or film, but with the advent of polycarbonate, there is a desire to replace the old coating with a new one.

This is quite possible and does not present any difficulties. It is easy to mount sheets of the required size on an old, strong frame of any shape.

How to cover an old greenhouse with polycarbonate correctly:

Calculate the amount of material, buy it with a reserve;
Prepare necessary tools, it can be easily cut with an ordinary knife;
Self-tapping screws for fastening and rubber bands and profiles for sealing.

Polycarbonate sheets are attached to the greenhouse frame with thermal washers - this is a plastic washer on a leg, the length of which is equal to the thickness of the panel. With their help, reliable installation is carried out.

Moreover, modern thermal washers have rubber gaskets, which prevent moisture and dirt from penetrating inside the greenhouse.

Thermal washer

A large selection of different materials will help you decide how to cover the greenhouse. The main thing is to create all the conditions for the growth and development of plants.

Conclusion

Greenhouse structures in the garden area allow you to protect plants from early spring to late autumn. Greenhouses, large and small, fit organically into garden design thanks to modern, reliable, functional and beautiful coatings. The video in this article will tell you how to choose them correctly.

Covering material for greenhouses: variety of types, advantages and disadvantages of each

Every novice gardener who decides to set up a greenhouse or build a greenhouse is faced with the problem of choosing a covering material. What is more suitable for your climatic conditions, traditional or non-woven covering material for greenhouses?

In this article we will try to talk as fully as possible about each type of covering material, its application, advantages and disadvantages.

To grow a crop, you need to protect the seedlings and fruits from bad weather and pests

Polyethylene film

Photo of polyethylene film in rolls

Our grandparents had little choice of covering material: although polyethylene film was considered to be in short supply, the wooden frames of greenhouses wrapped in it stood on almost every site.

And it doesn’t matter that polyethylene only served for a season - the price of the material and ease of installation were not its only advantages:

firstly, the seedlings were securely hidden from gusts of wind and morning frosts;
secondly, the temperature and humidity in the greenhouse were higher than outside.

It would seem, why reinvent the wheel? But no, progress has also affected this area of agriculture, and new coatings have replaced unstabilized polyethylene.

Adding special impurities to raw materials makes it possible to obtain a covering material for greenhouses with specified properties: light-transforming, heat-retaining and hydrophilic films; the use of polyvinyl chloride in production extends the service life of the coating to eight seasons; reinforcing mesh – gives strength, elasticity, resistance to tearing.

Reinforcing mesh is visible to the naked eye

Be that as it may, polyethylene film of all types is still found in greenhouses and greenhouses, that is, it is in demand on the market.

Glass

IN Soviet time the glass greenhouse was almost a luxury item - the neighbors looked enviously over the fence and mentally calculated the cost of the structure.

Glass greenhouse - in the past the envy of neighbors

Indeed, glass coped with the task of protecting plants from unfavorable atmospheric phenomena (heavy rainfall, fog, dew) perfectly. The light conductivity of this material is much higher than polyethylene, but in terms of thermal insulation properties it is inferior to film.

In addition, the glass walls of the greenhouse are fragile and susceptible to cracking under minor mechanical stress, but what can we say about large hail accompanied by heavy winds?! Replacing the paintings cost the owners a pretty penny.

Cellular polycarbonate

This expensive covering material, which is rapidly conquering the market, has absorbed all the best properties of polyethylene and glass.

Cellular polycarbonate is available in all colors of the spectrum

Advantages of polycarbonate:

excellent thermal insulation properties;
high light transmittance - up to 84% (for comparison: this figure for glass is 100%) and at the same time reliable protection plants from UV rays;
impact strength, resistance to snow and wind loads, guaranteed long service life;
simplicity and ease of installation of a greenhouse made of cellular polycarbonate.

Polycarbonate is produced in sheets up to 12 meters in length and a little more than 2 meters in width. Sheet thickness varies from 4 to 32 mm.

Greenhouses are traditionally built in white

Like any other covering material, cellular polycarbonate is not without its drawbacks:

High price. Of course, if you take into account the service life of the material, the price of the issue will not seem prohibitively high, but it can be difficult for a novice gardener taking his first steps in the field of agriculture to decide on an expensive purchase;
When building a greenhouse, it is imperative to take into account the properties of the material, change the dimensions during cooling and heating: leave a tiny gap for expansion and securely fasten it in the grooves in case of contraction during cold weather.

Greenhouses made of polycarbonate are equally well suited for both seasonal growing of vegetables and year-round strawberries or greenery.

What is agrofibre

Remembering the love of pensioners for plastic film and taking into account its shortcomings, agricultural technologists have proposed a new covering non-woven material for greenhouses and hotbeds - Spunbond.

The entire canvas is covered with tiny holes (pores)

Spunbond (agrofibre) is made from fiber-forming polymers: polyamide, polypropylene, polyester and others.

Two types of agrofilm are produced:

black (for mulching the soil, insulating seedlings in winter or protecting them from weeds);
white (most often used for covering greenhouses).

Advantages of non-woven material for greenhouse farming

The covering material allows moisture and sunlight to pass through, but thanks to the UV stabilizer included in the raw material, harmful rays do not cause damage to the seedlings;
A greenhouse made of spunbond covering material heats up slowly and cools down for a long time, i.e. temperature fluctuations during the day are not large;
A special microclimate is created under the agrofilm: the soil does not dry out during drought, and during heavy rains, excess moisture ceases to be absorbed into the coating;
Spunbond is easy to remove, clean, and folds compactly without cracking;
The service life of the material is from 3 to 6 seasons.

Agrofibre is produced in various densities from 17 to 60 g/sq.m. For greenhouses it is recommended to use the densest material.

Features of working with agrofibre

The instructions for covering a greenhouse with agrofibre are similar to the sequence of work with polyethylene film.

If you sew a fabric strip with ties in the center of the spunbond fabric, it will be very convenient to “mount” the covering on the frame. You don’t even need special tools for this; the ability to tie knots will be enough.
To reduce the sailing effect, it is still advisable to upholster the canvas wooden slats outside;
Spunbond performed well in combination with polyethylene film, provided that only the roof was covered with it. Since the coating easily allows water to pass through and ensures the circulation of air masses in the greenhouse, the owners have much less hassle with watering and ventilation;
With an arched greenhouse design, the covering material does not need to be removed for the winter. However, manufacturers recommend not to practice this in order to extend the service life of the spunbond;
“Used” agrofibre, no longer suitable for covering greenhouses, can be given a second life as a covering material to protect seedlings or perennial flowers from snow and frost.

Now the tree is not afraid of frost and wind

As you can see, spunbond non-woven covering material frees summer residents from the need for constant presence in their garden plot, daily ventilation, watering and weeding.

You don’t even have to worry about additional heating of the greenhouse - it will already maintain a more or less constant temperature and humidity level. And another pleasant bonus will be the accelerated ripening of fruits and the extended growing season of plants.

Summary

We tried to cover the range of covering materials as fully as possible:

from the most common and budget ones;
to those that have recently appeared on the market and, accordingly, are more expensive.

They talked about the advantages of each coating and did not forget to point out minor disadvantages.

You can even grow watermelons in a greenhouse - the main thing is to choose the right covering material

The traditional video in this article contains several more useful tips from an experienced owner the right choice and the use of covering material.

Choosing covering material for greenhouses: a comparative review of 4 options

Thanks to rapid technological progress, the average gardener now has something in his arsenal: these are the latest automatic systems heating and watering, and self-opening windows, and “smart sensors,” and even a miraculously warm floor made of thin film. AND new Age Covering material for greenhouses has also not been spared - today we can already forget about heavy old windows and thin cloudy film, from which large and small greenhouses were massively built due to the lack of a more affordable option. And even in cold Siberia today they are successfully grown in conditions closed ground heat-loving plants.
And now, due to the availability of all the necessary components in modern stores, absolutely every owner can build a good-quality greenhouse on his site - regardless of where he lives and what kind of terrain there is. The only thing you have to work hard on is the calculations. And the very first thing you need to decide on initially is the material with which you can cover the greenhouses.

Polyethylene film - is it that simple?

At the end of the 90s, when the market was actively forming in our country due to unemployment, reinforced film began to be persistently advertised among summer residents. It was praised for its extraordinary strength and particularly long service life - up to 6 years. Unlike conventional film, reinforced film is more sun-resistant, dense, and warm. And, as it turned out, this covering material really exceeded all expectations: even today, for the most thrifty owners, it can last as long as 8 years. It is only important to follow some rules: protect the film on the folds where it touches the frame, get rid of sharp corners and do not stretch it too much.

But simple plastic film is not a thing of the past. Even though it sometimes serves only one season, it is cheap for its owners and copes with its functions quite well. Thus, the ability to transmit light even for a two-layer film is 80%. And some even think that this is bad - it is much better, supposedly, for the material to pass through 100%. In fact, it is not at all better - with too much light, greenhouse plants become too elongated in growth, and the fruits are then not pleasing to the eye. But 80% is enough for the tops to be exactly what they should be. These are the tricky moments, so never throw away the good old traditions and experience - they can come in handy!

Article on the topic: Film for greenhouses and greenhouses: a comparative review of 6 options

Cellular polycarbonate is the leader in sales of the modern market

Why do most summer residents still prefer cellular polycarbonate? It's all about durability - you only need to build such a structure once, and you won't have to think about repairs anymore. All that remains is to grow and enjoy the harvest.

Cellular polycarbonate is indeed much warmer than window glass - even with a thickness of only 8 mm, it retains heat inside the greenhouse twice as well, and a thickness of 16 mm is comparable to triple glazing. For modern greenhouses, the material sold is cellular - i.e. with a cellular structure. It consists of an upper and lower layer, between which there are stiffening ribs. The sun's rays settle on the lower and upper leaves, but penetrate inside in different directions - dissipating, which is especially good for the growth of the future crop. Manufacturers also claim that it delays "hard" ultra-violet rays- precisely those that have a destructive effect on plants, but the “useful” ones are completely missed. Therefore, in such structures you can even sunbathe safely, without fear of getting sunburned - this will not happen.

According to its chemical structure, it is a polycondensation of diphenylolpropane with carbonic acid. And all derivatives of the latter are called carbonates - that’s where the famous name comes from.

To install polycarbonate, special aluminum fastening systems, profiles and other structures that can be ordered are traditionally used. But many summer residents are confused by the question of how exactly to fix polycarbonate - is it really possible to do without branded thermal washers or is it more rational to use self-tapping screws for corrugated sheets? Should the sheets be laid overlapping or should a special profile be used to connect them? To answer this question, let's look at the coefficient of thermal expansion - 0.068 mm for every meter per 1 degree. At first glance, this seems insignificant - but with a temperature difference from -20, as in Russia in winter, to +30 in summer, a six-meter sheet will change in size by exactly 34 mm, and this is already quite noticeable. And the self-tapping screw, which is always in place due to the almost complete absence of thermal expansion of the metal, will simply “break” an oval hole in the material. At the same time, proprietary washers with a diameter of more than 30 mm completely seal the holes and are designed for any thermal deformation invisible to the eye. Just pay attention when buying plastic thermal washers that after two years they become too fragile - due to lack of protection from ultraviolet radiation.

And finally, polycarbonate has high impact resistance - it withstands strong hail perfectly and even a thrown stone will not do much damage to it. That is why the manufacturer generously provides a 10-year guarantee for such covering material. And sheets can be bent, unlike glass - and that is why such different structures are built from them today. A real outlet for landscape designers!

Article on the topic: Which polycarbonate is better for a greenhouse - learning to choose

Awning as a shelter: obvious advantages or advertising?

Unusual options have also found their application - in some ways they are similar to foreign awnings, only their properties are slightly different. Nonwoven materials - Agril, Lutrasil, Thermoselect and others - are becoming more and more popular day by day. There are many such brands, and all of them are designed for multifunctional use.

But the closest attention should be paid to their qualities and properties so that it does not turn out that the plants subsequently lack some important light spectra, and the harvest turns out to be meager. In general, modern non-woven options retain heat well in a greenhouse and slowly release it at night. But they cannot save seedlings from frost, and like fabric, they can tear and cost a lot. The choice is yours!

If you nevertheless purchased such material, then during the rains be sure to cover it with ordinary plastic film, and then remove it: this way the non-fabric will last longer.

Glass – for the most hardworking gardeners

When arranging a greenhouse at your dacha, it is important to consider all the nuances, including choosing the right fabric for greenhouses. Not only the appearance of the structure, ease of maintenance and cost, but also the quantity and quality of the greenhouse crop will depend on this.

Covering material for greenhouses must be endowed with a number of characteristics: the ability to normally transmit sunlight, prevent ultraviolet radiation from entering, and ensure heat retention. There should be no condensation inside the structure; it must withstand the effects of wind and snow. Also, the covering material for a good home greenhouse should not tear or break, become cloudy over the years, or allow harmful microflora to form on the surface. It is easy to cut and attached to the frame, cleaned and is as cheap as possible.

We bring to your attention an overview of each of the five materials that can be used to create a reliable coating to protect greenhouses from external factors. Since an ideal fabric that combines all of the above characteristics has not yet been invented, any of the materials has its advantages and disadvantages.

Film

This inexpensive option, which has been popular for many years. It was this material that farmers used to cover greenhouses back in the middle of the last century. There are reinforced and hydrophobic films on the market.

Advantages and disadvantages

Reinforced film has increased strength and a longer service life than regular film. Its disadvantages include the accumulation of condensation inside the structure. Also, when using any type of film, a membrane effect is created, in which moisture and air are poorly permeable. This coating will last 1-3 seasons and cannot boast of high strength.

Shelter features

Covering a structure with film does not require much time or special knowledge. It is easy to work with, and its low weight and plasticity make it possible to use a lightweight frame for the greenhouse, for which you do not need to create a foundation. An alternative to hydrophobic would be to stretch a regular film onto the ceiling in a couple of layers with a gap (outside and inside the frame).

Glass

If 10 years ago such material, suitable for greenhouses, was expensive, then even now it has not become much cheaper. But in glass greenhouses, crops cannot be damaged by dew, fog, wind or snow.

Advantages and disadvantages

If you cover the structure with a glass “cover”, you can really achieve excellent light transmission, and you can also be sure of high thermal insulation. The glass retains heat well inside, since its thickness is about 4 mm. But such covering material, which can be used for a greenhouse, is expensive, has considerable weight, is fragile, periodically requires replacement, and is difficult to install.

Shelter features

Glass installation is specific and must be carried out by specialists. If a gardener plans to cover the structure with glass, he first needs to build it on a solid foundation and with a strong frame. Such “covers” are more often used for industrial rather than private greenhouses; they are convenient in terms of operation and maintenance. If the glass becomes dusty, it can be restored to transparency by simply washing it with a hose.

Cellular polycarbonate

When deciding how to cover a greenhouse, many choose modern cellular polycarbonate. It is produced in sheets with a thickness of 4 to 32 mm, a width of up to 2 m and a length of no more than 12 m. This is a successful tandem of glass and polyethylene, which has a high cost.

Advantages and disadvantages

If you cover the structure with such sheets, it will become thermally insulating, light transmission will be up to 84%, and its resistance to loads and possible damage will increase. Special brands are resistant to UV radiation and do not tend to become cloudy during use. Another advantage is the low weight of the sheets and ease of self-installation.

The design will not only be durable, but also beautiful, since products are offered in the market in different colors. Tinted stamps are also available. The service life of the sheets can be 10 years or more.

Disadvantages - high cost, decrease in the degree of light transmission during operation, tendency to deformation when heated or cooled.

Shelter features

Before covering the greenhouse, it is recommended to purchase sheets with a thickness of 6 mm. They bend easily and make it possible to create a durable arched greenhouse structure. Any variety is easy to cut, and no special knowledge is required to attach it to the frame. During the construction of greenhouses, it is better to protect the ends of the sheets from subsequent penetration of water using special plugs. There is also a need to create a solid frame.

Spunbond

Another option that can be used to cover a dacha structure is a non-fabric spunbond made from thin polymer fibers. It can be used to make a good cover for a greenhouse.

Advantages and disadvantages

It is valued for its ability to create a light regime suitable for the development of crops and excellent air and water permeability. Watering can be done directly over the top of such a non-woven shelter. The structure is protected from temperature changes, attacks by birds and insects, and is resistant to possible rupture and the influence of chemicals.

It is inexpensive, wear-resistant, not affected by fungus, does not rot, does not corrode, and is also environmentally friendly - safe for people and plants even with strong heat. Made with a skillful hand gardener, such cover will be endowed low level water absorption, and can also be used for several seasons.

When it rains, you will definitely have to lay polyethylene on top.

Shelter features

This is one of the best modern materials, which can be easily removed, cleaned and folded compactly, and is not prone to cracking. When installed, the canvas is perfectly cut, maintaining its integrity, and is convenient to use. There is no need for a foundation for the greenhouse; the supports can simply be buried in the ground; crossbars can also be omitted. For ease of fastening, it is recommended to sew, or rather, stitch, a strip of fabric with ties.

After removing, drying and cleaning, it is better to store the canvas in a dry and dark place.

Agrofibre

Available in densities from 17 to 60 gsm. m. For greenhouses, it is better to use the densest agrofibre, which can last 3-6 seasons. Manufacturers use polymers in production. It is customary to use black to mulch the soil and protect seedlings, and white for greenhouses.

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