by Kevin Bradley

Created on: April 20, 2010

Polycarbonate corrugated sheets or panels are used more frequently in the construction of hobby and commercial greenhouses. Polycarbonate is a lightweight material and highly versatile. It is strong and durable and competitively priced. It is not surprising to find many people opt to build their greenhouse using polycarbonate panels as opposed to traditional glass panels.

There are many advantages associated with polycarbonate for greenhouses. The main advantage for gardeners is that it reduces the overall running costs in summer and winter. In winter, the greater insulation provided reduces the heating cost. Similarly, in summer, the insulation helps regulate internal temperature better and helps prevent exposing plants to too much heat. This reduces the need for frequent watering to prevent soil drying out too quick.

You should ensure a UV-resistant coating is applied to all panels. This protects the panel and helps prevent discoloration. If you use untreated polycarbonate panels they will gradually turn yellow when exposed to the sun. This will impact on the amount of light penetrating your greenhouse and can result in increased running costs and less healthy plants.

Polycarbonate is weatherproof and unbreakable compared to glass. This will reduce the need to replace broken panels as it will easily withstand wayward footballs or tennis balls hitting against it. Again, this helps you control the temperature better than glass greenhouses. If a glass panel is broken it needs to be replaced quickly. This can be costly and can lead to erratic temperatures inside the greenhouse, especially during a harsh winter.

As polycarbonate is lightweight, it is much easier to work with. It is also safer to work with than glass. The polycarbonate panels normally come in pre-cut sizes suitable for the size of greenhouse you order. If you did need to replace a panel you could easily clip it into place. If it was a glass panel, you may need a glazier to fit it to ensure it is air-tight.

Polycarbonate also diffuses light better than glass. The ribbed design of polycarbonate sheets helps diffuse light more evenly. This helps prevent hot-spots and ensures a more regulated temperature throughout your greenhouse.

When it comes to the cost you will normally find one suitable for your budget. However, polycarbonate greenhouse kits are generally more affordable than glass greenhouse kits. They are generally not the cheapest available, but they do provide the best value in terms of insulation and durability. They typically last for over 15 years and this is normally enough time to easily recoup your investment.

Polycarbonate kits do come in a variety of different thicknesses. The thicker it is the more insulation it provides and the more expensive it is. If you need a lot of insulation you will need to buy the thicker sheets. However, it does depend on the reason you want the greenhouse.

Overall, as a relatively new material, polycarbonate for greenhouses has grown in popularity. This is due to is durability, cost, flexibility and insulation value. It compares favorably with all types of materials used and continues to provide value through lower maintenance costs than other materials.

Learn more about this author, Kevin Bradley.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.