The panels form the walls and roof of your greenhouse. In order for the greenhouse to effectively retain heat within its enclosure, these panels must be able to insulate its envelope from the external environment. In this way, heating costs can be kept within reasonable limits.
People who are looking to set up a greenhouse as a hobby should consider the characteristics of the panel material and check if it matches the needs of the plants to be grown in the greenhouse. It is also advisable to opt for an insulating and fireproof panel.
Different materials are available for greenhouse panels, and each material has its pros and cons. Glass, fiberglass and polycarbonate are best suited for greenhouse enthusiasts.
On the other hand, PVC panels are more popular with commercial greenhouse operators. However, PVC panels are not particularly durable and require frequent replacement.
Glass panels
Glass panels are very attractive in appearance. It is also easier to maintain as it is less prone to scratches. It also has a long lifespan unless subjected to an impact that could break the glass. Glass panels are a good choice from an aesthetic point of view. In addition to making the greenhouse look great, the glass panels transmit large amounts of light into the greenhouse.
On the other hand, the density of glass is very high compared to other sheet materials. If you choose glass panels, the foundation and frame must be strong enough to support their own weight. Moreover, since glass is also brittle and heavy, the installation of glass panels is very expensive. In this regard, professional assistance should be sought and precautions should be taken to avoid personal injury as well as property damage.
poly-carbonate
Although polycarbonate sheets are not as attractive as their glass counterparts, they are much more durable. Moreover, its insulating properties are also good, especially when used in double or triple sheet configuration. This allows the greenhouse to hold more heat inside, reducing heating costs. However, compared to glass, polycarbonate lacks transparency. As a result, sunlight penetrating through these panels is not as intense as in the case of glass.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass panels are strong, lightweight and unbreakable. However, high quality fiberglass should be chosen for the panels as poor quality is likely to discolour, reducing light penetration over time.
The resin coating in the case of fiberglass eventually wears away, causing dirt to build up between the fibers. Therefore, a new resin coating should be applied after approximately 15 years. If at the beginning the transparency is comparable to glass, it attenuates with time, in particular in the case of a fiberglass of poor quality.
PVC panels
Poly-carbonate or acrylic plastic both have heat saving properties as well as durable properties.
While acrylic does not change color, poly-carbonate usually yellows. Both materials are generally guaranteed for transparency for up to 10 years. These materials also have the advantage of being suitable for curved surfaces - poly-carbonate being the more bendable of the two materials.
The most suitable panel material will depend on your needs as well as the conditions of your location. In this regard, you should also consider your budget constraints. This best deal will only be what your pocket allows. your pocket allows.
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