Green house vs. Polytunnels? Which one should we use and why?

This is not an easy one to say who would be the winner, as both of these choices have advantages and disadvantages and normally an individual will decide which one they prefer, but this would be decided by what suits their growing purposes the best, let's look at some facts.

Your growing requirements will determine the outcome, as the cost to upsize from one size to another, or even to replace will impact which of these products is more cost effective, and how you are going to develop your horticultural or agricultural needs.

Polytunnel repair is normally much cheaper and easily carried out, because of the materials used, the makers are aware of the conditions that this type of product has to withstand, this is why repair kits are available at very competitive prices for all types of Polytunnels repair. Where as a greenhouse in a like for like size situation will cost considerably more, because ready available repair kits are not suitable for this type of product which normally requires a new build part or glass to be purchased.

If you're looking for a Polytunnel as opposed to a Greenhouse take the following into consideration

1. Price comparison: A polytunnel is normally cheaper to purchase, whilst greenhouses are more expensive, especially ifa glass glazing material is to be used.

2. The size of each product will determine the construction time, but generally size for size greenhouses require more construction build time due to multiple fixing of items.

3.       Site preparation time is also a factor, a greenhouse would need to be put onto a level solid foundation, while Polytunnels can be placed on rough uneven ground.

4.       Repairs and renewal: Polytunnel repair and renewal is considered to be much cheaper than greenhouses when considering a size for size cost.

5.       Visual looks are a consideration for some people and obviously the greenhouse comes out in front, but looks cannot always compensate for a better growing environment.

6.       Heat Regulationin a greenhouse will need some form of temperature control during cold spells and wintery conditions, where as a polytunnel with a quality thermal covering and draught excluders will protect winter plants and crops.

7.       Greenhouses depending where placed will require ongoing maintenance and cheaper glass panels may require regular painting with  a specially formulated protective white paint to help avoid sun damage to plants, but polytunnels can be protected by using a specially diffused polythene cover which helps prevent heat hot spots.

8.       Expected Life Cycle:Greenhouses normally have a longer lifespan providing weather conditions are not untoward and favourable, meanwhile a polytunnel will require repair and even replacing from time to time due to being located in a harsh environment, but quality coverings will last much longer than cheaper coverings, dependant again on weather related conditions, these are available at a lower cost.

Please contact www.polytunnelsrus.co.uk if you require any further information or for any of our services or bespoke designs.