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Can a  6 mil Poly Greenhouse Covering Stand up to Wind, Hail, Snow Loads?

Posted by Team SolaWrap and the Green Thumbs. on Mon, May 15, 2023 @ 08:56

6 mil greenhouse plastic- Does it Hold Up

6 mil Greenhouse Plastic Covering and Wind

6 mil clear poly plastic is a commonly used material for greenhouse coverings and offers decent durability. However, its ability to tolerate wind, hail, snow weight, and other environmental factors depends on various factors such as the specific quality of the plastic, the greenhouse structure, and the prevailing conditions.

In terms of wind tolerance, 6 mil clear poly plastic can withstand moderate wind speeds. However, in areas with high wind exposure or during severe weather conditions, additional reinforcements like proper anchoring, windbreaks, or the use of thicker plastic may be necessary.

How Does 6 Mil Poly Greenhouse Plastic Hold Up Against Hail?

When it comes to hail, 6 mil clear poly plastic is susceptible to damage from large hailstones. Hail impact can cause punctures, tears, or even complete failure of the plastic covering. In hail-prone regions, considering thicker plastic or adding additional protective layers like shade cloth or hail netting can help minimize damage.

Snow Load and 6 Mil Poly Greenhouse Covering...how does it do?

Regarding snow weight, 6 mil clear poly plastic can handle light to moderate snow loads. However, heavy snow accumulation can cause the plastic to sag or potentially collapse. Regular snow removal or opting for stronger plastic sheeting with higher mil thickness can improve its snow load capacity.

If you require stronger poly plastic sheeting for your greenhouse, you can consider using thicker options such as 8 mil or 10 mil clear poly plastic. These thicker sheets provide enhanced durability and can better withstand challenging weather conditions.

What About SolaWrap Greenhouse Plastic? Is it stronger than 6 mil Poly?

SolaWrap, a remarkable greenhouse covering option, offers a host of benefits that set it apart from polycarbonate. With a 10-year warranty against UV degradation, it outperforms polycarbonate in terms of longevity.

The R-Value of 1.7 ensures excellent insulation, while the impressive 83% transparency allows abundant natural light into your greenhouse.

SolaWrap is the only product on the market that combines high transparency and high diffusion, providing up to 83% diffused light for optimal plant growth.

It can withstand substantial snow loads of up to 120 lbs per square foot, equivalent to approximately 15 feet of snow, and has a remarkable 100 mph wind rating, even surviving powerful 135 mph windstorms in Alaska.

Its longevity is evident from the 30 years and counting usage in European houses. Furthermore, SolaWrap retains its clarity and flexibility over time, remaining free from yellowing or brittleness. Its flexibility allows for easy rolling up inside wall curtains, and compared to polycarbonate, it offers a more cost-efficient solution for your greenhouse needs.

The 10-year warranty against UV degradation is unparalled. Read more here.

How Do You Decide on a Greenhouse Plastic?

Ultimately, the choice of poly plastic sheeting depends on your specific needs, location, and budget. Assessing factors like wind exposure, hail frequency, snow load, and desired durability will help determine the most suitable option for your greenhouse covering. Consulting with greenhouse suppliers or experts can provide further guidance tailored to your specific situation.

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