Glazing and Paneling

When thinking about what to enclose your greenhouse with, be mindful that there are many different coverings to consider. Glass, Fiberglass panels and Double-Layer Structured panels are all effective glazings, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Glass

Glass is one of the more traditional greenhouse coverings and also the standard by which all other coverings are judged. Glass is an attractive and formal greenhouse covering. It is also very transparent, allowing your plants open access to direct sunlight. Glass paneling is strong, but can become brittle with age and is subject to shattering. Also, because it is heavier than other materials glass requires a more robust framing support than other covering materials.

Fiberglass Reinforced Panels

Fiberglass reinforced panels are rigid plastic panels made from acrylic or polycarbonate and come in large, corrugated or flat sheets. Fiberglass panels are available in 24 to 57 inch widths and up to 24 foot lengths. They are durable, a better insulator than glass and are lightweight, requiring less structural support. Large panels are flexible enough to be applied to less traditionally shaped greenhouses. Light transmission may be better than glass simply because less structural support is needed, which creates less shadow. Inexpensive materials may be guaranteed for as little as 5 years; more expensive types may be guaranteed for as long as 20 years.

Double-Layer Structured Panel

On of the most popular and functional greenhouse coverings, polycarbonate, double-layer structured panels are made of two layers of plastic held apart by ribs spaced 1/2 to 1 inch apart. They are lightweight and can be easily shaped to fit most frames. The double-layer construction increases structural strength and heat retention but decreases light transmission compared to single-layer materials. Most provide a diffused lighting that is beneficial to most plants. Panels are 4 feet wide and up to 39 feet long. Most are UV resistant and carry warranties from 5 to 10 years against yellowing.