Choosing the right greenhouse covering is one of the most critical decisions for any agricultural operation. Whether you're a commercial grower expanding production or a new farm launching a protected cultivation project, the covering material you select affects light penetration, heat retention, lifespan, and ultimately, crop yield.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most common greenhouse coverings—polycarbonate, polyethylene film, and glass—and help you determine which material is best suited to your climate, crop type, and business goals.
The greenhouse covering acts as the interface between your crops and the environment. Its performance impacts:
Light Transmission – Influences photosynthesis and growth cycles.
Thermal Insulation – Regulates inside temperature, especially in extreme weather.
Durability & Maintenance – Affects long-term costs and labor.
Cost & ROI – Determines how soon your investment pays off.
Therefore, selecting the right material is not a one-size-fits-all decision. Instead, it should be based on your local climate, crop requirements, and budget.
Overview:
Polycarbonate is a lightweight, rigid plastic that often comes in twin-wall or multi-wall panels.
Key Benefits:
High Impact Resistance – 250x stronger than glass.
Good Insulation – The air layer in twin/multi-wall panels conserves heat.
UV-Resistant Coating – Blocks harmful rays, reducing leaf burn.
Lifespan – 10 to 20 years, depending on thickness and quality.
Ideal For:
Cold climates
Areas prone to hail or storms
Farmers growing vegetables, flowers, or seedlings needing steady warmth
Considerations:
Slightly reduced light transmission compared to glass (80–90%)
Higher upfront cost than polyethylene film
Overview:
Polyethylene (PE) film is a flexible plastic sheet widely used in both single-layer and double-layer inflated setups.
Key Benefits:
Low Cost – Ideal for startups and seasonal operations.
Easy to Install – Lightweight and simple to stretch over a frame.
High Light Transmission – Up to 90% in clear films.
Good Condensation Control – Modern films often include anti-drip coatings.
Lifespan:
3 to 5 years depending on UV treatment and thickness
Ideal For:
Warm climates where insulation is less critical
Short-cycle crops like lettuce, tomatoes, or herbs
Budget-conscious growers
Considerations:
Less durable; susceptible to tears in strong wind
Frequent replacements needed, increasing long-term cost
Overview:
Glass is the oldest and most classic greenhouse covering material.
Key Benefits:
Maximum Light Transmission – Up to 95%
Aesthetic Appeal – Often used in botanical or research greenhouses
Long Lifespan – 25+ years with proper care
Ideal For:
Perennial crops or long-term high-value cultivation
Locations with stable, mild climates
High-end greenhouses (e.g. orchid farming or research labs)
Considerations:
Heavy & Fragile – Needs stronger, costlier structural framing
Expensive Installation – Labor-intensive and requires expertise
Low Insulation – Single-pane glass has poor heat retention
| Material | Light Transmission | Durability | Cost | Insulation | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polycarbonate | 80–90% | 10–20 years | $$$ | High | Cold climates, high-value crops |
| Polyethylene Film | ~90% | 3–5 years | $ | Medium | Budget builds, warm climates |
| Glass | 90–95% | 25+ years | $$$$ | Low | Mild climates, ornamental plants |
Before making a decision, ask yourself the following:
What is your climate?
Cold regions need materials with better insulation (like polycarbonate).
What crops are you growing?
Light-demanding crops like tomatoes or roses may need glass or clear film.
Is this a long-term structure?
Permanent structures favor polycarbonate or glass. Temporary ones benefit from PE film.
What’s your ROI timeline?
Lower upfront costs may help in the short term, but premium materials save more over time through energy efficiency and durability.
Do you need customization?
Multi-layer options (double film, twin-wall polycarbonate) enhance performance.
Modern covering materials now feature:
Anti-drip and anti-dust coatings
Light-diffusing technology for even canopy exposure
Infrared-blocking layers to reduce heat loss at night
Recyclable polyethylene for eco-conscious operations
If you're planning to upgrade or install a new greenhouse, consider asking your supplier for these advanced options.
There’s no universal answer—the best greenhouse covering is the one that aligns with your climate, crop, and budget.
Choose polycarbonate for all-weather durability and heat retention.
Use polyethylene film for short-term flexibility and affordability.
Opt for glass for maximum light and long-term elegance.
Still unsure? Contact our greenhouse specialists for free consultations and material samples to see which covering is best for your next project.
Want help designing a custom-covered greenhouse?
+86 189 2488 9901 +86 189 2455 5194
+86 189 2488 9901 +86 189 2455 5194
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