In the world of commercial greenhouses, material selection plays a pivotal role in operational efficiency, crop yield, and long-term profitability. Among the most commonly used materials are polycarbonate panels, glass, and plastic film (poly film). Each option presents a distinct set of advantages and limitations—ranging from insulation performance and light transmission to cost and expected lifespan.
This comprehensive guide explores the real-world pros and cons of each greenhouse covering to help farm owners, agri-businesses, and horticultural investors make data-driven decisions for their operations.
Glass has long been considered the traditional material for greenhouse construction. Its aesthetic appeal, excellent light transmission, and long-lasting durability make it a top choice for high-end agricultural projects.
Light Transmission: Up to 90%–95% of natural sunlight, unmatched by other materials.
UV Stability: Highly stable; does not degrade under UV exposure.
Thermal Insulation: Lower than polycarbonate; single-pane glass can lead to higher heating costs in cold climates.
Durability: Scratch-resistant, doesn’t yellow over time.
Initial Investment: High. Requires sturdy structural frames to support the weight of glass.
Maintenance: Minimal, though breakage due to hail or accidents can be costly.
20–30+ years with minimal degradation, making it ideal for permanent greenhouse structures.
Long-term, high-value crop production.
Areas with moderate climates where insulation is less critical.
Businesses seeking premium aesthetics and long-term ROI.
Polycarbonate sheets are increasingly popular for commercial and industrial greenhouses. They offer a balance between light diffusion, insulation, impact resistance, and cost, making them a practical choice for most climates.
Light Transmission: 80%–85% for twin-wall sheets; slightly lower than glass but sufficient for most crops.
Insulation: Excellent. Twin-wall or multi-wall polycarbonate traps air between layers, significantly reducing heating costs.
Impact Resistance: Up to 200 times stronger than glass. Withstands hail, wind, and mechanical impacts.
UV Protection: UV-coated panels resist yellowing and degradation for many years.
Initial Investment: Moderate. Lower than glass, higher than plastic film.
Maintenance: Low. Easy to clean and resistant to cracking or shattering.
10–15 years (depending on thickness and UV coating quality). Some high-grade panels last up to 20 years.
All-season growers.
Mid- to large-scale commercial farms.
Growers in regions with variable or harsh weather.
Plastic film (poly film) is a low-cost, lightweight covering widely used in seasonal and temporary greenhouse structures. It is favored for short-term and budget-conscious agricultural projects.
Light Transmission: 85%–90%, depending on the film type and thickness.
Insulation: Limited, especially in single-layer films. Double-layer systems with air inflation improve insulation moderately.
Impact Resistance: Good flexibility but susceptible to tearing from sharp objects or extreme wind.
Initial Investment: Lowest of all three options. Minimal structural support required.
Maintenance: High. Needs periodic replacement and attention to patching or reinforcement.
3–5 years, depending on climate, UV exposure, and film thickness. UV-stabilized films last longer but eventually degrade.
Short-term or seasonal crops (e.g., strawberries, tomatoes, flowers).
Farmers needing quick setup and low upfront costs.
Warm climates where insulation is less important.
| Feature | Glass | Polycarbonate | Plastic Film |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light Transmission | ★★★★★ (90–95%) | ★★★★☆ (80–85%) | ★★★★☆ (85–90%) |
| Thermal Insulation | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Impact Resistance | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Initial Cost | $$$$ | $$$ | $ |
| Lifespan | 20–30+ years | 10–15 years | 3–5 years |
| Maintenance | Low | Low | High |
| Best For | Long-term, high ROI | Balanced performance/cost | Seasonal growing |
The ideal greenhouse material depends on your location, crop type, budget, and expected ROI timeline.
Choose Glass if you’re planning a permanent, high-end greenhouse with maximum light transmission and visual appeal.
Choose Polycarbonate if you want excellent insulation, long lifespan, and better resistance to impacts—perfect for year-round farming in variable climates.
Choose Plastic Film if your goal is to minimize upfront investment and you're growing seasonal crops or operating in a warm region.
While plastic film may be the cheapest option, its short lifespan means frequent replacements—raising long-term costs. Conversely, while glass requires a higher initial investment, its longevity and low maintenance could yield better ROI over time.
Polycarbonate often provides the best balance—reducing heating costs in cold climates while avoiding frequent repairs or replacements.
No one-size-fits-all solution exists in commercial greenhouse construction. That’s why it’s essential to match the material with your business goals, climatic conditions, and crop production plans.
At Kunyu Greenhouse Engineering Co,.Ltd, we specialize in custom greenhouse solutions using glass, polycarbonate, or film—designed to fit your farm’s specific needs and ROI targets. Contact us today for a free consultation and quotation.
+86 189 2488 9901 +86 189 2455 5194
+86 189 2488 9901 +86 189 2455 5194
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