The Ultimate Buyer's Guide for Purchasing tunnel formwork

 

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I use my polytunnels all year round. This is my fourth year with my tunnels and I'm so happy to have these great growing spaces in my garden. The air in the polytunnels starts getting warmer in February-March as soon as the sun comes back after the long Scandinavian winter. The climate is already good enough for the vegetables to grow and I can harvest a few of them now. Buying a polytunnel was definitely one of the best things I have done for my garden!

 

 

 

Read more: Building a polytunnel

 

Why you should have one

The reason why I decided to go for a polytunnel instead of a regular glass greenhouse is firstly because I couldn't afford a large greenhouse. I also realized it would be hard for me to assemble it by myself. So, I thought it would be a lot better to start with a simple polytunnel, which is also a lot cheaper per square foot too.

The polytunnels are of course not as nice-looking as a glass grenhouse, but I decided that the function is a lot more important than the look after all. I don't regret my decision at all! Buying a polytunnel is a great way to get started and learn how to grow in these types of structures.

 

 

Choosing a polytunnel

But how do you pick the right polytunnel? There are of course plenty of options out there. More or less expensive ones.

The two polytunnels I have here at home represent both extremes. I have a super cheap polytunnel from Ebay (it cost around 190 dollars or Swedish crowns with shipping from England, bought in ), and a more expensive one from a company here in Sweden (around dollars or 13 000 Swedish crowns, built in .)

I thought it was a good idea to pick a cheap tunnel to begin with. It was so cheap and easy to assemble, so it's the perfect choice if you are new and want to learn. I learned so much the first two seasons. Everything from placement to anchoring, different ways to construct beds and working with the tunnel during different seasons. This polytunnel was the perfect place for this kind of learning experience. It gave me the opportunity to think about what I wanted and needed before getting a better tunnel.

 

More about polytunnels: Winter gardening in a polytunnel

 

 

Pros and cons

So, is the expensive polytunnel better? Well first of all, it's larger. There is a lot more air in there that gets warmer and the climate becomes more stable. It's quite roomy too, so I can use the extra space to grow climbing plants. This tunnel has actual doors too. They are a lot sturdier than the regular entrance you close with a zipper. The plastic is completely see-through and hardier than the green fabric on the Ebay tunnel. There is also enough plastic so that I can dig it down which makes the whole construction more stable. It's good to consider all of these factors when buying a polytunnel.

The green plastic on the Ebay tunnels lasted for about a year, since I left it on the hoops all year round. I'm upgrading the small tunnel with new plastic now. It costs about 420 dollars ( Swedish crowns.)

 

 

Start simple

When I get asked about buying a polytunnel and which type to start with, I always try to be a bit ambivalent in my answers. A large and sturdy polytunnel is of course a plus. But I still think there is a huge point in starting with a cheap tunnel and upgrading to better alternatives when the time is right. It's far better to get started with a cheaper option than wait a long time to get enough money for that expensive tunnel before you can get started.

I do however need to say that the price reflects the quality of the cheapest tunnels. I don't really mind that seams and plastic breaks here and there though. That's just what you can expect with cheaper tunnels. My cheap tunnels (I have had two but exchanged one of the "skeletons" for berry bushes) have provided me with amazing growing spaces and a lot of great new insights I can use for my expensive tunnel.

The top picture shows the Ebay tunnel, it was taken in May . I grew a lot of early leafy greens that year, we were actually self-sufficient from mid-April.

Read more about polytunnels here on the blog. I have plenty of articles detailing how you can use your polytunnel for different vegetables all year round.
/Sara Bäckmo

26. March

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What is a polytunnel?

So some of you may be thinking, what is a polytunnel and why would you need one in the first place?

A polytunnel is an elongated, polythene covered frame under which seedlings and plants can be grown. They provide protection to plants and can extend the growing season by several weeks. They come in various shapes and sizes with each polytunnel creating its own microclimate that can enable different types of plants to grow. This means that it&#;s possible to grow fruits and vegetables using a polytunnel that wouldn&#;t naturally grow in our climate.

Essentially, polytunnels can be used to protect your crops and plants from the destructive elements of the weather such as strong winds or hailstones. They allow any gardener to grow any type of plants, fruits, and vegetables in any region. They are able to grow that which wouldn&#;t normally be able to grow in their region&#;s climate.

The usage of polytunnels can be compared to glass greenhouses. These are also used for a similar purpose in regions with milder temperatures. But there are various differences between the two which we&#;ll touch upon in more detail later in the guide.

A polytunnel is not only known by that name, so you may have heard of it in the past being referred to as something else. It is also sometimes called a polyhouse, hoop greenhouse, high tunnel or hoophouse.

How do Polytunnels actually work?

The materials that are used to build polytunnels result in the interior of the tunnel heating up from solar rays. The hot air and humidity are contained in the building by the structure and the polythene covers, so it creates a microclimate for the plants to grow. You can control the temperature and humidity levels of a polytunnel by using either the equipment inside it or by manually adjusting the vents.

In the larger and more advanced polytunnels, there is enough space to allow harvesting machines inside to automate production. This is commonly the practice in commercial polytunnels. It has been done to cultivate production of soft fruits in the United Kingdom, such as strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries.
 

What is the price of a polytunnel?

The price for polytunnels can differ greatly depending on whether they are domestic or commercial polytunnels. This largely relates to the difference in size required for domestic and commercial purposes. Domestic polytunnels are what people growing plants or fruits in their home use in an effort to extend their gardening period over the colder months. Purchasing a domestic polytunnel means that you can protect your fruits, flowers, and vegetables from the British weather as and when needed. Commercial polytunnels are used by farmers and those who are producing food for commercial purposes, again for protection against the weather and to extend the growing period.

All the prices indicated below are inclusive of VAT on First Tunnels

Domestic Polytunnels

6ft  (1.83m) wide 

£500

8ft (2.44m) wide

£663

10ft (3.05m) wide

£698

12ft (3.66m) wide

£750

Additional reading:
Prepainted Aluminum Sheet
How to Find Reliable Formwork Engineering Services?

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Zolo.

14ft (4.27m) wide

£1,190

Commercial Polytunnels

16ft (4.88m) wide

£1,722

18ft (5.49m) wide

£2,242

20ft (6.10m) wide

£2,486

22ft (6.71m) wide

£2,676

24ft (7.32m) wide

£2,748

26ft (7.92m) wide

£3,254

28ft (8.53m) wide

£3,313

30ft (9.14m) wide

£3,378

Are cheap Polytunnels any good?

So, you might be wondering how much you really need to spend on a polytunnel. Would a cheaper one do the job just as well?

We&#;d recommend that you invest the required money into your polytunnel to get the best value for your money. Ensure that you purchase it from a credible polytunnel manufacturer rather than trying to save money and potentially investing in a substandard structure. It doesn&#;t necessarily need to be the most expensive option, but the materials used need to be strong and durable enough to offer your plants the necessary protection.

If you don&#;t invest in a high-quality polytunnel, you may find yourself losing more money in the long term if you are unable to protect your crops. This is especially true for when a polytunnel is being used to grow plants, fruits, and vegetables on a larger scale for commercial purposes.

When you are planning what you will spend on your polytunnel, you also need to budget for any accessories or spare parts that you may need. The extras can often add up over time so it often makes sense to buy what you know you&#;ll need upfront.

Which is best, polytunnel or greenhouse?

If you&#;re wondering what the difference is between polytunnel and greenhouses, we can understand the confusion. On the surface, it can be hard to decide which option is the best for you. Both come in a range of shapes and sizes. They also ultimately serve the same purpose by creating optimum growing conditions for your plants. However, there are some fundamental differences which should make it an easy choice:

• The biggest difference between greenhouses and polytunnels is the cost. Compared to greenhouses, polytunnel offer really good value. This is especially true if you&#;re looking for something larger in size, as you get more growth space for your money. The exact same strength of material and ventilation will be provided for a lower price. Also, durability is not an issue as once you&#;ve erected them they will likely stand for many years.
• It is easier to customise polytunnels than glass greenhouses. Once greenhouses are fixed, they can be difficult and expensive to modify.
• Polytunnels can be more difficult to repair, though it is possible. On the other hand, if you break a pane of glass in a greenhouse, it is fairly easy to replace.
• Preparing a base for a glass greenhouse can take more time, as they require a completely flat base. Polytunnels don&#;t have the same requirements, so the preparation time before installation is shorter.
• It can take time for your glass greenhouse to be manufactured, especially if it is a custom piece. Polytunnels are manufactured and delivered much more quickly
• Polytunnels are not permanent structures and can be transported to different areas or removed as and when needed. Glass greenhouses can&#;t be moved and would need to be rebuilt in another location if that was required.

It all comes down to affordability. If you are looking for a more cost-effective structure to grow your plants that can be easily customised and moved around, then polytunnels are for you. Ultimately, both achieve the same growing benefits for your plants.
 

How should you choose a polytunnel?

There are a few key elements to consider when looking for a polytunnel, and we&#;ve listed the most important ones below:

• Consider your own requirements and the space you have available. It is important to ensure that you&#;re not investing in a polytunnel that wouldn&#;t be the right fit for your own plot or garden. Most polytunnel manufacturers have a wide range of sizes available so you should easily be able to find one that suits your needs.
• When do you need them by and can you construct them yourself? Most polytunnels are simple and quick to construct which is what attracts many people to them. Ensure that yours will be delivered on time and with detailed instructions by placing an order at First Tunnels.
• Are the materials durable and high quality? You want a guarantee on the lifespan of the polythene covers of your polytunnel. This will help ensure that you&#;re not having to invest in regular replacements. At First Tunnels, we offer a 7 year guarantee for our polythene covers.
• Planning before you purchase is important to make the right assumption on what size you will need. You need to make a plan of what you will grow and where to make sure that you&#;re buying a polytunnel that will have enough space for your needs.

It is also important to mention here that you should look into whether you may need planning permission before you install a polytunnel. You don&#;t usually need this, but you may if your site is near a listed building or area of conservation.

How should a polytunnel be cleaned?

In the winter months, you may find that the dampness in the air has led to your polytunnel cover becoming coated with green algae. It&#;s extremely important that you get this cleaned immediately, as it will obstruct the light and hinder the growth of your crops.  Even if you see the algae on just one side, it is recommended that you clean everywhere regularly to ensure you&#;re getting the optimum level of light in your polytunnel.

So, how do you get started with the actual cleaning? Start with enlisting the help of a friend and then follow the steps below:

• Find a form of sheeting (such as a fabric), two lengths of rope, and a cleaning fluid. Pick a cleaning fluid that is made to remove algae. You&#;ll also need two tennis balls, a sponge, a hose, a bucket of soapy water, and a bottle that you can spray the cleaning fluid with.
• Once you&#;ve got all the equipment together, insert the tennis ball on both ends of the sheet and tie it up with the rope. This makes the sheet weighted for you to use for cleaning.  The weighted sheet then needs to be dipped into the soapy water in the bucket.
• Start off by cleaning the top. Using the hose, spray water all over the top of your polytunnel. When you&#;ve managed to wet this, toss your weighted sheet over it.
• Ask your helpful friend to go to the other side of the tunnel and take hold of the weighted sheet from the other side. Then both of you need to start pulling the sheet from side to side, which will work in rubbing off the algae and any other dirt from the top of the tunnel. Work your way down each section and repeat as often as needed.
• Once you&#;re satisfied, spray water all over again using the hose. This will help ensure that any leftover dirt or debris is sprayed away.
• For the sides, the cleaning process is similar to washing a car. Wet your sponge and spray the cleaning fluid onto it. Using this sponge (or a soft brush if you prefer) proceed to wipe the sides of the polytunnel clean. Any leftover dirt should be rinsed off using the hose.
• To deal with any algae and dirt on the inside of the tunnel, use a sponge again. Spray the cleaning fluid onto it again and work your way around the interior of your polytunnel. It is also recommended that you use a non-toxic cleaning product to ensure that your plants don&#;t suffer from any toxins.

If you follow these cleaning steps as and when you see any algae build up, you&#;ll be allowing in the maximum level of sunlight and giving your plants what they need to grow.
 

How can you secure a polytunnel?

Your polytunnel needs to be firmly secured to the ground, especially if you&#;re setting it up on a slope. To ensure that you&#;re going to be able to secure it effectively, purchase your polytunnel from a reputable manufacturer that provides detailed instructions and after-sales care if needed. Many polytunnel manufacturers even offer a construction service if you need it.

It is not difficult to construct a polytunnel, but it&#;s also not a task that you should take lightly. You need to secure your structure so that it will endure any weather conditions and last the test of time. Some people may compare it to putting up a tent, but it definitely needs to be more firmly secured than that.

In terms of how long it will take, this can vary depending upon specific factors such as the weather conditions and the size and features of your polytunnels. It also depends on how good you are at doing DIY projects! We&#;d recommend enlisting the help of a friend to get it completed quicker.
 

Polytunnel repair - what you need to know

Polytunnels are generally very sturdy and durable, but like any product, they are prone to damage and will sometimes need repair. We have all the information you need on what to do in case of any damage, and how to help prevent this in the first place.

Firstly, you need to ensure that you&#;re getting the right cover for your polytunnel in terms of thickness.  The cover for your polytunnel should be a minimum of 720 gauge (about 180 microns). This is the level of thickness which is guaranteed to last 7 years. It can even last up to 10 years in some cases.

As with most products that are used outdoors, you need to monitor it closely and regularly to keep a close eye on any potential issues. The area that is most likely to suffer damage is the polythene cover so this should be checked on a regular basis. Any small tears or damage that you spot need to be dealt with as soon as possible to prevent the issue worsening.

If you spot a tear, then you should repair this immediately using polythene repair tape. The reason to use this instead of regular tape is that it is transparent and UV stabilised. It will avoid the obstruction of sunlight without being damaged by the sun rays itself. Consider taping both sides of the tear to result in a sturdy and strong polytunnel finish.

Other than the polythene covers, make sure you check regularly for any damage in the frames or the hoops of the polytunnels. Deal with any damage as and when you spot it as soon as possible. Remember, if you leave it too long before you mend it, there is a danger that the damage could grow.  Also, try and deal with the cause of the damage so it doesn&#;t happen again.

To prevent damage along the hoops, anti hot-spot tape should be used when constructing the polytunnel. This works to effectively separate the hoop from the polythene cover and prevent heat degradation. With frequent inspections and quick repairs, your polytunnel will last you years. Just make sure you give it the care that it needs!

Hopefully, this guide has helped answer many questions about polytunnels, their benefits, and the essentials of caring for one. If you&#;re considering purchasing a polytunnel.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit tunnel formwork.