I’m building a greenhouse in the mountains. It gets cold in the winter here and has VERY heavy snow, so am considering [corrugated polycarbonate](https://www.homedepot.com/p/Suntuf-26-in-x-12-ft-Polycarbonate-Roofing-Panel-in-Clear-101699/100049922) sheets to help with structural strength. However, I see that these panels block 90% of UV light. Would this be bad for plant growth? Is this the best material to build the greenhouse with? I’m concerned that PVC would become brittle and break since the snow this year collapsed many weaker structures.
by DoradoPulido2
6 Comments
I used a product called suntuff. They are panels similar to what you have shown. Don’t block uv. Have been on a greenhouse for about 10 years in a heavy snow area with no issues.
Make sure you buy stuff specifically designed for Green Houses. Check Charley’s Greenhouse for an idea of prices. I’m sure there are plenty of other sources
Stuff that isn’t designed for that purpose can yellow and become cloudy after a few years.
Also, you can get the stuff in twin and triple wall for extra insulation and strength if you have really cold winters
There are clear corrugated acrylic option. Let’s more light through and allows UV through. Will also protect against yellowing for 30 years. If you want to save money on heating, there are twinwall options for polycarbonate and acrylic. What size greenhouse are you covering?
For us mountain dwellers (hello from the BC interior) it’s all about the roof pitch! You really want to shed that snow as it builds. Or add extra trusses, look for span charts and show loads for you area so you know the spacing will work.
I’m no professional gardener but my greenhouse uses it and this is currently my zucchini, planted from seed a mere month ago
https://preview.redd.it/7mnjp4057n6b1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&v=enabled&s=f93c5b401181a005cf9127f47a6da41e43863a76
For cold environments consider the r value and strength that multi wall polycarbonate offers. You can use supplement UV lighting (365nm) if you really need it