Saturday, 7 December 2024

Greenhouse V Polytunnel

 


With the wet weather and no internet connection for over a week I have been toying around with the idea and cost of getting a larger greenhouse to replace the two high entry ones on each plot or a polytunnel to place over the three beds to the right of SFG1 rather than just replacing the framed beds with smaller raised beds. 


I'm considering the 4m x 2m (13' x 7' approx) Pro+ Green Poly Tunnel from Crocodile Trading.

PT0008 - 4 Arched 25mm Galvanised Frame with full Ground Bar Kit, increased added bracing, rip stop cover, front metal hinged door & rear zippered roll up door.

The additional bracing consists of only two diagonal bars one for each row of frames. I have contacted Crocodile because as a structural engineer I will want to place the bracing in opposite directions in the same line either end so they act in compression and tension depending on the direction of the wind. 

They didn't have the additional braces at the moment but said they would have them next year.  


I have been reading a lot about how people have reinforced their polytunnels and installed them to survive longer and have joint a Facebook group called Polytunnel Growers UK and have been reading what people have done to offer more stability. 

My plan is to install a timber base with 600x600 raise beds in the corners and mid point on the length and to use my existing Quadgrows in between and buy another one for the end with the zip door. This should assist in resisting uplift and and lateral movement. 

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