The life span of most plastics is anywhere from one to 20 years, but one perfectly placed baseball can literally knock a hole in your greenhouse operation. Choose the material and check the warranty carefully, just in case. Until a few years ago, plastic film only lasted for one year. New technology now produces films that last two to three years before they need replacement. Special mending tape can be applied to punctures and tears in the interim to prevent the damage from spreading.
Films come in a wide range of thicknesses, sizes, and special properties.
Some films even aid in disease control and act as light diffusers to eliminate leaf scorching and help prevent moisture from condensing on the walls. Thermal films have been developed that trap the sun's energy and hold it in the greenhouse during the evening. This can translate into energy savings of up to 30 percent-for greenhouses that are not heated at night, this is a substantial saving. Fiberglass glazing is considerably more rigid than plastic and can increase energy efficiency with the use of double and triple thicknesses. This design keeps the cold outside and the heat inside.