Across the industry, people tend to have strong opinions about what are the best greenhouse materials like greenhouse glass, acrylic, or otherwise. Conversations can get heated if you run across someone with a differing viewpoint.

Yet, there are a variety of factors to consider that can help you objectively determine which greenhouse glazing (materials, covers, or skins) are best suited to your specific project.

In the following paragraphs, we will focus on research greenhouses as we outline nuances for you to consider for your greenhouse design, along with what we perceive to be the pros and cons of each of the most common options. For the purposes of this article, we will explore the particulars of six greenhouse skins on the market: standard single-pane glass, low-iron single-pane glass, low-iron double-pane glass, polycarbonate, acrylic, and ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) insulated panels. We are excluding films and single-pane plastics.

The Difference in Cost

Greenhouse glass is more expensive than some of the other options, especially if you opt for low-iron or double-pane. Yet, if you look at the cost of replacing less expensive greenhouse covers over time, commonly, glass is a more frugal option. Plus, consider the fact that skins are typically a small part of a much larger greenhouse construction budget and the typical cost difference between the lowest- and highest-cost options are usually minimal (between 2% and 3% of the total cost of building a research greenhouse facility).

If you want to build a functional and flexible greenhouse that will last for years, it is counterintuitive to skimp on something as important as your skins. Low-iron single glass tends to be the most common solution for modern greenhouses. But it is critical to always look at all the relevant factors to determine what makes the most sense for each unique project.

When it comes to greenhouse covers, it is important to understand the light requirements of the plants you are growing. In most cases, when it comes to glass, you are looking for options that do not filter specific spectrums of light.

There are a variety of factors you will want to consider when choosing the optimal material for your greenhouse skin.

Consider the following:

• Cost
• Light transmission
• Impact resistance
• Scratch resistance
• Longevity
• Durability
• Fire retardation
• Insulation
• Ability to be drilled after installation

Depending on the type of greenhouse you are building and the requirements of the crops you are growing, some of these factors will likely carry more weight than others. Looking at this objective data is a good starting point to begin your deliberations. The following chart breaks down where each of the top six materials fall in relation to these criteria.

Films and single-pane plastics such as polycarbonate, acrylic, and ETFE are low-cost greenhouse material options that have fast installation, require light structures, and are mostly used in farms for large areas. However, they also are low-strength skins and are easy to cut or break, have low containment capabilities, and have issues specific to the choice noted in the table below.

If you’re working on a complex research greenhouse project, the sheer amount of available options for skins can be overwhelming. There are numerous factors that go into making a smart, strategic decision that supports the objectives of the overall project.

If you want to discuss ideas related to your specific greenhouse project, our team of experts are on standby to talk. Contact us to get connected with someone who can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option as they relate to your unique requirements.