Plastic is a brilliant alternative to glass in many environments but none more so than with the garden. Both materials have their pros and cons, but the practicality and affordability of plastic make it a much more appealing option for greenhouse glazing, cold frames, and sheds, plus much more in residential and commercial gardens. Here are some of the advantages of using plastic in your garden.
IMAGE: PEXELS
Cheaper Than Glass
One of the biggest benefits of opting for plastic over glass is the price. Depending on the size and scale, smaller plastic greenhouses can be purchased for as little as £150 and if you already have a greenhouse, you can replace the panels for a very reasonable price. But although plastic is cheaper than glass, it doesn’t compromise on quality. In fact, it provides much higher impact resistance and is also shatterproof.
Greater Heat Retention
Plastic provides brilliant insulation that actually beats glass, as it retains heat more efficiently, so it’s the perfect substrate for greenhouses and cold frames that will ensure your plants thrive. Acrylic and polycarbonate also transmit high levels of light, which is vital for successful growth, but it also has UV filtering properties for added benefits.
A Long-Lasting Material
Unlike glass, plastic is able to withstand impact from objects such as rocks or footballs, as well as being weather-resistant so it’s sure to last much longer. It’s also an easy material to maintain and doesn’t require any special cleaners to keep it looking its best – it can be cleaned easily with just warm soapy water and a soft cloth.
Polycarbonate panels are resistant extreme changes in temperature, so whether it’s snowing, raining or a hot summers day, the panels won’t change and will last for many years without fading or discoloring.
A Safe Option
If safety is a concern in your garden, such as in family homes or where pets are running around, or in commercial spaces, plastic is a great material to use that won’t shatter and is easy to replace if it does happen to get broken. Polycarbonate is also a self-extinguishing material once the source of the flame is removed, so it won’t promote or assist in the spread of a fire should one occur in your garden.
Brilliant Versatility
Plastic is incredibly versatile so it can be used in a number of different ways in your garden. In addition to greenhouse glazing and replacement windows for sheds and doors, it can also be used for cold frame glazing, cloche glazing, canopy roofing for lean-tos and carports and even for Wendy houses for children.
There are different tints and colors available with plastic sheeting, from opal and bronze to glass-like plastic and various colors, so it’s perfect for adding a customized look to your property. Plastic sheeting can be cut to any size or shape required, so it’s easy to replace unusually-shaped windows or greenhouse panes, and the sheets are also available in various thicknesses to suit different needs.
If you are interested in even more lifestyle-related articles and information from us here at Bit Rebels, then we have a lot to choose from.
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