Table of Contents
How long does a polytunnel cover last?
The additives in a polytunnel cover prevent UV degradation for up to 4-5 years and it is not uncommon for a cover to last 8-10 years. The cost of replacement polytunnel covers is minimal.
What is hot tape?
Hot Tape is a 90 or 125 mil preformed thermoplastic. It comes in rolls which makes shipping and handling easier. It is one of two types of preformed available in the United States. Premark is the other type. Hot Tape has the advantage of being able to be applied to asphalt or cement with no sealer required.
Are cheap polytunnels any good?
The cheaper types of polytunnels do not provide good light levels for your plants, ventilation standards are low and they are potentially “blowaways”. However, if money is short they may be your only alternative.
What is anti hotspot tape?
Anti Hot-Spot Tape is a self adhesive foam tape which is applied to the metal frame and prolongs the life of your polytunnel. The tape creates a thermal barrier between the polythene cover and the metal framework which will then prevent any weakness from heat degradation.
How long do heat tapes last?
Speaking of replacing, heat tape only has a 3-year lifespan. Most heat tape manufacturers warn that you should replace your heat tapes every 3 years minimum. Heat tape has a near-constant connection with both water and electricity and usually isn’t protected well from the elements.
Can you leave heat tape plugged in all winter?
Modern tapes have a built-in thermostat that automatically calls for power (and the resulting heat) as the surrounding temperature drops near freezing and cuts power off as the temperature rises. Those tapes do not draw electricity all the time, even though they remain plugged in.
How do I increase the soil in my polytunnel?
If the existing soil is good, it’s a simple matter of digging out any stubborn perennial weeds, woody roots and large stones before covering beds with a generous layer of organic matter and a sprinkle of seaweed powder, all capped with a sheet of black or clear polythene.
How do you stop birds from pecking your polytunnel?
The lines of wire along the top of the polytunnel should help to deter the birds from landing on the roof. You may want to try creating shadows of birds of prey (I’ve seen stick on ones) on the inside of the polythene or just a simple scarecrow…. with a bit luck, this should help to frighten the smaller birds off.
Should I unplug my heat tape in the summer?
The newer automatic temperature controlled models (aka self-regulated) is the best choice because they save money on energy costs. These smart heat tapes only increase its temperature as colder weather sets in. You can pretty much plug, set and forget until you unplug them in the spring.
Does heat tape use a lot of electricity?
Typical heat tape burns electricity at six to nine watts per foot per hour. That means each 100 feet of heat tape operating 24/7 can translate to an added monthly cost of $41 to $62 to operate heat tape, says Eileen Wysocki, energy auditor for Holy Cross Energy.
Which is better heat tape or heat cable?
Heat trace cable is somewhat stiff, but it’s pliable enough to wrap it around your pipes, and it does not shrink; Heating tape is extremely flexible, therefore it’s better for tight contours and oddly shaped pipes.
What tape should I use on my polytunnel?
Anti Hot Spot Tape. Anti Hot Spot Tape is a self-adhesive foam tape and a must on any polytunnel – We cannot recommend it highly enough. The tape is placed on the metal polytunnel frame wherever the cover comes into contact, helping to prolong the life of the polythene sheet as it prevents cover degradation from friction and the built up heat in…
What is anti anti hot spot tape?
Anti Hot spot tape is a white foam tape that is used to reduce the wear and tear of polythene against the steel hoops in your polytunnel. This tape prolongs the life of the polythene. It is applied to the outer edge of the steelwork where the polythene comes into contact with the steel.
Why is the cover of a polytunnel slippery?
The slippery surface allows the cover to glide over the frame preventing abrasion and snagging of the cover during construction. First Tunnels always uses Anti Hot Spot Tape when constructing polytunnels.