Buildings

Part of my late start is realizing that my high tunnel took a beating this past winter. So, I have it on hold while I make repairs. While I would like to tape it together, the older, wiser part of me says to do it right.

So what is the correct way to do it?

Giving this some thought.  It has three season use. I avoid using it over the summer. I have closed in the ends with windows and doors and have a 4x4 x4 ft extension made of concrete blocks where I have a small wood burning stove.  This keeps it above freezing in the winter. So, the problem is replacing the fabric.  Currently that is 6 mil rip stop plastic with UV protection.    The part that is torn has rubbed against one of the struts.  I had considered simply replacing  the fabric with similar material. But, that will end up with torn fabric again in about 5 years.

So, I am considering a sandwich approach.  The inner layer being 6 mil clear plastic. The middle layer being plastic bubble wrap. And, the outer layer being 6 mil, UV protected, rip stop plastic.  My thinking is the inner layer would provide protection from the rubbing. The middle layer would provide some added insulation. The outer layer would provide UV protection.  My hope is this would significantly improve the life span and add to protection from the cold.

John,

Have you ever thought about making an actual frame and using plexiglass?  I bought some for a hamster cage I built for my daughter (her hamster that is) and even the thinnest version was much stronger than any sheet plastic and was actually quite easy to work with.

Though I gotta admit I like the idea of bubble wrap as insulation.

Hi Eric,

This is an existing high tunnel.  The hoops are in place.  I don’t think plexiglass will bend to match the curve.  But you have tempted me to see if some fiber glass panels I already have might work,

As another project,  I am putting in a lean-to greenhouse where your approach will be used.

John,

You know I think the moment I hit the “send” button I realized that you were using a high tunnel!  Palm to face moment.

The lean-to sounds like a good idea.