Polycarbonate vs Glass Greenhouses: Are Polycarbonate Greenhouses with Panels Better? - Pros, Cons & Comparisons

Introduction

A greenhouse with polycarbonate panels is amongst our most popular type of greenhouse. This might come as a surprise to some greenhouse traditionalists, who tend to favour a ‘proper’ glasshouse (glass greenhouse). But, when you examine the benefits of buying your own greenhouse made from polycarbonate, it’s easy to see why so many people choose them. 

So, if you are considering buying a polycarbonate or glass greenhouse, read on as we explain why we prefer polycarbonate greenhouse panels.

What is polycarbonate?

Polycarbonate is a high-performance chemically produced material widely used in greenhouses for its exceptional properties. The unique characteristics of polycarbonate include being lightweight, shatter resistant, virtually indestructible, and UV-resistant nature, making it ideal for greenhouse applications.

There are various types and variations of polycarbonate panels available, including single-wall, double-wall, and multi-wall options, each offering specific benefits for greenhouse needs. These are usually manufactured in large polycarbonate sheets before being cut into panels for use in a greenhouse.

As a greenhouse covering, polycarbonate's versatility and durability make it a preferred choice, providing excellent insulation, excellent light diffusion, and protection for plants, ensuring optimal growing conditions within the greenhouse.

Polycarbonate vs glass greenhouse

When exploring the question, “should I choose a polycarbonate or glass greenhouse”, several factors come into play. Standard glass has been the traditional material for greenhouses for many years and for a good reason. Glass greenhouses allow maximum light penetration and has an aesthetic appeal that many gardeners love. However, as we all know, glass glazing is fragile and can break easily under impact, posing a safety risk.

For some buyers, toughened safety glass or tempered glass has been an option. It is true, safety glass or tempered glass is safer, as it is designed to break into small, safer pieces. Another fact to consider is that tempered glass also has slightly reduced clarity compared to regular glass. So, in our opinion, this is not a good option either! Traditional and toughened glass also does not provide as much insulation as polycarbonate, leading to higher heating costs in cold weather months.

On the other hand, polycarbonate greenhouses offer superior durability and insulation. Polycarbonate is virtually unbreakable, providing a safe and long-lasting structure. Its ability to diffuse light can prevent plant scorching in hot weather and promote even growth. While it may not have the same traditional appeal as a glass greenhouse, its practical benefits make it a strong contender in the polycarbonate vs glass greenhouse debate.

Polycarbonate vs plastic greenhouse

You might then wonder about plastic, as many confuse this with polycarbonate given their similar appearances.

Plastic greenhouses, often made from polyethylene, are usually the cheapest option available. They are lightweight (handling larger glass panes can be exceptionally heavy) and easy to set up, making them a popular choice for beginner gardeners or those on a budget. However, plastic greenhouses do not offer the same level of durability or insulation as polycarbonate material. The plastic can tear easily and may need to be replaced every few years.

Polycarbonate, while more expensive than plastic, offers superior longevity and performance. Its high impact resistance ensures it can withstand harsh weather conditions without damage. Furthermore, the insulating properties of polycarbonate can maintain a more stable temperature in the greenhouse, promoting better plant growth.

So, let’s explore in detail 7 of the most significant polycarbonate advantages when choosing a greenhouse.

7 clear benefits of a polycarbonate greenhouse

In simple terms, polycarbonate is a high-end plastic with a glass-like appearance, and it ticks just about every conceivable box for making great greenhouse glazing. Here’s the proof, with our seven polycarbonate advantages listed, consider these when choosing glass or polycarbonate:

Unlike glass, polycarbonate glazing requires minimal upkeep, saving both time and money for greenhouse owners. This greenhouse glazing is durable and does not corrode, rust, or fade over time, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements. Moreover, their self-cleaning properties allow dirt and debris to be washed away naturally by rainwater, significantly lowering maintenance efforts.

Strength-related polycarbonate advantages include:

• Harsh weather and UV resilience - fthere is excellent protection in cold weather months, see the safety section below
• Prolonged longevity - compared to traditional materials such as greenhouse glass panels or acrylic sheets, polycarbonate has an extended lifespan. The exceptional durability of polycarbonate ensures that the greenhouse remains structurally intact and visually appealing for years, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements
• Exceptional impact resistance - see safety section below

• Exceptional impact resistance - polycarbonate greenhouse panels have outstanding impact resistance, making them virtually unbreakable. This feature ensures that the greenhouse can withstand accidental impacts, hailstorms, or falling debris without damage, providing durable protection for growing plants and peace of mind for greenhouse owners (this is not the case for glass greenhouses!)
• Harsh weather conditions and UV resilience - polycarbonate's robust nature allows it to endure colder climates and adverse weather conditions and prolonged exposure to UV radiation without degrading. The material's UV-resistant coating shields the panels from harmful rays, preventing yellowing, brittleness, or fading over time, thus maintaining the greenhouse's clarity and functionality. There is no need for a shading system as there is with glass greenhouses

UV protection and plant health

The second of our safety-related polycarbonate advantages is that it is so safe that it blocks up to 100% of UV radiation, so is an effective shield for gardeners and plants against harmful UV radiation. Further details are:

• Benefits of UV protection - the UV protected surface plays a crucial role in promoting optimal plant growth. By blocking damaging ultraviolet rays, polycarbonate creates a safe and conducive environment for growing plants to thrive. This protection fosters stronger roots, healthier foliage, and enhanced photosynthesis, resulting in healthier and more abundant harvests
• Filtering harmful UV rays - polycarbonate greenhouse panels are designed with a UV-resistant coating that filters harmful ultraviolet rays from direct light. This shielding property prevents excessive exposure of plants to damaging UV radiation, reducing the risk of plant stress and DNA damage
• Reduced risk of sunburn and disease - in conventional greenhouses, direct exposure to intense sunlight can cause sunburn in delicate plant leaves and flowers. However, polycarbonate greenhouse panels reduce the risk of the burning sun by diffusing direct light, providing a more gentle and evenly distributed light. This minimises the chances of sunburn and creates an environment that discourages the growth of harmful pathogens, contributing to reduced disease incidence among plants

Some greenhouses use a combination of diffused light panels on the roof and crystal-clear single panels on the walls to offer a happy medium.

Your choice of polycarbonate glazing could be determined by various factors, including the orientation of your garden, how much natural light you get, and what you intend to grow.

That said, don’t get too hung up on choosing a particular type of polycarbonate glazing because all of our polycarbonate greenhouses provide a happy, healthy plant-growing environment.

• Interlocking design - the panels often feature an interlocking design, allowing them to seamlessly connect to one another. This interlocking system ensures a tight and secure fit, minimising the risk of water leakage and ensuring a robust structure
• Lightweight material – the material is lightweight compared to traditional glass, making them easier to manage during the installation process. Their reduced weight simplifies transportation, reduces the need for heavy lifting equipment, and facilitates quicker and more straightforward assembly
• Pre-cut panels - many come pre-cut to standard sizes, eliminating the need for extensive cutting, or shaping during installation. This convenience saves time and reduces the risk of errors, ensuring a precise fit and professional-looking finish
• Quick assembly - the ease of installation of polycarbonate greenhouses results in quicker assembly times compared to other materials. Greenhouse owners can enjoy their functional and productive space in a shorter period, allowing for faster gardening activities and plant cultivation

Provided they are installed properly, polycarbonate panels are excellent, some care is needed though to avoid leading gaps, which can make the panels prone to condensation and getting dirty.

• Rainwater harvesting - built-in gutters and downpipes for rainwater harvesting
• Security - high-quality door fittings and locks are a hallmark of a premium greenhouse
• Storage - sturdy shelving units, providing ample space for potting, storing tools, and organising your gardening supplies

7. Superior insulation and temperature control

Polycarbonate greenhouses excel in providing superior insulation and precise temperature control, ensuring optimal conditions for plant growth.

Polycarbonates possess excellent heat retention properties, trapping warmth inside the greenhouse during cooler periods. Their unique multi-wall construction further enhances insulation by creating insulating air pockets that retain heat, maintaining a consistent and favourable climate for plants.

Polycarbonate's exceptional heat retainer capabilities help create a stable environment within the greenhouse. This insulation prevents temperature fluctuations, protecting plants from sudden temperature drops or spikes that could impede their growth. The controlled environment allows for better cultivation of delicate or temperature-sensitive plants, ensuring consistent growth and yield.

Polycarbonate greenhouses are energy-efficient due to their ability to retain heat. The increased heat retention means less reliance on heating systems, resulting in lower energy consumption and reduced heating costs. This retaining heat makes polycarbonate glazing an eco-friendly choice, contributing to sustainable gardening practices, and reducing overall greenhouse operation expenses.

3 of our favourite polycarbonate greenhouses

If you are sold on the idea of a new polycarbonate greenhouse but unsure about which one to choose, here are 3 of our favourites:

The door is secured by a magnetic catch and padlock fixing (padlock not included). Other notable features include integral guttering, a roof vent and 5-year warranty. Click here for details of this greenhouse.

Premium polycarbonate greenhouses for sale

Think Shedstore if you want to buy a greenhouse with polycarbonate panels for sale, from the world’s leading greenhouse manufacturers, in all of the popular greenhouse sizes. This includes mini greenhouses aimed at beginners, through to large greenhouses suitable for experienced gardeners.

Conclusion: are polycarbonate greenhouses better?

In conclusion, whether glass or polycarbonate greenhouses are better largely depends on your specific needs and circumstances. If you value durability, safety (shatter resistant panels), and insulation, then a polycarbonate greenhouse may be the better choice. It offers many advantages over both glass greenhouses and plastic greenhouses, making it an excellent investment for many gardeners. However, if aesthetics or cost are your primary concerns, then a glass greenhouse or plastic greenhouse might be more suitable. Ultimately, the best greenhouse is one that fits your budget, meets your gardening needs, and brings you joy.

So, to find the greenhouse that’s right for you, view our fantastic range of polycarbonate greenhouses for sale NOW!

Contact us

If you are still deliberating whether to buy a glass or polycarbonate greenhouse, we can help! We have explained many polycarbonate advantages above, including better light diffusion, but our team is always available for further discussions. Contact Shedstore in the following ways:

• Phone calls - 0333 003 0518
• E-mails - through our contact page form
• Text calls with us using the live chat app

Main image: 6' x 8' Palram Canopia Hybrid Walk In Silver Polycarbonate Greenhouse (1.8m x 2.4m)