One of the most important decisions for gardeners and greenhouse growers is choosing between a glass or polycarbonate greenhouse. Both materials have their own advantages and disadvantages in terms of factors such as light transmittance and cost.By understanding the key differences between polycarbonate and glass glazing, you can determine which is better suited for your climate, budget, and growing needs.

Key Differences Between Polycarbonate and Glass Greenhouse Glazing

When evaluating polycarbonate versus glass greenhouses, there are a few major factors that set these two materials apart:

Light Transmission and Diffusion：

Light transmission is an important consideration for any greenhouse. Plants need adequate sunlight to grow and thrive.

Polycarbonate panels and sheets diffuse incoming light, spreading it evenly across the greenhouse. This prevents hot spots and promotes uniform growth. Glass transmits more direct light than polycarbonate. For gardeners prioritizing maximum light transmission, glass is the better option.

According to greenhouse glazing experts, glass transmits around 90% of available light, while polycarbonate panels transmit around 70-83% depending on thickness. For greenhouse growers wanting the brightest, sunniest growing environment possible, glass may be preferable.

Costs and Maintenance：

When evaluating the costs of polycarbonate versus glass greenhouses, you must consider both upfront expenses and long-term maintenance.

Polycarbonate glazing material has a lower upfront cost compared to glass. Polycarbonate panels cost around $0.12 per square foot while glass can cost $2 to $2.50 per square foot. However, polycarbonate lasts just 10-25 years compared to glass’s 40-50 years lifespan.

While glass has a higher upfront cost, it may save money over decades of use compared to replacing polycarbonate panels every 10 years. Consider your budget, timeline, and projected maintenance costs when factoring in expenses. Routine cleaning and upkeep will also impact long-term costs.

Yuhua Glass consistently provides customers with high-quality and tailor-made horticultural glass. We will help customers maximize the profit output of their projects.

The diffuse glass and AR-coated diffuse glass produced by Yuhua have cooperated with many large commercial greenhouses in agriculture, horticulture, nurseries and experiments. We have cooperated with large greenhouse project companies such as Havecon, Van Der Hoeven, Kubo, etc. for many years. Yuhua greenhouse glass has a light transmittance of up to 99%, and haze 5/10/20/30/50/70/75 greenhouse diffuse glass is available!

Need more detailed information or a solution of greenhouse glass? Need guidance on how to choose the right glass for your greenhouse?

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