Getting a Polytunnel

[Galileo]

I am looking to get a polytunnel in the next few weeks. Is there anything I should look out for or assessories I should get at the same time?

Thanks

Galileo

[kentvegplot]

Make sure you get the 'hot spot' tape - it will help stop the tunnel plastic deteriorating fast where it touches the frame. Oh, and some repair tape - at some point you WILL put something through the plastic :-)

If its a reasonable size, you might want cropping bars. I haven't got any, and there is always a complicated set up using string and sticks when I want to support something in there!

[OverWyreGrower]

I'd second hotspot tape as well!!

We went for a 30ft long tunnel, with crop bars, irrigation system, double front doors and base rails

We've found a double width door on the front to be a godsend, both in terms of ventilation and getting wheelbarrows etc through into the tunnel.

We opted for a basic irrigation system, cos of 1) the size of the tunnel and 2) the distance away from the water supply. It means that I can hook it up and leave it sprinkling for 20 mins or so and go and do something else.

The base rails were a real PITA to get on the tunnel, but we found tensioning it was easier, plus we didn't have huge trenches to dig out.

[Galileo]

Thanks for all the advice. I will order some extras when getting the tunnel.

Galileo

[Gardening Extras]

HotSpot Tape

I have to disagree with hot spot tape, it is great when you first put it on, but as it gets hotter the 'padding' comes away from the glue and this then sticks to the polythene and so causes more damage than it saves.

the glues used in hotspot tape used to react with the poly and break it down even faster. - they may have changed now but the glue will still stick to the sheet and cause extra stress.

I make these comments after working for many years for a commercial poly tunnel company.

And by not using the tape you will save an awful job when you re-skin your tunnel, as you have to remove and replace the tape as well - otherwise there is no warranty on the sheet.

Best practice is to tape the joints with simple tape and get the sheet really tight, this way it will not move so much and cause the sheet to fail.

[Galileo]

Thanks Gardening Extras. I will look into the hot spot tape further. I may do as you suggest.

Thanks

Galileo