If you’ve been exploring different greenhouse options for your garden, chances are you’ve come across something called “PE Cover”. It’s a term that might sound a bit technical, but in reality, PE covers are one of the most common and affordable choices for greenhouses, especially for home gardeners and those just starting out. But what exactly is a PE cover, and why would you want it for your greenhouse, especially in Texas?
At Sunview Builders, we’re your guiding stars when it comes to greenhouses. We have varieties of structures that can be custom made as per your instructions.
In this blog, we’re going to break down what PE cover is, why it’s used, and how it can benefit your greenhouse in the Texas climate. So, if you’re considering building or upgrading a greenhouse, you’re in the right place.
What is a PE Cover?
“PE” stands for Polyethylene, which is a type of plastic commonly used for greenhouse covers. It’s lightweight, flexible, and easy to work with, making it a popular material for covering greenhouses of all sizes. The idea is simple: the PE covers form a protective layer over your greenhouse structure, creating a warm, humid environment that’s ideal for growing plants, vegetables and flowers.
While traditional greenhouses often use glass or polycarbonate panels, PE covers are more affordable and can be used on both permanent and portable greenhouses. Whether you have a small garden in Texas or a more extensive farming operation, PE covers can provide the light, heat and humidity your plants need to thrive.
Why PE Cover works well in Texas
Now, you might be wondering, “Why would I want to use PE cover in Texas?” Well, the answer lies in the state’s climate. Texas is known for its extreme weather conditions. Summers can be incredibly hot, winters can be surprisingly cold, and there are unpredictable storms throughout the year. To grow plants successfully, you need a greenhouse cover that can handle all these variables.
Here’s how a PE cover fits the bill:
- Heat Tolerance: Texas is known for its scorching summers, especially in regions like Central and West Texas. PE covers allow sunlight to pass through, creating a warm environment inside the greenhouse without trapping excessive heat. This is important for protecting your plants from overheating.
- Cold Protection: While Texas winters aren’t as extreme as northern states, temperatures can still dip low enough to affect your plants. A PE cover acts as insulation, keeping the warmth inside the greenhouse and protecting your plants from sudden cold snaps.
- Durability against storms: Texas ensures no stranger to strong winds and storms, especially during hurricanes. Polyethylene is a tough material that can withstand harsh winds and rain when installed properly. If a storm does damage the cover, PE is affordable and easy to replace, which makes it a cost-effective choice for dealing with unpredictable weather.
5 Benefits of using a PE cover for your greenhouse
Let’s dive deeper into the benefits of using A PE COVER for your greenhouse. From cost savings to plant protection, there are several reasons why PE covers are a go to solutions for gardeners in Texas.
1. Cost effective
One of the biggest advantages of using PE cover is its affordability. Traditional greenhouses made with glass or polycarbonate panels can be expensive to build and maintain. PE covers, on the other hand, are much cheaper and provide similar benefits. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasonal gardener, PE is a budget friendly way to get the most out of your greenhouse.
2. Light Diffusion
PE covers don’t just let light through, they diffuse it. This means that instead of harsh sunlight directly hitting your plants, the light is spread evenly throughout the greenhouse. In a place like Texas, where the sun can be intense, light diffusion helps prevent your plants from getting scorched while still providing energy they need to grow.
3. Humidity Control
Greenhouses are all about creating a perfect environment for your plants, and humidity plays a crucial role in that. PE covers help retain moisture inside the greenhouse, maintaining a higher humidity level that’s ideal for growing a variety of plants. In dry Texas climates, especially during summer, this extra humidity can be a game changer for your plants.
4.Flexibility
Whether you have a large freestanding greenhouse or a small portable one, PE covers can be customized to fit any structure. They’re flexible, which makes them easy to install, remove and adjust as needed. You can also use PE covers on hoop-style greenhouses, which are common in Texas due to their simple design and ease of construction.
5. UV Protection
In Texas, the sun’s UV rays can be extremely strong. Overexposure to UV light can damage your plants and degrade the cover itself over time. Most PE covers are UV-treated which means they’re designed to block out harmful UV rays while still allowing enough light to enter for photosynthesis. This UV protection extends the life of the cover and helps keep your plants safe.
5 ways to install PE cover on your greenhouse
Installing a PE cover on your greenhouse is straightforward, but it’s important to get it right to ensure maximum efficiency. Here’s a quick guide on how to do it:
1. Choose the right size
Before purchasing your PE cover, measure your greenhouse structure carefully. You want to make sure the cover will find it completely, with enough excess material to secure it properly. Prepare the Frame
Make sure your greenhouse frame is clean and free of any sharp edges or debris that could puncture the cover. If you’re building a hoop-style greenhouse, ensure the hoops are sturdy and evenly spaced.
2. Install the cover
Start by draping the PE cover over the top of the greenhouse. Gradually pull it down over the sides, ensuring that it’s taut and free of wrinkles. Secure the cover to the frame using clips, ties or fasteners. Some people use wooden battens or metal strips to secure the edge of the cover, especially in areas with high winds (which is a good idea in Texas!)
3. Secure the edges
Once the cover is in place, secure the bottom edges to the ground. You can do this by burying the edges of cover in soil or using ground staked. This prevents the wind from lifting the cover and keeps everything in place during storms.
4. Check for Ventilation
Finally make sure there’s adequate ventilation inside the greenhouse. You can install roll up sides, vents, or windows to ensure that air can circulate and regulate temperature inside.
3 PE cover maintenance tips
Following are some smart steps that help you maintain PE cover
1. Clean regularly
Dust, dirt and debris can accumulate on cover, blocking sunlight. Clean the PE cover with mild soap and water periodically to keep it clear.
2. Check for Tears
After storms or windy days, inspect the cover for any tears or damage. Small holes can be patched with repair tape, but larger tears might require replacing the cover.
3. Remove snow or debris
If you experience a rare Texas snowstorm, make sure to remove any accumulated snow or heavy debris from the cover to prevent it from sagging or tearing.
Conclusion
PE covers are a fantastic option for anyone looking to build a greenhouse in Texas. Not only are they affordable, but they’re also durable, flexible and provide the perfect environment for growing plants in a state known for its unpredictable weather. Whether you’re battling the Texas heat or preparing for a surprise cold front, a PE cover can help you create a thriving greenhouse for your garden.
So, now that you know what a PE cover is and how it can benefit your greenhouse, the next step is getting started on your project. Happy Gardening!
Ready to protect your garden and boost your harvest? Consider upgrading the PE cover see the difference it can make. Schedule a free consultation with our team today to find the perfect greenhouse solution for your space