The structure of a foil tunnel mainly consists of a frame, which determines the strength of the tunnel and its insulation. The individual elements of the structure can be manufactured using various materials. Each of them has its advantages and disadvantages. But it is essential that pipes and profiles, from which the garden tunnel is built, are solid enough to withstand the adverse effects of weather conditions.
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Aluminum greenhouse
Aluminum is a material often used in foil tunnels and greenhouses. It is relatively inexpensive, does not corrode, easy to assemble and can be tailored. The big disadvantage of aluminum is poor insulation, meaning the heat escapes much faster from the constructions. In addition, aluminum foil tunnels are not very durable. Their suitability in areas where there are heavy snowfalls and strong winds is limited.
PVC polytunnel
Cheap and good insulating material. Unfortunately, the list of advantages end here. Material harmful , subject to distortion from heat and wind. This low-strength building material owes its popularity only to a low cost, which turns out to be much greater in the long run . Worn and damaged parts have to be replaced several times a year. So saving from the initial purchase ends up looking like a bad investment over time.
Wooden foil tunnel
Wood is a popular building material for the creation of garden tunnels – the first greenhouses were made of such material. It’s easy to shape and build a structure with different sizes and patterns. Unfortunately, it has one major disadvantage. A wooden frame is exposed to potential diseases, molds and fungi that can get transferred to the crop. Of course, wood can be constantly maintained and the deteriorating elements replaced. But in the long term, the cost of a new construction proves lower than the sum spent on continuous repairs. One must acknowledge, though, that brand new wood greenhouses look fantastic.
Steel polytunnel
Hot dip galvanized steel foil tunnels are high strength constructions. Galvanizing gives the elements resistance to corrosion. Steel is also solid enough to suspend accessories such as flower pots, wall fans and many more to the main structure of the tunnel.
However, beware of cheap green polytunnels, as the thickness of the frame tubes is maximum 0.5 mm. This is far too small a diameter to resist weather factors affecting the structure.
The low quality of steel used also leads to easy damages, bends and collapses under the pressure of snow. For a small amount of money, you get a product that only seems to be economical. Sooner or later, it requires extra investment for repairs.
Krosagro foil tunnels
Robust, durable and hot-dip galvanized steel foil tunnels. Although we could write endlessly about them , the fact that they are a proven long term solution should be enough to convince you.