On this page we’ve answered all the common questions we are asked about our polytunnels by our customers. Hopefully, you’ll find all the information you need here to help you make an informed buying decision. If, however the question you have isn’t covered here please feel free to contact us directly and we’ll be more than happy to help. You can get in touch with us here.
Polytunnel FAQs
Do you manufacture the polytunnels you sell?
Yes, we do. All our polytunnel kits are manufactured by ourselves in our own workshops. We do of course use our own polytunnels on our five-acre nursery. Following many enquiries and a high demand we decided to make our tunnels available to other professional growers, home gardeners and allotment holders.
What’s included in my polytunnel kit?
You’ll receive everything you need to build your polytunnel. This includes the heavy-duty galvanised steel frame, the long-life polythene cover and all the fixings you need to complete your tunnel. And of course, we also include comprehensive instructions on how to build your polytunnel.
Is there anything else I need?
You will need to add doors to your tunnel. We can supply all the wood you require for the door frames in our handy timber kits or you can of course make your own if you have the carpentry skills. You will have more than enough polythene for the doors from the excess left over from your kit.
Are polytunnels easy to build?
Yes and no. Putting a polytunnel together isn’t a five-minute job but it’s more than doable for anyone with basic DIY skills. If you can assemble a piece of furniture from Ikea you can build a polytunnel. You’ll need someone to help you and it may be wise to allow a full day or a weekend to complete the structure. You’ll only need basic tools like a lump hammer, drill and spanners. Pegs and string for marking out the position of the tunnel will also be useful. Detailed assembly instructions are included with your kit. You can see how easy it is to build one of our polytunnels by watching the video on our Buyers Guide.
How long will a polytunnel last?
Our heavy-duty commercial quality polytunnels will last for many years. These tunnels are made from the very best materials. The high tensile steel frame has a life expectancy of 50 years. The industrial specification polythene cover is guaranteed for five years but is expected to last seven to ten+ years before it needs replacing.
Will my polytunnel blow away?
This is a question we get asked a lot. It’s easy to think of a polytunnel as an oversized tent but, in reality, it is a rigid, robust structure designed to withstand the worst of the British weather. Our polytunnels have been built in the most windswept places in the British Isles. Obviously, there can be no guarantees but if it’s correctly anchored a polytunnel will have no problems coping with high winds and stormy weather.
However, if a storm is forecast, a useful tip is to simply screw your doors closed to ensure they remain shut during the high winds. The main reason for a polytunnel failure is because the doors blow open. When this happens, wind gets into the tunnel but can’t escape quick enough, causing the damage. No matter how big or small you tunnel is, this rule applies to all! Simply don’t allow the strong winds to get in by ensuring those doors are securely closed.
What size polytunnel is best?
This is such a hard question to answer. Everyone’s needs are different. Much will depend on the space you have available. But a good rule of thumb is to get the biggest tunnel that space or budget allow. The extra space is perfect for the additional storage of tools, lawnmowers, and garden furniture in the winter.
Our most popular tunnels are 14x30’ and 18x30’. But if you’re a hobby gardener looking to produce your own veg a 14x18’ tunnel may be ample for your needs - even if you have space for a much larger structure.
Should I buy a polytunnel or a greenhouse?
We manufacture and sell polytunnels. So, we may be a little biased here. But it can’t really be argued that a polytunnel is far more cost-effective than a greenhouse. Compared to a greenhouse of similar size a polytunnel is much better value. A tunnel is also easier to erect (you don’t need a flat surface for example) and far more versatile. Arguable your plants and crops will grow faster and produce a higher yield.
What does ‘commercial quality’ mean?
We pride ourselves on producing the best quality tunnels you can possibly buy. Our tunnels are used by professional growers and market gardeners up and down the country. All our polytunnels are manufactured to commercial standards which means they are exceptionally robust and are designed to be used for many, many years. Previously, home gardeners could only choose from low-quality short-life polytunnels. But all our polytunnels are made to the highest standards which means the home gardener will receive the same commercial quality product as we supply to professional growers.
Where is the best place to put my polytunnel?
Ideally you should position your polytunnel so it gets maximum exposure to sunlight. If you’re in an area which suffers from high winds it would be wise to choose as sheltered a location as possible. Behind a wall or hedge for example. If possible, try and site it so it’s facing east to west to get the most sunlight though north to south provides a cooler environment.
Do I need planning permission to build a polytunnel?
It’s unlikely you’ll need planning permission for your polytunnel if it's for domestic use. They are classed as similar structures to greenhouses, sheds etc. However, you do need to be aware of local regulations. For example, if your property is listed, you live in a designated area of outstanding natural beauty or you’re in a conservation area. Generally, though you won’t require planning permission but do check with your local council if you’re in any doubt.
Commercial growers can erect polytunnels without permission as they are classed as temporary structures. And if the welfare of the crop or animal requires a tunnel you should be able to erect one without planning. But of course, do check with your local authority if you are unsure as each area will have different regulations to consider.
Please remember our advice here is only a guide. So, whether you’re a hobby or commercial gardener you should certainly check with your local authority as we can’t be liable for any failure to comply with planning regulations.
Can I move my polytunnel?
We wouldn’t suggest doing so on a whim but if you do have to move it a polytunnel can be relocated. It can even be extended by adding extra hops and crop bars. If you do move or extend your polytunnel we would recommend you replace the existing cover with a new one.
What can I grow in my polytunnel?
You can grow just about anything. A polytunnel provides ideal growing conditions for a huge range of plants, vegetables and fruits. A polytunnel greatly extends the growing season and of course no matter what the weather your plants and crops will be protected from the elements. And you can potter around in your tunnel whether it's pouring with rain or blowing a gale outside.
What if I get a tear in my polytunnel cover?
Our polythene covers are very tough. But accidents do happen. If your cover is punctured or torn our extra-strong polytunnel repair tape enables you to fix the damage. The resultant repair will be strong and your cover will once again be fit for purpose. Should you need to replace your cover at some point a replacement is available from us at a low cost.
Can I put a heater in my polytunnel?
You can install heating to help your plants over winter. There are lots of heaters available including traditional greenhouse paraffin heaters to more efficient gas, electric and even solid fuel heaters. You do need to be careful to ensure the heat isn’t directed at the polythene cover.
How will my polytunnel be delivered?
If you purchase a Direct Polytunnels kit it will be carefully packaged and delivered straight to your door by our friendly couriers. You will normally receive your polytunnel within 5-10 working days of placing your order on our website. However, these delivery times may vary in peak times and of course with the effects of COVID-19. But we will always post the current delivery times on the home page of our website.
Click here to view all our polytunnel kits.
Click here to read our buyers guide.
Need more info? Your question not answered? Feel free to drop us an email and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
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