Glass vs Poly Greenhouse
Glass greenhouses (typically Venlo) deliver the highest light transmission, longest lifespan and tightest climate control — the default for premium tomato, pepper, cucumber and cut-flower production. Poly (single- and double-layer PE film, polycarbonate sheet) covers a much wider CAPEX range, from low-cost tunnels to mid-tech multi-span structures.
| Criterion | Glass (Venlo) Greenhouse | Poly (PE Film / Polycarbonate) Greenhouse |
|---|---|---|
| Light transmission (PAR) | 88–91% (single glass), diffuse glass optional | 70–85% (film), 78–82% (twin-wall PC) |
| CAPEX per m² | USD 200–350+ | USD 40–160 |
| Lifespan of cover | 25+ years | PE film 3–5 yr, PC 10–15 yr |
| Climate control | Full loop — heating, cooling, dehumid, CO₂, screens | Partial to full depending on tier |
| Insulation (U-value) | 5.7 (single) → 2.8 (double glazed) | 6.0 (single PE) → 3.5 (twin-wall PC) |
| Best crops | Long-cycle tomato, pepper, cucumber, cut flowers | Vegetable, propagation, seasonal high-value crops |
Glass (Venlo) Greenhouse
- Highest light and yield ceiling
- Very long asset life
- Tightest climate control
- Highest CAPEX
- Long build lead time
- Structural / permit complexity
Poly (PE Film / Polycarbonate) Greenhouse
- Widest CAPEX flexibility
- Faster to build and expand
- Well suited to milder climates
- Shorter cover life
- Lower light and insulation ceiling
- Less precise climate under stress
Choose Venlo glass for long-cycle premium production, tight export specifications, and cold or high-latitude climates where light gain matters. Choose poly for phased CAPEX, mid-tech vegetable programmes, and mild climates where the ROI window is shorter.
Frequently asked questions
Does diffuse glass really lift yield?
Yes — diffuse glass typically adds 6–10% yield on long-cycle tomato and pepper by lowering canopy shading. Confirm coating with the manufacturer against your latitude.
Is polycarbonate better than PE film?
For lifespan and insulation, yes. For light transmission and CAPEX per m², PE film usually wins on short-cycle vegetable programmes.
Turn this decision into private supplier quotes
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