How can I stop my polytunnel blowing away? It’s a surprisingly common question! Of course, when you’re buying a polytunnel, particularly if you’re a first-time buyer, taking steps to protect it from the wind might not even cross your mind. However, particularly if you live in a windy area, knowing how to stop your polytunnel blowing away when the winds get up will keep your polytunnel and the plants it protects safe and sound. Here are a few easy steps to help you learn how to stop your polytunnel blowing away.
Are Polytunnels Wind Resistant?
Do polytunnels blow away? The short answer is no, not usually. Despite their similarities to tents, polytunnels are relatively wind resistant. However, naturally, there are some caveats to this statement.
For example, your polytunnel must be of high quality to ensure strong wind resistance. High-quality polytunnels are made using only the best materials, guaranteeing heavy duty results that will withstand all weathers.
As well as this, you must adequately secure your polytunnel to benefit from complete wind resistance and learn how to stop your polytunnel blowing away. Even if your polytunnel is of the highest quality, it is more likely to fall under solid winds if you haven’t anchored it properly. So make sure that you build your polytunnel as instructed to give it the best security.
How To Stop Your Polytunnel Blowing Away In The Wind
So, now we know how wind resistant polytunnels are and several factors that can affect this. However, the everchanging weather is bound to throw some surprises our way, and the increasing aggression of the elements is enough to test any structure. Plus, if you live in a very windy area anyway, your worries will likely increase tenfold at the mention of an oncoming storm. Fortunately, the weather doesn’t have to stop you from using your polytunnel! Here’s how to stop your polytunnel blowing away with a few simple tricks.
Position Your Polytunnel Adequately
Positioning your polytunnel is the first step to stopping it from blowing away. Of course, you don’t always have a lot of options for where to put a polytunnel, but the ideal space will be level, sheltered and receive plenty of sunlight.
In addition, plenty of structures, such as outbuildings, walls, trees, and the natural landscape will help protect your polytunnel from the wind. So, consider these when placing your polytunnel.
Before you settle on a space for your polytunnel, make sure you know the wind direction of the site. If the place you’ve chosen is prone to strong winds, you will need to understand how best to lessen the impact of the burgeoning winds on your polytunnel.
Strengthen The Structure
Once your polytunnel is well-positioned, you can add some support to the structure. If you’ve placed your polytunnel in a particularly windy spot, we’d highly recommend attaching some strong support; this way, you may not even need to take any extra precautions!
To stop your polytunnel blowing away in the wind, brace the structure with crop bars and additional storm bracing. On top of this, as you’re putting your polytunnel up, make sure the plastic is pulled taut. This will reduce the chances of it flapping about in the wind. This flapping material is likely to get damaged in strong winds.
Protect Your Plants With A Windbreak
A polytunnel windbreak is a fantastic answer to how to stop your polytunnel blowing away, particularly if you’re polytunnel is only now struggling with the wind. Polytunnel windbreaks usually come in rolls of polyethene netting. You can easily fix these to the existing sides of your polytunnel for long-lasting protection.
Our polytunnel windbreak netting protects from wind and other extreme weather conditions. The thick material is also perfect for shading your polytunnel, greenhouse or conservatory.
Grow A Natural Barrier
Growing a natural barrier before your polytunnel is the best way to integrate your polytunnel with the rest of your garden. There are plenty of options for a living windbreak, but a line of large trees will give your polytunnel the best protection. Alder and pine trees both make great barriers, and both are relatively fast growing[ii].
Alternatively, hedging and shrubs also make fantastic natural windbreaks. Fortunately, the plants don’t have to reach towering heights to protect your polytunnel. Hedges that reach around six feet should provide excellent protection against the wind for your polytunnel. Cherry Laurel and English Yew are both perfect hedging for a living barrier.
How To Stop Polytunnels Blowing Away In The Wind
No one wants their polytunnel to go flying away in one of England’s infamous storms. So, make sure you take the right precautions to stop your polytunnel blowing away and stay one step ahead of the weather this year! With the right support and extra precautions, your polytunnel will stay standing no matter where in the country you are.
FAQs
How can I windproof a polytunnel?
To windproof a polytunnel, ensure it’s securely anchored and that the cover is tightly fastened to prevent flapping. Use windbreaks like hedges or fences to shield it from prevailing winds. Regularly check and maintain the structure, especially after storms.
How do I secure my polytunnel?
To secure your polytunnel, anchor it deeply into the ground using ground stakes or concrete foundations. Ensure the cover is tightly attached to the frame, and use anti-hot spot tape to reduce wear on the cover from the frame. Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial for long-term stability.
How do you anchor a polytunnel?
Anchor a polytunnel by driving ground stakes or anchors deep into the soil at each hoop’s base. In windy areas, consider using concrete foundations for extra stability. Cross-bracing the structure with additional support bars can also enhance stability.
Can polytunnels withstand high winds?
Polytunnels can withstand high winds if properly designed and secured. This includes using sturdy frames, secure anchoring systems, and windbreaks. Regular maintenance to address any wear and tear also helps in enhancing their wind resistance.
Sources
Mellor, C., (2024) 6 fast growing trees for your garden. Woodland Trust. [online] Available at: https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/blog/2018/10/fast-growing-trees/ [accessed 20/11/2024]
