Our polythene sheeting is trusted by growers across the UK to protect crops, improve yields, and stand up to the toughest weather. Unlike thin DIY plastic, our horticultural-grade polythene sheets are UV-stabilised, built to last for years, and available in a range of specialist finishes.
Whether you’re covering a polytunnel, creating a cloche, or looking for thick polythene sheeting for long-term protection, you’ll find the right option here.
✅ Thicker than standard plastic – up to 180 microns, for maximum strength.
✅ UV stabilised – built to last up to 5+ years.
✅ Trusted – trusted by RHS, National Trust & commercial growers.
✅ Tailored for growers – designed specifically for horticulture, not generic sheeting.
Not sure how much polythene you need? Use our Polytunnel Cover Calculator to get the perfect fit for your structure.
Diffuse light reduces shadows and spreads light evenly across your crops, improving growth and yields. A popular choice for fruit and veg growers.
Maximum light transmission for early crops and fast growth. Ideal if you want the earliest possible harvests.
Enhanced with UV Inhibitor (UVI) technology, this sheet resists harmful UV degradation, extending its lifespan in even the sunniest or most exposed sites. Perfect for growers who need extra-durable, thick polythene sheeting for long-term use.
A dual-colour sheet designed to reduce heat build-up and provide shading. Perfect for ornamental plants, mushroom growers, and growers who need cooler conditions.
FAQs
Our heavy-duty polythene sheets can be used for:
Polytunnels & greenhouses
Cloches and cold frames
Repairing or replacing old polytunnel covers
Temporary shelters or DIY projects
A high-quality commercial-grade polytunnel cover typically lasts 5–10 years, depending on weather exposure, installation quality, and maintenance. Covers installed with proper tension and protection from abrasion generally last significantly longer than loosely fitted or poorly installed sheets.
Most professional growing polytunnels use 720 gauge (180 micron) polythene, which offers an excellent balance of durability, light transmission, and lifespan. Thinner covers are cheaper but may require replacement sooner.
Diffused (milky) polythene spreads light more evenly around the tunnel, reducing crop scorch and improving plant growth consistency. Clear covers allow slightly higher direct light transmission but can create stronger shadows and hot spots.
Yes. Polytunnel covers are designed to be replaced independently of the frame. As long as the structure is sound, a replacement cover can extend the working life of the tunnel for many more years. Any timber parts may need to be replaced with the cover. All EasyBuilds and EnviroPro polytunnels from Northern Polytunnels are supplied with entirely metal frames – no timber parts.
Covers are sized based on tunnel width and length of the frame. Extra material is required to wrap around the base rails and gables for secure fixing, so always choose a cover specified for your tunnel width rather than measuring the straight span alone. For a guide to finding the right size of polytunnel cover visit Polytunnel Cover Calculator | Northern Polytunnels
To maximise cover lifespan:
Small tears or punctures can often be repaired using polythene repair tape, which helps prevent the damage from spreading and can allow the cover to continue performing for the remainder of its lifespan.
Provides 40-45% shade and ventilation. Custom-made in-house, they can be tailored to any size, with options for hemming and eyelets. Standard dark green covers are available, and higher shade values can be accommodated. Also available by the roll.
Durable, flame-retardant (BS7837:1996), and available in white, grey, and green with solid or translucent finishes. Custom-made in-house using CNC precision cutting and heat-welded seams for superior strength. Translucent PVC is ideal for garden centres and industrial structures, offering high strength with light transmission.
”I’m confident that after four years of use, it still holds up in terms of durability and its anti-drip feature. There’s no noticeable difference between the first year and the fourth. This is particularly crucial for our organic production, as we don’t use pesticides. Thanks to the right climate, we’re able to keep fungicide use to a minimum.
Marcin RakowskiPJ Stirling farms
Not sure how much polythene you need? Use our Polytunnel Cover Calculator to get the perfect fit for your structure.
2026 Northern Polytunnels | Cookie Policy | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy
