Imagine turning your greenhouse into a cozy refuge for plants during those frosty winter months. Believe it or not, bubble wrap – that poppable, fun packing stuff – is your secret weapon.
Like a warm blanket on a frosty night, bubble wrap becomes an essential ally for gardeners as winter approaches. Its more than just packing material; its a way to create a warm, insulated environment for your beloved greenhouse plants all season.
This article explores how this simple solution can be a game-changer in maintaining a thriving garden, even in the chill of winter.
Insulating your greenhouse for the winter is crucial for extending the growing season and protecting tender plants from frost damage. Bubble wrap has become one of the most popular methods for greenhouse insulation due to its effectiveness, affordability and ease of use. In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about using bubble wrap to insulate your greenhouse
Why Use Bubble Wrap for Greenhouse Insulation?
Bubble wrap provides a layer of insulation that traps heat inside the greenhouse The plastic bubbles create pockets of air that prevent warm air from escaping and cold air from entering, Here are some of the key benefits of using bubble wrap
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It’s very affordable and readily available at most hardware and home improvement stores.
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Bubble wrap allows light to pass through, unlike some opaque insulation materials that can block sunlight.
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It’s lightweight and easy to install each year and remove for storage in summer.
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Bubble wrap is a passive insulation system requiring no electricity or other energy source.
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It effectively boosts temperatures by several degrees, acting like double glazing to retain heat.
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Bubble wrap insulation can be applied selectively just to vulnerable areas as needed.
How Does Bubble Wrap Insulate Greenhouses?
Bubble wrap insulation works on the same principle as double glazing. The pockets of trapped air prevent rapid heat transfer, creating an insulating barrier. The plastic also prevents convection currents, stopping warm interior air from escaping out through small gaps. The greenhouse glazing warms up the air inside the bubbles during the day. This heat is retained overnight thanks to the bubble barrier.
Selecting the Best Bubble Wrap for Greenhouses
While regular packaging bubble wrap can provide some insulation, it’s best to use horticultural-grade bubble wrap designed specifically for greenhouse use:
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The bubbles are larger to provide better insulation value. Look for the thickest bubbles possible.
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Greenhouse bubble wrap is UV-stabilized to withstand sun exposure over multiple seasons without degrading.
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Some types have a reinforced backing for increased durability.
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Double layer “twinwall” bubble wrap offers even more insulation capability.
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Choose a width that allows smooth coverage without wrinkles or gaps.
How to Install Bubble Wrap Insulation in a Greenhouse
Proper installation is key to getting the best performance from bubble wrap insulation:
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Clean all glazing and remove any dirt or debris before applying bubble wrap.
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Measure each section and cut bubble wrap to size with a sharp utility knife to avoid excess wrinkling.
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Attach the bubble side against glazing for optimal heat retention.
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Start at the top and overlap sheets by 2-3 inches, sealing with greenhouse-rated tape.
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Use clips, fasteners and tape designed for greenhouses to securely attach the bubble wrap.
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Look for any gaps where heat could escape and double up insulation in those areas if needed.
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Add small vents at the top to allow humidity to escape to avoid condensation buildup.
Tips for Using Bubble Wrap Greenhouse Insulation
Follow these tips to maximize the effectiveness of your bubble wrap insulation:
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Use insulating sealant strips at edges to minimize air leaks.
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Add an extra layer of bubble wrap to vulnerable plants or on extremely cold nights when needed.
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Maintain ideal greenhouse temperatures between 50-60°F during winter months.
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Monitor humidity levels and add or enlarge vents as necessary.
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Remove insulation on sunny days when temperatures warm up sufficiently to avoid overheating.
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Take down bubble wrap in early spring quickly to prevent trapped heat from damaging new growth.
Alternatives to Bubble Wrap Insulation
While bubble wrap is a top choice, other greenhouse insulation options include:
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Polyethylene sheets – inexpensive but opaque, best for outer layer
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Insulated curtains – help retain heat but block light
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Rigid foam panels – excellent insulation but costly, allow some light
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Fleece fabric – effective inner layer but blocks light
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Fan heaters – active heating using electricity
Get Season Extending Benefits from Bubble Wrap
Installing bubble wrap insulation is an easy way to create a protective barrier that boosts heat retention. With proper greenhouse-grade materials, correct installation, and good ventilation, bubble wrap keeps your greenhouse warmer throughout winter. The extra weeks or months of growing time can make this simple addition well worth the investment!
Standard Packing Bubble Wrap
- Pros: Budget-friendly, offers good insulation, and comes in various bubble sizes.
- Cons: Lacks UV protection and is thinner, usually lasting only one season, making it less ideal for long-term use.
- Pros: Designed specifically for greenhouses with larger bubbles for superior insulation. It includes a UV-resistant coating, boosting both its durability and efficiency.
- Cons: More costly than standard bubble wrap, but its longevity (up to 3 seasons) makes it a valuable investment for dedicated gardeners.
When deciding between the two, consider your greenhouses size and the local climate. Packing bubble wrap can be cost-effective for milder climates and smaller structures. In contrast, while more expensive, horticultural bubble wrap is a worthwhile investment for larger greenhouses in areas with harsher winters.
Your choice should align with your greenhouses insulation needs, balancing cost, durability, and environmental conditions for optimal growing results.
Step-by-Step Guide to Bubble Wrapping Your Greenhouse
- Measure all interior parts of your greenhouse (walls, ceilings, doors, etc.) to know the exact size and how much bubble wrap to purchase.
- Give your greenhouse an annual clean-up, ensuring all panels, nooks, and crannies are free from dirt, pests, and disease.
- Make sure to let the greenhouse air out and dry after cleaning, as it’s essential to reduce interior moisture.
How to insulate a greenhouse with bubblewrap
FAQ
Can I use bubble wrap to insulate my greenhouse?
All in all, horticultural bubble wrap can be a great way of insulating a greenhouse for winter months. If you’re ready to keep an eye out for excess moisture and add light if need be, it can help protect your plants through the cold, and even extend the growing season.
What bubble wrap is best for greenhouses?
Horticultural bubble wrap has larger bubbles, which give it even better insulating properties, and is usually treated to withstand long-term UV exposure. By using the correct Greenhouse bubble wrap insulation, and not everyday packaging bubble wrap, your insulation should survive several summers of direct sunlight.
What is the cheapest way to insulate a greenhouse?
Good old bubble wrap is the greenhouse grower’s go-to cheap insulation material. Bigger bubbles are better, as they allow more light in and provide better insulation.
Can I use bubble wrap as insulation?
Bubble wrap can provide some insulation benefits due to the air pockets trapped in the bubbles, which help reduce heat transfer. However, it is not a substitute for traditional insulation materials like fiberglass, foam, or cellulose, which are specifically designed for thermal resistance and building insulation.