Key Polytunnel Considerations and DIY Possibilities

Choosing the right polytunnel supplier is vital for ensuring a successful and stress-free purchase and perhaps installation. A good polytunnel installation company should supply a guaranteed quality product and also provide honest guidance, expert knowledge, and timely installation and construction services tailored directly to your needs.

Questions to Ask

When looking for a reliable polytunnel supplier, ask some important questions first, from the start of any installation through to completion.

What experience do they have as a polytunnel installation company? Professional and honest suppliers will be open and transparent about their track record, including the process and challenges that can come with installations and construction projects that align with your particular choice.

Do they provide references, case studies and reviews from past customers? A trustworthy polytunnel supplier should be proud to share this information and expertise.

What warranty comes with your purchase?  Your polytunnel supplier should provide an appropriate 4 to 8-year warranty on covers, depending on the manufactured cover type and gauge, as well as on the actual frame materials used in the build. They should also offer a free snagging service for a limited time.

Do they offer bespoke and customised solutions? This is essential for unusual sites or those requiring specific growing needs or uses.

How long will it take to deliver, and if installing the polytunnel? Timelines are especially crucial to business operators working to a seasonal planting schedule. Planning, preparation, location, installation and construction should all be discussed.

Their knowledgeable answers and expertise will help gauge their professionalism and customer service ethos. Look for open, honest, straightforward answers, as no polytunnel supplier can guarantee perfection, but a good one will be clear and responsive to how they handle potential issues or problems occurring, like delivery delays, unexpected issues or locational weather challenges during the polytunnel installation company’s completion.

Is it a DIY or Professional Installation?

Many small garden or domestic polytunnels, especially those under 10ft wide, can be easily self-installed by confident DIY personnel. Polytunnel suppliers provide detailed instructions and can advise and guide customers. There are online videos and tutorials to help. However, even with small builds, there can be complications if preparation or issues arise; take your time and work methodically, have the necessary equipment and tools at the ready to avoid frame misalignment or loose fittings and ensure the cover is fitted correctly and tensioned properly, but flexible.

For larger or complex structures over 8-12ft wide and 16ft in length or longer, a professional polytunnel installation company is usually recommended. With larger tunnels, they will have heavier gauge materials, can be higher in height and more complex in shape, so tensioning can be hard to manage without the right tools, equipment and know-how. A professional polytunnel installation company ensures that the structure is square, level, properly anchored and tensioned, avoiding construction and fitting issues like cover flapping or frame twisting that can shorten the lifespan and affect the performance of the tunnel.

Challenges to a Small Installation

Careful planning and site preparation: Your polytunnel installation company ensures that your selected structure can withstand its intended location and purpose. Having a correctly prepared and levelled surface, is well-drained base, and being correctly anchored are key factors to the stability and performance of your tunnel. Discuss all options with your polytunnel supplier.

Weather: Windy days should be avoided, as they often cause issues with preparation and cover installation. Always choose a calm, dry day to install. Even small tunnels need to be firmly secured to withstand strong gusts. If in any doubt at all, talk to your chosen polytunnel installation company if issues arise.

Read More:

Domestic Polytunnels: Shapes, Sizes, and Choosing the Right Fit 

Polytunnel Replacement Covers: How to Choose Wisely