What Is a Greenhouse Clip?
A greenhouse clip is a vital component in greenhouses, used to securely fasten soft film to the structure’s framework.
These clips, typically semicircular to prevent film tearing, are placed over the film along the gable ends and sides of the greenhouse, ensuring a firm grip without damaging the film. Some models include metal springs to enhance stability, especially in windy conditions. Special tools can be used for clip removal, preventing film damage.
Uses of Greenhouse Clips
Greenhouse clips have versatile applications in various types of greenhouse operations such as agriculture, landscaping, and both home farming and gardening.
They are particularly effective with strong films like agricultural vinyl. However, they are less suitable for PO film, which is more prone to tearing due to its lower strength. Besides films, these clips can also secure nets, such as insect or light-shielding nets, enhancing their functionality.
Features of Greenhouse Clips
While greenhouse clips are robust, care is needed as their strong pinching force may damage films like vinyl or non-woven fabric. Compatibility and durability with the film material are crucial to maintaining the effectiveness of the plastic greenhouse or tunnel.
Many clips are sturdily constructed for fixing purposes and are available in a range of mouth widths and lengths, with features varying across manufacturers and products. Selection should be tailored to specific requirements.
Advantages
- Stainless steel variants offer rust resistance and sustained gripping power
- User-friendly, easy to install and remove
- Resistant to weather, impact, and chemicals
- Flexible, suitable for tunnel houses
Disadvantages
- Size-specific, not universally applicable to different frameworks
- Potential for tearing vinyl during removal
- Reduced flexibility in cold weather, affecting ease of use
Types of Greenhouse Clips
Greenhouse clips vary significantly among manufacturers, with differences in pipe compatibility, length, mouth width, and even color. Color options include black, gray, blue, green, orange, and yellow, offering aesthetic choices for different greenhouse designs.
How to Choose Greenhouse Clips
Selection of greenhouse clips should be based on size and material. Inappropriate sizes can lead to inefficacy or accidents. It’s crucial to measure the pipe sizes beforehand.
Specialized clips are available for various support structures, including tunnel and arch supports. The best choices for plastic greenhouses are clips with springs for secure holding or those that are easily removable by hand.
For hoisted greenhouses, choose clips with smooth profiles or strong gripping inner surfaces. For those less concerned about performance, colorful clips can add a decorative touch.
How to Use Greenhouse Clips
Greenhouse clips are broadly used to secure vinyl in vinyl greenhouses and tunnels to frameworks like pipes and poles. The clip-type design allows for straightforward attachment over the framework. Other designs are similarly attached, and removal can be facilitated using leverage-based tools for ease and safety.