What Is a Windbreak Net?
A windbreak net is a net specifically designed to reduce the effects of wind. This type of net is typically crafted using a “raschel weave” process, where polyethylene fibers are woven into a lace-like pattern. Widely used as agricultural materials, windbreak nets serve to protect crops from strong winds outdoors. They also find diverse applications in warehouses, home balconies, and various other settings.
Uses of Windbreak Nets
Windbreak nets have a broad range of uses:
- Wind protection
- Hail and frost protection
- Sand and dust prevention
- Insect and bird control
- Preventing the scattering of pesticides and paints
- Acting as simple fences or screens
- Providing shade and privacy
- Heat insulation
These nets are essential in safeguarding vegetables, fruits, and other agricultural products from typhoons, strong winds, hail, and frost. Additionally, they help prevent damage and contamination from insects, birds, and pesticides. Their use extends to drying vegetables, like dried daikon radish, and securing vinyl on plastic greenhouses.
Installed in areas with strong winds, such as factories and warehouses, windbreak nets can reduce wind-related accidents and alter wind flow. They are also useful for creating private spaces and shielding sports grounds from wind and dust.
Features of Windbreak Nets
Pros
Windbreak nets offer significant benefits in protecting crops and fruit trees from strong winds. They are known for their durability, chemical resistance, breathability, water permeability, and lightweight. By blocking wind, these nets help stabilize crop growth, prevent fruit drop, and enhance harvest yields. They can reduce winds by 50-90% and their effect extends to about 20 times the height of the nets.
Cons
However, selecting the wrong mesh size can lead to issues like steaming. During the rainy season, a fine mesh may decrease air permeability, potentially causing root rot in crops. Proper selection based on the crop type is crucial.
Types of Windbreak Nets
Windbreak nets are available in various mesh sizes, ranging from 1 to 12 mm, and in multiple dimensions. Manufacturers typically offer custom sizes to match specific needs. Colors include blue, black, white, and green, with the shading rate being lower in darker nets. The right type of net should be selected based on the intended application.
How to Choose Windbreak Nets
Consider the following factors when selecting a windbreak net:
| Gap Size | Windproof Rate | Light Shading Rate |
| 1mm | 70% | 55% |
| 2mm | 60% | 35% |
| 4mm | 30% | 20% |
Smaller mesh sizes provide higher windproofing and light-shielding rates but can reduce air permeability and block more sunlight. Choose the mesh size and color based on the type of crops and the intended use. For agriculture, a 4mm blue net is often a good choice, while a 2mm white net is suitable for home balconies.
Other Information on Windbreak Nets
Installation Guide
Installing a windbreak net requires preparation and proper technique. Items needed include the net itself, support poles, a hammer, rope or wire, packers, and hanging brackets. Steps include setting up support poles, attaching the net securely, and ensuring it withstands strong winds. Different methods are used for fixed and open/close types of nets.