Quick Answer
Clear greenhouse plastic is best when you want maximum sunlight for early spring, fall, or low-light climates. In very hot or high-sun regions, diffused film can reduce hot spots and improve plant uniformity.
Clear greenhouse plastic is a strong choice when you need:
- Maximum light transmission
- Fast warm-up on cool mornings
- Simple, cost-effective coverage for hoop houses and greenhouses
Clear film maximizes direct light, diffused film spreads light to reduce hot spots and shadows, and IRAC film helps reduce nighttime heat loss in colder climates.
What is clear greenhouse plastic?
Clear greenhouse plastic is a transparent polyethylene film used to cover hoop houses and greenhouses. Growers choose it primarily for one reason: it lets in a high amount of sunlight.
That makes clear film especially useful for shoulder seasons and cooler climates—when every bit of light helps. If your structure runs heat at night, you may also consider IR/thermal films for better overnight stability.
Shop clear film: clear greenhouse plastic. If you're choosing for cold nights, compare with IRAC greenhouse plastic.
Light transmission: what "clear" really means
"Clear" doesn't just mean you can see through it—it means the film delivers light in a more direct path. That direct light can be great for early-season growth and photosynthesis, especially in cloudy regions.
In very sunny climates, direct light can create uneven canopy temperatures—hot spots in some areas and deeper shadows elsewhere. That's where diffused films can help by scattering incoming light more evenly across plants.
If you grow in intense sun or want more uniform light distribution, compare with diffused white greenhouse plastic.
How clear film affects heat (day vs night)
Clear film can warm the greenhouse quickly during the day because it allows strong solar gain. At night, however, standard clear film doesn't reduce radiant heat loss the same way thermal/IR films do.
If nighttime heat retention is a major concern, IR/thermal film (like IRAC) is often a better fit, and many cold-climate growers pair the right film choice with a double-layer system for insulation.
Clear vs diffused vs IRAC: which should you choose?
Use this quick comparison to narrow down your best option:
| Feature | Clear film | Diffused film | IRAC / thermal film |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light delivery | Direct, maximum transmission | Scattered for uniform canopy light | Varies; designed for thermal benefits |
| Hot spots / shadows | More likely in intense sun | Reduced hot spots, fewer harsh shadows | Not the main focus |
| Night heat retention | Standard | Standard | Improved (reduced radiant heat loss) |
| Best use | Cool seasons, low-light regions | High-sun regions, uniform growth | Cold nights, heated houses |
| Product links | Clear | Diffused white | IRAC |
Best uses (and when not to use clear)
Best uses for clear greenhouse plastic
- Early spring and late fall production where sunlight is limited
- Cool or cloudy regions where maximum light matters
- Simple hoop houses where you want cost-effective coverage
When clear film may not be the best choice
- Very hot/high-sun climates where plants experience heat stress and uneven light
- Situations where uniform light distribution is more important than maximum direct light
- Cold climates where nighttime heat retention is the top priority (consider IRAC)
Thickness and sizing tips
Most growers choose a durable thickness and focus on correct sizing and fastening. A film that's too small creates installation stress and can tear; a film that's slightly oversized can be trimmed.
- Measure the hoop arc (ground-to-ground over the top)
- Add extra material for fastening on both sides
- Measure full structure length and add extra for end-wall fastening
If you want help choosing a size, contact us.
Installation tips for a tight, long-lasting cover
- Install on a warm, calm day so the film can stretch evenly
- Use a proper fastening system to keep the film tight and reduce wrinkles
- Prevent abrasion: pad sharp edges and avoid film rubbing on metal
- Seal common leak points (doors, end walls) for better temperature stability
- If running a double layer, keep inflation consistent to maintain the air pocket
Choose the Best Clear Film for Your Greenhouse
Whether you want maximum light, diffused options, or help selecting the right size for your structure, we’ve got you covered.
FAQs
Is clear greenhouse plastic the best choice for plant growth?
It’s often best when maximum sunlight is the priority, especially in cool seasons or low-light climates. In intense sun, diffused film can improve uniformity.
Does clear film make a greenhouse hotter than diffused film?
Clear film delivers more direct light, which can increase hot spots and leaf temperatures in strong sun. Diffused film spreads light to reduce hot spots.
Should I choose clear film or IRAC for cold climates?
If nighttime heat retention matters, IRAC/thermal film is often a better fit. Clear film is usually chosen for maximum light rather than thermal performance.
What thickness is most common for clear greenhouse plastic?
Many growers use a durable thickness like 6 mil and focus on proper fastening and abrasion prevention to extend lifespan.
When should I use diffused film instead of clear?
Diffused film is often better in high-sun regions, for uniform canopy light, and to reduce harsh shadows and hot spots.
Can I use clear film with a double-layer inflated system?
Yes. Double-layer systems add insulation; your film choice (clear vs IRAC) depends on whether light or nighttime heat retention is the bigger priority.
How do I reduce wrinkles when installing clear greenhouse plastic?
Install on a warm day, keep the film tensioned, and use a solid fastening method (lock channel + wiggle wire) to maintain a tight fit.
How do I know what size film to order?
Measure the hoop arc (ground-to-ground over the hoop) and the full length, then add extra material for fastening. If you’re unsure, contact us for sizing help.