Best Bubble Wraps for Greenhouse Insulation (2024)

Greenhouses extend the growing season by protecting plants from the external environment, offering gardeners a sanctuary to grow various plants throughout the year. Insulation is key to maintaining a balanced climate within these structures, especially in cooler months.

5 Best Bubble Wraps For Greenhouse Insulation

1. Best Overall: Fellie Bubble Insulation
2. Best Durability: GSD Heavy Duty Bubble Wrap
3. Best for Easy Use: VIECAM Air Cushion Film Roll
4. Best for Large Operations: RadiantGUARD Reflex-AIR
5. Best for Extensive Coverage: StarBoxes Large Bubble Wrap

Bubble wrap is an efficient insulating material that traps air in its bubbles, which then acts as a barrier against the cold, minimizing heat loss and thus reducing heating costs. Choosing the right bubble wrap for greenhouse insulation is crucial for optimizing energy efficiency and ensuring robust plant growth. Several bubble wrap types vary in size, thickness, and material quality.

Larger bubbles can trap more air and thus provide better insulation, while a thicker wrap increases durability and insulative properties. UV-stabilized bubble wrap is often recommended, as it withstands the damaging effects of sunlight over time, avoiding brittleness and loss of clarity.

When purchasing bubble wrap for greenhouse insulation, it’s essential to consider the size, quality, and ease of installation. Some bubble wrap comes with pre-cut holes to aid in ventilation, which is necessary to avoid excess humidity and the problems that can stem from it, like mold and mildew.

The wrap must also be easy to secure in place, with options for taping or clipping to the greenhouse frames. Buyers should measure their greenhouse panels carefully before purchasing to ensure they buy enough material to cover the desired area.

Top Bubble Wrap Picks for Greenhouse Insulation

I’ve researched and compared various bubble wrap options suitable for insulating greenhouses, considering factors like durability, insulation properties, and affordability. Insulating your greenhouse with the right bubble wrap can significantly affect energy conservation and plant protection.

My top selections will help maintain a consistent temperature, reduce heating costs, and extend your growing season.

1. Fellie Bubble Insulation

After installing the Fellie Bubble Insulation in my greenhouse, I immediately noticed a more consistent internal temperature. Despite outside fluctuations, the reflective surfaces did a fantastic job maintaining a stable climate suited for my plants. Its lightweight design made mounting it against the structure’s panels almost effortless.

I appreciated the versatility of this insulation. I could cut it to fit various spaces, and it was just as effective when I used some leftovers to wrap around exposed pipework. The difference in heat retention was remarkable—my greenhouse now shields tender seedlings from chilly nights easily.

Yet, while the overall performance is impressive, a minor inconvenience was its folded state upon arrival, which left some wrinkles. This didn’t affect the insulation’s efficiency but required a bit of flattening for a more aesthetic fit. Also, given its lightweight nature, I had to ensure it was securely attached to avoid any shifting, particularly around the edges and corners.

2. GSD Heavy Duty Bubble Wrap

During my recent greenhouse update, I found GSD Heavy Duty Bubble Wrap to be an exceptional insulator. Its heavyweight design proved to be tough against the sharp edges of my greenhouse framing. I appreciated the clever design where each air pocket functioned independently; even if one got punctured, the rest kept their air and insulation properties intact.

Customizing the wrap was effortless. With perforations every 19 inches, I could tear off the amount I needed without scissors. Inflating the wrap with the provided hand pump took some effort, but I could move quickly once I got the hang of it. The clear material lets me monitor my plants without peeling back layers, a convenient feature during the colder months.

While the product is wonderful once put in place, I’d suggest setting aside some time for the initial setup. The inflation process is manual, so patience is necessary. Before inflating, the wrap was bulky and took up a significant amount of room, which was slightly inconvenient. However, once inflated and installed, the space-saving benefits became evident.

In my experience, this bubble wrap serves double duty—protecting my greenhouse inhabitants from the chill while also cushioning any items I need to ship. Its sturdy construction withstands the demands of both tasks admirably. Despite the initial learning curve and the physical effort required, I found the benefits outweighed the cons, making GSD Heavy Duty Bubble Wrap a solid choice.

3. VIECAM Air Cushion Film Roll

Using VIECAM Air Cushion Film for insulating my greenhouse was a game-changer. The small bubbles hold air well, which creates an effective barrier against the cold. The material was surprisingly lightweight, making it easy to work with, and I could cover a large area without feeling burdened by weight.

Tearing the film was a breeze, thanks to the perforation every 12 inches. I was able to get the exact amount I needed without any waste. The film’s clarity also allowed light to pass through, a crucial factor for my plants’ growth during the colder months.

The roll was quite ample at 984 feet, enabling me to insulate several small greenhouses. Although requiring an air-filling machine can be seen as a hassle, once inflated, VIECAM’s film held air effectively, and the bubbles did not deflate, which is crucial for maintaining consistent insulation over time.

4. RadiantGUARD Reflex-AIR

After using RadiantGUARD Reflex-AIR insulation this winter, I saw firsthand that the reflective surface does keep the warmth where it’s needed—amongst my tender greens and flowering plants. It was apparent that the insulation helped maintain a more uniform temperature throughout the space, which is critical during those cold snaps.

I appreciated that my heating bill didn’t hit the roof. The insulation helped my greenhouse retain heat, so my heaters didn’t have to labor as hard. This not only saves money but also extends the life of the heating equipment.

Regarding installation, I did have to be cautious not to cover any ventilation, ensuring that air could still circulate as needed. I found it a bit tricky to get it right, but a patient approach paid off in the end.

The durable construction of the Reflex-AIR was also a big win for me. It’s tough—withstanding general wear and tear better than any other bubble wrap I’ve used in the past. The enclosed air bubbles don’t pop at the slightest touch, which is reassuring over the long haul.

However, I noticed that the reflectivity could be a bit distracting on bright days. While this is beneficial for light distribution inside the greenhouse, people with light sensitivity might find the glare a bit much during installation and maintenance.

Moreover, such robust insulation might not be necessary for smaller operations or hobbyists. The initial investment could be steep if you’re managing just a few plants or a small setup, but it’s worth considering for those with larger-scale operations or sensitive crops.

In sum, if you’re serious about your greenhouse and are looking for a way to improve plant growth and save on energy, RadiantGUARD Reflex-AIR is a solid investment. It’s a sturdy, energy-efficient solution that has made a noticeable difference in my greenhouse environment.

5. StarBoxes Large Bubble Wrap

Having recently revamped my greenhouse, I’ve been on the hunt for insulation that keeps the warmth in and the cold out. That’s when I stumbled upon the StarBoxes Large Bubble Wrap. The large 1/2″ bubbles provide superior insulation compared to the traditional smaller ones, creating an effective thermal barrier that’s noticeably keeping my plants cozy.

Working with this bubble wrap was a breeze. The 130-foot roll meant I had plenty to go around without running out, ensuring every glass pane was snuggly wrapped. I appreciated the speed at which it arrived; there’s nothing like getting right to work without unnecessary waiting.

However, while handling the wrap, I did note that some bubbles are prone to popping if too much pressure is applied. While this didn’t detract from the insulating properties, it’s something to keep in mind during installation.

The price is also higher, which might be a concern if you’re insulating on a budget. Additionally, the packaging consists of two rolls, which for me was fine but might pose a storage issue for those with limited space.

In sum, StarBoxes Large Bubble Wrap is a solid choice for greenhouse insulation. It delivers on its promise of quality insulation with generous bubble size and roll length. Despite a few minor caveats, my plants are thriving, and I’m confident the bubble wrap is playing a big role in that.

Buying Guide: Shopping For The Best Bubble Wraps For Greenhouse Insulation

When selecting bubble wrap for greenhouse insulation, I consider several key factors to ensure optimal performance and durability. Here’s what I keep in mind:

Material Quality

I look for bubble wrap made from high-grade materials. A good quality bubble wrap should have the following:

• UV Resistance: Protection against the sun’s rays to prevent degradation.
• Durability: Resistance to tearing and puncturing to maintain insulation properties.

Bubble Size

The size of the bubbles affects the insulation:

Bubble Size	Insulation Quality	Suitability
Small	Moderate	Mild climates
Large	Better	Colder regions for more air gap

Thickness

Thicker bubble wrap generally offers better insulation. I aim for a thickness that balances insulation with light transmission.

Light Transmission

I ensure that the bubble wrap allows sufficient light to pass through:

• Clear: Maximizes light entry.
• Opaque: Reduces light entry, which could be beneficial in hot climates.

Dimensions

Bubble wrap comes in various widths and lengths. I measure my greenhouse to determine the size needed and minimize waste.

• Width: Should cover the width of the glazing area without excessive overlapping.
• Length: Long enough to cover the height from the top to the bottom of the glazing area.

Installation Ease

I prefer bubble wrap that is easy to install:

• Adhesive: Look for self-adhesive options to simplify mounting.
• Cutting: It should be easy to cut to fit around irregular shapes.

By focusing on these features, I can invest in bubble wrap that effectively insulates my greenhouse while allowing for adequate light transmission. It is important to assess the environment’s specific needs and choose a product that will provide the right balance of insulation and light passage for healthy plant growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

When selecting bubble wrap for greenhouse insulation, it’s crucial to consider the material’s ability to retain heat, bubble size’s influence, and specialized products’ unique qualities. Here’s what I’ve found on some commonly asked questions: