20 October 2025How to Prevent Wind Damage to Your Greenhouse Tunnel
By Dicla Horticulture – Trusted Since 1993
South African farmers know that when the wind picks up, it’s no joke. From strong gusts sweeping across the Highveld to intense summer storms in the Lowveld and Western Cape, your greenhouse tunnels can face serious strain. Wind damage can tear plastic, loosen structures, and set production back for weeks. Fortunately, with the right planning and equipment, you can keep your tunnels standing strong — no matter the weather.
1. Invest in Quality Materials
Your tunnel is only as strong as the materials it’s made from. At Dicla Horticulture, we use Vatan Plastik greenhouse film, imported from Turkey and designed to handle South Africa’s harsh UV rays and strong winds. Cheaper plastics might save you money upfront, but they simply won’t last. Our farmers have proven that Vatan covers last well beyond the standard 36 months — a true investment in durability.
2. Inspect Regularly
Routine inspections are essential. After every heavy wind or storm, check your tunnel structure for loose fittings, torn plastic, or damaged support frames. Look out for:
Rust or corrosion on steel pipes
Tears or stress marks in plastic covers
Loose anchors and crop support systems
Dicla supplies anchoring systems, repair kits, and replacement plastic to help you stay ahead of damage before it becomes costly.
3. Choose the Right Site
Wind exposure varies greatly across South Africa. Try to place your tunnel where it’s naturally protected — near tree lines or windbreaks. Avoid open hilltops or slopes facing west or south-west, as these catch the strongest prevailing winds during summer storms. If natural protection isn’t possible, consider windbreak nets or strategically placed shade cloth barriers available from Dicla to reduce wind speed.
4. Keep Everything Tight and Secure
Loose plastic coverings are one of the main causes of tunnel damage. After every weather shift, ensure that your covers and ventilation flaps are tightly fastened. If your covers loosen due to sun exposure or temperature changes, simply tighten them up again. A properly stretched cover helps wind flow smoothly over the tunnel instead of catching and tearing.
5. Prepare for the Unexpected
Summer weather in South Africa can change in minutes — high winds, hail, and dust storms are all part of the game. Keep your tunnels ready:
Secure loose tools, irrigation pipes, and tanks.
Add extra anchoring if you expect severe weather.
Use Vatan Plastik covers for UV protection and wind resistance.
For the most exposed areas, Dicla’s heavy-duty greenhouse structures are reinforced to withstand extreme wind conditions.
6. Plan Ahead with Dicla
Even with the best preparation, storms happen. The key is recovery. Dicla Horticulture offers replacement plastic, tunnel repair kits, crop support systems, and full installation services to help you bounce back fast and limit downtime.
Our experienced team can also help you plan for expansion, ensuring your tunnels are future-proof and scalable as your business grows.
Your Partner in Wind-Resilient Greenhouse Farming
With over 30 years of experience in South African agriculture, Dicla Horticulture provides high-quality greenhouse tunnels, irrigation systems, and accessories that stand the test of time — and weather.
Call: 011 662 2846
Email: horticulture@dicla.com
