- Why is it called a Polycrub?
Historically, Shetlanders needed sheltered space to grow-on young kale (cabbage) plants. Stone was their building material of choice and they built round, stone-walled shelters to nurture plants through the toughest conditions. Locally, this structure was known as a ‘planticrub’. Our building material of choice is polycarbonate, so we merged the name of our chosen 21st century material with a name from past growing history in Shetland. The ‘Polycrub’ was born.
- Where can I buy a Polycrub?
We are the only suppliers of Polycrub, so you can buy directly from us.
- I don’t live in Shetland, can I still buy a Polycrub?
Yes, we can ship polycrub kits outside Shetland—they’ve been sent as far as France and the Falklands. We also work with a partner in the Western Isles, and are developing our partner network.
- Do you supply all the materials?
The Polycrub kit includes everything needed for the external structure, except cement for the posts.
- Can I self-build the Polycrub kit I buy from you?
The kit includes full construction instructions and detailed drawings. It can be built by anyone with suitable building experience/skills. We also have a small network of independent, trusted constructors. We recommend the use of these where possible.
- Can I collect the Polycrub kit in a van?
Some of the kit materials measure 9m in length, so a large truck is required for transportation and delivery.
- Are the hoops of the frame made from metal?
No, the hoops are created using very strong polyethylene pipe, recycled from the aquaculture industry. This diverts the pipe from landfill.
- Can a Polycrub be built over a weekend?
A Polycrub is a permanent structure, so it takes time to build properly. The build typically takes around 50 — 100 hours, depending on size, ground conditions and any internal fit-out.
- Are Polycrubs available in a variety of sizes?
Polycrubs are either 3 metre or 4 metre wide. The 4 metre range begins at 4 metre x 4 metre and the length increases in 1 metre increments to 4 metre x 12 metre. This range is approx. 2.6 metres in height. The 3 metre wide versions begin at 3 metre x 3 metre and increase in 1 metre increments to 3 metre x 6 metre. This range is approx. 2.3 metres at the highest part.
- Is plastic sheeting used to cover the Polycrub?
No, our Polycrubs are covered using polycarbonate sheeting. The sheet is strong, lightweight, impact resistant and easy to bend. It features a UV-protective layer on one side. Joining sections are also UV protected. Each polycarbonate sheet carries a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty and is highly weather resistant with good thermal insulation properties. Light transmission is excellent at 81%.
- Do I need to install air vents for ventilation?
No, the combination of doors and/or windows you decide to install are the means of ventilation. Customers who buy the 4m—8m long range, usually chose to build a stable door in one gable end and one or two windows in the other. Polycrubs greater than 8m long need lots of ventilation. We recommend either building a stable door in each end, or a stable door in one end and three windows in the other.
- Will I need to dig out a foundation?
No, there isn’t any need for extensive foundations. Polycrubs are anchored using a robust post and concrete system, using holes in the ground. You’ll need a relatively level site, but Polycrubs can also be built on sloping ground if necessary. The build will be a bit more tricky as the slope angle needs to be taken into account, whilst still building the Polycrub level.
- Will I need planning permission to build a Polycrub?
Polycrub is a permanent structure but can come in under permitted development rights. We advise customers to check with their Local Planning Authority.
