FAQ

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.

We are the only suppliers of Polycrub, so you can buy directly from us.

Yes, we can ship Polycrub kits outside Shetland—they’ve been sent as far as the Falklands and Greenland. We have distribution partners across the UK and we are growing this further in the future.

Our main hub is based in Shetland, however, we also have hubs in Inverness, Nantwich, and the Western Isles. Your kit will be delivered from your nearest hub.

The Polycrub kit includes all the materials needed for the external structure, except the cement for securing the posts. The total amount of cement is dependent on the size of the Polycrub but we recommend at least 50kg per post. We supply enough polycarbonate, timber and ironmongery to allow customers to build their own doors and windows in the gable ends.

The kit includes full construction notes, detailed drawings and can be built by anyone with suitable building experience and skills. We also have a growing network of independent, trusted constructors. We recommend the use of these where possible and can give details of any in your area.

Some of the kit materials measure 9m in length, so a truck is usually required for transportation and delivery. We recommend the use of our experienced haulage partners that use a rigid truck with a mounted crane - this makes for a quick and safe delivery of your kit.

The hoops are created using very strong polyethylene pipe, recycled from the aquaculture industry. This diverts the pipe from landfill and repurposes it for a new life as a Polycrub!

A Polycrub is a permanent structure, not flat pack furniture, 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.

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.

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%.

Polycrubs need lots of ventilation. Ventilation in the Polycrub is achieved via the combination of doors and/or windows installed. We supply enough polycarbonate, timber and ironmongery to allow customers to build their own doors and windows in the gable ends.

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.

Polycrub is a permanent structure but can come in under permitted development rights. We advise customers to check with their Local Planning Authority. We can supply leaflets, ground plans and elevations if customers do need planning permission. Please get in touch if you need this information.

A building warrant may be required for structures over 30sqm, except for agricultural structures. We are currently working with local authorities to make this process easier for customers. If you require more information, please get in touch.