Description
Greenhouse Profiles and Wiggle Wires for Sale in Kenya
A greenhouse profile is a specially shaped channel, commonly made from galvanised steel or aluminium, which is fixed to the greenhouse frame. The polythene or netting is placed over the channel and secured using a flexible wiggle wire or spring wire.
The profile creates a continuous fixing point along the greenhouse structure. Instead of puncturing the greenhouse film with nails, screws or staples, the covering is held inside the channel using the spring wire. This makes the installation neat and allows the greenhouse cover to be removed and replaced more easily during maintenance.
Wiggle wires, also called spring wires, greenhouse fixing wires or lock wires, are flexible steel wires used together with greenhouse profiles.
The wire is pushed into the profile channel over the greenhouse film. As it is installed, it bends or “wiggles” inside the channel and presses the film firmly against the profile. The system creates a strong grip without requiring holes to be punched through the polythene.
Wiggle wires are especially useful for securing greenhouse plastic along the side walls, end walls, roof edges, ventilation openings, doors and entry areas, roll-up sides, insect netting sections and shade netting sections.
Greenhouse Profile and Wiggle Wire Specifications
The exact specifications may vary depending on the manufacturer and greenhouse design. Common specifications for greenhouse profile systems include:
| Specification | Typical option |
| Profile material | Galvanised steel or aluminium |
| Profile type | Single-channel or compatible greenhouse locking profile |
| Common length | Approximately 4 metres per profile |
| Wiggle wire material | Galvanised or coated spring steel |
| Wiggle wire length | Commonly supplied in approximately 2 m, 3 m or 4 m lengths, depending on supplier |
| Wire function | Locks film or netting inside the profile |
| Profile function | Provides continuous fixing channel |
| Covering compatibility | Greenhouse polythene, insect net and shade net, depending on installation |
| Installation | Profile fixed to frame; covering held with wiggle wire |
| Reusable | Can generally be removed and reinstalled when still in good condition |
Greenhouse Profile Length
The length of greenhouse profiles affects the number of pieces required for a project. Profiles can be cut to suit specific sections of a greenhouse. However, unnecessary joints should be avoided because continuous fixing sections generally provide a cleaner installation.
For larger commercial greenhouses, it is useful to calculate the total running metres of profile required before purchasing.
Wiggle Wire Length and Coverage
The required quantity depends on the total length of greenhouse profile being used. Farmers should purchase enough wiggle wire to secure every section of greenhouse covering.
As a simple planning method:
Required wiggle wire length ≈ total profile length
It is advisable to allow some additional material for corners, joins, mistakes and future repairs.
Accessories Used with Greenhouse Profiles and Wiggle Wires
- Greenhouse Polythene
The main greenhouse covering is normally UV-treated agricultural polythene. The film is placed over the greenhouse structure and secured using the profile and wiggle wire. The correct film thickness should be selected according to the greenhouse design, climate and expected service life.
- Insect Net
Insect netting can also be secured using greenhouse profiles and wiggle wires. It is commonly installed around ventilation areas, side openings and other sections where air needs to enter while reducing insect entry.
- Shade Net
Shade netting can be installed on suitable greenhouse sections to reduce excessive solar radiation. The appropriate shade percentage depends on the crop and local climate.
- Greenhouse Profile Clips
Some greenhouse profile systems use additional clips, brackets or connectors to attach the profile securely to the greenhouse frame. These accessories help maintain a strong connection between the profile and supporting structure.
- Profile Connectors
Where long runs require multiple profile sections, connectors may be used depending on the profile design. They help maintain alignment between adjoining profile pieces.
- Screws and Fasteners
Profiles need suitable screws or fasteners for attachment to the greenhouse structure. The correct fastener depends on whether the frame is made from steel, aluminium, timber or another material.
Installation of Greenhouse Profiles and Wiggle Wires
1: Position the Profile- Place the greenhouse profile along the section where the polythene or netting will be secured. Make sure the profile follows the greenhouse frame evenly.
2: Fix the Profile-Use suitable screws or fasteners to attach the profile firmly to the greenhouse frame. The fixing points should be sufficiently close to maintain a stable profile without unnecessary movement.
3: Position the Greenhouse Film- Pull the greenhouse polythene over the structure and position it correctly. Avoid excessive wrinkles, but do not overstretch the film. Excessive tension can increase stress on the covering.
4: Insert the Wiggle Wire- Place the wiggle wire over the film and push it into the profile channel. Work gradually along the profile, ensuring the wire remains properly seated.
5: Check the Edges- Inspect the entire fixing line to ensure the film is securely held and that there are no loose sections. At corners and joins, take extra care because these areas can experience higher tension.
Benefits of Greenhouse Profiles and Wiggle Wires
- Secure attachment of greenhouse film
- Reduced need to puncture the plastic
- Neater greenhouse finishing
- Easier film replacement
- Suitable for long continuous fixing runs
- Useful for insect and shade net installation
- Better protection against wind-related loosening
- Simple installation and maintenance
- Reusable fixing wire where the product remains in good condition
