When choosing a polytunnel or net house, wind rating is one of the most important factors to consider. In many parts of Australia, strong winds are not occasional events. They are seasonal realities.
Understanding what wind ratings actually mean, and how they apply to different frame tiers, helps you choose the right structure for your property and avoid costly mistakes.
This guide explains our wind ratings across Starter, Elite, Pro, Premium and Multispan systems, and how they apply to both polytunnels and net houses.
What Does a Wind Rating Actually Mean?
A wind rating refers to the maximum wind speed the frame structure is designed to withstand when properly installed and securely anchored.
It is important to understand that wind rating is based on:
- Frame diameter and wall thickness
- Bracing configuration
- Connection strength
- Correct anchoring into the ground
Wind pressure increases exponentially as wind speed increases. The jump from 100 km/h to 130 km/h represents a significant increase in structural load.
Polytunnel Wind Ratings by Model
Starter – Up to 80 km/h
Ideal for sheltered backyards and low-wind suburban environments.
Elite – Up to 100 km/h
Suitable for semi-exposed blocks and light rural conditions.
Pro – Up to 130 km/h
Designed for rural properties and open paddocks where wind exposure is higher.
Premium – Up to 150 km/h
Engineered for highly exposed sites, elevated land and coastal conditions.
Each step up in tier represents a structural increase in strength and rigidity.
Net House Wind Ratings
Our net houses use the same structural frame tiers as our polytunnels. That means the wind rating is determined by the frame, not the cover material.
Starter – Up to 90 km/h
Pro – Engineered to withstand storm-level gusts up to 130 km/h
Premium – Engineered to withstand storm-level gusts up to 150 km/h
The net house uses black knotless polyethylene netting (5mm x 5mm mesh, 55gsm, UV treated and Victorian compliant) as standard. While the netting allows airflow, the wind rating is determined by the engineered steel frame, not the covering material.
Does Shade Cloth Change the Wind Rating?
Many customers assume that because shade cloth is breathable, the structure will automatically withstand stronger winds.
While airflow reduces pressure compared to fully enclosed plastic, wind rating is based on:
- Structural engineering of the frame
- Bracing strength
- Anchoring method
- Connection points
For this reason, our shade houses share the same structural rating as their equivalent polytunnel frame tier.
Multispan Wind Rating
Our multispan systems are built using the Pro frame kits as their structural base.
This means multispan structures are engineered to the same 130 km/h wind rating as our Pro range.
Because multispans cover larger surface areas, correct installation and anchoring are critical. A properly installed multispan offers commercial-scale growing space with strong structural performance.
Choosing the Right Wind Rating for Your Property
Before selecting your structure, consider:
- Is your site elevated or fully exposed?
- Are you located in a coastal or high-wind region?
- Do surrounding buildings or trees act as windbreaks?
- Are you installing in open paddocks?
If in doubt, stepping up one tier provides additional security and long-term peace of mind.
Wind is one of the most powerful forces acting on any agricultural structure. Choosing the correct wind-rated frame protects your investment and ensures your growing season is not cut short by extreme weather.
Choosing the correct wind-rated structure protects your investment long term. Speak with our team today at sales@greenhousepolytunnels.com.au
or 0418 438 774 for tailored advice.
