If you want to build your own raised bed, you usually use wood because it can withstand external weather influences such as sun, wind and rain for a long time. However, if the natural material is permanently exposed to moisture, it begins to rot – and rots. This makes it all the more important to line the inside of the wood with soil before filling it in order to make it last longer. Special films for raised beds that are waterproof but also breathable are suitable for this. Below we will introduce you to four different materials.
The basic idea of a drainage film is to protect the masonry of a building from moisture. However, it is also ideal for lining raised beds to prevent the wood from rotting. The quite rigid bubble wrap is attached so that the knobs point outwards. This should allow rain or irrigation water to drain more easily and the air to circulate better. In addition, so-called condensation is avoided. According to the manufacturer, the material is pressure- and tear-resistant and free of harmful substances.
Pond liners are made from ethylene-propylene-diene (monomer) rubber, known as EPDM for short. Due to their cold-resistant, tear-resistant and extremely stretchy properties, these are very suitable for lining raised beds. The material usually only contains small amounts of plasticizers and is still so flexible that it adapts to any surface. However, EPDM films have a hefty price tag. They are significantly more expensive than, for example, bubble wrap. However, the manufacturer promises a 20-year guarantee.
The thermoplastic polyvinyl chloride, or PVC for short, can also be found in many pond liners. The material is significantly cheaper than EPDM, but also has chemical plasticizers for more elasticity and so that the film remains supple for as long as possible. However, these evaporate over time and can therefore penetrate into the earth. For this reason, although PVC film is suitable for protecting wood, it is not the best choice when it comes to cladding a raised bed. Even if the material is easy to lay.
Polyethylene (PE) is also a thermoplastic that is also suitable for lining raised beds. The UV-resistant material is not as durable as PVC, but does not release harmful plasticizers into the soil. In addition, PE film should be biodegradable, making it very environmentally friendly. The rigid material can only be shaped with patience and effort, but if you fill it with earth, it is pressed against the wooden walls – unfortunately sometimes too much, which can result in condensation.
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If you want to line a raised bed with foil, you should place the material all around in one piece so that all the wood is seamlessly covered from the inside. The film can be more easily attached to the raised bed using staples or roofing felt nails. Important: Cut the material in advance so that the beginning and end overlap at least 30 centimeters. In order to protect the wood from below, where it comes into contact with the ground and therefore moisture, it is advisable to place the raised bed frame on stones.
Source: My Beautiful Garden
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