Polythene or plastic sheeting has a variety of uses around the house, and is needed to protect furniture and fixtures when you're painting or remodeling. It can also protect landscaping features. Note a few things to look for when you're ready to buy polythene or plastic sheeting of any sort, so you know you get the right type without overspending on some type of plastic that you don't really need.

Thickness

The thickness of polythene sheeting is usually measured in microns, and the thicker the sheet, the more expensive it will typically be. You don't want a sheet that is so thin that it allows paint to drip through when using the sheet as a drop cloth but also may not need a builder's grade sheet for everyday jobs.

A thickness of 86 microns is somewhat standard and considered light duty use; it can be used to cover furniture and other items for light protection when you're painting, sanding, and doing other household jobs. Medium duty film is 125 microns; you might choose this to cover and protect furniture if it will be directly under a painted area so you know there is less risk of the paint dripping through. You can also use this thickness to protect landscaping features when there is a frost warning.

Heavy duty polythene sheeting is 250 microns and this may be used for protecting your home from the elements when your roof is exposed during a roof repair job, or when you need to provide weatherproof covering such as when protecting firewood stored outdoors.

Color

The color of plastic sheeting you buy will also be important, depending on its use. Many people use clear polythene sheeting for creating a temporary or small greenhouse. The clear plastic allows light to shine through so plants can get light and thrive. Black sheeting is used for when you need to block out light, for example, if you're covering furniture at a home you don't use or that is up for sale, you may want to keep sunlight from fading the upholstery.

Blue may block out light without holding heat the way black sheeting might, so it can be good for covering something during warm summer months. If you want to cover furniture at a summer cottage but don't want to run the air conditioner to keep the inside cooler, blue can be the right choice.

For more information, contact a company like The Tubeworks.