Polytunnel base boards: check your model's requirements (UK)

This page is a preparation worksheet. It does not establish compatibility or give a board specification, fixing method or installation instruction.

Identify the exact tunnel

Collect the order confirmation, invoice, assembly instructions, parts list and any later correspondence. Copy the maker, model or range, size, order or frame reference and document revision as printed. Note any known repairs or alterations; mark uncertain details as unknown. A similar-looking model name, photograph or frame is not enough to confirm that instructions match.

If the paperwork is missing, ask the maker what information can identify the tunnel. Ask which order details, drawing references, labels or photographs they need. Keep each picture tied to its location on the tunnel and its date, and describe what it shows without guessing at a part's name or purpose. Leave the part unidentified until you have a confirmed reference.

Ask what the paperwork says about boards

Search the exact model's instructions and parts list for the maker's own wording. Record the document title, revision or date, page, and the terms used for the boards and adjoining parts. If the paperwork does not mention boards, or you cannot tell whether a reference applies to your size or revision, note that gap rather than filling it from another model's instructions.

Ask the maker to confirm in writing:

• whether base boards form part of this exact model and size, and whether they are optional, excluded or supplied separately;
• the role assigned to them in this model's design, if any;
• the drawing or instruction revision that applies to your frame;
• the board description and any specified dimensions, material, treatment or part reference;
• the specified connection between board, frame and any associated components;
• whether the answer changes for your recorded alteration or replacement part; and
• which questions need an installer or another qualified professional to assess on site.

Keep a labelled record

Keep the reply tied to the same frame details. Use photographs available from ordinary access to the structure; do not remove parts or infer hidden dimensions to complete the record. Label each file with its date and a plain description such as “left end, outside view”. Mark unconfirmed details as “unknown”.

Keep the maker's reply with the records and note who provided it and when. If the reply refers to a document, request its title and revision so you can check that it matches the exact frame. A generic catalogue description may leave an important model or alteration question open.

Enquiry template

I have a [maker, model, size and order/frame reference]. The paperwork I have is [document title and revision/date]. It [mentions / does not mention / is unclear about] base boards on page [page]. The frame [has / has not / may have] been altered: [brief description or “unknown”]. Please confirm which instructions and parts information apply to this exact frame; whether boards are specified for it and what role they have; the relevant part references and written specifications; and whether the recorded alteration affects your answer. Please identify any point you cannot confirm and advise whether a site assessment by an installer or other qualified professional is needed.

List the answers still needed before you order or alter anything, with the maker or professional who will address each one. See our comparison method for how unknown specifications are recorded and the replacement-cover worksheet for a similar way to organise frame records and supplier questions.