A greenhouse is one of the most valuable additions to any garden and serves as substantial option for the growth of wider range of plants. Despite the array of designs available in the market, it is essential to determine the size and material of the greenhouse before you are planning to invest in a greenhouse. The selection of a greenhouse is a trade-off between the growing capacity (the size of the garden) and the size of the greenhouse you are willing to buy.
The purchase of a greenhouse demands (eco-friendly) for an investment of time and money. Therefore, we have listed down some factors which you might need to consider, while you are planning to buy a greenhouse.
Deciding the shape of the greenhouse:
There are plenty of greenhouse options available in the market, ranging from basic frame structure that can be fixed in the balcony to victorian style structures with brick bases and finials. While some models have dual function which can be fixed at one end of the house. Moreover, it is essential to opt for greenhouse which offers a strong base structure. Once you have achieved a strong foundation of the greenhouse glass, you need to choose the shape of the greenhouse from structures including:
- Lean-To
- Free standing or lantern shape
- Traditional free standing
Product decision:
Choosing the right frame structure is a daunting task, as there are several range of options available in the market. A frame provides structural integrity and serves as shield to protect the covering of greenhouse. Moreover, if you are planning to buy a new greenhouse, it is important to consider weight and durability for each material as per the conditions of the climate. Greenhouse frames are usually available in:
- Wooden – Wooden frames are better-suited for most of the garden styles, as it contains to properties to keep the greenhouse warmer in the winter and cooler in summer.
- Aluminium – Aluminium is a preferred choice for glass-made greenhouses, as far as the price is concerned, these frames are cheaper and last for a longer period of time.
Ensuring you have the right perspex sheet cut to size is super important when replacing your greenhouse or shed windows.
Selecting the site of the greenhouse:
Ideally, greenhouse must be sited where plants can receive uninterrupted sunshine throughout the day. It is advisable to buy a greenhouse by considering the size of the garden where it needs to be sited. Moreover, place a greenhouse where plants can get optimum sunlight and avoid to place near trees as it can cause potential damage to the greenhouse.
Which glazing material should I opt for?
While you are planning to buy a greenhouse, it is of pivotal importance to opt for the one which allow light to pass through the structure. Greenhouse generally available in three glazing options:
- Polycarbonate sheet – This material can transmits 85% of the light to the greenhouse. Available in a range of thickness, polycarbonate panels can last long for more than 15 years.
- Glass – Glass can transmit 90% of the light in the greenhouse and it is available in varied options ranging from tampered to fibreglass.
- Clear perspex sheet – Slightly weaker than polycarbonate but cheaper, offers great clarity.
Good ventilation:
It is important to ensure that a greenhouse has sufficient ventilation. In order to create better growing conditions, it is essential to opt for greenhouse which has maximum number of vents in the roof.