When choosing a greenhouse, there are several important factors to consider - these are essentially the same as for any other type of product. When comparing greenhouses by different manufacturers, pay special attention to the following points:

Quality of Components and Materials

Is the manufacturer using top-quality materials conforming to industry standards?

Value for Money

Can you get a greenhouse of similar quality and features from another manufacturer at a better price?

Customer Service

Does the manufacturer offer a helpdesk and after sales support? If so, give the helpdesk a call to gauge the quality of this service.

Guarantee

As a rule of thumb, a reputable manufacturer should offer a ten-year guarantee on the greenhouse frame.

It's quite common for people, once smitten with the greenhouse bug, to become dissatisfied with the size of their first hothouse and yearn for something bigger. To avoid future disappointment it's advisable to buy the biggest greenhouse you can afford that is compatible with your site.

Once you've established the correct size according to your budget and available space, there are other things to consider.

Unless you have opted for a cold frame or window garden greenhouse, the type of base is very important. Some kind of base is needed, whether it be aluminum, brick or timber. Lean-tos and greenhouses require a base so the door can slide into the bottom overhanging track.

Powder Coating

Some manufacturers offer special finishes. Powder coated frames come in a choice of colors, typically white, green, black, terracotta or plain alloy. The coating is hard wearing and long lasting and will protect your greenhouse frame against chips and scratches as well as enhance the appearance.

Victorian Greenhouse

Some manufacturers offer special embellishments, such as cresting and finials, to give your greenhouse a Victorian look and style.

Dwarf Walls

Dwarf wall modifications are offered by some manufacturers - this is where the height of the greenhouse is cut down to enable it to be constructed on top of a base wall such that the eaves or ridge are at a certain height. To enable the door step height to be as low as possible, it's necessary to leave a threshold in the wall the greenhouse is built onto.

Wheelchair Access

Drop doors, offered with some greenhouses, enable easy access for wheelchairs.

Safety

Safety is obviously extremely important, especially if children or pets will be in the vicinity of the greenhouse. There are industry standards manufacturers ought to comply with. In the UK look for toughened safety glass to BS6026 standards or Grade A polycarbonate safety glazing - these are popular alternatives to standard horticultural glass.

You may not be able to control the weather, but you can create a solid stable greenhouse growing environment - a little planning and forethought will provide you with immense satisfaction and enjoyment for many years to come.