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Greenhouses

Glass and polycarbonate greenhouses — installation, repair, and maintenance

Greenhouses are glazed garden structures for growing plants in a controlled environment. Types include mini/lean-to, freestanding aluminium, timber greenhouses, and polycarbonate kits. They require proper anchoring, ventilation, and regular maintenance.

Common Damage

1. Glazing Damage

  • Cracked or shattered glass panels
  • Cloudy or yellowing polycarbonate
  • Panels slipping out due to worn clips

2. Frame & Structure Issues

  • Rust or corrosion (steel frames)
  • Aluminium bending under strong winds
  • Wood rot in timber greenhouses
  • Loose joints causing instability

3. Storm & Weather Damage

  • Panels blown out, frames twisted
  • Snow load causing roof sagging
  • UV exposure degrading seals and plastics

4. Ventilation & Door Problems

  • Broken or jammed vents
  • Automatic vent openers failing
  • Misaligned or stuck sliding doors

5. Internal Issues

  • Poor drainage leading to water pooling
  • Mould, algae, and pest build-up
  • Damaged staging (shelves/benches)

Repairs

minor Repairs

  • Clean glass/panels to maintain light levels
  • Check and tighten clips, bolts, and fixings
  • Lubricate hinges, vents, and door tracks
  • Clear gutters and ensure drainage works

moderate Repairs

  • Replace broken glass or panels
  • Re-secure glazing clips or seals
  • Treat rust or repaint metal frames
  • Fix or replace vent openers

major Repairs

  • Replace timber sections if rot is extensive
  • Re-anchor greenhouse if it has shifted
  • Full structural rebuild

New Installation

When Replacement Is Needed

  • Starting a growing hobby
  • Old greenhouse beyond repair
  • Upgrading to a more efficient model

Installation Steps

  1. Choose Type

    • Mini/lean-to, freestanding, timber, or polycarbonate
  2. Prepare Base

    • Level concrete, slab, or compacted ground
  3. Assemble Frame

    • Aluminium, timber, or steel framework
  4. Install Glazing

    • Glass or polycarbonate panels with secure clips
  5. Fit Doors & Vents

    • Sliding doors, roof vents, and louvre windows
  6. Anchor Securely

    • Proper anchoring to prevent wind damage

Lifespan

Aluminium greenhouse
20–30+ years
Timber greenhouse
10–20 years (with maintenance)
Polycarbonate panels
10–15 years

Warning Signs

  • Glass panels cracked or missing
  • Frame rusting or bending
  • Doors or vents not working
  • Structure wobbling in wind
  • Poor light levels from dirty panels

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