Should I buy a base for a new greenhouse?

July 24, 2015

Should I buy a base for a new greenhouse?

The main point to consider is the importance of a safe, secure and accurate fixing for the greenhouse.

Greenhouses have a lot of weight in their glass and a firm foundation is essential.

At the same time, they present resistance to air movement and like a sail, can be affected by strong winds.

Therefore, it is essential to have some sort of base.

Some greenhouses come with bases, others don't; but the ones without, have optional bases at extra cost.

Greenhouse models without bases but bases are available.

Included in this category are the Magnum, Universal, Acorn, Popular, Wall Garden, Silverline and Supreme models
Generally, the main purpose of a greenhouse is to grow plants inside the greenhouse and to grow them directly in the ground. The location will often be an area with grass or cultivation of some sort. There could be future subsidence. Therefore, a base of some description will be needed to support the weight of the greenhouse and anchor it securely at the same time.

Bases can be metal (such as the integral base, below) or blocks or bricks

These will be laid out with perfect dimensions to correspond to the dimensions of the greenhouse.

The base must be perfectly level. Otherwise water may seep under the bottom bar and silicone filling even if it works will only be temporary.

The greenhouse will be fixed to the base and the base will be fixed by setting it (if blocks or bricks base) in or (if metal base) on a concrete filled trench.

Greenhouse models with bases which are described as 'integral'.

These include Eden Marquess, Countess, Monarch, Regal, Consort, Viscount, Lean-To, Orangery and Burford. Juliana models include the Compact, Premier and Gardener.

A greenhouse with an integral base can be installed upon any solid flat level surface. The base can be fixed to (say) a concrete area with expanding bolts anchored in pre-drilled holes. An optional base can be handled the same way if the frame and base are fixed securely together.

Examples are a patio, a paved area, a parking area or any similar place.

(However, the consequence is that plants must be grown in pots or grow bags.)

If the primary reason for the greenhouse is recreational rather than horticultural this type of location can suit many owners.

A well sheltered location with winter sunshine can provide a very attractive sitting area under glass while being 'outside' at the same time. Lean-to models are often used in this way.

Anyone looking for a greenhouse with this type of location in mind will look first at models with integral bases.