Wooden Greenhouses

How We Help You Find the Right Wooden Greenhouse

At WhatShed, we understand the importance of choosing the perfect wooden greenhouse for your gardening needs. Wooden greenhouses offer both aesthetic appeal and functional durability, making them an excellent choice for gardeners who want a natural look that blends seamlessly into their garden space. With our expert reviews and detailed comparisons, we help you find the best wooden greenhouses available in the UK, ensuring you make an informed decision that suits your style and gardening requirements.

What Defines a Wooden Greenhouse

A wooden greenhouse is an outdoor structure designed to create an ideal environment for plant growth. Built with a wooden frame, it offers a more traditional and sturdy appearance compared to metal or plastic-framed alternatives. The quality and lifespan of a wooden greenhouse depend on factors like the type of wood, construction methods, and treatments applied to protect the wood from weathering and decay.

Key Factors for Classifying a Wooden Greenhouse

Framing Materials The type of wood used in the frame is one of the most critical factors in determining the durability and aesthetics of a wooden greenhouse.

Pressure-Treated Softwood The most common framing material for wooden greenhouses in the UK is pressure-treated softwood, such as pine or spruce. This treatment protects the wood from rot, fungal decay, and insect damage, making it ideal for the UK’s damp climate. Pressure-treated wood typically lasts 10 to 15 years with minimal maintenance, though reapplying a wood preservative periodically can extend its life. The wood may have a green or brown tint from the treatment process, which can be painted or stained to suit personal preferences.

Cedar For a more premium option, cedar, particularly Western Red Cedar, is often used. Cedar naturally resists rot and insects, thanks to its oils, so it requires fewer chemical treatments. Cedar is highly durable, often lasting 20 years or more with minimal maintenance. It also resists warping and shrinking, which is essential for greenhouses exposed to fluctuating moisture levels. Over time, cedar weathers to a silvery-grey patina, adding to its rustic charm.

Thermally Modified Wood For eco-conscious gardeners, thermally modified wood is an excellent option. This process uses heat and steam to enhance the wood’s resistance to rot and insect damage without using chemicals. It also improves the wood’s stability, reducing the risk of warping. Thermally modified wood typically has a darker color due to the heat treatment, offering a sleek and modern appearance.

Types of Construction

Tongue and Groove Jointing Many wooden greenhouses, especially premium models, use tongue and groove cladding. This construction method involves fitting the tongue (a protruding edge) of one board into the groove (a recessed edge) of the next. This creates a tight, weather-resistant seal that keeps moisture and wind out, while adding strength to the structure.

Mortise and Tenon Joinery In high-end wooden greenhouses, mortise and tenon joinery is a traditional method used to connect structural components. The tenon (a projection) fits into the mortise (a corresponding hole) and is often secured with wooden pegs. This technique provides superior strength and stability, making it less likely to loosen over time compared to nails or screws.

Glazing Bars and Roof Beams Wooden greenhouses rely on glazing bars and roof beams to support the weight of glass or polycarbonate panels. Premium greenhouses may use thicker beams to increase stability and ensure the frame can handle external forces like wind or snow. Wooden frames are strong enough to support toughened glass, which is a safer and more insulating glazing option.

Glazing Options

Toughened Glass Toughened glass is a popular choice for wooden greenhouses because it’s four to five times stronger than standard glass. If it breaks, it shatters into small, blunt pieces, reducing the risk of injury. Toughened glass also provides excellent thermal insulation and allows for optimal light transmission, which is essential for plant growth.

Horticultural Glass Horticultural glass is a more affordable option, though it’s more prone to breakage than toughened glass. It provides good light transmission but lacks the insulating and safety properties of tougher glazing options, making it less ideal for regions with harsh weather.

Polycarbonate Some wooden greenhouses use polycarbonate panels, which are lightweight and shatter-resistant. Twin-wall polycarbonate offers additional insulation, making it a suitable alternative to glass, particularly in gardens where falling debris or accidental impacts are concerns. However, polycarbonate may become discolored over time due to UV exposure.

Wood Treatments and Maintenance

Pressure Treatment For softwood frames, pressure treatment is the most common protective measure. It forces preservatives deep into the wood to protect it from rot, insects, and decay. While pressure-treated wood requires less maintenance than untreated wood, occasional sealing or staining can help maintain its appearance and extend its lifespan.

Oiling and Staining For cedar and thermally modified wood, regular applications of wood oil or stain help maintain the natural beauty of the wood while protecting it from weathering. This also helps prevent the wood from greying too quickly under sun exposure.

Conclusion

A wooden greenhouse offers both practical durability and aesthetic appeal, making it a popular choice for gardeners who value natural materials. Pressure-treated softwood provides an affordable and durable option, while cedar is a premium choice for those seeking a low-maintenance, long-lasting structure. Construction methods like tongue and groove cladding and mortise and tenon joinery ensure a sturdy frame that can support heavy glazing like toughened glass. Proper maintenance, including treatments like oiling or staining, will help keep your wooden greenhouse looking beautiful and performing well for many years to come.