At the Greenhouse Pro, we don’t just supply greenhouses.
We want to make sure you get the most from your investment. From planning permission queries to annual maintenance, our brief guides provide practical, easy-to-follow advice to help you enjoy years of successful gardening.
Need more advice?
We’re always happy to answer your questions. Get in touch today for friendly, practical guidance.
1. UK Planning Permission Guidelines
Before ordering your greenhouse, it’s important to know the planning regulations in your area. Most domestic greenhouses do not require planning permission if they meet certain criteria (size, height, location in your garden).
Key points:
- Usually under 2.5m high at the ridge does not require permission.
- If above 2.5m high, should be placed at least 2.0m from the boundary.
- Must be located at the rear of the property, not in front gardens.
- Some conservation areas or listed properties may have stricter rules.
- Some new build estates may have Permitted Development Rights removed and therefore requiring permission from the developer or local authority.
Tip: Always check with your local council if you’re unsure.
2. Toughened, Horticultural or Polycarbonate Glazing?
We only offer 3mm & 4mm full-sheet toughened glass. Full-sheet toughened is stronger, smarter-looking and safer: cut to size then tempered, it’s far more impact resistant (it’ll take a football; a golf ball is more likely to break it) and, if it fails, disintegrates into many small blunt pieces rather than dangerous shards. Large single panes eliminate multiple overlaps where dirt and algae collect, keeping the greenhouse cleaner and easier to maintain. The weight and rigidity of full sheets stiffen the frame, reduce flex and help the structure resist wind and wear. It cannot be cut after tempering, so accurate measuring and careful handling are essential.
We do not recommend horticultural glass or polycarbonate. Horticultural glass often lacks consistent standards or quality control and multi-pane create overlaps that trap dirt and algae and produce large, hazardous shards when they fail.
Polycarbonate is light and flexible, adds little stiffness, can flex or pop out in strong winds (making the greenhouse behave like a kite), it is often opaque and twin-wall sheets can trap moisture and go algae‑stained, it’s often more expensive than toughened glass and more expensive to replace.
For durability, appearance and safety, full-sheet toughened glass is the clear choice.
3. Weather Protection & Storm Safety
Greenhouses can be vulnerable to strong winds and storms, so taking precautions is key:
- Keep doors, vents and windows securely closed during bad weather.
- Replace any broken or missing glass panels as soon as possible to prevent wind damage.
- If located in exposed areas, consider Bar Capping upgrades, erecting screening (ie. fence/trellis) around the greenhouse.
4. Home Insurance
Adding your greenhouse to your home insurance policy ensures you’re covered for accidental damage, storms or other unexpected events.
- Most insurers allow you to add a greenhouse to your existing policy.
- Keep your receipt and details of the greenhouse model handy.
- If you need to make a claim, don’t hesitate to contact us. We can provide a quote or confirmation of value to support your claim.
5. General Maintenance Plan
Routine maintenance keeps your greenhouse safe and long-lasting:
- Regular inspections: Check frames, glazing and doors for damage or wear.
- Cleaning: Wash the outside frame and glass with warm soapy water and a sponge or brush. A pressure washer can usually be used on greenhouses with bar capping (pressure washing exposed glazing clips is not recommended).
- Lubrication: Hinges, locks and vent mechanisms should be kept lightly lubricated.
- Seasonal prep: Remove fallen leaves, debris and ensure gutters or drainage are clear.
6. Tips for Long-Term Enjoyment
- Shading in summer: Use blinds or netting to protect plants from excessive heat scorch.
- Ventilation: Regularly check that vents and louvres are operating smoothly to keep air flowing and prevent overheating.
- Staging and shelving: Invest in strong, weather-resistant staging or shelving to maximise growing and storage space and make working inside easier.
- Keep paths clear around your greenhouse to make access and maintenance easier.
- Consider installing an irrigation system for consistent watering and reduced manual effort.