Every greenhouse, no matter how big or small, should be fastened down to a solid foundation of some sort to
prevent weather damage, warping and uneven stress.
If you do not fix your greenhouse down, it will not last. Without a level base, erecting your
greenhouse will be difficult,
and in the longer term could cause glass to break or polycarbonate sheets to pop out. Doors and windows
could become stiff or stuck if the frame distorts.
Your warranty will not cover a greenhouse suffering from poor base preparation.
Most of our greenhouses either come with a rigid metal frame called a 'greenhouse base', or have this as an optional extra that you can choose to buy for an additional cost. We always recommend the use of a base to provide extra stability, anchoring your greenhouse to the ground during bad weather. It will also ensure that the frame sits flat and level, allowing all the parts to fit together as they should, making the assembly process a lot easier. Most importantly, it will help your greenhouse to last for years longer by making it more secure and stable. The general idea is that the greenhouse base (an inflexible frame) is fixed to the ground first (best cemented in) and then the greenhouse erected on top of this rigid, sturdy frame.
What kind of foundations can I choose from?
It is possible to fix a greenhouse onto adequately compacted soil. Most greenhouses have the option of a metal
plinth.
These plinths come with anchor 'spikes' on each corner which, when splayed out and cemented into a hole,
prevent the base from lifting up.
The ground must be flat and levelled off using a spirit level. It is also advisable to compact the ground using
a roller to help prevent subsidence.
Bases of gravel or hardcore are not suitable because they are not stable enough.
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Another good money-saving option is using either edging kerb-style slabs, breeze blocks, bricks or concrete to
create a solid foundation only directly under the greenhouse frame, leaving the central floor portion free.
You can either build up a foundation from ground level, or cut a suitable trench and fill this in with your
chosen medium.
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Our preferred method if you are happy to grow from growbags, a slabbed base will last as a solid and suitable
foundation for years to come.
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Another potential hard-standing option, a solid concrete pad can be a good option for larger buildings.
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