Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is shelving included?
All our shelving units are optional. We understand that everyone has unique preferences when arranging their greenhouses and shelving is not a mandatory feature for all clients. If you are interested in purchasing shelving please note that one unit is for one side of shelving, if you would like shelving for both sides of the greenhouse please order 2 units of shelving. Explore our products and pricing to discover the available options.
2. Do you supply custom shelving units?
We are able to supply custom shelving units. Please contact us on sales@easygreenhouses.co.za to discuss your specifications.
3. Is any irrigation included?
We do not provide irrigation solutions as clients often have diverse requirements based on their chosen methods and what they will be utilizing their greenhouse for. It is advisable to consult your local irrigation supplier to address your specific needs effectively.
4. Do you supply fans or air vents?
All units come equipped with roof vents. For additional ventilation, consider purchasing either our Automatic Vent Openers or our Side Louver Vents. These accessories will assist in climate control within the greenhouse and increasing ventilation. For internal use, small extractor fans from your local builder supplier/Take Alot can be incorporated into panels to customize your greenhouse according to your specific needs. If you have any questions regarding the extractor fans please contact us on sales@easygreenhouses.co.za
5. What kind of foundation do I need?
Our greenhouses include a base frame to which the rest of the structure is fixed to. The base frame can be buried directly into the earth, providing an easy and cost-effective assembly method. Ensure a leveled and cleared area of the specified size, and fill the base with soil, creating a solid, stable foundation. Our clients have diverse requirements and so foundations can also be built. Please note proper installation is crucial for the 5-year warranty to be valid.
6. Building Your Own Foundation:
You have the option to construct your foundation, offering flexibility for increased internal volume, adapting to uneven ground, or addressing drainage concerns. In this case, the greenhouse must be bolted or fixed to the built foundation, utilizing the provided base frame. You can fill the floor with soil, bricks, pavers, gravel, etc., based on your preference. Or you can build the foundation using brick or concrete. Please note that concrete is utilized by our clients but is not recommended as it may retain heat/cold, potentially making climate control more challenging. If you would like to see some images of different foundations please contact us sales@easygreenhouses.co.za
7. Can I customize the greenhouse to suit my specific needs?
Yes, you have the flexibility to customize your greenhouse, making internal modifications, such as adding ventilation accessories, fans, shelving or planter boxes, to meet your specific gardening needs. The greenhouse frame itself cannot be customized due to the fact that it is supplied as a standardized DIY kit.
8. Are there options for adding additional extensions or connecting multiple units?
Yes, you can extend our Grand Gro unit for a larger greenhouse space. Our Grand Gro range is modular, the base unit is 2,6m x 3,6m and can be extended by 2,86m at a time by adding an extension unit. Adding one extension unit will increase the overall length of the greenhouse to 6,5m, adding a second extension unit will increase the overall length to 9,3m. The base unit can be extended as many times as needed and can be done at a later stage if you require more space.
9. What is the expected lifespan of the greenhouse, and how durable are the materials used?
The expected lifespan depends on factors like maintenance and climate. Our greenhouses are constructed with durable materials for long-lasting performance. Aluminum has a life span of 40+ years and polycarbonate 20+ years. As long as the greenhouse is being maintained and has been installed correctly you should enjoy your greenhouse for many years to come.
10. How do I assemble the greenhouse, and is professional installation available?
Assembly is guided by step-by-step instructions as well as all the necessary tools provided. Professional installation is not included, but can be arranged. We have installation teams in the four major cities being Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban and surrounding areas. If you would like professional installation please email us to see if your area is serviced.
11. Can the greenhouse be disassembled and moved to a different location?
Yes, the greenhouse can be disassembled and relocated if needed. We recommend disassembling the greenhouse one section at a time and labeling all the pieces according to the manual in order to reassemble it in a new location with ease. The panels are UV coated on one side and it is imperative to label the outside of the panel in order to reinstall the panels correctly so that the protective layer is on the outside.
12. How do I maintain the greenhouse, and are replacement parts available?
Regular maintenance is recommended. The greenhouse should be cleaned to prevent buildup, bolts should be tightened every so often and especially after any extreme weather conditions or winds. If anything should happen, replacement parts are available but will incur a lead time and additional cost depending on what parts are required. Refer to the maintenance guidelines in the provided manual.
13. Can the greenhouse withstand extreme weather conditions?
While our greenhouses are designed to withstand most weather conditions, unpredictable circumstances may cause damage. It is imperative to secure your greenhouse to your foundation correctly either by burying or by fixing the base to your foundation. Correct installation and routine maintenance are necessary and enhance stability. Email/call us for more information on how to secure your greenhouse to your foundation.
14. Where is the best location for my greenhouse?
The location of your greenhouse depends on what you will be growing but generally we would recommend installing the greenhouse in an area that gets sunlight and shade throughout the day. Either morning sun and afternoon shade or visa versa. The greenhouse can get very hot and therefore it is not recommended that it be in direct sunlight all day unless you install ventilation accessories and can control the climate inside.
15. What temperature range is ideal for my greenhouse plants, and how can I control it?
Ideal temperatures vary for different plants. The greenhouse design allows for temperature control through ventilation, shading, and additional heating or cooling options.
16. How can I cool my greenhouse in the summer months?
Cooling a greenhouse during the summer months is crucial to maintain optimal conditions for plant growth. Here are several effective strategies to cool a greenhouse:
Ventilation:
Proper ventilation is essential for cooling. Install side louver vents, to allow hot air to escape and promote fresh air circulation. Automatic vent openers can respond to temperature changes, ensuring continuous airflow.
Shade Cloth:
Install shade cloth above the greenhouse to reduce the intensity of sunlight. Shade cloth comes in various shading percentages, allowing you to control the amount of sunlight entering the greenhouse.
Cooling Fans:
Use circulation fans to move air within the greenhouse. This helps distribute cooler air and prevents the formation of hotspots.
Evaporative Cooling:
Set up an evaporative cooling system, such as a misting or fogging system. As water evaporates, it absorbs heat from the air, leading to a cooling effect. Ensure proper humidity levels to avoid excess moisture.
Dampening Floors:
Wetting the greenhouse floor can have a cooling effect through evaporative cooling. However, be cautious not to overwater, as excessive humidity can be detrimental to certain plants.
Paint or Shade External Surfaces:
Applying reflective paint or shading the exterior surfaces of the greenhouse can help reflect sunlight, reducing heat absorption and lowering internal temperatures.
Night Ventilation:
Utilize natural cooling during the night by opening vents or louvers. Cooler air tends to be more prevalent during nighttime, and allowing it to circulate can reduce overall temperatures.
Use Heat-Tolerant Plants:
Choose plant varieties that are more tolerant to higher temperatures. Some plants are better suited for summer conditions and can thrive in warmer environments.
Manage Plant Density:
Avoid overcrowding plants, as this can limit airflow and contribute to higher temperatures. Proper spacing allows for better air circulation and cooling.
Implementing a combination of these strategies can help create a more comfortable and conducive environment for plant growth in your greenhouse during the hot summer months. Adjustments may be needed based on the specific climate and plant requirements in your region.
17. How can I warm my greenhouse in the cooler months?
Maintaining a suitable temperature in a greenhouse during the winter months is crucial for the well-being of plants. Here are effective strategies to warm a greenhouse in winter:
Heating Systems:
Install a heating system suitable for your greenhouse size. Options include electric heaters, gas heaters, propane heaters, or even radiant floor heating systems. Choose a system that meets the specific needs of your plants and the climate in your region.
Thermal Mass:
Introduce thermal mass elements such as water barrels, stones, or concrete blocks inside the greenhouse. These materials absorb heat during the day and release it slowly during the night, helping to regulate temperature fluctuations.
Windbreaks:
Install windbreaks around the greenhouse to reduce heat loss due to cold winds. Solid fences or hedgerows can act as effective windbreaks.
Automatic Ventilation:
Install our automatic vent openers that can open and close vents based on temperature fluctuations. This prevents overheating during sunny days and conserves heat during colder periods.
Mulching:
Apply a layer of mulch around plants to insulate the soil. Mulch helps regulate soil temperature, preventing it from becoming too cold and protecting plant roots.
Greenhouse Location:
Ensure that the greenhouse is situated in a location that receives maximum sunlight during the winter months.
Close the Greenhouse at Night:
Close doors and vents during the night to trap heat inside the greenhouse. This helps maintain a warmer environment when temperatures drop.
Combining several of these strategies will provide a comprehensive approach to warming your greenhouse during the winter, creating a suitable environment for plants to thrive. Adjustments may be needed based on the specific climate conditions in your region.
18. Do you supply the greenhouses is black?
Currently only our Luxe Gro greenhouse is supplied in Black. All our other models are supplied in green.
19. Do you offer financing options for purchasing a greenhouse?
We do not have any financing options available, all orders need to be paid upfront before we can deliver.
20. Warranty Information:
The warranty is only valid if the greenhouse is installed correctly following provided instructions. While our greenhouses are designed to withstand the majority of weather conditions, we cannot be held liable for any unpredictable weather circumstances.