As you already know, there is a lack of space in large and developing cities, and if you’re living in such a city, you probably have a smaller backyard. So, if you’re thinking about purchasing a new greenhouse that’ll allow you to extend the growing season, one of the most important factors you must consider is the size of the structure you’re looking at.
However, if this is your first time browsing for such an addition for your garden, you might be wondering – what factors influence the size of the greenhouse and what will I need to consider in order to choose a suitable one? Fortunately, this is exactly what we’ll discuss in this article, so without further ado, let’s take a look at what you need to consider:
Firstly, You Must Measure The Available Space
Before you do anything else from the list below, the very first thing you’ll have to do is to measure the available space you have. If you don’t, it’ll be impossible for you to choose the right size of the greenhouse. When measuring the available area, you shouldn’t be tempted to squeeze in a few meters here and there.
Besides measuring the available area, you should also remember to leave enough space around the structure’s base. Why do you need to do this? Well, by doing so, you’ll be able to have enough space for accessing the area around the greenhouse, and more importantly, you’ll ensure that you can clean it properly.
Know The Standard Dimensions
Greenhouses come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, lengths, and widths, which is the reason why you had to measure the available space in your backyard. Depending on the area you have, you’ll have to learn what the standard sizes are, which will in return allow you to choose a suitable one for yourself. The options you can choose from include:
1. “8-Foot Width”
If you have a smaller backyard and if you’re looking to grow plants, vegetables, and fruits as a hobby, you could opt for this greenhouse size. However, you should keep in mind that the 8-foot options don’t take into account the frame of the structure, which means that the actual interior size won’t be 8-feet.
In most cases, this option will feature 2-foot wide benches on the left or right side of a 3-foot wide aisle. Now, there is a wide range of options that you can choose from, which is why you must ensure that you read different review articles such as the one posted on greenhousehunt. By doing so, you’ll ensure that you opt for the best option on the market.
2. “10-Foot Width”
Among hobbyists, this is one of the most popular options that they choose, mostly because this option offers more space for growing plants. When browsing through the options, you’ll see that they most commonly feature 3-foot benches on either side of the 3-foot aisle.
The benches are considered to be perfect in size since they’ll allow the individuals to move freely, and more importantly, they’ll be able to reach all the plants without any restrictions or hindrances. So, if you’re looking to sow more plants and if your available space allows it, you might want to opt for this option.
3. “12- to 20-Foot Width”
If you want to add more features to your greenhouse such as raised beds or if you wish to plant and grow large tropical plants in your backyard, you should definitely opt for this size. After all, you’ll need more headspace, which is why this width range might be suitable for you.
Additionally, if you want to have a seating area where you can relax, a water feature, or some other addition that is suitable for your needs, you’ll definitely need the 12- to 20-foot wide structure. Keep in mind, all the things you’ll add will take up the available space you have, hence, ensure that it’s suitable for your garden.
4. “20+ Foot Width”
Now, it’s quite possible that you won’t be able to opt for this option, especially if your backyard is smaller. Nonetheless, it’s still worth mentioning that these greenhouses are most commonly used for commercial, as well as educational applications. Hence, if you’re thinking about massively producing flowers, tropical plants, vegetables, and fruits, this might be your best option out there.
Is There Something Else That I Must Consider?
Besides all the aforementioned things, there are some other factors that you must consider before choosing a greenhouse. For starters, you’ll have to opt for the shape you want. In most cases, there are three main categories including octagonal, lean-to, and traditional structures. All of the three shapes have different benefits, hence, ensure that you choose a suitable one for yourself.
You should also consider the materials used for building the structure. You should know that aluminum is relatively cheap and easy to maintain, and since it can be powder-coated it comes in various colors as well. Wood is quite appealing, yet more expensive and it’ll require regular maintenance. So, when you’re browsing through all of the options available on the market, think about what material you’ll want.
Last on the list, but not least important is the fact that you need to consider the ventilation. No matter which width and size you opt for, it must have at least two roof vents, and one side vent. There are also automatic vent openers, hence, you might want to consider investing in those as well.
Conclusion
As you were able to learn, there is a wide range of things that you’ll need to consider when choosing a greenhouse for your backyard. One of the most important things you must consider when looking at your options is the space you have available, so before you do anything else, ensure that you measure your property.
So, now that you’re aware of what your options are, you shouldn’t really lose any more of your time. Instead, you should return to the beginning of this article and start with the first step we mentioned – which is going to your garden, determining where you’ll want to install the structure, and then measure it.
