To ensure that your aluminum greenhouse serves you well for years, if not decades, regular maintenance and care are essential. This guide covers everything from basic cleaning to replacing glazing clips to keep your greenhouse in excellent condition. Learn more about our aluminum greenhouses here.
Cleaning your greenhouse, both inside and out, not only improves its appearance but also enhances the growing conditions for your plants. Regular cleaning, including removing dirt, cleaning the glass, and eliminating algae and moss, ensures that your plants receive maximum light and reduces the risk of pests and diseases.
Top Tip: Temporarily remove all plants before starting your cleaning routine to allow easy access to all areas.
Start by using a brush to sweep the benches in the greenhouse, remove cobwebs from corners, and clear dirt from the floor. If your greenhouse has paving or a concrete floor, a Cleansweep brush head with strong nylon bristles can thoroughly clean it. Use it dry or with a Spiral Flow hose for easy water cleaning. Also, ensure that the greenhouse gutters are free of debris, especially if you are directing water to a rain barrel. For additional guidance on proper maintenance, check our FAQs.
Clean both the frame and glazing of your greenhouse with hot soapy water or a greenhouse disinfectant. This helps maintain the structure and ensures that maximum light reaches your plants. Pay special attention to removing any algae or moss that may grow where the glass panels overlap.
Wipe down all workbench surfaces and shelves. Wash and disinfect empty seed trays, pots, and other containers. Soak water mats or capillary mats to remove algae or moss, and use perforated polyethylene on top of the mats to make cleaning easier.
Keeping up with maintenance and repairs ensures that your greenhouse remains an effective growing space and helps extend its lifespan.
Over time, horticultural glass panels can crack or break. A simple crack can be temporarily repaired with All Weather Tape, but a completely broken glass panel should be replaced quickly to prevent further damage. You can replace it with the same type of glass or use a sheet of polycarbonate.
If a glazing clip is damaged or lost, replace it to ensure that the glazing stays securely in place. This is especially important during the colder months when wind and extreme weather can affect the glazing. Spending a few euros on new clips is cost-effective compared to replacing a glass panel. For more on replacement parts, check out our warranty details.
Sliding doors on most greenhouses, including all Elite greenhouses, rely on wheels for smooth opening and closing. Regularly check that the wheels run smoothly and replace them if necessary. Also, ensure that the sliding tracks are securely fastened.
Check that the roof vents are properly mounted and not blocked. If your vents have automatic openers, ensure they are functioning correctly and replace the cylinders if necessary. Roof vents are crucial for improving air circulation and should be used year-round to prevent damp conditions and diseases.
Ideally, perform a thorough cleaning and maintenance check twice a year—once before the main growing season and once in the fall when the greenhouse is less full. This routine ensures that your greenhouse is in optimal condition and ready for insulation before winter.
By following these maintenance tips, you can enjoy a well-functioning, clean, and efficient aluminum greenhouse that supports healthy plant growth all year round. For questions or further advice, contact us today or learn how to order your own greenhouse.
