What are Winter Gardenz greenhouses like in the wind?

Very good. In fact, we'd go so far as to say they are the strongest greenhouses you will find in New Zealand. They are designed to withstand a constant wind speed of 120km/hr for up to 3-hours, and will survive gusts in excess of 150km/hr provided that are closed up (vents and doors shut and secured) and are sufficiently fixed to the ground. We recommend using our foundation mounting kits for any greenhouse that is likely to be exposed to any winds greater than 80km/hr. Read our foundation page for more information about fixing the greenhouse to the ground.

What is the difference between 'Polycarbonate & Glass'?
The main differences are thermal efficiency and durability. Our 6mm twin-wall clear polycarbonate has an air pocket between the two layers which creates a double-glazing effect. It also doesn't conduct heat energy like glass, so this results in a more thermally efficient greenhouse. Warmer at nights and better frost protection if you live in a cold area. Safety is another benefit, you can mow right around our greenhouses, kids can throw balls - because there is no dangerous glass, which can shatter. It's tough stuff! UV stabilized on both sides, the resin itself comes from a well known German company called Bayer and covered by a 10-year guarantee. From our experience many people have had this product on their conservatories etc for 15-20 years before it becomes due for replacement. Glass on the other hand offers longevity as it is unaffected by the suns UV. It also looks alot more appealing and has that traditional look about it, if that's what you're after.

Why do Winter Gardenz greenhouses cost more than the cheap greenhouses I see for sale online or in magazines.
In the greenhouse world you will get what you pay for. We make quality greenhouses, from quality materials (that last), and the greenhouses themselves are designed to withstand New Zealand's harsh conditions (i.e. wind, snow, sun, hail, etc...). Although the upfront cost of a Winter Gardenz greenhouse might cost a little more than a cheap imported greenhouse you will save in the long run as most of the cheap imported greenhouses don't usually last more than 2-years. There is a reason you don't see the cheap greenhouses erected at stores or shows around the country. This is because they look good from a picture in a magazine or on the internet but when you see one standing you will quickly see for yourself that the frame lacks structural integrity and the panels are not retained in the frame sufficiently to withstand more than a 60km/hr wind. If you are in a sheltered area and don't lose the panels in the wind then the next problem you will face is the low-grade polycarbonate panels breaking down and perishing from the sun's UV. This usually happens after the second summer. It really does pay to do your home work before buying a greenhouse to avoid being caught with a badly made product that won't last.

Does Winter Gardenz offer a guarantee for their Greenhouses  Yes. All Winter Gardenz greenhouses and shade houses have a 25-year frame guarantee. The polycarbonate glazing carries a 10-year guarantee and the glass and shade mesh have a 20-year guarantee.

What if I need extra parts or accessories?  Although they are seldom required, we do stock replacement parts just incase something out of the blue happens to your greenhouse. We also have a full range of accessories to compliment your greenhouse. Simply give us a call and we'll get it on a courier to you.

Do I require a builder to construct this greenhouse?  No, our residential kitset greenhouses have step-by-step, easy to follow instructions and are designed to be straight-forward, with the typical DIY handy-person in mind. All the parts are clearly labeled, pre drilled and cut to length. You won't require any special tools other than a cordless drill (used for tightening the nuts and bolts, not drilling holes). Assembly time will take 1-2 days, and require 2-people. The larger Winter Gardenz commercial greenhouses are constructed by tradesmen.

Can you assemble it for me?  If you are in the Auckland area, we often have someone available on weekends to come assemble.  Alternatively, you can contact Kitset Assembly Services and they have assemblers nationwide (though there are a few areas they don't have coverage).  Our prices are roughly the same as theirs.  Some of our retailers also offer assembly services. 

What size of greenhouse do I need?  If garden space is not an issue, your greenhouse size will depend on how much growing you are planning to do, and how much storage space you will need. We recommend you take time to plan your greenhouse space by listing your intended plants, shelving, potting benches, seedling trays etc, and sketching out a basic floor plan with your plants drawn to scale at their fully grown size. For more ideas, check out our Layout Guide, and for more tips on choosing the right greenhouse, read our Buyers Guide.

Where should I position my greenhouse?  The best place is on the south side of your land, facing north to get the maximum amount of sun, with consideration for where the shadows are in both summer and winter. If your greenhouse will be exposed to winds in this location, please ensure there is an adequate windbreak to protect it. See our Positioning Guide for more information.

Are your greenhouses safe for children and pets?  Yes. Our polycarbonate glazing is super tough, and in the unlikely case that it does break, the edges will not be sharp like glass.

How do I maximize growing capacity?  The best way to maximize growing capacity is with shelving - we have a large range of accessories to assist with this, including both hanging and free-standing shelving. Please see our Shelving page for more information.

Are there any ongoing costs?  The only ongoing costs you may encounter are purchasing accessories, such as shelving. The greenhouse itself is a one-off cost.

What type of maintenance do they require?  We recommend keeping your greenhouse clean by washing off any surface dirt using a gentle brush with soapy water at least once a year.  Avoid using harsh chemicals, particularly bleach.

How long does powder coating last and will it need re-painting?  No, our aluminium frames are coloured with Dulux Powder Coating, which is guaranteed not to fade for a minimum of 10 years, and is expected to last 25+ years.