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BC Greenhouse Builders

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BC Greenhouse Builders Ltd. was incorporated in 1951. Henry Heinen, employed with the company since 1959, purchased the company in 1972 with his wife Greta. With Henry’s expertise in design and manufacturing, he endeavoured to create the highest quality greenhouses called Cross Country Greenhouses. Henry and Greta’s son Rick now leads the company into new markets with innovative designs while continuing the legacy of a quality made product.

What Are the 3 Essential Considerations for Choosing a Greenhouse Location?

Quick Answer:

What are the 3 essential considerations for choosing a greenhouse location? The most critical factors are sun exposure, accessibility, and access to utilities. Your greenhouse should receive at least six hours of winter sunlight—ideally with the longest side facing south—to support healthy plant growth year-round, with supplemental grow lights if needed. Placing your greenhouse close to water and electricity and along a level, accessible path ensures ease of use, encourages regular visits, and allows for efficient installation, heating, ventilation, and sanitation to create an optimal gardening environment.

Selecting the ideal location for your greenhouse plans is a crucial step in your gardening journey. To ensure your plants thrive and your greenhouse remains in optimal shape, you need to carefully assess various factors. 

BCG X Epic Gardening - Greenhouse Podcasts

BC Greenhouse Builders' General Manager, Kyle Exner, sat down with Kevin at Epic Gardening to chat about the first considerations when looking for a greenhouse.  Everything from Greenhouse location, to foundation information, and growing styles, this duo has you covered.  Listen to the postcast below for more!

What Are the First Steps When Buying a Greenhouse? Simplified

Quick Answer:

What are the first steps when buying a greenhouse? Start by choosing between a freestanding or building-attached structure—each offers unique benefits for space, light, and utility access. Next, consider greenhouse design and DIY kit styles that suit your lifestyle, garden goals, and available space. Selecting the right glazing—glass or polycarbonate—is essential for durability, insulation, and appearance. Finally, site placement is key: aim for a location with at least 6 hours of winter sunlight, easy access for construction, and convenient daily use. These simplified steps will guide you toward the perfect greenhouse to extend your growing season and enhance your outdoor living space.

Thinking about upgrading your garden space?

Wanting to expand your living area into the bright outdoors? Would you like to protect your plants throughout the colder weather that will soon be here?

How Can I Keep My Greenhouse Cool During a Heat Wave?

Quick Answer:

To keep your greenhouse cool during a heat wave, use shade cloth or natural shade, improve ventilation with exhaust or ceiling fans, spray water on floors, place plants at ground level, and consider mechanical cooling options like portable air conditioners while ensuring proper sizing, ventilation, and plant-specific needs.

summer greenhouse
Black Cape Cod style greenhouse with roof vent open

What Are the DIY Tips for Fixing a Stuck Greenhouse Roof Vent?

Do you have a greenhouse roof vent that is no longer opening or not opening enough?

Over the years, the piston moving through the seals gradually wears the seal material away, allowing a gradual seepage of wax out of the cylinder. This reduces the pressure within the cylinder and needs to be replaced. But it could also be that the wax in the cylinder just needs a simple kickstart and a warm bath. Here is a tip to see if you can get them working again:

How do I Maximize My Greenhouse Growing Space? Tips and Tricks

Quick Answer:

You can grow more in every square foot by dividing your greenhouse into vertical and horizontal zones—utilizing floor, bench, wall, and ceiling space with hanging baskets, tiered shelving, trellises, and container gardens. What are the best space-saving strategies for small greenhouses? Consider soilless systems like hydroponics, train climbing plants vertically, and use modular, bolt-on features to efficiently scale your layout for high yield—even in an 8x8 greenhouse.

If you're dreaming of growing your own food but worried your space is too small, you're not alone. Every week, we hear from new gardeners who want to grow fresh fruits and vegetables, expanding their growing season, or overwinter plants—but aren't sure if a compact greenhouse can truly deliver.

Here's the good news: With a smart setup, even an 8x8 greenhouse can yield hundreds of pounds of produce per year. Whether you're growing greens to supplement your grocery bill or creating a garden sanctuary in your backyard, these space-saving strategies will help you grow more in every square foot.

Where Do I Place My Lean-to Greenhouse? Locations and Considerations

Quick Answer:

Where do I place my lean-to greenhouse for best results? The ideal placement for a lean-to greenhouse is along a south-facing wall to maximize sunlight exposure—especially during spring and fall—while also integrating seamlessly with your home and garden layout. Before building, it’s essential to consider local bylaws, available space, and potential shading from trees or nearby structures. Whether attached to your home, built into a south-facing slope, or framed as a garden focal point or sitting area, a thoughtfully positioned lean-to greenhouse not only supports healthy plant growth but can also enhance your outdoor living space year-round.

Planning a Lean-To Greenhouse

When planning a lean to greenhouse, its placement is critical to its functionality and aesthetic appeal. A well-positioned attached greenhouse can enhance both your gardening experience and your home’s appearance. According to Angela Drake, Marketing Director with BC Greenhouse Builders, 1 out of 4 inquiries about new greenhouses involve home-attached designs. So, is this an option for you?

It's essential to consider several factors before committing to planning a lean-to greenhouse.