What Greenhouse Upgrades Are Worth It (and that Buyers Love Most)

Quick Answer

Not all greenhouse upgrades are necessary, but some make a big difference. Buyers love features like automatic vents, polycarbonate glazing, and airflow add-ons that make gardening easier, more efficient, and more enjoyable.

What greenhouse upgrades are actually worth the investment?

If you're in the market for a greenhouse, you've probably already realized there are a lot of options. But which upgrades are truly worth the investment? At BC Greenhouse Builders, we work directly with gardeners across North America, ad we've learned what really pays off in growing success, comfort, and long-term satisfaction.

We want you to feel confident choosing the features that will truly enhance your greenhouse experience. Whether you're comparing kits or building something custom with us, here are the upgrades people love most, and why they matter.

Do automatic vents really make a difference?

They absolutely do! In fact, all BC Greenhouse Builders models come standard with automatic roof vents that open and close based on the interior temperature. These vents help maintain consistent airflow and reduce the risk of overheating, all without any extra effort for you.

Manual vent openers are available as an option, for those that want a heavier hand in their temperature management.

Why you may want automatic vents in your greenhouse:

• They help maintain stable growing conditions without manual adjustments
• They offer peace of mind when you're away or unable to check in regularly
• They help protect plants from temperature spikes, especially in summer

For most customers, automatic vents are one of those features they quickly come to rely on and wouldn't want to garden without them.

Is insulated greenhouse glazing worth it?

That depends on how you plan to use your greenhouse. While glass greenhouses offer a beautiful, clear aesthetic, polycarbonate glazing provides added insulation, UV protection, and durability. Many greenhouse owners opt for twinwall polycarbonate, especially if they want to grow more consistently throughout the year or wish to improve temperature stability.

Fun Fact: You can mix and match glazing on our greenhouses! A popular combo is a twinwall polycarbonate roof with single glass sidewalls — so you get the best of both worlds, insulation and beauty!

Why you may want insulated greenhouse glazing:

• It retains warmth in cooler months, helping reduce heating costs
• It softens sunlight to promote healthier plant growth
• It comes in different thicknesses to match your climate and goals

If you're growing food into the shoulder season or housing tropical plants, insulated polycarbonate can be a worthwhile upgrade. For mild climates or seasonal growing, standard options may be more than sufficient.

Should you add a base wall or knee wall to your greenhouse?

That depends on what you need from your greenhouse. A base wall (also known as a knee wall or raised foundation wall) can provide structural and aesthetic benefits, and many homeowners choose to include one for added height and durability. It can also improve airflow and provide extra insulation, depending on the materials used.

Why you may want a knee wall:

• It adds stability in windy climates and exposed locations
• Creates a more polished look that blends with  your home or landscape
• Allows for increased interior height and shelving space
• Materials like brick or stone offer insulation as well as a visual appeal

Our customers often match their knee wall to their home exterior. Popular materials include brick, stone, and Hardie board, all of which offer long-term performance and charm.

Is a greenhouse vestibule a good idea?

Some greenhouse owners find a vestibule essential, while other prefer a more streamlined structure. Vestibules can be a valuable addition for those growing year-round or using their greenhouse frequently throughout the season. They serve as an entry buffer that helps reduce heat loss and provide extra room for things like boots, potting benches, or garden tools.

At BC Greenhouse Builders, vestibules are considered a premium upgrade that must be planned during the initial design process. They can be a worthwhile investment for buyers who want added functionality and architectural appeal from day one.

Why you may want a vestibule in your greenhouse:

• It helps stabilize temperatures by limiting cold air entering your working space
• It provides convenient space for transitions and storage
• It enhances the structure visually and practically

If you're looking for a greenhouse that already includes a vestibule, our Hendrik Limited Edition model comes with this feature built into the base cost, offering both style and efficiency without needing to add it as an upgrade.

How can doors and extra vents improve your greenhouse?

Good airflow is key to a healthy greenhouse, and while all BC Greenhouse Builders models come with automatic roof vents, many growers choose to go further. It's easier to heat a greenhouse than to cool one down, so improving ventilation helps prevent heat buildup and plant scorching during warmer months.

Some of our customers opt to add a second door in the gable end of their greenhouses to create a streamlined cross-breeze. Others choose additional side vents or louvres to bring in cooler air at plant level, while hot air naturally rises and escapes through the roof vents.

Why you may want them:

• Supports more effective cooling during warm seasons
• Helps reduce the risk of overheating and sunscald on plants
• Improves fresh air circulation for healthier growing conditions
• Enhances access and flexibility, especially for larger greenhouses

We offer a range of door, vent, and airflow configurations to suit your climate and layout. For many growers these upgrades strike the right balance between control and convenience.

Which greenhouse upgrades should you choose?

Your ideal greenhouse setup depends on what you want to grow, your local climate, and how you plan to use your space. Some customers prioritize maximizing airflow with extra vents and doors, while others focus on insulation to extend their growing season. For many, it's the little things like adding a well-placed door or thoughtfully chosen vent that transforms a greenhouse into a space that truly works for you. After thousands of builds, we've seen time and again that the best upgrades are the ones that make your greenhouse easier to use and more enjoyable every day.

Still deciding on your greenhouse setup? Let's take the guesswork out of it. Browse our digital catalog or design your own greenhouse to get instant pricing.