Aluminum stands the test of time
What about cold weather?
One of the biggest concerns from our potential customers is the reality that an aluminum greenhouse frame conducts the cold and is not as weather resistant. It is true that aluminum will conduct the cold but there are other factors that you should consider.
Wood frame greenhouses expand and contract with the heat and the cold which means it will warp and create gaps in between your frame and glazing, doors, and vents which allows cols air and pests to penetrate the structure. Any thermal benefit that you receive from a wood frame is negated within the first year or two.
On-Going Maintenance
The maintenance of a wood frame greenhouse is not just staining it every year. You must caulk and seal all of the gaps that you will find season to season. In addition, a wood frame greenhouse is vulnerable to wood rot, pests, and fire.
The Cost Difference
Historically one of the benefits of wood frame greenhouses was that they were more economical to build. However, with the ever-rising costs of lumber, we are seeing more potential greenhouse customers connect with us to investigate other options.
Why We Made the Switch from Wood to Aluminum
BC Greenhouse Builders' first products were made of wood when we first started in the early 1950s. We changed to aluminum greenhouses when we realized that offering a lifetime warranty on the frame wouldn't be possible with wood due to the lack of longevity. The regular need for maintenance and inevitable disappointment with the lack of weather resistance were key factors in our change. We have many examples of our aluminum greenhouses 20, 30 and 40 years later! They stand the test of time including changing weather, heavy snow and high winds.
Here are a few photos of greenhouses that are over 35 years old and what they look like today!
