Elite Classique Greenhouse

About Our Elite Classique Greenhouses

The Elite Classique Greenhouse represents the widest standard aluminium model in the Elite range, measuring 12ft 5" across for serious growers requiring maximum internal workspace. Built in Bolton with 60+ years of British manufacturing experience, these structures feature steel cantilever bracing that provides 30% more wind resistance compared to standard 10ft models. Each greenhouse comes with an 8ft 7" ridge height, creating abundant headroom for tall crops, and includes double sliding doors that offer 4ft of unrestricted access—perfect for moving wheelbarrows and large equipment. You'll find Elite Classique 12x8 and Elite Classique 12x10 models particularly popular with growers transitioning from smaller greenhouses. Free UK delivery and a 20 year Elite warranty back every purchase.

Choosing Your Elite Classique Greenhouse

Size selection depends on your growing ambitions and available space, with lengths ranging from 4ft to 20ft attached to the 12ft 5" width. This unique width allows for a central staging island while still maintaining full perimeter growing space—a professional layout impossible in standard 8ft or 10ft models. A 12x8 model provides 96 square feet of growing space, while a 12x20 configuration delivers 240 square feet for commercial-scale production.

Glazing options include horticultural glass (standard 3mm for clarity), toughened safety glass (4mm thick, granulates on impact for safety), or polycarbonate panels (10mm twin-wall, 60% better insulation). Prices start from £910 for the compact 12x4 model, extending to £3,769 for the largest 12x20 toughened glass version. Our Elite Titan 1200 Greenhouse offers additional bracing for exposed locations, whilst the Elite Supreme Greenhouse range provides a 10ft wide alternative. Powder-coated colour options include 11 choices from heritage mill finish to bold racing green.

Frequently Asked Questions about Elite Classique Greenhouses

• What makes the Elite Classique different from other 12ft greenhouses?

  The Elite Classique uses a unique steel cantilever bracing system that spans the 12ft width without central supports, maintaining completely clear floor space. This professional-grade design supports 30% more snow load than comparable models, with the 8ft 7" ridge height accommodating tall tomato stakes and climbing crops. The integrated aluminium base eliminates timber rot concerns, and bar capping glazing creates weathertight seals that withstand 80mph winds.

• How difficult is Elite Classique assembly for DIY installation?

  Realistic assembly requires 3 people for the main framework, particularly when lifting the 12ft ridge bar into position. Allow 2–3 full weekends for complete construction, with the first day dedicated to base preparation and frame assembly. The instruction manual includes 47 pages of detailed diagrams, though many customers choose our professional installation service for structures this size. Steel bracing components weigh 18kg each and require two people for safe positioning.

• What glazing option works best for the Elite Classique?

  Horticultural glass (3mm) offers 90% light transmission and costs £910–£2,459 depending on length, providing crystal clarity for light-hungry crops. Toughened safety glass (4mm) reduces injury risk significantly as it granulates rather than shards, and withstands hail impacts up to 25mm diameter, priced from £1,089–£3,769. Polycarbonate panels deliver 60% better heat retention and 40% lighter weight, starting at £1,019–£2,879, though they scratch more readily. Most professional growers select toughened glass for the 12ft width to prevent accidental breakage during equipment manoeuvres.

• Do I need special base preparation for 12ft wide structures?

  Yes, 12ft widths demand more substantial foundations than smaller greenhouses due to increased weight and wind load. Your base must be level within 10mm across the entire 12ft span, typically requiring a concrete slab (100mm deep) or paving slabs on 75mm compacted hardcore. The Elite Classique weighs 280kg for the 12x8 model, increasing to 520kg for the 12x20 version. Our base preparation guide details specifications for 12ft structures, including drainage requirements and frost protection.

• What warranty coverage comes with Elite Classique Greenhouses?

  Elite provides a 20 year guarantee on the aluminium framework against manufacturing defects, covering corrosion, structural failure, and powder-coat finish degradation. Horticultural glass carries a 2 year breakage warranty, whilst toughened glass includes a 5 year guarantee. Polycarbonate panels receive 10 year coverage against yellowing and brittleness. The warranty requires annual maintenance checks and proper base installation as detailed in the manual.

• Can the Elite Classique handle exposed or windy locations?

  The steel cantilever bracing specifically addresses high wind challenges, with independent testing confirming stability in 80mph gusts when properly anchored. The 12ft width creates significant wind load—approximately 40% more force than 8ft models—making secure base fixings critical. Six ground anchors are included, though exposed sites benefit from the Elite Titan 1200 alternative, which features 25% additional bracing. Ridge height of 8ft 7" catches less wind than taller structures whilst maintaining internal headroom.

• How much maintenance do Elite Classique greenhouses require long-term?

  Annual maintenance takes approximately 3–4 hours and includes cleaning the 8ft+ ridge glazing (requires ladder access), checking bar capping seals, lubricating door runners, and inspecting base fixings. The aluminium framework requires no painting, though powder-coat finishes benefit from washing with mild detergent every 6 months. After 5+ years, inspect glazing seals particularly along the widely-spaced roof bars where thermal expansion affects 12ft spans. Replace worn seals promptly to maintain weatherproofing—replacement bar capping costs £45 per 3-metre section.

Browse Our Complete Elite Greenhouse Range

Explore the full collection of Elite Classique Greenhouses or compare with our Elite Greenhouse range to find your perfect growing space. Need advice on size selection, glazing options, or installation? Call our specialist team on 0800 098 8877 or email sales@greenhousestores.co.uk for expert guidance.