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About the elite craftsman greenhouse starter kit range
The Elite Craftsman Greenhouse Starter Kit is the definitive all-in-one package for gardeners moving to full-scale production. At 6ft 3” wide, this is the most popular greenhouse footprint in the UK, providing the necessary volume for double-sided staging and tall crops. This British-made bundle removes the complexity of setup by including 5-slat staging, shelving, automatic roof and louvre ventilation, and rainwater kits as standard. Engineered in Bolton, it features a built-in low-threshold base for professional-grade, trip-free access.
Why We Chose This Range
“The Elite Craftsman Starter Kit is our top recommendation for anyone who has the space for a 6ft footprint. We chose this specific bundle because it addresses the #1 failure in new greenhouses: ventilation management. By including both a roof and a louvre autovent, this kit manages its own climate. For a 6ft wide house, the 5-slat staging included is vital, it’s deeper and more solid than the staging found in narrower kits, making it suitable for heavy clay pots and large seed trays.”
, Matt, Founder of Greenhouse StoresPackage comparison: starter kit vs. standalone
| Feature | Elite Craftsman Starter Kit | Standard Elite Craftsman |
|---|---|---|
| Staging Included | 4ft 5-Slat (Heavy Duty) | Optional Extra |
| Ventilation | Auto-Roof & Auto-Louvre | Manual Only |
| Water Management | Downpipes Included | Optional Extra |
| Frame Warranty | 20-Year Elite Warranty | 20-Year Elite Warranty |
Matt's installation tip: the 6ft threshold alignment
The Craftsman uses a Low Threshold entry which is brilliant for access, but because the structure is 6ft wide, the frame can 'flex' during assembly if the base isn't perfectly flat. If your base has a slight dip in the middle, the single sliding door will catch on the frame.
I recommend building a perimeter brick plinth or a solid concrete pad. If you are using paving slabs, ensure they are laid on a full mortar bed to prevent shifting. Importantly, when installing the rainwater downpipes included in this kit, use a spirit level to ensure the gutter has a 2-3mm fall toward the pipe, this prevents stagnant water from sitting in your gutters. Read our full 6ft base guide here.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What comes in the Elite Craftsman Starter Kit?
The Elite Craftsman Starter Kit is a fully equipped bundle including the 6ft 3" wide frame, 3mm glass, integral base, sliding door, a roof vent with an automatic opener, a louvre window with an automatic opener, 4ft of 5-slat staging, 4ft of 2-slat shelving, rainwater downpipes, and plant tying eyelets.
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Is a 6ft wide greenhouse better than a 4ft model?
A 6ft wide greenhouse is considered the 'ideal' size for most gardens. It provides enough width for staging on one side and shelving on the other, or double-sided staging with a central walkway, offering significantly higher productivity than narrow 4ft or 5ft models.
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Is the Elite Craftsman British made?
Yes. All Elite greenhouses are manufactured in Bolton, UK, and are designed for the British climate. The Craftsman range features a 20-year framework warranty as standard.
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What sizes does the Elite Craftsman package come in?
The Craftsman package comes in 6x4, 6x6 and 8x6. The 6x4 is a solid all-rounder, while the 8x6 adds width for a proper potting end. Each is offered with horticultural or toughened glass.
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How much is the Elite Craftsman starter package?
The 6x4 with horticultural glass starts at £829. The toughened-glass and larger sizes cost more. As a package it arrives with the base and staging included.
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