Wooden Greenhouses

Why I chose this range: "ThermoWood is the only timber I trust for long-term UK use. The heat-treatment process creates stability that standard pine just can't match. We've been selling Swallow Greenhouses since 2012 and know the quality and price is unbeatable."

- Matt, Greenhouse Stores

Why Choose a ThermoWood Greenhouse?

Standard timber greenhouses have a reputation for rotting if neglected. That is why our range focuses exclusively on heat-treated ThermoWood.

Unlike pressure-treated pine (often found in budget garden centres), ThermoWood is "baked" in a kiln at 215°C. This process removes moisture and resin from the timber, destroying the nutrients that fungi and rot spores feed on. The result is a dimensionally stable timber that does not warp, shrink, or rot like standard softwoods.

Comparing Wooden vs. Aluminium Frames

While Aluminium Greenhouses are cheaper, a wooden frame offers distinct advantages for specific growing needs. Here is how they compare:

Feature	Wooden Frames	Aluminium Frames
Insulation	High (Natural Insulator)	Low (Conducts Heat)
Maintenance	Oiling Required (1-2 Years)	Zero Maintenance
Aesthetics	Traditional & Warm	Modern & Sleek
Winter Use	Best for Overwintering	Requires Heaters

Timber is a natural insulator, keeping the internal temperature higher in winter. This makes a wooden model the better choice if you plan to overwinter tender plants or use Greenhouse Heaters, as you will lose less heat through the frame.

Detailed Buyer's Guide

1. Installation & Base Preparation

We include free professional installation with our Swallow wooden greenhouses because timber structures require precise assembly to ensure the doors hang correctly and the auto-vents operate smoothly.

• The Base: You must have a level, flat surface ready before the team arrives. This can be paved slabs, concrete, or a perimeter footing.
• The Delivery: Lead times vary by season (typically 4-8 weeks). The installers bring the greenhouse sections through your side gate (minimum height clearance usually required) and assemble it in your garden.

2. Choosing the Right Size

We stock a variety of footprints to suit different UK garden layouts:

• Compact Gardens: If space is tight, view our 4ft Wide Wooden Greenhouses, starting at 4ft x 4ft.
• Normal Gardens or Allotments: View our 6ft Wide Swallow Kingfisher Greenhouses, from 6ft x 4ft, through to the popular 6ft x 8ft and on to 20ft long.
• Large Gardens: Choose an 8ft Wide Wooden Greenhouse or one of our Orangery T-Shaped Models.
• Potting Sheds: For a dual-purpose building, consider the Swallow Rook or Jay Wooden Potting Shed, which offer a sturdy storage shed with huge glass front, side and roof window, complete with automatic roof vents and staging bench.

3. Maintenance Requirements

Even ThermoWood benefits from care. The timber will naturally weather to a silvery-grey colour over time if left untreated. To maintain the original rich brown colour, we recommend applying a quality wood preservative or oil every 1-2 years.

All models in this collection come with toughened safety glass as standard, which is 5-7 times stronger than horticultural glass and safer for family gardens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need planning permission for a wooden greenhouse?

Generally, no. Greenhouses are considered "permitted development" provided they are no higher than 2.5m (if within 2m of a boundary) and do not cover more than 50% of your garden. However, if you live in a Conservation Area or a Listed Building, you must check with your local council.

Does the price include the timber staging?

Yes. Unlike most aluminium models where shelving is an extra cost, our Swallow wooden greenhouses include full-length staging on one side and roof vents with automatic openers as standard.

How long is the warranty?

Our ThermoWood greenhouses come with a 12-year manufacturer's guarantee against rot and decay. This covers the structural integrity of the timber, provided the building has been installed on a suitable base and reasonably maintained.

Can I collect the greenhouse to save money?

No. These are heavy, sectional buildings delivered on dedicated transport to prevent glass breakage. The "delivered and installed" price ensures the product arrives safely and is constructed to the manufacturer's warranty standards.