Cost to Build a Greenhouse: Average UK Prices 2026

Greenhouses are enclosed garden structures designed to create a controlled environment for growing plants, vegetables, herbs and flowers. They help protect plants from harsh weather conditions and allow gardeners to extend the growing season. With a greenhouse, you can regulate temperature, humidity and airflow, helping plants thrive regardless of what the weather is doing outside.

Greenhouses are popular in UK gardens for growing vegetables, starting seedlings and cultivating plants that require warmer conditions. You could grow vegetables and fruits that you might not normally be able to grow here, or even exotic plants that usually wouldn’t last in the UK climate. Whether you use your greenhouse for casual gardening or a more serious growing setup, greenhouses offer year-round growing potential.

Greenhouses can vary widely in design and size. They range from small hobby greenhouses to larger permanent structures used for more extensive gardening. They can also be made from different materials and come in a wide range of colours to suit every garden. You can also choose from a range of additional extras to help your plants thrive.

You may choose to build or install a greenhouse as a DIY garden project using a greenhouse kit, or hire professionals for larger structures requiring foundations or custom designs. The cost of building a greenhouse depends on factors such as the size of the structure, the materials used, the type of glazing and the labour costs.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about building a greenhouse on your property, including the costs involved, the different types of greenhouse you can choose from, any additional costs that may apply and how to find the right contractors for the job.

How Much is Building a Greenhouse?

If you are wondering about the cost of a greenhouse, it’s important to keep in mind that the price can differ significantly depending on what you need and the type of greenhouse that you choose. Labour costs can also vary quite a bit, so this is something to keep in mind when budgeting for the work.

You can expect to pay around £200 - £2500 for a smaller to medium-sized greenhouse, or around £2500 - £6000+ for a larger or custom-built greenhouse.

If you are working with a tight budget, a small DIY greenhouse kit is usually the cheapest option. However, if you would prefer a more durable and long-lasting structure, it is often best to choose one that is installed by a professional.

The average cost can vary depending on the following:

• Size of the greenhouse
• Frame material (aluminium, wood or steel)
• Type of glazing (glass or polycarbonate)
• Foundation requirements
• Ventilation and heating features
• Labour costs

Small greenhouse kits are typically the most budget-friendly option, as you can save on labour costs, while large custom-built greenhouses can significantly increase the overall price. Professionally built greenhouses will often last much longer, so they can be more cost-effective in the long run.

Greenhouse Building Prices

Below is a table showing the typical greenhouse installation prices in the UK:

Supply Costs

There are several different materials that may be needed to build and install a greenhouse, and these can significantly affect the overall price.

Examples include:

• Greenhouse frame materials (aluminium, timber, steel) - £150 - £3000
• Glass or polycarbonate panels: £100 - £1500
• Greenhouse base kits: £50 - £300
• Ventilation panels or roof vents: £20 - £150 each
• Doors and fixings: £50 - £200
• Shelving and staging: £50 - £300

The quality of the materials and glazing can significantly affect the overall price. Higher-quality materials will improve durability, but they will also result in higher upfront costs. In many cases, it is worth investing in better-quality materials so that your greenhouse lasts longer and ends up costing less in the long run.

Greenhouse Glazing Options

Choosing the right glazing for your greenhouse is essential. The right glazing will help your plants thrive while also keeping your greenhouse durable.

Examples of glazing you can choose from include:

• Horticultural glass
• Toughened safety glass
• Polycarbonate panels

Horticultural glass is usually the cheapest option. It provides excellent light transmission; however, it is more fragile and prone to breakage. Toughened safety glass is stronger and safer than standard glass because it shatters into smaller, less dangerous pieces.

It comes at a higher cost but is much more durable. Polycarbonate panels are lightweight and resistant to impact. They provide good insulation, although the light transmission is slightly lower.

Polycarbonate is usually the best choice for beginners, whereas toughened glass is often the better option for long-term installations.

Greenhouse Base and Foundation Costs

Most greenhouses require a stable base or foundation to ensure they remain structurally sound and last for many years. You can choose from several different base types, and these all come at different costs.

Common base options include:

• Concrete bases: £200 - £1000
• Brick foundations: £300 - £1200
• Paving slab bases: £100 - £500
• Timber bases: £50 - £300

Installing a base can increase the overall cost of building a greenhouse, particularly if groundwork is required. However, a solid base is very useful for ensuring the longevity of your greenhouse, so it is often recommended. Your contractor should be able to advise you on the most suitable base type for your specific greenhouse.

Additional Costs

There are several additional features that may increase the total cost of building a greenhouse.

Some examples of extras that could affect the final cost include:

• Heating systems: £50 - £500
• Automatic ventilation systems: £30 - £200
• Irrigation systems: £20 - £300
• Lighting installations: £50 - £250
• Shelving or staging units: £50 - £300
• Shade systems:£20 - £150

These additions can improve your greenhouse significantly and may help your plants grow much better. However, they will increase the overall budget needed to build the greenhouse.

It’s important to think about the types of plants you plan to grow and whether these additional options are really needed. If you are unsure, consider speaking with a greenhouse specialist who can advise you on which extras may be best for your needs.

Labour Costs and Timescales

Hiring a professional to install a greenhouse is usually the best option, as this helps ensure it is built properly, securely and with long-term durability in mind.

Typical tradespeople involved may include landscapers, builders or gardeners.

You can usually expect to pay around £20 - £50 per hour for the work, or £150 - £300 per day to hire someone to build a greenhouse for you.

In terms of timescales, these can vary significantly depending on the size and type of structure. Below is a guide on what you can expect:

• Small greenhouse kits: 4 to 6 hours
• Medium greenhouses: 1 day
• Large custom greenhouses: 2 to 3 days

More complex installations with foundations could take longer and will likely result in higher costs.

It’s also important to note that labour costs can vary depending on where you are located in the UK. Those based in and around London can usually expect to pay more for the labour side of the job than those based in the North or other parts of the UK.

Cost Factors for Building a Greenhouse

There are several different factors that can affect the overall cost of building a greenhouse.

Greenhouse Size and Design

The dimensions and complexity of the greenhouse design can significantly affect the price. Larger structures or those with more intricate designs may require additional materials, more labour and sometimes more engineering expertise.

Glazing Type

The choice of glazing, such as polycarbonate or glass, affects both the upfront cost and the longer-term maintenance requirements. Each option has its own advantages, so it is important to choose one that matches your budget and the level of performance you want.

Structural Materials

You can choose from different structural materials such as aluminium or timber. The material you choose will affect the final overall cost of the job.

Base or Foundation Requirements

The type of foundation you need and the condition of the ground can affect the total construction costs. Factors such as soil stability, drainage and ground levels may affect whether additional excavation, grading or reinforcement is needed.

Additional Features Such as Heating or Irrigation

Adding features such as heating, irrigation, environmental controls or other advanced options can improve efficiency, but they will also increase the initial cost of the greenhouse.

Labour Rates in the Local Area

Those based in and around London can usually expect to pay more for labour than those based in the North or other parts of the UK, as rates are typically higher in and around the capital.

Larger or custom-built greenhouses will usually have a higher price and be more expensive to install.

Building Regulations for Greenhouses

Most small garden greenhouses do not require planning permission if they fall within permitted development rules.

However, planning permission may be required if:

• The greenhouse is very large
• It is built close to property boundaries
• The property is listed
• The property is located in a conservation area

If you are at all unsure, it is recommended that you speak to your local authority to check the rules in your area. You can also speak to your greenhouse installer for advice, as they should be able to tell you whether your greenhouse plans are likely to require planning permission.

Types of Greenhouse

There are several common types of greenhouse used in UK gardens. Below you’ll find some information on each type, along with the pros and cons, to help you decide which option may suit you best.

Aluminium Greenhouses

These are lightweight and low-maintenance structures that are commonly available as greenhouse kits, so they can work well if you want to build a greenhouse as a DIY project.

Pros

• ✔ Lightweight
• ✔ Easy to maintain
• ✔ Affordable cost

Cons

• ✖ Less attractive than timber
• ✖ Poorer insulation

Wooden Greenhouses

These are more traditional greenhouse types made from timber frames that offer a classic appearance. They work well in more traditional garden settings.

Pros

• ✔ Attractive in appearance
• ✔ Strong
• ✔ Durable

Cons

• ✖ Requires maintenance
• ✖ Higher in cost

Lean-To Greenhouses

These are greenhouses that attach to an existing wall, making them suitable for smaller gardens. They are also fairly durable, as the existing wall helps support the structure.

Pros

• ✔ Perfect for smaller gardens
• ✔ Uses an existing wall for support

Cons

• ✖ Limited space
• ✖ Placement restrictions

Freestanding Greenhouses

These are standalone structures that can be placed anywhere in the garden. They are ideal if you want more flexibility over where the greenhouse goes.

Pros

• ✔ Flexible placement
• ✔ Larger growing capacity

Cons

• ✖ Requires more space
• ✖ May need a stronger base

Larger or custom-built greenhouses will generally increase the installation cost.

Alternative Garden Growing Structures

If a greenhouse is not a suitable option for you, there are several alternatives that can still help protect plants, extend the growing season and create a more controlled growing environment.

Polytunnels

Polytunnels are one of the most popular alternatives to a traditional greenhouse, especially for gardeners who want a larger growing space without the high cost. A polytunnel is a steel-framed tunnel with a polyethylene cover. These are commonly used for growing vegetables, fruits and flowers.

They work in a similar way to a greenhouse by creating their own climate, so they can be used to grow crops that wouldn’t usually flourish in the UK. Polytunnels are usually considered more cost-effective and versatile than a traditional greenhouse, and they typically cost around £200 - £2000+.

Cold Frames

Cold frames are a great choice for beginners. These are small box-like structures that protect seedlings and young plants from harsh weather conditions. They are usually made with a wooden frame and a plastic or glass top.

They are a brilliant cost-effective and space-saving option, and they work by trapping heat inside the frame. Cold frames are ideal for smaller gardens and for people who only want to grow a few crops. They usually cost around £50 - £300.

Grow Houses

A grow house is a smaller version of a greenhouse. They provide the ideal growing environment for types of flowers and vegetables that you may not otherwise be able to grow, including exotic flowers or tropical fruits.

Grow houses are also very useful for protecting fragile plants during winter. These are good options for people with limited space, and they typically cost around £30 - £200.

Mini Greenhouses

Mini greenhouses usually have loose plastic covers or plastic sheets, although glazed versions are also available. They can help protect plants, but they often lack adjustable ventilation, which can lead to damaging temperature fluctuations.

They also rely on shelving to maximise limited floor space, though those shelves can cast shadows in some cases. Mini greenhouses are great for beginners and for smaller garden spaces, and they usually cost around £50 - £500.

Choosing the right alternative will depend on your budget, the space you have available and your gardening goals. If you want a cheap and simple solution, a cold frame is usually the best option.

If you want something more portable and beginner-friendly, a grow house may be the better fit. If you want a compact greenhouse alternative, a mini greenhouse could be ideal. If you need maximum growing space at a lower cost, a polytunnel may be the best choice.

Hiring Contractors Checklist for Greenhouse Installation

Below is a list of things to keep in mind when choosing a contractor to build a greenhouse for you:

• Ask for references or reviews
• Get multiple quotes
• Confirm experience with building greenhouses
• Ensure they follow safety regulations
• Check their experience with similar jobs
• Ensure clear pricing and get a written quote
• Ask about warranties

This will help ensure that you receive quality work at a fair price.

Removing or Replacing a Greenhouse

Homeowners may sometimes choose to remove or replace an existing greenhouse. This could be because they no longer need it, they no longer plan on growing anything, they want to replace it with a newer model, or because the current structure is damaged or in disrepair.

Removal costs for a greenhouse may depend on:

• Size of the greenhouse
• Materials used
• Accessibility of the garden
• Waste removal requirements

You can usually expect to pay around £50 - £150 to remove a small greenhouse. A larger greenhouse may cost around £150 - £500 to remove.

A larger greenhouse will naturally cost more to remove than a smaller one because it will take longer and require more labour. The materials used can also affect the cost, as some are heavier or more difficult to dismantle than others. If your garden is difficult to access, this can also push the price up. The more waste there is to remove, the more disposal is likely to cost.

Some homeowners may choose to upgrade an older greenhouse with a newer, more durable structure. If you are replacing your greenhouse, you will also need to factor in the cost of the new one.

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