Elite's range is one of the biggest we sell – from small cold frames right up to premium heavy-duty greenhouses – so here's a simple guide to help you pick the right one.
Start with the real size, not the nominal one
Elite's marketing images and box labels often show a "nominal" size that's a little bigger than the actual frame – for example, a greenhouse pictured as "12 x 6" can actually measure 10'5" wide. Always check the exact width and depth given in the size options on the product page itself, and leave a foot or so of clear space all the way round for access and maintenance.
Pick your family
The everyday range – Compact, Streamline, Maxim, Delta, Craftsman, High Eave, Strata, Vantage, Belmont, Supreme, Classique, GX 600 and GX 800. Classic aluminium frame, 10-year guarantee, great all-rounders for the average garden.
The Titan-bar range – Edge, Zenith, the Titan 600–1200 and Sanctuary models, and the K800 lean-to. Heavy-duty bar frame with toughened glass throughout and a 20-year guarantee – worth the step up for a larger greenhouse or a more exposed spot.
The Victorian-style range – Thyme, Thyme 6, Thyme Dwarf Wall, Thyme 6 Dwarf Wall and the Featured Dwarf Wall models. An ornamental glass-to-ground or dwarf-wall look with crestings and finials as standard, for a more traditional garden.
Lean-to's – Kensington 4, Kensington 6, Windsor and the K800 Lean To. Fix against a house, garage or garden wall – good where space is tight or you want the greenhouse close to the back door.
Small-space growing – Easygrow, Min-E-Lite and the Window Garden. Compact options for patios, balconies and small gardens where a full-size greenhouse won't fit.
Glazing: which one?
| Glazing | Best for |
|---|---|
| Horticultural glass | The cheapest option, a little thinner – fine for most home growing. |
| Toughened safety glass | Breaks into small granules rather than sharp shards if it's ever broken, so it's the safer choice around children and pets – standard on the Titan-bar range. |
| 6mm twin wall polycarbonate | Lightweight and hard to break, with better insulation than glass – slightly less clear. |
Finish: aluminium or powder coated?
Aluminium (mill finish) is the standard, lower-cost option. Powder coating (10 colours available across most of the range) costs more but weathers well and can be matched to your fencing or garden furniture.
Base type
Most models come with an integral base (the greenhouse sits straight on the ground, "glass-to-ground"). Dwarf-wall models sit on a brick or block wall that's built by the installer, giving extra insulation and privacy lower down. A few models use a separate base instead – this is noted on the individual product page.
Still not sure? Download the full Elite brochure, browse the full range, or call us on 01543 398778 and we'll help you choose.