Why should I buy a Solexx™ Greenhouse and what makes Solexx™ Greenhouses Superior over all of the others?
Insulated Solexx paneling is the best material available and is only on Solexx Greenhouses. Our paneling material is strong, virtually weather proof. The covering is insulated to cut down heating costs, but most importantly, you get more light diffusion than is available with other types of covering. We are able to meet and even exceed the growing standards of our competition. University tests have proven that plants grow better under diffused light provided only by Solexx panels. Another feature that makes us the best is our built-in steel-reinforced bench frames. With almost all other greenhouse kits, benches are a large additional expense. Also we include steel-reinforced hanging rods to overwinter hanging baskets. One of the most unique features of our greenhouses is the price. We have one of the only greenhouses in this price range that does not require yearly replacement of paneling.

Are Solexx greenhouses able to withstand adverse weather conditions; such as snow and high winds?
Our paneling material is strong, virtually weather proof. The composite tubing is extruded specifically for Solexx for its incredible strength. The combination of a strong frame and flexible paneling works very well in adverse conditions. Our steel-core frame is extremely strong and durable. As long as the greenhouse is firmly anchored (which should be done with the recommended anchor kits), you should not have problems. Solexx greenhouses perform excellent in wind. Many of our customers live in windy areas and along the coast and report to us that they're greenhouses have frequently withstood heavy snows and winds of up to 65 mph and more. One Solexx greenhouse customer in New Jersey report that his greenhouse survived Hurricane "Bob" with no damage from the impacting tree branches. If there is a snow build-up the greenhouse can support several hundred pounds of pressure.

How do I prepare the site for my greenhouse?
Very little site preparation is required. Solexx greenhouses are freestanding and require no special foundation or site preparation. You can place your greenhouse on any leveled area such as your lawn, on bare ground, over a gravel base, on a concrete slab, over a wood deck, or a brick patio.  Consider drainage around the area when making your decision; you may wish to use gravel for areas requiring better drainage.  Our single-face flooring reduces site preparation. The flooring helps minimize weeds and pests, while also insulating your greenhouse from the cool ground.

The Greenhouses Come In A Kit? What Does That Mean?
The greenhouse is sold unassembled. This helps us to keep shipping costs and unit costs low. Each kit comes with complete written instructions and computer generated drawings. The frame is color coded for convenience and there is a toll-free customer service line.

Can I Assemble the Greenhouse by Myself?
A team effort is best when assembling the greenhouse kit. Using simple household tools, your greenhouse can be assembled usually within a weekend. Precise framing alignment is easy with custom fittings. The flexible paneling curves to fit the contour of the frame. Galvanized, self-tapping screws with neoprene washer provide secure watertight panel attachment. Slip the U-Trim and H-Channel into place and you're ready to enjoy your greenhouse.

How Long Will It Take To Assemble The Greenhouse?
The 8 foot units can usually be assembled in a weekend. The units are designed to be permanent and because you glue many of the pieces, you are not able to disassemble the greenhouse.

What tools will I need to assemble the greenhouse?
Assembling a Solexx Greenhouse only takes a few common tools. You will need a Phillips screwdriver, variable speed drill, utility knife, tape measure, a standard size level, Step ladder, caulking gun, GE Silicon II Caulk, clear PVC glue.

What is H-Channel and U-Trim?
H-Channel is used to hide a joint when joining two panels together as opposed to overlapping the panels. The H-Channel helps to prevent water leakage. U-Trim is used to put a clean look on the edges of the panels on the perimeter of a wall or roof and it is used in conjunction with 100% Silicone caulking to seal the 4' sides of the panels. If you get any water in the flutes it will evaporate out and will not harm your panels or your plants. Heat and cold will cause some contraction and expansion, so you will want to install the panels on a mild day. Do not leave the panels in the sun for extended periods of time just prior to installation.

What Will I Need to Start Growing?
The most important accessory is a Tie-Down Kit. The greenhouses are light weight and must be tied down. We have a tie-down kit available, but you can use any method that will securely anchor the frame. Some methods include, tying frame to cement anchors, screwing brackets over the frame and into a deck. Heaters, Fans, and sprinkler systems are also available. Base vents are inexpensive and easy to install. See the Greenhouse Gardener's Companion to determine your specific requirements.

How easy are the greenhouses to heat?
The 3.5mm and 5mm twin-walled glazing material provides more insulation than other hobby greenhouse materials. This means that Solexx greenhouses easy to heat.  The cost of heating a greenhouse will depend on the climate and the type of plants grown.  In areas with colder climates, you should consider selecting from our variety of heaters to meet your specific heating needs. Many plants require a minimum of 45° at a nighttime temperature.  You may find that you are able to heat your greenhouse all winter for less than $20.00 a month even in the coldest months. Heating costs vary however they can be reduced by using buckets or plastic jugs of water or by lining the greenhouse with a thin film of plastic or bubble wrap in the cold months. In mild conditions, solar energy can be used by adding covered 5-gallon black buckets filled with tap water.  The water will trap the solar energy; warming them during the day and release heat during the night.

Is the Greenhouse portable and can it be disassembled?
The greenhouse is portable, it is easy to put onto a trailer for transport or move from one area of your yard to another for the best light. It is not suggested that the greenhouse be disassembled - the panels are attached to the frame with screws and once the screws are removed, the panels could easily get water in them (realigning the panels to the frame would be very difficult and there is gluing involved in construction which cannot be disassembled).

How Are The Greenhouses Shipped?
All greenhouses are shipped UPS. The 8' Oasis comes in three boxes, two 8' x 5” x 7” boxes and a roll approximately 2' in diameter and 4' tall. You can easily fit a small greenhouse in the back of a truck or roomy sports utility vehicle. Yet the entire structure weighs only about 200 pounds. We deliver the greenhouse to our customer's door by UPS.

Where are the Greenhouses Sold?
The greenhouse kits are now sold in all 50 states, Canada, and Japan. All kits are available through our 0n-line catalog and shipped UPS. We also have a retail outlet in the New Orleans metropolitan area.  We also have displays available for viewing in other states.

Who Developed the Greenhouses?
The greenhouse kits were developed by Mike and Bev Perry. Mike and Bev hold degrees in Plant Science and Biology. They developed the greenhouses after working with the corrugated plastic in several applications. Both Mike and Bev witnessed accelerated growth with a product designed for tomatoes and decided to make a greenhouse for their personal use. University testing also supports the Perry's findings.

Who buys Solexx™ Greenhouses?
Gardening enthusiasts will benefit from Solexx™ greenhouses. Many enlightened people are deciding to grow their own produce as a result of rising prices or to ensure their food is safe to eat.  Many Green Living supporters prefer the taste of fruits and vegetables that are organically grown.  Retired people find Greenhouse gardening is both healthy and physically and emotionally stimulating.  Renters who cannot build permanent structures purchase or greenhouses because they can be moved. Beginning gardeners find our greenhouses to be an affordable and worthwhile investment. Schools use our greenhouses for vocational education and to grow plants and vegetables to sell year round for school fund-raisers.

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What are the advantages of a cold frame?
The Cold Frame is an inexpensive alternative to a greenhouse. You can place the Cold Frame directly over your garden or raised beds and move it easily when it's not needed. The Cold Frame is made with composite framing and PVC.

What is a Cold Frame used for?
The Cold Frame can be used to start seedlings in the spring, place over a garden in the fall to extend your growing season, and to over-winter plants. You will need to ventilate the Cold Frame by purchasing the base vents. On hotter days set the Cold Frame up on its legs. A Cold Frame is not designed to be used with a space heater.

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What Is Corrugated Plastic?
The plastic panels are made of high-density double-walled corrugated extruded polyethylene for enduring strength. The specially formulated Solexx panels are actually a polyethylene blend. The material is insulated to help hold in the heat and reduce your heating costs.  They are much more flexible than polycarbonate.

Can I Buy Just The Panels?
Yes. The panels come in 4' x 8' and 4' x 12' sheets (the actual size is slightly larger). You can use them to build a custom greenhouse or to cover an existing frame. The supports should be spaced approximately 2' apart. In addition to the panels, we sell the H-Trim and U-Trim connectors and the self tapping screws. The panels come flat but can be rolled for UPS shipping.

How Do I Install the Panels?
The panels are easily attached to a frame with self-tapping screws. The panels are joined together with H Channel and finished off with U trim. Heat and cold will cause some contraction and expansion, so you will want to install the panels on a mild day. Do not leave the panels in the sun for extended periods of time just prior to installation.

Will the Translucent Paneling be Too Dark Inside to Promote Growth?
No, actually the plastic transmits 70-75 percent of the available light. Most plants only need 40 percent light to grow, but 75-80 percent available light is the optimal growing range. Even on cloudy or rainy days there is usually enough light for growth. The plastic diffuses the light evenly throughout the greenhouse eliminating "hot spots" and will help to keep you greenhouse from getting too hot during warm summer weather.

Does The Paneling Break Down In The Sun?
The paneling has a proprietary UV inhibitor incorporated into the formula prior to the extrusion process. This means that the UV inhibitor is through out the entire material. It is not just a coating on one side or the other. This process allows for either side of the panel to face the sun, for a long life expectancy for each panel and for us to provide a limited warranty against ultraviolet breakdown for eight years. Unlike polycarbonate which only has a UV inhibitor on one side of the panel, which provides far less protection against the suns harsh UV rays. Polycarbonate does not have the same life expectancy as a Solexx™ panel nor the same warranty. Solexx™ greenhouses have stood up to the sun for about fifteen years and there has been minimal UV breakdown. All plastics do eventually break down when exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods of time. However, the panels are inexpensive and easy to replace. In high sunlight areas the life of the plastic can be extended by using a shade cloth and/or placing the greenhouse in a partially shaded area.

Will the Paneling Discolor?
No. The paneling will not yellow, mold or mildew. The plastic will not scratch so you will not have the "cloudy" appearance as with other types of greenhouse paneling.

How do I Clean the Paneling?
The Paneling can be rinsed or wiped clean without worry of scratching. The plastic is impervious to chemicals so you can wash it with a mild detergent.

How Does The Paneling Hold Up In Snow and Cold Weather?
Double-walled corrugated plastic is very durable. Our greenhouses are undamaged after being covered in several feet of snow and exposed to sub-zero temperatures for most of the winter. Snow tends to slide right off the slick paneling material. Many greenhouse materials yellow from the sun or cold but Solexx greenhouse covering material is resistant to yellowing.

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How Can I Heat My Greenhouse?
The greenhouses can be heated with gas, propane, or electric heaters with thermostatic controls. In mild conditions 5 gallon, covered black buckets filled with water will trap the solar energy during the day and release heat for most of the night.

Is It Expensive To Grow All Winter?
The cost of heating your greenhouse will depend on your area and what you plan to grow. Many plants require only a 45 degree night-time temperature. Many people are able to heat their greenhouse all winter for under $20.00 a month in the coldest months. Heating costs can be reduced by using buckets of water, by lining the greenhouse with a layer of visquine or bubble wrap in the cold months.

What Can I Grow In My Greenhouse?
There are numerous vegetables, herbs, flowers, tropical, exotics and cacti that flourish in a greenhouse environment. The Greenhouse Gardener's Companion is an excellent resource.

What Thickness Of Paneling Would Be Best In My Area?
Panels are available in 3.5mm and 5mm thickness. The 3.5mm panels are recommended in most areas as they provide more light transmission. The 5mm panels are used in very cold climates (for added insulation) and for areas in high altitudes. Panels are available in 4’ x 8’ (49 1/2" x 97 1/2") and sheets and 4’ x 12’ (49 1/2" x 146") sheets. The 5 mm paneling is also recommended on many custom structures for extra support.

When designing a greenhouse frame, how much spacing is required between supports for the panels? How many screws are required?
Solexx panels are used for many custom structures. For maximum strength, we recommend support at least every 24 inches on center. On the perimeter of your structure, attach screws every six inches. For your supports, attach screws about eighteen inches apart. As a general rule, calculate one screw per square inch of paneling. In extremely windy areas, it may be necessary to increase the number of screws used.

How do you clean the paneling?
Solexx paneling can be washed and wiped without scratching. The panels are resistant to chemicals so you can wash them with a mild soap. Cleaning your greenhouse a couple times a year is all that is needed to maximize light transmission.

How Do I Install the Panels?
The panels are easily attached to a frame with self-tapping screws. The panels are joined together with H Channel and finished off with U trim. Heat and cold will cause some contraction and expansion, so you will want to install the panels on a mild day. Do not leave the panels in the sun for extended periods of time just prior to installation.

What is H-Channel and U-Trim used for?
H-Channel is used to join the panels together at the seams or you can overlap the panels. U-Trim gives the 4’ ends of the panels a nice finished look.

What is the difference between polycarbonate and Solexx panels?
Solexx greenhouses are made with polyethylene. Polyethylene is much more flexible and is easier to cut. Polycarbonate panels tend to be thicker, and have about the same insulation factor as polyethylene. Both materials diffuse light, but polycarbonate is more transparent and tends to diffuse less, making the greenhouses much hotter in the summer. Polyethylene is easy to clean and does not scratch like polycarbonate.

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FAQ - Greenhouse Accessories

Can the greenhouse temperature be controlled automatically?
Solexx offers many accessories to help control the temperature in your greenhouse automatically.  A solar vent opener is available that can be set to automatically help regulate the temperature. The heaters can be thermostatically controlled to help you heat only when it’s necessary, keeping your costs low. Also, the exhaust fans all come with thermostat controls. This will help push out stale air as your greenhouse begins to get hot.  These accessories will help make your greenhouse gardening more enjoyable.

What accessories will be best for my greenhouse?
The recommended accessories are helpful to ensure success.  It is extremely important that the greenhouse is anchored properly.  The Tie-Down Kit we offer includes four standard 15” anchors.  On longer units, (or in areas that have exceptionally high winds) we recommend upgrading to the 30 inch anchor.  Cross ventilation is a key factor for growing healthy plants. Base vents placed on each side of the door will ensure good cross-ventilation.  The Greenhouse Kits Recommended Accessories will indicate the correct number needed for each model.  A black or silver shade cloth is also considered a good investment because it will keep your greenhouse cooler and also increase the longevity of your glazing. Flooring is helpful to keep down weeds.

Where should the heater be placed in a greenhouse?
The heater should be placed in the back of the greenhouse, either at the end of the walkway or under the bench frames. Leave some space around the heater so that the heat can circulate and so that plants get too warm. A small circulation fan is a good way to increase even heating in your greenhouse.

How should I place the vents in my greenhouse?
You should place a large louvered vent opposite the door, towards the top of the greenhouse. Then place two or more base vents low towards the ground (as an example, on either side of the door), resulting air flow will be natural ground-up ventilation. The temperature may be regulated better using A solar opener that can be attached to the louvered vent.  It is best to have closable base vents form cold weather.

Are there resource materials that can help me learn more?
Solexx offers excellent resource books to help get you started. One book that we highly recommend is "Greenhouse Gardener’s Companion" by Shane Smith.  It has exceptional information about greenhouses, specific plants, weed control, planting schedules and much more.

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