The Foundation of Your Greenhouse: FAQs, Options & Installation Checklist (2025)

A solid foundation is essential for a stable and long-lasting greenhouse. It literally forms the base of your structure and helps prevent common problems such as settling, misalignment, or damage to the frame and glass. Depending on your greenhouse model, soil conditions, and installation method, different foundation solutions are possible—such as a steel foundation frame, a concrete perimeter edge, or a custom-built base. In this guide, you’ll learn when a foundation is strongly recommended, which option best fits your situation, and what to pay attention to during installation. With the right preparation, you can enjoy your greenhouse safely and worry-free for many years.

What is a foundation for a greenhouse?

A foundation is a raised edge, typically around 10–12 cm high, on which the greenhouse frame is mounted perfectly upright. The aluminium or steel frame partially overlaps the foundation, creating extra stability and a secure anchoring point. A properly installed foundation also helps prevent tension in the frame and glass caused by uneven ground or slight soil movement. If you want to understand how stress can affect panels and fittings, see our guide: everything about greenhouse glass.

When do you need a foundation?

In practice, a foundation is strongly recommended for almost every greenhouse. It ensures correct alignment during installation and reduces the risk of long-term settling. Without a foundation, even small ground shifts can cause stress on the frame or glass, increasing the risk of damage over time.

Benefits of a greenhouse foundation

• Provides a stable and durable base for your greenhouse
• Reduces the risk of settling and structural stress
• Can increase eaves and ridge height for more usable interior space
• Protects wooden structures from direct contact with soil

Ground conditions and foundation build-up

Concrete edge beneath the foundation

Doika recommends installing the foundation on a concrete perimeter edge. This makes it easier to level accurately and creates a solid base for securely anchoring the foundation using concrete fasteners.

Installing a greenhouse on a patio

A patio alone does not count as a foundation. When placing a greenhouse on a patio or terrace, a separate foundation frame or edge is still required to properly support and secure the structure.

Foundation on soft or peat soil

On soft or unstable ground, placing the foundation on piles or posts is recommended. This prevents long-term settling and helps transfer the load to more stable soil layers below.

Fixing and levelling the foundation

How is a foundation secured?

On hard surfaces, the foundation is fixed using screws or anchors. On open ground, supplied tubes or anchors can be set in concrete—especially at the corners—for added stability. While not always mandatory, this is strongly recommended for long-term durability. For a practical installation walkthrough, you can use: the A–Z installation guide for the greenhouse series Qube. If you’re installing another model, this guide can also help: the A–Z installation guide for the greenhouse series Popular.

Does a foundation need to be perfectly level?

The foundation should be flat, but a slight slope of about 1% towards the gutter is usually acceptable to ensure proper water drainage. For greenhouses without a threshold, the front and rear sides should be fully level so the frame aligns correctly.

Is a foundation suitable for every greenhouse?

Yes, there is a suitable foundation solution for every greenhouse type. Some models offer the foundation as an optional accessory, while others include it as standard. This is always clearly stated in the product information.

Building your own foundation

It is possible to build your own foundation. Be sure to follow the exact foundation dimensions specified in the greenhouse manual to ensure proper fit and stability. If you want a step-by-step approach, see: build your own foundation for your greenhouse.

Frequently asked questions about greenhouse foundations

What is meant by a greenhouse foundation?

A greenhouse foundation is a raised base that supports the frame and ensures the structure is stable, level, and properly aligned.

Is a foundation always supplied separately?

No. Some aluminium greenhouse models have integrated foundation elements, while steel foundation frames are typically supplied as separate components.

Why do manufacturers recommend concrete foundations?

Concrete foundations offer superior stability, make levelling easier, and help anchor the greenhouse securely against wind and ground movement.

Can I install a greenhouse without a foundation?

While it is sometimes possible, installing a greenhouse without a foundation increases the risk of settling, misalignment, and long-term damage. A foundation is strongly advised.

How high should a greenhouse foundation be?

Most greenhouse foundations are around 10–12 cm high, providing sufficient clearance for stability while allowing correct frame installation.

Why Doika: expertise, support, and reliable quality

At Doika, we focus on the details that ensure your greenhouse remains stable and functional for years to come. From foundation advice to installation guidance, our goal is to help you avoid common mistakes and install with confidence.

• Practical expertise: clear, experience-based guidance on foundations, levelling, and anchoring.
• Carefully selected solutions: greenhouse and foundation options chosen for durability, fit, and ease of installation.
• Transparent information: straightforward product details to help you choose the right setup for your situation.
• Reliable support: help before and during installation to reduce errors and long-term issues.

Conclusion

A well-installed foundation is the key to a safe, durable greenhouse. By choosing the right foundation type and preparing the ground properly, you significantly reduce the risk of future problems. Use the installation resources above and plan your base carefully—your greenhouse will thank you for it for many seasons.