The short answer
There is no single right frame — it depends on budget, look and how much upkeep you want. Aluminium is the most common and lower-priced UK choice: it needs virtually no maintenance, has thin bars that let in more light, and quality powder-coated frames can last around 25–50 years. Wooden frames (cedar or heat-treated timber) cost more up front — often two to three times an equivalent aluminium model — and need periodic treating or oiling, but they look at home in period gardens and tend to retain heat better, with quality timber lasting around 15–30 years. The right answer balances upfront cost, lifespan, maintenance, warmth and the look you want.
The frame decision is really a trade-off between upfront price, upkeep, warmth and appearance. Here is how the two compare on the things that matter.
At a glance
- Aluminium~25–50 yrs, low upkeep, lower cost
- Wooden (cedar/treated)~15–30 yrs, needs treating, period look
- Most commonaluminium
- Better heat retentionwooden
- More light (thin bars)aluminium
How the frames compare
Aluminium is the default for most UK gardens because it balances price, longevity and almost no maintenance — an occasional clean rather than treating. Its thin bars also let in more light. Wooden frames — typically Western Red Cedar or heat-treated timber — give a softer, traditional look and hold heat a little better, but they cost more to buy and need periodic oiling or preservative to resist rot, with softwood needing more frequent care than cedar. Premium timber frames are durable when maintained, but the upkeep and higher upfront price are the trade-off for the look and warmth.
| Frame | Typical lifespan | Maintenance | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminium (powder-coated) | ~25–50 years | very low (occasional clean) | lower up front |
| Cedar / heat-treated timber | ~15–30 years | periodic oil / preservative | higher up front |
| Softwood timber | shorter without care | more frequent treating | lower than cedar |
General comparison for guidance; lifespans depend on quality, exposure and upkeep. Sources: trade and manufacturer guides.
How to choose for your garden
- Want fit-and-forget? aluminium keeps maintenance to a minimum and works out lower in cost up front.
- Period or traditional garden? a cedar or timber frame may suit the setting, and holds heat slightly better.
- Maximum light? aluminium's thinner bars let in a little more light than chunkier timber sections.
- Happy to maintain it? a quality wooden frame, treated on schedule, can last for decades and look the part.
Want help choosing the frame?
We'll match you with a vetted greenhouse supplier or installer who sets out the aluminium and wooden options for your garden, with lifespan, upkeep and cost explained clearly.
Frequently asked questions
Is an aluminium or wooden greenhouse better?
Aluminium is the lower-priced, low-maintenance default and lasts a long time, while wooden frames cost more and need treating but suit period gardens and retain heat slightly better. The right choice depends on your budget, look and how much upkeep you want.
How long does an aluminium greenhouse last?
A quality powder-coated aluminium frame can last around 25–50 years with very little maintenance, which is one reason it is the most common UK choice.
Do wooden greenhouses need a lot of maintenance?
More than aluminium. Cedar and heat-treated timber need periodic oiling or preservative to resist rot, and softwood needs treating more often. Maintained on schedule, a quality timber frame can last for decades.
Sources & further reading
- Greenhouse Stores — wooden vs aluminium greenhouses
- Greenhouse Stores — how long does a greenhouse last
Figures on this page are typical UK ranges drawn from published sources and depend on your specific garden and choices. They are guidance, not a quotation.