A BIT ABOUT STORM DAMAGE

A British winter is unpredictable; especially after the shock of last year's heavy and countrywide snow fall. We were half expecting the same treatment this year, but instead of -10 degree temperatures it's be +10 degree temperatures here in East Yorkshire over Christmas. Needless to say, it's been extremely mild, albeit the occasional day of gale force winds! And it's those winds that have been causing a bit of havoc to garden centres and growers this year.

But it isn't just the big glasshouses that are in danger from storm damage, garden glasshouses are just as vulnerable in adverse weather conditions; however there are some things you can do to help protect your glasshouse, and your plants, from the extremes of the British weather.

A lot of wind damage is caused by the gales being able to claw their way into the glasshouse through gaps, grabbing hold of panes of glass and forcing or dragging them out, often shattering them in the process. This can leave you with dangerous shards of glass in and around your glasshouse.

There are precautions you can take to help protect your glasshouse from wind damage. If the weatherman forecasts severe winds, make sure all vents and doors are securely closed and any draughty areas are sealed. It's also a good idea to check that all panes of glass are still tightly fitted and check for any cracked glass panes to replace before the really bad weather sets in.

If you have any missing glass, or you lose some in the wind, it is recommended that the gap is covered up as soon as possible to avoid any further damage; however please wait until the wind has died down before doing this. Never underestimate the strength of the wind, if you have loose pots, watering cans or even wheelbarrows lying around your garden a strong enough wind can pick these up and launch them into your glasshouse. This can cause not only broken glass, but structural damage as well.

We haven't had any snow yet and at the moment there isn't much forecast, but it's definitely worthwhile preparing for heavy snow after our experiences in winter 2010/2011. If you have an electric supply in your glasshouse, try putting a heater in there (check these out) to keep the temperature up to persuade any falling snow to thaw and slip away instead of settling; your plants will love the extra warmth too! If the snow does settle, try removing as much of it as possible to minimise the strain on the glass and structural bars of your glasshouse.

If your glasshouse suffers extensive damage, please contact us and we'll be happy to help.

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