Today's greenhouses are more than just functional spaces for growing plants - they've evolved into living spaces, where homeowners can entertain, enjoy an afternoon during inclement weather or just wile away the hours in a serene setting. When properly built, they also can add value to any house. Toward that end, Solar Innovations, a Myerstown, Pa.-based manufacturer of aluminum and wood glazed conservatories, greenhouses and sunrooms, provides the following tips for consideration by homeowners prior to construction of a greenhouse.

• Consider the proximity of the greenhouse to nearby shading. Trees located close to the greenhouse provide shade during the summer but will give shadows in the winter. Also, debris from trees too close can soil the roof, requiring cleaning.

• Be mindful of wind and inclement weather. Winds can provide cooling and ventilation during the summer but can increase heat loss in winter. Locating a greenhouse at the bottom of a hill or in a hollow may provide shelter from some of the elements, but the structure may be more prone to moisture or frost.

• Consider the direction of roof slope and drifting or sliding snow when attached to an existing structure. Extra gutters, ice breaks or an impact-resistant roof glazing such as polycarbonate may be required to accommodate large amounts of run-off and snow.

• Orient the greenhouse so plants are not harmed by excessive sunlight. Sunlight penetrates the greenhouse most when perpendicular to the glazing. A freestanding greenhouse's orientation is not as critical because it receives light from all sides. Attached greenhouses facing south, southeast or east will provide the greatest light exposure. Western exposure provides adequate light. Northern exposure is only recommended for plants with low light requirements or if grow lights are utilized.

• Build the greenhouse on a solid foundation. If the foundation is unstable, the structure will be subject to shifting, or possible breaking of the frame and glazing.

For more information, call 800-618-0669 or visit http://www.solarinnovations.com.