Polythene tunnels are supplied with metal tubular frames that are put together to form a semi-circle. A newer form - the Solar Tunnel - has straight sides and is therefore easier to fit with benches.
Greenhouse frames are either aluminium (sometimes coated in UPVC) or wood. Aluminium is maintenance free, while wood requires attention either with painting or coating with wood preservative. If you need extra insulation, bubble plastic sheeting can be fixed to the inside of the greenhouse; this is easier to fix to wooden frames.
Make sure that the greenhouse is easy to get into and to move around in. Most greenhouses have a built-in threshold on which the door slides; this might be a problem if you use a wheelchair. Look for a greenhouse that is built without a threshold so that you can wheel straight in. The doorway should be at least 850mm (2' 6") wide and sliding doors are easier to manage.
Siting the greenhouse is very important. It needs to be in a position that receives maximum sunshine for as much of the day as possible. Ideally it should be near the house - both for easy access in unpleasant weather and to cut down the cost of laying on electricity and water. Avoid overhanging trees as these will shade the greenhouse.
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