How We Test and Score

Our testing is designed to answer a simple question: will this greenhouse perform in your microclimate with minimal drama—and at a fair lifetime cost? To get there, we standardize measurements and field-verify them across zones 3–10.

The Four Seasons Score We rate each kit across core dimensions, then combine them into a clear, comparable score:

Durability (Snow/Wind): frame material and geometry, connection hardware, anchoring options, published load ratings, and real-world stress results.
Efficiency (Heat/Vent/UV): heat retention (night), ventilation throughput (day), shading effectiveness, and UV resilience of glazing.
Assembly & Serviceability: labeled hardware, clarity of instructions, pre-drilled accuracy, realistic time estimates, and availability of spare parts.
Safety & Compliance: glazing impact behavior, door/vent pinch points, anchoring guidance, and code-aware considerations.

Field and Bench Methods

Instrumentation: dataloggers for temp/RH, anemometers, thermal imagery, light meters (PAR/UV), and load cells for snow/wind simulations when safe and applicable.
Replication: at least two builds per model (different teams), plus site variation (exposure, base type). We document ambient conditions and anomalies.
Stress Protocols: staged loads for roof and lateral resistance, controlled venting tests, and power-off heat management to assess passive stability.
Usability Drills: timed assembly with first-time builders, parts verification, and failure-mode notes (misaligned holes, fastener strip risk).

Scoring and Weighting

Baseline weights: Durability 40%, Efficiency 30%, Assembly 20%, Safety 10%.
Context tuning: for heavy-snow or high-wind regions, we publish alternate views that increase Durability weight and highlight required upgrades.
Confidence levels: each score carries a confidence band (low/medium/high) based on data completeness and test replication.

Independence and Procurement

We buy products at retail when possible. If a sample is provided, we document the chain of custody and apply identical tests.
Brands cannot preview, edit, or veto results. We disclose any material relationships.

Updates and Re-Tests

Seasonal re-tests validate UV/yellowing, seal integrity, and hardware corrosion.
Major design changes trigger a new review cycle.
Community feedback loops: we incorporate verifiable field reports, with photos and weather logs, into score updates.

What This Means for You You’ll see not just a score, but the why behind it—data charts, time-to-build ranges, recommended passive upgrades for your site, and realistic lifetime costs. Our goal is simple: fewer surprises, better harvests, and structures that stand the weather where you live.