Greenhouse Building Ideas

Covering and Framing Materials

• Greenhouses made with glass have a formal appearance, they are transparent and attractive. Glass is an expensive building material, however, and the weight requires a sturdy frame. Polyethylene film as a cover is lightweight and inexpensive. It requires less structural support, and comes in both white and clear sheets that last for approximately two years.

  Fiberglass reinforced panels are constructed of polycarbonate or acrylic and formed into rigid plastic panels. Light transmission is usually better than glass because it requires less framework support. Covers of double-layered structured panels made from acrylic or polycarbonate provide good heat retention, less light filtration and strength.

  Framing can be chosen from a variety of materials including PVC pipe, treated lumber, aluminum or galvanized framing. They all have their advantages and disadvantages depending upon the type of covering. Some framing materials provide more of a permanent structure and can withstand a heavier weight covering.

  Often times framing and coverings are chosen by considering the cost of materials as opposed to the quality and longevity of the material. Any type of framing must provide the necessary support for the chosen covering and withstand ice buildup, snow, rain and strong winds.

Foundation

• The foundation should be selected based on the architecture and framework chosen. A strong concrete foundation is recommended for glass covered structures because of the weight, while a polyethylene film cover only requires support posts in concrete footings, because it does not have the weight to support.

Flooring and Walkways

• Walkways and flooring will be determined by your own personal preference. If a solid concrete floor is not required, then crushed stone of 4 inches in depth makes for useful flooring. The number of isles and their locations will affect the location of walkways. Popular materials for walkways include flagstones or stepping stones.

Shelving

• Shelving should be constructed of long lasting wood or your preferred type of plastic material. You may make supports for holding shelving from concrete blocks, metal piping or wood. Distribute the weights of containers equally across sturdy shelves with good strong supports. Much of the flooring can be designated for plants, around any predetermined walkways. Shelving should allow for air circulation and water drainage, without sagging when watered.

Venting, Heating and Cooling

• Venting is required to replace carbon dioxide with oxygen, expel hot air and lower humidity, achieved with forced or natural flow ventilation. Heating may be necessary and you can supply it with solar energy, propane or electricity. Evaporative cooling, shade cloth, screens or Venetian blinds can be used to provide cooling.