How to Build Your Own Glass Greenhouse

Pour a permanent foundation of concrete for your glass greenhouse. You'll need it to support the heavy pieces of glass. Make sure the ground is level before you start to pour the base, and then measure and level the base as well so your greenhouse will be evenly situated.

Construct your glass greenhouse frame from sturdy aluminum. You can use wood or galvanized steel, but aluminum is the best if you want your greenhouse to have the best possible support and be weather-tight. Air temperatures inside your greenhouse will fluctuate better if it is smaller in size. This is because the air volume inside is very small which causes heat to be lost or gained quicker than in a large space. Make your greenhouse as least 6 feet wide and 12 feet long in order to provide the best growing atmosphere.

Size the pieces of glass you'll need and have someone help you place them in the aluminum frame. Build your greenhouse out of tempered glass. It's the safest material to use because it won't shatter easily. It's also the best material for a greenhouse because it's not expensive to maintain and it lasts. A glass greenhouse will retain humidity better and keep your heating costs lower than other types of greenhouses. A glass greenhouse with an aluminum frame can be almost maintenance-free.

Put gravel on the floor of your greenhouse instead of a permanent floor. Gravel will let water drain out, preventing a slippery surface. You can also place stepping stones down the middle to make it easier to get to the plants.

Know the disadvantages of glass before you start your greenhouse. Glass can be easily broken and it's heavier than other greenhouse materials, such as fiberglass. Glass will need a stronger frame as well, which is why aluminum is recommended. You can also expect to pay more for glass than for other materials.