How to Build a Greenhouse From Salvaged Windows

Collect a variety of old windows. They may be in the garage or barn of your home. Look for old windows at the dump. Go to estate sales and yard sales. Check the want-ads for garage sale dates and get there early to see if there are any old windows for sale or for the taking. Collect different shapes and sizes; don't worry about the design until you have a good collection of windows to work with.

Figure out the size and shape of the little greenhouse after you have plenty of windows to work with.

Spread out old newspapers, and remove old paint from the window frames with a paint scraper. Old windows may have lead paint, so work in a well-ventilated area and dispose of paint chips. To make this job easier, consider using a wood stripping product that is applied to the wood with a paintbrush, then scraped off with a paint scraper.

Place painter's tape on the windows just along the edges, next to the wooden frames. Untreated, unfinished wood will most likely rot over time, so paint the stripped window panes first with an exterior primer. Allow to dry, then paint the frames with an exterior paint. Allow to dry, and paint a second coat. Remove painter's tape when dry.

Hammer nails into the wooden frames to hold them together and build your greenhouse. Be mindful of the glass windows; do not break them. Leave one window off to make a door space.

Use an outdoor, waterproof sealing caulk to seal everywhere two windows meet. Purchase a caulking gun and apply the caulk in even strokes. Take a small paint scraper and spread the caulk just a little to make sure the seals are tight.

Attach the last window in the door opening using hinges and screwdriver.