subject: How to Build A Cheap Greenhouse That Performs Beautifully [print this page] How to Build A Cheap Greenhouse That Performs Beautifully
Is it possible to build cheap greenhouses that actually work well? I think a lot of people have this preconceived notion that in order to make a greenhouse of their own requires spending a large chunk of money. They see the greenhouse kits that are available in their local garden centers or online to purchase, and they can very pricey (1,500 - 5,000 is the general range). Or they think that hiring a contractor is best way to go, but that is usually even more expensive. At the very least most believe that a lot of dough has to be spent on materials in order to build a greenhouse of excellent quality. It simply isn't true.
What most folks don't realize is that it's not how much you spend but how you plan it out that determines the long-term success of a garden greenhouse. For instance - Site selection for your greenhouse is far more important than the framing or glazing materials you employ. I can build a cheap 10'x10' greenhouse out of PVC tubing and heavy visquene plastic for literally $150.00 that, if placed in a good winter sun location, will seriously out perform an aluminum frame and glass greenhouse that is positioned poorly. Again, it's not about how expensive your greenhouse is, it's about good site selection and intelligent layout.
So here's a few tips on how to find inexpensive but efficient materials to make your own little plant factory:
1- Go to one of the big Do-it-Yourself centers to buy framing and glazing materials. Whether you want to build a PVC or wood framed house, their prices can't be beat. The draw back to these mega home centers is that the staff are generally pretty limited in their knowledge of construction requirements, especially for something like a greenhouse. But if you do a little homework on what specific materials you'll need (referenced at the end of this article), you can pick these materials up at a price that can't be beat.
2- The same goes for your glazing (sheeting) material. I would recommend using a heavy plastic wrapping like 8 mil. transparent Visquene. It insulates well, is cheap, and is very easy to work with. Even if your committed to a more robust glazing system such as fiberglass panels, a place like Home Depot or Lowe's can provide them at a lower cost than anywhere else. I would stay away from glass panels all together. They're expensive and prone to breakage.
3- You're going to need at least one entry door to the greenhouse and a couple of ventilation windows as well. Here's a neat trick to finding them very cheaply- Spend an hour combing through a local junk yard. I can't tell you how many times I've found good quality old glass screen doors and small windows with this method, for pennies on the dollar. Another great resource is Craigslist. Often people give stuff like this away for free because they're remodeling their home, you just have to go pick it up! Not bad.
The bottom line is this, don't get discouraged when trying to figure out how to afford building a hobby greenhouse of your own. If you're willing to spend a little time doing some research on a good set of plans, and don't mind expending a little elbow grease in setting it up, you can make wonderfully effective cheap greenhouses in no time. Good Luck and Happy Gardening!
