DIY Greenhouse (With Step-By-Step Pictures)

Source: selfsufficientprojects.com

Every homesteader knows that a greenhouse is a great way to extend your growing season by protecting plants from harsh weather.

It creates a controlled environment for growing everything from vegetables to flowers, allowing you to grow year-round. Plus, it helps keep pests out and can save you money on buying produce.

So, I decided to build my own.

I’m building a 10×16-foot greenhouse using 2x4s and 4x4s, covered in plastic sheeting with a polycarbonate roof. I used standard-grade lumber and sealed it with a water-resistant stain. 

Here’s how I built my own greenhouse and how you can make your own:

Tools and Materials

Before starting, make sure you have the necessary tools: a post-hole digger, a circular saw, a Sawzall, a drill, a hammer, a staple gun, post levels, a 4-foot level, silicone sealer, and pebbles for the floor. You’ll also need water sealer for the lumber and some basic materials:

Lumber:

• 2 x 16-foot 4x4s (mainframe)
• 2 x 12-foot 4x4s (additional support)
• 6 x 10-foot 4x4s (side frame supports)
• 1 x 16-foot 2×6 (crossbeam)
• 2 x 16-foot 2x4s (framing)
• 52 x 8-foot 2x4s (walls and roof)
• 4 x 8-foot 2x2s (smaller supports)
• 34 x 8-foot 1x2s (finishing touches)

Other materials:

• 300 x 3-inch wood screws
• 50 x 4-inch wood screws
• 3 bags of concrete
• 24 x 2×4 polycarbonate roof panels
• 72 x 1-inch lathe screws with rubber washers
• 1 roll of 40 x 50 feet 6 mil plastic sheeting

Construction Steps

1. Stake Out the Foundation:

Start by marking the perimeter of your greenhouse with a 16×10-foot rectangle. Use stakes at the four corners and one at the center of each 10-foot side to help guide the placement of the main support beams. Ensure the corners are square by using a string to measure the sides.

2. Dig Post Holes:

Dig six post holes, each about 2 feet deep, where your stakes are located. These will hold the vertical 4×4 support posts that form the structure of your greenhouse.

3. Position and Set the Posts:

Place the 10-foot 4×4 posts into the holes and support them with 3 to 4 inches of stone while adjusting them for alignment. Use a post level to make sure the posts are vertical. Once aligned, fill each hole with dry concrete and water it to form a thick slurry. Allow the concrete to set for 24 hours to ensure the posts are securely in place.

4. Install the Foundation Beams:

Attach 4×4 beams across the bottom of the structure, making sure they are level and positioned just above ground level to avoid direct contact with the soil. Add stones underneath the beams to support them and keep them dry.

5. Build the Walls:

For the walls, start by attaching two 16-foot 2x4s at the top and bottom of each side. Then, nail or screw in additional 2x4s spaced 24 inches apart. The 2-foot spacing is important for the roof, where you will attach polycarbonate roof panels. Assemble the walls with 3-inch screws, ensuring each joint is secure. Attach the walls to the 4×4 beams at the corners using 4-inch screws.

Related: How to Collect Rainwater Without Gutters

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