Building a PVC greenhouse

[deadkndys]

So a few weeks ago I decided I want to build a greenhouse but one that is within my budget. After browsing for few blueprints on the internet. I decided on using this guys plan.

I also plan on doing a few modifications like dual zipper pull up door,large zip ties instead of clips,no windows, and 4 Velcro "vents" on the top (2 on each side) and also some concrete anchors. I live in so cal so I have mild weather most of the year.

All in all it's gonna cost me around 80 dollars for the dimensions I am using for the PVC parts and 6 mil plastic and other accessorys. I plan on buying the more expensive greenhouse 6 mil next time as it last for 4 years.

 

[joe guy]

Liknk to the blues? What is that 16x8? Hmm painters plastic?
More details brother please 80 bucks sounds f-Ing awsome... Good build buddy
I like it a lot .. Wonder if the shade cloth would be better for the sides atleast half way up
To allow some natural breeze thru durring summer months...
Very clean and proper from what I see rep +++ with this design...

 

[deadkndys]

Sorry thought I linked the word "this".
http://rejadventures.blogspot.com/2012/11/october-my-diy-greenhouse.html

I should also note I have about 30 feet in PVC already.

Here is the amount of fittings he is using without the door and window.
Lowes carries all of them.
* I am using 1/2 inch PVC instead of 1 inch.

12 1/2 inch tees
08 1/2 inch 90 degree elbow
06 1/2 inch 45 degree elbow
05 90-Degree PVC Sch 40 Cross Tee
07 Charlotte 1/2-in 10-ft 315 PSI pipe

Pick as many couplings as you think you will need.

 

[OKD]

Nice job -- very inspiring!

 

[Born Loser]

Hi DK. (one of my fav bands of all times )
Nice lil house, but is 1/2" going to be enough? I have a few sticks of it in the garage, and its as floppy as a wet noodle. I am a worrier, and if someone says 1", I use 2". Id just hate to see it flattened on some nice plants.
Overkill is underrated in GHs. Structure, ventilation (cooling), etc...wind is relentless...

 

[deadkndys]

You know after thinking about how I am going to have at least two lights hanging that it would be a good idea to use at least 1 inch PVC for support. I saw the cost isn't that much more then the 1/2 inch.

 

[deadkndys]

So I picked up the PVC today from lowes. So far it looks like it will cost me 100 to build this.

Also the area I am using is a 10x10.

 

[deadkndys]

Well finished building the frame today. Just need to out on the plastic (which I will do around September-October).

 

[IeatCubes]

This is great.

I'm building one this week. I've always wanted a greenhouse.
...time to dive in.

Thanks a lot for posting this information as well as the link.
I'm excited.

 

[deadkndys]

No problem.

Looking forward to see how yours turns out.

 

[hyposomniac]

Looking good..
PVC reacts with poly film.. Consider painting the pvc with white latex paint.

 

[deadkndys]

Thanks for the tip. Will definitely do that next season when I use the greenhouse film.

 

[2 Legal Co]

Have you x braced the walls and roof to keep the frame from flexing in the wind?

It'd be a good idea if you get wind. Otherwise the flexing frame will destroy your plastic skin.

Just a thought.

 

[deadkndys]

I have mild too no winds most of the year. Every now and then we get those Santa Ana winds but it isn't too bad usually.

 

[deadkndys]

Well guys I finished putting on the plastic today. Just need to add some zip ties here and there and also gonna add the zipper door and windows tomorrow.

 

[Dirt Flowers]

nice bud i got a similar structure from a 8'x10' carport i like it was just looking to reskin it greenhouse tape works wonders if the film is clean and warm. reinforce zip ties with duct tape or squares of tarp on each side ...

 

[2 Legal Co]

Just an FYI for all you GH folks.

Talked to a fellow who runs 5 houses (not our kind of plants however)...

He says the standard for this climate 'Mile high in Colo'. is to use a 'wet wall' on one end , and two exhaust fans on the other end. If I recall correctly, he said he was moving 40k cu. ft. ..... said the 100' length is too long for the system, so his are 80' long, and he still runs a couple of fans in the middle as well.

His Houses have shade cloth on the top and west side, to slow down the solar gain. They are mostly empty now as he retails flowering ornamentals and a few trees.

From what he said the solar gain, needs to be mitigated in the summer with shade cloth. And do Not expect the passive venting to be enough. Just food for thought,,,, and not enough info to even consider a dedicated thread on the subject, I'm thinking.

Hope you are ready for the cut soon.