DIY Polycarbonate Greenhouse (100 Photos): Foundation And Assembly, How To Do It At Home, Installation Details

2024 Author: Beatrice Philips | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-15 04:10

Polycarbonate greenhouses are among the most popular and demanded on the modern market. A huge number of advantages, including high quality, reliability and practicality, distinguish them qualitatively from the background of other varieties.

Peculiarities

A do-it-yourself polycarbonate greenhouse is in great demand and popularity due to the cellular structure of the material. This is what provides an incredibly long service life, unlike glass or plastic film.

A distinctive advantage of polycarbonate is that it is not afraid of impacts, therefore it is able to cope even with such strong atmospheric precipitation as hail or wind. In addition, this material does not deteriorate under the influence of direct sunlight and retains its transparency for a long time.

In order to understand whether the installation of a polycarbonate greenhouse is justified, it is necessary to understand the features of this material.

Polycarbonate is a lightweight and fairly durable plastic, consisting of several layers and having a cellular structure.

The most popular are the sheets, the thickness of which does not exceed 6 mm. At the same time, polycarbonate sheets boast impressive light transmission, as well as the ability to withstand temperature extremes. Internal ribs provide incredible rigidity and strength, as well as the ability to take on almost any shape.

Pros and cons

The enormous popularity and demand for polycarbonate greenhouses is provided by a number of advantages that qualitatively distinguish them from other varieties.

Among the most important advantages of such greenhouses, several factors can be noted:

• Ease of installation activities, as well as the ability to quickly install polycarbonate sheets.
• This material is considered one of the most favorable and effective in terms of thermal insulation.
• An impressive level of sound insulation that can reach 25 decibels.
• A good greenhouse must let in direct sunlight. In this context, polycarbonate is unmatched, as its transparency level is no less than 92%.
• By using a special protective layer, you can be sure that the green spaces will be maximally protected from ultraviolet exposure, which can harm the crop.
• Incredibly high strength and resistance to mechanical damage. In addition, polycarbonate boasts its resistance to sudden changes in temperature, making it an ideal solution even for our latitudes. The strength of this material is almost 200 times higher than the strength characteristics of glass.

Of course, these are not all the advantages of polycarbonate greenhouses. One of the advantages is also their unique dimensions, which allow them to be used for span cladding that are created between the arches of the frame structures.

Year-round use of the greenhouse has become possible due to the fact that polycarbonate sheets can easily cope with wind and snow loads.

Such greenhouses are also unmatched in the field of fire safety. Moreover, the casing used in the production of greenhouses is not subject to combustion, since it can only melt, and even then at temperatures exceeding 500 degrees Celsius.

You can use ultra-modern types of polycarbonate sheets that do not emit any harmful substances even when burning or melting.

The polycarbonate sheathing of the greenhouse boasts impressive resistance to aggressive environments. In addition, a high level of crop protection against acid residues is guaranteed.

Polycarbonate greenhouses can also please their owners with a small weight, which is 15 times less than glass. It is thanks to this aspect that you can significantly save on the supporting parts of the structure.

Despite the huge number of advantages, polycarbonate greenhouses also have certain disadvantages that must be taken into account before choosing such an object.

In no case should the ends of polycarbonate sheets be left open, as this will allow both moisture and insects to penetrate inside the greenhouse, which, in turn, can cause the appearance of fungus and other pathogenic bacteria.

Cleaning such a greenhouse should be carried out with the utmost care, since it is quite easy to damage the surface.

It is best to limit yourself to the use of soft fabrics as well as neutral cleaning agents. In no case should you use cleaning compounds that include salts, alkalis or chlorine.

And also refrain from using abrasive pastes and sharp objects , which are capable of scratching polycarbonate sheets, thereby spoiling their attractive appearance and protective properties. In winter, close attention must be paid to removing snow from the top of the greenhouse. Ice formation should not be allowed , as this may cause deformation of the greenhouse in the future.

Materials (edit)

In the process of making a polycarbonate greenhouse with your own hands, close attention should be paid to the selection of materials on which the reliability, strength and durability of the entire structure depend.

Thin galvanized and aluminum profiles are considered ideal ., as well as options from metal-plastic. Their main advantage is that they are quite easy to assemble and can change their shape if necessary.

The only drawback of a greenhouse with such a frame is that in bad weather conditions, including heavy wind, the structure may not be able to withstand and the entire greenhouse will collapse.

If you still plan to build it from such materials, then you need to increase the number of ribs or develop a special collapsible structure that can be removed in winter.

One of the most popular greenhouses on the market today are aluminum frame greenhouses. Of course, the frame will be more durable if it is made of a thick bar of 3x6 cm, however, this environmentally friendly material has its certain disadvantages: if the greenhouse is located in a region with high humidity, then the structure will soon begin to rot.

If you still want to use just such a frame, then it must be treated with special antiseptics, which will ensure a long existence.

The most durable structure is considered to be made of metal pipes or channel

If you are looking for a reliable greenhouse that can handle all kinds of weather and mechanical stress, then the square section steel options are the best choice. Their only drawback is that they are practically not subject to change in shape, so using a sloping roof will not work.

It should also be noted that the use of a heavy frame requires the construction of a stronger and more reliable foundation that will be able to cope with this weight of the greenhouse.

Forms

A distinctive feature of a polycarbonate greenhouse, which qualitatively distinguishes it against the background of greenhouses and other similar structures, is the ability to maintain heat. To heat the greenhouse, natural sources are used, including the sun, fumes from manure or biological waste.

In order for the steam to be covered as well as possible, it is necessary to reduce the amount of heated space. Also for working with plants it is necessary to provide for the presence of hinged hatches.

The main advantage of the greenhouse is that everything here is built on artificial heating, so the height of the structure can be much higher than the height of a person.

Among the most popular and demanded forms of polycarbonate greenhouse structures on the market, several types can be distinguished:

Arched polycarbonate greenhouses … This form is considered optimal as it provides a high level of comfort during start-up and use. The assembly is carried out by bending polycarbonate sheets and gluing them to the frame, so that people can easily and comfortably move inside the greenhouse. The presence of an arched roof allows snow and other atmospheric precipitation to not linger.

Mini greenhouses … The main feature of such structures is their small width, which rarely exceeds 2 m. In addition, such greenhouses are low in height, but this does not in any way affect the calm movement of a person in full growth. In most cases, the height of the greenhouse is about 2 m.

Such options are considered the best choice for people who own small plots and want to use them for the construction of this structure.

Greenhouses "droplet " … The highlight of these construction sites is the pointed ridge-shaped roof, which makes the structure able to cope with the strongest winds and snowy winters. Snow does not linger on the roof, so the load on the entire facility is minimal.

Greenhouse butterfly … You can understand the design features based on the name. A convenient greenhouse consists of flaps located parallel to each other, which cover the greenhouse roof. Such designs are commonly used for growing seedlings.

Greenhouse-breadbasket made of polycarbonate. This design is distinguished by its low height and arched shape, and the working area is usually located on the south side.

Dimensions (edit)

In the process of building a polycarbonate greenhouse, close attention should be paid to the dimensions of the sheets. Knowing the dimensions of the sheet, you can make calculations for the frame, choose the optimal type of structure - an arched structure or a building with a gable roof. It is best to use six meter polycarbonate sheets , with which you can build arch-type greenhouses. In this case, the step of the elements should be no more than 2100 mm ., and the length of the greenhouse directly depends on the needs of the owner and the size of the territory.

To build such a structure, it will be enough to choose polycarbonate sheets with a thickness of 8 mm. Such material can easily cope with snow loads in winter, but at the same time it is easy to install.

If the greenhouse includes walls and a gable roof, then each plane is installed separately. If you want to save money, you can use enclosing structures made of inexpensive materials, the thickness of which will be 4-6 mm.

Required tools

To create the highest quality and durable greenhouse, you will need to use reliable and accurate tools, including a tape measure, a shovel, hammers and nails. In addition, you cannot do without such materials and tools as metal structures and square pipes, thermal washers and wooden boards, a concrete mixer, a primer and welding units. These devices are necessary in order to build a greenhouse with a concrete foundation.

In this process, close attention should be paid to the fastening of polycarbonate sheets, since in the process of use they experience enormous loads every day. That's why installed thermal washers must be of high quality, and their installation must be carried out as responsibly and accurately … Only in this case it will be possible to build a polycarbonate greenhouse that will meet all modern standards and will be able to last as long as possible.

Preparatory work

It is quite easy to assemble a greenhouse from polycarbonate sheets and other components, so almost anyone can handle this process. However, it is impossible to ensure a long existence without a high-quality foundation, and only a professional can cope with this.

Without the necessary knowledge and skills, it will not be possible to build a cool concrete foundation, and without this there can be no question of long-term use of a polycarbonate greenhouse.

That is why it is extremely important to know how to properly mount the prefab base. Considering the fact that a polycarbonate greenhouse has an extremely low weight, then you can limit yourself to a tape or cement base.

When pouring the foundation, close attention must be paid to ensure that it turns out to be even in the end, otherwise the greenhouse will stand crooked, which greatly increases the risk of mechanical damage.

Close attention should also be paid to the study of drawings and diagrams, on the basis of which a polycarbonate greenhouse will be built step by step.

Foundation

To guarantee maximum durability and rigidity, polycarbonate greenhouses must be fixed to a fixed base. Given the small mass of this structure, you can limit yourself to using a point foundation, which is made of any strong material. It can be timber, brick, aerated concrete blocks and so on.

A distinctive advantage of a timber foundation is its affordable price, despite which it is able to withstand greenhouses weighing up to 120 kg. In order to prevent soil erosion, as well as to protect plants from sudden changes in temperature, it is best to bury it in the ground.

There is no need to completely wrap the timber in a film, since due to the collecting condensate, the structure will quickly become unusable. In order for the bearing pillars not to be washed out by water, it is necessary to put a pillow of sand or gravel under them.

One of the most popular today are timber foundations, for which old sleepers can be used … The main advantage of such a material is that it can last at least 40 years even in very high humidity conditions.

Sleepers should be laid in a small trench so that the top edges are at ground level and can be held together with construction brackets. Piles for such a foundation can be made both from concrete and from blocks and bricks.

If the greenhouse is on a metal structure, then it will be necessary to install a strip foundation. The main disadvantage of concrete is that it is a rather poor conductor of heat, therefore it heats up for an extremely long time, which is not very good in severe and winter cold weather. That's why such foundations can be erected only in those rooms that will be distinguished by the presence of artificial heating.

Frame

If you buy frames from an industrial production, then they usually come with all the necessary fasteners, but to simplify the work, you need to have the following tools on hand: pliers, screwdrivers, tape measures, screwdrivers, markers, hacksaws with fine teeth or a construction knife. It should be noted that the instructions for assembling a polycarbonate greenhouse with your own hands may differ depending on the manufacturer, but the general recommendations are the same for almost all models and shapes.

So, the installation of the greenhouse frame should take place, including the main stages:

• The assembly should start from the ends. The central arched part must be connected to the uprights, which can be done using screws and special fasteners that come with the kit. It is best to do this on the ground, as there may be some leveling problems in an upright position.
• After the end is installed on the foundation, it is necessary to carefully check the level of verticality. If everything is in order, then attach the anchor bolts.

• The crossbar should be grafted right in the middle of the arch. In addition, the same parts will need to be installed on both vertical supports. Therefore, it is extremely important to use a tape measure all the time so that the guides are at the same level, otherwise, in the future, strong pressure will be created on certain elements, which will significantly reduce the service life of the structure.
• After the arch is assembled, you need to make sure that all corners have been correctly observed. Only then can the vertical supports be fully attached to the base of the greenhouse. You should also take into account the fact that the step between the arches cannot exceed 2 m, which is due to the width of a conventional polycarbonate sheet.

• And you also need to do all this with the rest of the arches and crossbars, remembering to check it all the time with the help of a level.
• After all the levels have been checked, the arches are installed, you can proceed to the installation of the doors. Initially, it is necessary to mount frames and additional stiffeners. After the doors are attached, you need to make sure they work. It often happens that the door does not close, or it touches the frame when it is closed. In addition, it is quite common for the door to open on its own, which may mean that the opening is not installed evenly. It will be necessary to do all the work again, since a completely sealed door is one of the most important conditions for the correct operation of the greenhouse.

To remedy the situation, it will be necessary to completely disassemble the structure or part of it, and then assemble it correctly, carefully checking all the nuances and angles. Close attention must be paid to the stiffeners, which should form a single plane.

At this stage, the installation of the greenhouse frame is completed, and you can cover it with polycarbonate sheets.

Roof

It is necessary to pay special attention to the arrangement of the roof in a polycarbonate greenhouse, because the strength and reliability of the entire structure, as well as the integrity of the plants, depend on this element. It should be noted that the type and shape of the roof depends primarily on the design and features of the greenhouse.

Some people use plastic wrap as the main covering for the roof to save money, but this material cannot boast of strength and reliability. In addition, due to its thin structure, the polyethylene film practically does not retain heat and allows cold to pass into the greenhouse.

If there is no money for other types of roofs, then you can use this option, but in several layers , thanks to which it will be possible to create an air gap between them. It is she who will play the role of an excellent thermal insulator, which is so necessary for a polycarbonate greenhouse.

Among the advantages of polyethylene film as a roof for a greenhouse, one can distinguish elasticity, minimal expansion with temperature drops, an affordable price and a high rate of ultraviolet rays transmission.

It should be noted that if the film was used throughout the summer in a hot region, then in winter it will need to be replaced , since under the influence of frost it will become brittle.

The main disadvantage of the film is the fact that in the process of application, condensation appears on it, which reduces the light transmittance of this material.

In the process of designing a roof profile, it is necessary to proceed from the load on it. This indicator is extremely important in winter, when precipitation is of the greatest mass and leads to an increased load on the greenhouse cover. Roof profiles can be flat or pitched or pitched.

The flat roof is one of the least popular as it collects a huge amount of snow in winter ., which puts pressure on the entire structure, and it may simply not withstand.

It is best to give preference to an arched structure, the distinctive advantage of which is that it evenly distributes the load throughout the polycarbonate greenhouse.

The only drawback is that on the sides this roof cannot boast of an impressive height, which takes up useful space from the greenhouse, since it will not be possible to grow tall plants here. However, there is a way out, because on the sides you can always organize the cultivation of seedlings, and then transplant in the central part of the room.

A distinctive feature of a gable or pitched roof is the presence of a cone, which is the top of the roof. The strength of the structure as a whole depends on its quality, and with the independent construction of a greenhouse, it will not be difficult to make such a roof.

Sheathing of the structure

If the frame is already fully erected, you can start cutting the polycarbonate sheets for the greenhouse and fix the sheathing. Today, there are two optimal mounting methods. The first is to use special washers that are resistant to high temperatures.

As for the second, it involves the use of a profile for polycarbonate. The profile mount is made thanks to a special profile, which can be found in a wide variety of colors. The most important thing in this case is to correctly determine the attachment points, the number of which depends on the length of the sheet and the complexity of the frame itself. Most masters advise installing a special waterproofer between the frame profiles, which will prevent the greenhouse from leaking in the future .… The peculiarity of this method is that the sheets are joined on the frame, which greatly simplifies the installation process.

It should be noted that the installation with a thermal washer is slightly different from the method described above. The main difference is that the sheets are attached directly to the greenhouse frame, strictly following the principles of waterproofing. To do this, it is necessary to choose the most durable and reliable thermal washers, since it is they that bear the main load on holding the polycarbonate sheets.

In this case, it is not worth saving, since the strength and durability of the entire structure depends on it.

Installation of cellular polycarbonate on the greenhouse is carried out in a certain order:

• It is necessary to carry out calculations, and several holes must be made on the polycarbonate sheet, where the sheet will be connected to the frame.
• The thermal washer has a special hole where you will need to put self-tapping screws.
• The polycarbonate sheet must be positioned on the frame and connected in the position you need. Here you need to get an assistant who could hold the sheet in the process of fastening it.
• After all fastening work is completed, the thermal washers should be closed with plugs, which are usually included in the kit. They are necessary in order to provide maximum protection of the structure from moisture.

Internal arrangement

In the process of internal arrangement of the greenhouse, it is necessary first of all to deal with the soil. In order for the selected soil to fulfill the functions assigned to it as fully as possible, it is necessary to pay close attention to its selection.

First of all, the earth should be provided with good air permeability and an optimal level of humidity. In addition, it will be necessary to add special nutrient additives to the soil and carry out weed removal. For disinfection, you should use special means for this type of soil. The soil can be purchased in specialized stores or you can prepare it yourself.

The interior arrangement of the greenhouse also implies a competent design of the beds. And some believe that in this case it is necessary to be guided only by the amenities for the gardener, but this is not the case. Incorrect placement of the beds can lead to a lack of crops in the future.

The best and most effective way is to equip a greenhouse according to Mitlider … The essence of this technique is that for optimal plant life, the beds must differ at least 45 cm in width, and the passage must be at least 90 cm. either cultures.

It is best if the beds in the polycarbonate greenhouse go from north to south. Of course, the yield depends not only on this, but also on the correct watering and crop care.

Almost any modern greenhouse boasts vents and doors. This means that ventilation can be carried out not only with the help of technological equipment, but also manually. For this just open and close the vents in a timely manner.

Now it's time to take care of heating the greenhouse made of polycarbonate, which can be carried out on solar heating. However, in some regions this is not enough, especially in the winter season, so you have to resort to installing special heating systems. One of the most popular on the modern market is the installation of a warm floor , which is notable for its availability, low price and efficiency. The lightness of the design of such a system allows you to install it at home on your own.

In order for the crop to grow as quickly and efficiently as possible, you need to take care of a modern irrigation system. Of course, you can use barrels or a hose, but this method of irrigation is not entirely convenient and requires the owner to be constantly in the greenhouse.

If you have enough finance you can install a drip irrigation system , which features automatic watering and can save a huge amount of time. A distinctive feature of this method is that watering will be carried out using water droplets that go directly to the roots of the plants.

Thus, the internal arrangement of the greenhouse presupposes the observance of a huge number of points. Only a well-organized space and the use of high-quality systems makes it possible to get a good harvest.

Tips

In order for a polycarbonate greenhouse to produce an excellent harvest, it must be located in the right place. Ignoring the minimum requirements can nullify all the work.

First of all, you need to pay attention to the features of the place where the greenhouse structure will be located. The huge area must be completely open in order to receive direct sunlight throughout the day. In addition, the wind rose is of great importance, especially in areas with strong cyclones. That's why experts recommend locating the greenhouse from west to east , due to which all the end parts of the structure will be directed to the north or south.

It is not necessary to install the greenhouse far from the house itself, as this will lead to certain inconveniences in the process of caring for the plants.

If there are already other outbuildings on the land plot, then the greenhouse can be built in the immediate vicinity of them. Thereby it is possible not only to efficiently and rationally distribute the usable land area, but also to protect the greenhouse from the cold wind.

Close attention must also be paid to the organization of an optimal home-made microclimate in the greenhouse itself.

In order to make it much easier to maintain the optimal temperature inside the room, when installing the frame, its bases can be slightly deepened. Just half a meter is enough for moisture and heat to stay in the air for as long as possible.

In this case, you should be extremely careful, as short plants may be in the shade and will not be able to receive enough sunlight.

Thus, making a greenhouse with your own hands is a simple process if you approach it responsibly and competently. The most important thing is to use high-quality materials in the construction process and to carry out their reliable installation.

Beautiful examples

A beautiful greenhouse made from a solid foundation. The construction is made with great care and care. There are no flaws here: only high-quality and modern materials were used.

A greenhouse can be beautiful if you turn it into a comfortable holiday home. To do this, you can use transparent walls, making it look like a greenhouse or winter garden. This option is suitable for people who cannot live without plants or want to do gardening.

Effective organization of space. Strict adherence to the advice made it possible to correctly establish the beds and rationally use every centimeter of the polycarbonate greenhouse. A distinctive feature of this option is a non-standard roof.