How to build a greenhouse from old window frames. Getting rid of cracks

Polyethylene, polycarbonate and even metal-plastic - from which greenhouses are not built! But did you know that an inexpensive, simple in its arrangement, but very reliable and generally good construction can be built from old window frames left, for example, after replacing wooden windows?

Next detailed instructions will help to carry out the construction without any problems.

The finished greenhouse from the frames will weigh quite a lot, so it is necessary to make a separate foundation for it. We will build a full-fledged column-type support.

First step. Clearing construction site. We remove garbage, uproot stumps and shrubs, weeds, etc.

Second step. For convenience, we mark the site according to the size of the future greenhouse. We drive pegs into the ground along the perimeter and in the corners and pull the rope between them.

Third step. In the corners and with a three-meter step on each side of the greenhouse, we dig holes with a depth of half a meter. In a good way, the depth of each such pit should exceed the level of soil freezing.

Fourth step. We fill the bottom of the pits with about a 10-centimeter layer of gravel and carefully tamp.

Fifth step. We make formwork. It is needed if the columns will be poured with concrete. The easiest option is to install a hollow pipe with a diameter of 10-15 cm in each pit (asbestos-cement pipes are suitable), level them, insert reinforcement, fix the structure (can be overlaid with bricks) and pour concrete.

Also supporting pillars can be built from bricks or stones, using an ordinary cement-sand mortar to fasten the elements.

Sixth step. We lay a beam on top of the supports. In the corners we fasten the bars with iron plates. We directly attach the timber to the supports in a suitable way, for example, with anchors.

Brick column foundation

Building a greenhouse: a step-by-step guide

The structure under consideration can be built in different ways. First, we will describe how to build a structure with a roof made of polyethylene, and at the end we will give guidance on building a more durable frame. It can be covered with polycarbonate or other material.

The first stage - we prepare the building material

Preparing window frames for work. We remove handles, hinges and other available accessories.

We clean off the old paint and treat the “bare” wood with antiseptic impregnation. At the same stage, it is recommended to temporarily remove the glasses so as not to damage them during the fastening of the frame elements.

Vents that will not be used in the future in the greenhouse are carefully corked. You can generally dismantle parts of the frames with vents, if you like.

The presence of several opening windows is a big advantage - you do not have to bother with the arrangement of the ventilation system.

The second stage - we lay the floor

The frames are temporarily set aside and we are engaged in arranging the floor. Our base is columnar, so there will be no difficulties with creating the floor.

First we provide drainage. If the water stagnates, wooden elements structures begin to rot.

For arrangement drainage system we dig a trench about 150 mm deep and fill it with fine gravel or gravel by about 5-7 cm. We fill up another 3-5 cm of the trench height with sand and carefully tamp it down.

Important! The pouring must be done so that the finished surface has a slight slope in the direction of the previously equipped drain hole.

To decorate the interior of the greenhouse, we install plastic or wood borders on the sides of the aisles. Such an element of decor will simultaneously perform and functional task, preventing the ground from falling onto the track.

If desired, you can decorate the floor using other materials. There are several options.

The third stage - we build walls

First, we build a frame for attaching frames. We use quality wooden planks about 50 mm thick, approximately corresponding to the thickness of the window frames. From such boards we make the lower and upper trims. When arranging the lower perimeter, we launch boards in 2 rows. Thanks to this, the finished greenhouse will be slightly higher.

We make vertical racks from a bar. The best option is elements with a section of 150x150 mm. Such bars are guaranteed to withstand the weight of frames and related materials.

We attach the vertical posts to the supporting posts in a suitable way. Between the racks we lay the boards of the lower strapping. We fasten the boards with racks with self-tapping screws. We attach frames with long sides to the racks and boards of the lower trim. We use self-tapping screws.

On the upper faces of the frames and racks we lay the boards of the upper trim. We also fasten using self-tapping screws.

We fill the gaps between frames and frame elements mounting foam. For greater stability, we nail support bars to the inside of the frames.

Advice! To make the whole structure more stable, we include vertical supports in its composition. It is better to make them even when forming the frame. To do this, we dig holes, install supports in them (we pre-wrap the piece of wood that will be in the ground with roofing material or we will coat it with tar) and pour cement or concrete. We fasten the supports with vertical support posts with nails.

Once again, check the design for cracks. If any are found, blow them out with mounting foam. Free you can leave only the vents for ventilation.

Reinsert the removed glass. Instead of glasses, you can use another material, for example, polyethylene or cellular polycarbonate.

Important! If you plan to make a polycarbonate roof, it is better to insert the glass after the roofing is completed.

The fourth stage - we make the roof

Most often, summer residents cover greenhouses from frames plastic wrap. In such a situation, the load on the frame and base will not exceed the permissible norms, and the greenhouse will last as long as possible.

We build a light crate along the upper perimeter of the greenhouse. It can be made from wooden slats, metal profile and even wire.

Having installed the crate, we stretch the film. For its fastening, it is most convenient to use special clamps and clips.

As an option: a greenhouse with a polycarbonate roof

If the budget allows you to purchase cellular polycarbonate for the roof, you can do it. Keep in mind that such a design will require a sufficiently strong frame. For its manufacture, it is best to use profiled pipes, because. a wooden beam is unlikely to withstand such a load.

For more convenience, from pipes, you can immediately make support pillars and a greenhouse frame. To do this, we do the following.

1. We cut the pipes of the required length and immerse them with their lower ends in the previously dug frames. The supports must be installed in the corners of the structure, as well as along its sides with a step of about 3 m. We fill the pits with pipes with concrete.
2. We weld the lower and upper trims from similar pipes. From the same products we build truss system. Choose the shape of the roof and the appropriate order for fastening the rafters at your discretion. Most best option- semicircular shape. On such a roof, snow will almost not linger.
3. Next, you just have to install the frames in the frame and attach polycarbonate sheets to the rafters.

   

   

   

In this case, it is also better to make a door from polycarbonate, having previously made a metal or wooden frame for its installation.

Helpful advice! So that the greenhouse has more attractive appearance you can color her outer surface in the desired color. interior painting do as you wish.

Equip the finished greenhouse at your discretion. You can equip it with water supply and drainage systems, conduct light and heating, install all kinds of shelving, racks and other supports for beds, etc. At this point, all decisions are yours, because. only you can know what your greenhouse from old window frames should be like.

Successful work!

Video - Greenhouse from old window frames

Our climate is changeable, highly dependent on the time of year, so some plants do not ripen or give a poor harvest. To combat this, people came up with hotbeds and greenhouses. With their help, in some cases, you can get a crop even in winter or harvest two crops a year.

Materials used for greenhouses

What is the difference between a greenhouse and a greenhouse? Mainly in size. A person enters the greenhouse himself, and only plants are in the greenhouse.

Although the industry offers various designs greenhouses, many will want to save money and make their construction from improvised materials. This will be discussed below.

Stages of building your own greenhouse:

• collection of material (frames) for the greenhouse;
• choosing a place for a greenhouse;
• choice of greenhouse design;
• foundation installation;
• walling;
• roof construction.

During the construction of professional greenhouses developed at institutes, they study what materials are best to use. Here, attention is paid to the translucency of the material, which rays the material transmits and which absorbs, and the like. However, in private farms, it is not particularly necessary to choose material.

Polycarbonate is best suited, but it is quite expensive. Glass frames are more affordable. The fact is that people from time to time make repairs in their apartments, while they often change windows, throwing old frames into a landfill.

Framed glass is very well suited for greenhouses, they used to be made from it. The disadvantage of glass is that it can break. On smaller farms, this risk is reduced.

The film is also often used for greenhouses and greenhouses, but it is short-lived.

What are window frames

For a greenhouse, you will need quite a few frames, so most likely they will not match in size. This must be taken into account. In addition, the frames may be without glass or with a damaged frame. In the first case, instead of glass, you can mount something else in the frame, such as a film. In the second case, the easiest way to repair the defect is with mounting foam. Mounting foam is also useful in the case when it will be necessary to close up large gaps.

The frames themselves today are wooden. This is just very good, since the tree is easy to mount - the frames can simply be knocked down or nailed to a single rail. In the future, we can expect the appearance of plastic and metal frames. The installation of such frames is somewhat different than wooden ones, but also simple. The metal in the frames is most likely thin, so metal screws are suitable for fastening.

A feature of frames with inserted glasses is that the glasses in the frame move freely. That is, glass is not afraid of expansion due to temperature fluctuations.

Choosing a place for a greenhouse

The illumination of the building is important here. In addition, you can rotate the structure itself relative to the sun in the most acceptable way. The rest is up to the taste of the owner.

In some cases, the greenhouse is attached to the wall of the house, it turns out something like winter garden. Lighting in this case is less than in a separate building (because the light does not penetrate from all sides). However, there are also advantages here. The greenhouse protects the building from external influences, receives heat from the house and itself prevents heat leakage.

The greenhouse should be such that you walk freely in it. Most often they are made rectangular with the expectation of the width of the beds. Usually in the middle there is a path along which a person walks, and on both sides of the path there are two beds or double beds. It's comfortable.

To save material, greenhouses are sometimes made in the form of a semicircle when viewed from the front. However, such a structure cannot be built from frames. If made from them, then this is most likely a rectangular parallelepiped, on top of which the roof is mounted.

Some greenhouse developers pay attention to the need to ventilate the greenhouse, for which they make vents. There is a need for this. If you want to control the microclimate, then you will make the greenhouse itself airtight with the possibility of controlled ventilation. Otherwise, the tightness is better special attention do not reverse, that is, leave small gaps.

It must be understood that heat is collected under the roof. For more even heating, there should be a high altitude or good ventilation. On the other hand, the smaller the volume of the room, the better it warms up. Since the weather is different, you will not achieve the ideal design. Be sure to provide ventilation. To this end, you can make two entrances to the greenhouse opposite each other (from the ends).

Additionally, heating of the greenhouse can be provided. Here you need to proceed from your wishes.

A step by step guide to building a structure

Foundation

The foundation is usually installed under the capital structure. At the same time, its depth reaches one and a half meters (or more), which is due to the depth of soil freezing. The task of the foundation in this case is to avoid heaving of the soil under the walls of the house under the influence of cold temperatures.

In the case of a greenhouse, there is no need to install a deep foundation, since the structure is light and quite flexible. In this case, the purpose of the foundation is to isolate the wood of the frames from dampness and earth.

Walling

As a rule, the frames are wooden. Often they are double. Such frames must be disassembled into two, because. greenhouses are made in one layer of glass. Also, these designs usually have a bevel. So that it does not interfere with the docking of the frames, they are deployed in the right way.

You can simply knock down wooden frames with nails. But if a more capital structure is required, then all frames of one side are attached to a single bar (rail, etc.). The bar must be fixed at the top and bottom. You can attach another one in the middle. If it passes inside the greenhouse, then it will be possible to tie the stems of plants to it.

Instead of nails, it is better to use wood screws. So there is less risk that the glass will break, and it is easier to fix a flimsy structure.

In the case of plastic windows, self-tapping screws and bolts are suitable. If you attach plastic to a bar, then you can hammer in a nail. But the hole for it will have to be done in advance.

If the frames are metal, then it is most likely thin steel or thin aluminum. material like aluminum profile but may be thicker. If the thickness is large, then you will have to drill holes. For metal, self-tapping screws have a smaller pitch than for wood.

Most comfortable material are wooden frames. And they are easier to drill if necessary, and the mounts are reliable.

Hardware

The fasteners are fasteners. Currently, steel angles and plates can be found in stores. different shapes. All of them have holes for nails (self-tapping screws, etc.). In some cases, they are very convenient and well replace other types of connections.

If the connection is difficult and the tree (joint) is not easy to fit, it is better to use steel hardware.

Roof erection

The roof does not have to be framed. The fact is that glass is still a fragile material. It can be installed vertically, it will last a long time and does not pose a danger. In the case of a roof, there is always a danger that hail will fall such that it can break the glass. There is also a danger that a lot of snow will collect on the roof, which will push through the glass.

It is undesirable to make a roof from a film or glass. Glass is dangerous, it can fall on your head, so making a flat glass roof is highly undesirable. If you make a roof using a film, then most likely it will last no more than a season.

Roofs for greenhouses are made either straight-pitched (usually gable) or semicircular. If we ignore the hail, then for gable roofs frames fit. A ridge is attached on top of such a roof so that water does not collect from above. A skate is a corner that covers the very top. Traditionally, roofs protrude slightly beyond the plane of the wall. This is correct solution in case of winter - icicles will not crawl along the walls. The film can also be attached to a semicircular roof.

You saved on the walls, for the roof itself you can use polycarbonate. Polycarbonate allows you to make the roof both straight and semicircular. In addition, it is quite rigid and light, so it requires a minimum frame. This material does not break and is excellent for roofing.

Wooden frames are an excellent material for building greenhouse walls. It will be given to you completely free of charge. A greenhouse from such frames can be assembled in a day. However, it is still desirable to use polycarbonate for the roof.

In contact with

Only financial means and thinking allow the summer resident to create certain structures on his site. After all, as a rule, we try to create everything with our own hands. Today we can talk about the creation of structures such as greenhouses, and they will be made from old window frames. This is the most a budget option of all possible ones that could possibly exist. And you don’t have to look for materials, since old windows can be found everywhere.

Where can I get window frames? It's very simple: in a neighboring house or even an apartment, in a kindergarten, in a school, windows can be changed. Don't waste your chance: you need to take the frames to your garage. At the same time, they will even be grateful to you for the fact that construction waste (which is the frame) will be taken out of the site.

But only the availability of building materials will not solve the problem. You need to know how to properly make a greenhouse from frames for.

Greenhouse base: choosing the right foundation

It is worth noting that under the greenhouse it is necessary to carry out the foundation. Without it, the structure will collapse. The weight of the frames will be so great that over time the greenhouse will simply sag.

The most high-quality and reliable material is brick. However, the material is quite expensive. But at long-term operation justifies itself perfectly. With excessive moisture, the stone can collapse.

Natural stone is also expensive, but will be able to withstand the most robust greenhouse structures. Natural stone can also withstand the most humid environments, which allows you to give advantages in using this particular material.

The tree is also very durable material, however, after five years, the wooden foundation will have to be changed, which, under the influence of moisture and temperature changes, will begin to crumble.

Experts say that the best option is concrete. Such a foundation can serve as long as possible. Of course, you can use absolutely any building option. It all depends on what financial means you have.

Structure frame

It is worth noting that the greenhouse itself from window frames is already quite durable. You just need to strengthen it and mount it correctly. In order for the frame to be strong, it must be firmly strengthened with the base. Window frames are simply connected to each other on the base using corners, self-tapping screws, studs and other fastening materials. Each person himself determines what materials for fastening to use. Everything depends on the budget.

So, consider the most common types of frame mounts

Corners and screws are rightfully the most reliable. During the installation of the greenhouse, it will only be necessary to put the greenhouse in high quality and strengthen it on the foundation. Parts of the greenhouse are attached with corners, and then interconnected with self-tapping screws. In this way, maximum stability can be achieved.

You can also install a greenhouse with wooden nails, as well as bars. This option is even easier than the previous method of connecting structures. Inside the frames are connected using bars of a small section.

There is another way that requires a minimum of time and effort. To do this, you need wire and clamps. With the help of a wire, you can wind it around the connection parts and pull it off with pliers. For tension, plastic clamps are also used, which can be bought at a hardware store.

Installation of a greenhouse from old windows

I must say that from the frames you can create any design of the greenhouse. The only thing is that you need to assemble everything correctly so that the design lasts a long time. In order for the work to be done qualitatively, it is necessary to carry out all the work in stages.

The frame and base are the most important parts of the greenhouse during installation. Fasteners must be selected strong, reliable, so that the greenhouse serves for a long time. There may be connections that require welding.

How to cover a greenhouse from frames

Since the frames themselves have a high mass, it is not recommended to use glass. In this case, the weight will increase even more. Glass is used when a small greenhouse is assembled. The best option is to cover the greenhouse with plastic wrap. To do this, use a simple crate on top of the structure. Once the film is covered over the greenhouse, you can begin to stretch the film.

Once all the work is completed, you need to check their quality. If no flaws are found, then you can start planting various crops. Now on your site at any time of the year you can plant different cultures, which can only be grown on the site.

A spacious, "growth" greenhouse for growing early vegetables and seedlings is the dream of every gardener. Unfortunately, most often this desire does not coincide with the financial capabilities of the owners of suburban areas - high prices for factory products, as well as the cost of building materials, can cool the ardor of even the most inveterate summer residents. To avoid unnecessary expenses and get a reliable and durable structure, it is enough to pay attention to the old window frames - perfect solution for making a greenhouse with your own hands.

Window frames as a building material: pros and cons

What home craftsmen just don’t come up with, breathing a second life into seemingly useless and unnecessary things. Today it is impossible to say who first came up with the idea to build a greenhouse from outdated window frames, but the genius and simplicity of this solution deserves respect and admiration. Old windows are practically ideal option, because they have a number of advantages over other building materials:

• tightness provided design features frames;
• high degree of light transmission due to large area glazing;
• mechanical strength;
• rigidity;
• the presence of vents for ventilation;
• installation speed;
• the possibility of building a greenhouse without the involvement of assistants;
• ease of repair in case of damage;
• low cost.

Demand plastic windows simplifies the search for material for the construction of a greenhouse

Although the use of window frames has so many undeniable advantages, it is still not worth idealizing this material. The weight of the wooden frame, in fact, is small, but when assembled with glass, the structure becomes heavy and requires the arrangement of a solid foundation - otherwise, the movement of the soil can provoke a displacement of the structure and damage to the glass. Over time, the joints between the individual elements dry out and require sealing, and the wood itself needs protection from the harmful effects of a warm and humid environment, so you need to be prepared for small repair work at the beginning of each season. However, these shortcomings are not so significant as to abandon such a simple and affordable way construction.

Device and design features

Like other similar structures, a greenhouse from old windows is installed on a solid wooden or concrete base. The choice of foundation depends entirely on the frequency of use of the structure, the structure of the soil, the topography of the site and other natural factors. On durable earthen soils as a support, it is sufficient to use boards with a thickness of 50-60 mm from hardwood, while sandy or sandy soil, as well as the risk of flooding by groundwater, will require thorough concrete work.

In some cases, without strong concrete base not enough

Of course, individual window frames can be attached directly to each other, but in order to get a solid, reliable construction, you must first assemble a frame from wooden slats with a cross section of at least 50x30 mm. Such a solution will significantly increase the rigidity of the structure, which means that the risk of window damage during frame deformation during installation and operation will decrease. Another factor in favor wooden frame is the ease of installation of doors and a significant simplification of the roof structure, therefore, it is not worth abandoning a solid frame in order to save money - in the future this decision will justify itself many times over.

Greenhouse frame construction from used windows

Some home craftsmen also use window frames as roofing material, arguing that the light transmission of the greenhouse increases, and the structure becomes truly monolithic. However, this is not recommended for several reasons:

• moisture flowing into cracks and gaps between glasses provokes increased rotting of wood;
• the possibility of damage to the roof by hail;
• low stability of the structure under snow load;
• an increase in the mass of the roof reduces the stability of the greenhouse;
• it is impossible to predict how old window frames will behave over time, so such a roof is considered potentially dangerous.

At the same time, for the construction of not a greenhouse, but a greenhouse, the use of window frames as a roofing material is more convenient and practical.

One of the greenhouse options for a suburban area

An important issue that should be addressed at the design stage is the type of roof. gable or arched structures although they are more complex, they perfectly resist winter drifts - snow rolls down their inclined surfaces perfectly. Concerning pitched roof, then it is much easier to install and requires less building materials, but you will have to pay for this by reducing the reliability of the structure.

The arched roof is the best at handling snow and rain.

To connect individual frames and building elements to each other, you can use furniture corners and metal strips, which are fastened with self-tapping screws. Of course, preference should be given to parts made of galvanized metal - one should not forget about high humidity, which provokes rapid corrosion of fasteners.

Corners and metal perforated strips from the nearest building materials store are suitable for fixing window frames.

Most likely, the frames intended for the construction of the greenhouse will differ in size. To simplify the work, you will need to measure the windows and number them, and then make a small sketch indicating the dimensions and installation locations of individual mounting blocks. Of course, it is better to use windows of the same height - in this case, it will be easier to mount them, and the greenhouse will turn out not only smooth and symmetrical, but also beautiful.

When drawing up a working drawing, the recommended sizes of beds and passages between them must be taken into account.

The length of the structure can be any - it all depends on personal preferences, the availability of space and building materials. But when calculating the width, it is necessary to take into account the location and number of beds, as well as the paths between them. To make it convenient to work in the greenhouse, its passages are taken equal to 0.5 m - this will allow you to move around with a small wheelbarrow. The width of the beds must be at least 1 m, otherwise the plants will not have enough space for normal growth.

Tip: a larger greenhouse from the same amount of material can be built if it is made as an extension to one of the outbuildings located on the site.

Getting ready for construction

At the very first stage, they choose a place for a greenhouse, clear the site, and also prepare Construction Materials and tool.

Choose a place

The success of the whole event depends on how correctly the place of future construction is chosen. Firstly, the structure should be illuminated by the sun's rays for as long as possible, so the shaded areas near tall buildings or trees should not be considered. Secondly, it is better to install a greenhouse in places with minimal movement of atmospheric layers - a decrease in wind load affects the stability of the structure and reduces heat loss. Thirdly, the fertility and condition of the soil must be taken into account. On bulk and unstable soils, it will be necessary to equip a columnar or strip foundation, otherwise the walls will warp, and the glass in the frames will crack.

The construction site should not be located in the lowlands. Even if it is possible to avoid flooding or silting of the beds, then the plants have a high level ground water will have a detrimental effect.

Before proceeding with the arrangement of the base for the greenhouse, stumps are removed at the construction site, the territory is cleared of debris, and cleared of weeds and shrubs.

Scheme for choosing a place to install a greenhouse or greenhouse

What you need to build a greenhouse

Depending on the chosen design of the greenhouse, in addition to the window frames themselves, the following materials will be needed for construction:

• ruberoid;
• sand and gravel;
• cement;
• pipes steel diameter not less than 100 mm;
• hardwood boards 50–60 mm thick;
• timber 50x50 mm;
• slats 20x40 mm;
• metal corners;
• self-tapping screws;
• mounting foam;
• polyethylene film or polycarbonate sheets;
• protective and antiseptic means for wood processing.

You can’t do without polyurethane foam during the construction of a greenhouse from window frames - it reliably seals all joints and gaps

It is better to prepare the tools in advance, otherwise the process of pleasant creation can turn into a tedious search. Here's what you might need while working:

• angle grinder ("grinder") with a cutting disc for metal work;
• sledgehammer;
• shovel shovel and bayonet;
• containers or stretchers for carrying bulk materials;
• wood saw;
• a set of screwdrivers or a screwdriver;
• a hammer;
• drill with a set of drills for wood and metal;
• roulette;
• building level;
• pencil.

If you plan to install a greenhouse on a solid foundation, then you should take care in advance about how it will be prepared concrete mortar- You will need a metal vat or a concrete mixer.

Preparing window frames

To build a spacious greenhouse, you will need a lot of window frames, so it is better to take care of the search for material for construction in advance. Of course, you can ask friends and acquaintances about their availability, but it is best to look at newspapers for free ads or contact one of the installation companies. plastic double-glazed windows- there you can buy old windows for a nominal fee.

You can use a blow dryer to remove old paint.

Before starting construction, future Wall panels should be prepared. This will increase their service life and make the structure more attractive. To tidy up old window frames, you must:

• dismantle fasteners and fittings (handles, latches, latches, hinges, etc.);
• with help grinder or scrapers to remove the remnants of the old paint. In some cases, you can use a special wash, for example, Antikras-Sprint, Zebra SP-6, Household and others;
• treat the frames with antiseptic agents that can protect the wood from fungi and insects;
• Secure unused vents with self-tapping screws. Cracks on the mating surfaces should be eliminated with a sealant or putty.

Some Internet resources offer to expose glass from frames, arguing that they may be damaged during installation. We do not recommend doing this under any circumstances. Most likely, the glasses will need to be replaced just after unsuccessful dismantling, especially if wooden glazing beads planted on ordinary enamel or oil paint were used during their installation.

Do-it-yourself step-by-step instructions for building a shed greenhouse from window frames (without a foundation)

We offer you an algorithm for building a spacious greenhouse from old window frames. To install it, you do not need to mount a solid concrete foundation, so installation can be completed within two days off. The structure has a shed roof and is distinguished by its simplicity and undemanding design - any home master can repeat it.

Base mounting

A properly equipped wooden base will last at least 10 years only if certain conditions for its protection are met. Otherwise, the wood will rot much faster - humid environment and contact with the soil do not contribute to the safety of the boards.

So, you need a bar with a section of at least 100x100 mm from larch, oak, acacia and others resistant varieties tree. It must be treated with several layers of antiseptics, and then tarred.

The place where the foundation will be laid must be prepared in advance. To do this, a trench up to 20 cm deep is dug along the perimeter of the structure, in which a sand-gravel cushion is equipped. Drainage layer will wick away excess moisture and promote durability wooden base. To achieve its maximum durability, the trench is covered with a layer of roofing material and only after that the timber is laid.

The wooden base of the greenhouse is protected from moisture in any way possible.

Separate elements are fastened together end-to-end using metal strips and corners, as well as using the “half-tree” method. To do this, recesses are made on the mating parts using a saw, hammer and chisel, after which they are connected to each other using nails or self-tapping screws. As a rule, additional fastening of the base to the ground is not required - the mass of the window frames will be enough for the structure to successfully withstand the wind. However, for reliability, inside each corner, you can drive into the ground sections of pipes 0.5–0.6 m long, attaching them to the beam with metal strips.

One of the ways to fix the wooden base of the greenhouse

With significant elevation changes, as well as in the lowlands, use columnar foundation. It is equipped using metal pipes large diameter or by pouring concrete blocks. The boards laid on such posts are fixed with dowels or metal corners, and the gap between the base and the surface of the site is covered with clay and carefully compacted.

Walling

The assembly of the greenhouse begins with the construction of the frame. To do this, lay on the base bottom harness from a bar. You can use any type of lumber, it is important that their cross section approximately corresponds to the thickness of the frames. Most often, they take an inexpensive pine beam with a section of 50x50 mm, the individual elements of which are fastened with furniture corners or in the “half-tree” method.

The frame of the greenhouse from window frames includes vertical racks and horizontal bottom and top trim

At the corners of the frame, as well as every 2–3 m (the distance depends on the width of the window frames), vertical racks are installed. Their length is chosen taking into account the height of the windows, as well as focusing on one's own height - it should be comfortable in the greenhouse, otherwise work "for the soul" will turn into punishment. The greenhouse has a shed roof, so the posts on one side should be 0.5–1 m higher - this will provide the roof with the desired slope.

For a small greenhouse, vertical racks installed at the corners of the structure will suffice

In one of the ends of the greenhouse, vertical racks are installed in such a way that the resulting opening can serve as door frame. Perhaps the width of the structure will not be enough to cover the remaining space with window frames. In this case, the space between the door and the corner posts is upholstered with plastic wrap.

From above, the vertical structural elements are interconnected by a horizontal strapping using all the same self-tapping screws and metal corners. Unlike greenhouses covered with plastic wrap, structures with window walls do not require frame reinforcement. The structure will acquire the necessary rigidity after the wooden frames are installed in place. However, you should not hurry with their installation - you should first make a roof.

Complete frame

Roofing

Device pitched roof for capital structures is shown in the figure. In our case, there is no need to install additional racks and rafter legs - they, like ceiling beams, will be needed only in greenhouses with a width of more than 6 meters. In the greenhouse under consideration, the roof support in the lower part is top harness frame, so all that is needed is to attach the beam to the ends of the long racks and install the rafters. best material for them is not a bar, but a board installed “on the edge” with a size of 50x100 mm. It will not allow the roof to sag even with a significant snow load.

Shed roof construction

If the greenhouse will be covered with a film, then the rafters should be treated with sandpaper, and then upholstered with cloth or foam rubber. They will save roofing material from damage.

The rafter legs are mounted to the horizontal strapping at the installation sites of the racks, at a distance of no more than 1 m from each other. To fasten polycarbonate sheets perpendicular to the rafters, slats with a thickness of 20 mm can be laid, while a plastic film does not need an additional crate.

One of the ways to attach the rafter leg

Above, we have already said that it is not recommended to use window frames as roofing - film or polycarbonate is much safer, and besides, they are easier to install. When choosing a polyethylene sheet, preference is given to heat-stabilized materials - they are practically not subject to the destructive action of ultraviolet radiation. The best option is considered a special reinforced film for greenhouses. As a rule, such coverage is enough for 2-3 seasons.

It is convenient to use thin rails or window glazing beads to fasten the film.

Mounted roll material with a little tension, so this work is best done together with a partner. For fixing the film, wooden planks are used - they provide sufficient pressure and prevent damage to the polyethylene. On both sides of the greenhouse, an overlap is made, which will be enough to eliminate the gaps between the frame strapping and the longitudinal bars of the roof. Frontal openings are also covered with polyethylene or polycarbonate triangular panels. By the way, the latter option is more preferable due to its durability - it will not be necessary to renew the coating for many years.

Fixing window frames and installing doors

After the construction of the frame and roof, they begin to install the window frames, referring to the previously developed drawing. Windows are installed from the outside of the frame, after which they are fixed to the beams and to each other with nails, self-tapping screws, furniture corners and perforated metal strips. During installation, the frames are oriented so that the vents open outward. Excessive vibration that occurs when nailing the frames to the frame threatens to crack the glass. To reduce the shock load, through drilling is performed in the right places. Their diameter should be 0.5–1 mm smaller than that of the nails used - a slight tightness will only benefit the joints.

The gaps between the individual elements of the greenhouse are filled with mounting foam. After curing, excess polyurethane sealant cut flush with the frames, after which they are plastered or covered with thin wooden planks. This will protect the sealing layer from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation and excessive moisture.

Greenhouse from old window frames is ready for operation

The door frame is made of a wooden beam and attached to the box using conventional metal hinges so that the door when visiting the greenhouse opens "on itself". Given the increased operational load, it is better to sew up the sashes not with a film, but with a polycarbonate sheet. When building a large greenhouse, you can use the finished balcony door. Of course, in this case, the door jamb must be reinforced, so it is made from a 50x100 mm board with a selected quarter.

Latches and stops are mounted on the door and vents, which will allow you to keep them in the open position to ventilate the interior space.

The success of a greenhouse mini-farm will depend both on the quality of the structure itself and on its internal filling. A properly equipped greenhouse will make it possible to work easily and conveniently, while maintaining a positive mood. And this, as you know, is half the success in any business.

One of milestones when building a greenhouse is the construction of beds. If the site is located on fertile soil and is not subject to flooding, then it is enough to install fences and pour inside a mixture of humus with peat and black soil. If there is a risk of flooding, or in places where high level groundwater, paths and beds are made only after drainage is equipped on the floor.

Arrangement of beds in the greenhouse

For this purpose, the soil is removed to a depth of 20 cm, after which the floor is covered with a 10-centimeter layer of fine gravel or granite screenings. The remaining space is filled with sand and carefully rammed. After that, the beds are formed, setting along their perimeter border tape or stripes flat slate, creating frames from boards or performing brickwork. Inner space fall asleep with a fertile mixture. Its thickness should be sufficient for growing selected garden crops, so this parameter is not standardized. For some, a layer of 20-30 cm is enough, while others prefer not to bend over, equipping the so-called raised beds up to 70-90 cm high.

The paths inside the greenhouse can be covered with crushed stone or sawdust - this will effectively remove moisture. The disadvantage of such a coating is that it creates difficulties when moving greenhouse equipment and complicates cleaning. It's best to splurge a little and lay out the tracks paving slabs, concrete or make a boardwalk. In the latter case, oak logs and hardwood boards are used. Before laying, the supporting structural elements must be tarred, and the platform itself must be treated with an antiseptic and coated with oil paint.

In a properly equipped greenhouse, work is a pleasure

To make the greenhouse not only a functional unit, but also have a finished appearance, everything wooden details should be painted inside and out. This will not only make the structure more attractive, but also make it more durable.

Thanks to my versatile hobbies, I write on various topics, but my favorite ones are engineering, technology and construction. Perhaps because I know many nuances in these areas, not only theoretically, as a result of studying at technical university and graduate school, but also from the practical side, as I try to do everything with my own hands.

Changing windows? Does your neighbor change windows? See how they change windows "wholesale" in kindergarten opposite or another institution? Here is the answer to the question of where to get window frames for. Otherwise, you can always negotiate with your neighbors or even post an advertisement for buying window frames inexpensively, with self-pickup or self-pickup (many throw them away for free, and here they also offer money). That is, it is not difficult to find material for production, if there is a desire.

But, in addition to materials, you need to know the correct algorithm for creating a greenhouse from window frames.

foundation or foundation

The base of the greenhouse is mandatory here, since the wooden frames have some weight, and if you add the cover of the greenhouse, expendable materials and so on, then its mass will increase even more. This means that in order to prevent and completely prevent subsidence of the greenhouse and its destruction, as well as to provide the greenhouse with reliability and stability, it must be installed on the foundation.

The foundation for such a greenhouse you can choose at your own discretion:

• Brick. A reliable, but expensive foundation, with proper installation, will last a long time, but can be damaged by waterlogging and temperature changes. Stable and strong, easily withstand the construction of wood;
• A rock. Expensive, but extremely durable and solid foundation, on which you can even install a polycarbonate greenhouse on a metal case. Easily tolerates external influences and serves as a durable base. The price of this foundation can be significantly reduced if raw stone is used;
• Wood. The foundation of wood is strong and stable, but short-lived. After 5-8 years, it will require replacement, but it is perfect for a frame greenhouse, since they themselves are unlikely to last more than 8 years;
• Concrete. Strip foundation from cement mortar will serve as a reliable and durable foundation on which a greenhouse made of window frames can stand for decades.

In principle, everyone can afford these foundation options, but if suddenly the emphasis is seriously on a budget greenhouse, then it is better to choose a wooden beam, it will be quite enough.

Greenhouse frame

A greenhouse from old frames is already a self-sufficient frame, which requires only proper installation, fastening and a light crate for covering.

In order for the frame to turn out to be reliable, first of all, it needs to provide stability. To do this, window frames are fixed on a foundation or base, and also fastened together (about the installation process itself a little lower). You can fasten the frames together using a corner and self-tapping screws, wooden beams and nails, wire and clamps. Depending on the desired durability and reliability, you can determine the methods of fastening yourself.

Let's have a little more about them:

• Fastening frames with metal corners and self-tapping screws. A fairly simple process that anyone can do. You, during the installation of the greenhouse, will only need to observe the level and dimensional placement of the window frames on the base, as well as connect them together. By external or inner corner laying adjacent frames metal corner with holes, and fix it to the frames themselves with self-tapping screws. This method very reliable and will provide stability;
• Fastening with beams and nails. Everything is much simpler here than in the previous version. From the inside, knock down the frames using medium-sized bars, for example, 30x30 mm. Just apply one block to two frames, and drive a few nails into each frame, through the beam;
• Fastening with clamps or wire. To be honest, this is the most economical way that will not take much time from the master. In place of the intended fasteners, you simply make a few turns steel wire, around adjacent frames, and twist it with pliers. This action can also be arranged using steel or plastic clamps that are clamped under tension.

We build a greenhouse from window frames - video

Greenhouse installation

Building a greenhouse from window frames is quite simple if you follow the basic rules of any, even the most minimal construction. Try to think over the whole scope of work from the very beginning. Produce it step by step, be sure to complete each separate element construction site, follow the rules for working with materials and take preliminary measurements and calculations seriously. In this case, you will receive reliable building ready to serve you for a very long time.

One of the obligatory moments in the construction of the greenhouse is its installation on the base. To do this, it is not enough to fasten the components together, it is also necessary to firmly fix them with special items on the foundation. Most often, a metal corner is used for this - an inexpensive and practical mounting option.

The corner is fixed on the base of the greenhouse by welding, bolts, anchors. Next, window frames are attached to it. This must be done sequentially, slowly, each time fixing the frame not only on the foundation, but also connecting it to the next frame (the methods are described a little higher). Thus, with a little effort, you can install the greenhouse from the window frames on the base, ensuring its stability and preventing it from sinking into the ground.

Covering the greenhouse from window frames

The construction of the greenhouse from old window frames turns out to be quite heavy, so we do not recommend increasing its weight with glass. Although, many summer residents do just that, but the calculation in this case goes to a greenhouse of a small area. It is best to cover the greenhouse with plastic wrap. For this you will need light crate along the upper perimeter of the greenhouse. It can be made of steel wire, mounting profile or rails, that is, here the choice is great.

After installing the crate under the so-called "ceiling" of the greenhouse, you can safely stretch the film. It should be fastened with special clamps and clamps, or folk methods, creating your own eyelets (holes for fasteners).

At the end of the work on the foundation, creating the frame, installing and fixing the greenhouse, as well as stretching the film cover on the frame, you must check the correctness of the construction. Of course, a do-it-yourself greenhouse made of frames could turn out to be very elegant and strong enough, but it must meet certain standards - stability, light transmission, tightness, ventilation, and so on.

Having learned how to build a greenhouse from frames, and bringing it to the end, you can safely start planting crops in the greenhouse from which you want to get a rich harvest. By the way, about the methods of growing many of them, proper care, top dressing, pruning and harvesting, you can read in the materials of our site a site that constantly provides its visitors with useful tips.