Do-it-yourself greenhouse from old frames. Advantages of window frames

The list of materials that can be used to make a greenhouse is not limited to plastic wrap and polycarbonate. Mini-greenhouses are collected even from window frames, which are cheap and serve for more than one year. Any gardener who has built a small greenhouse at least once with his own hands can safely start making a glass greenhouse.

Pros and cons of window frames as a material for a greenhouse

Window frames used as raw materials for the construction of a mini-greenhouse are evaluated positively because:

• pass through the glass ultra-violet rays, as a result of which plants grow quickly and bear fruit;
• glass construction keeps inside required amount heat;
• glass coating is much easier to clean from dirt than film material;
• Cracked glass can be easily replaced, but torn film cannot.

The disadvantages of such a greenhouse are:

• the need to put it on the foundation;
• high risk of glass damage by hail or other bad weather;
• the creation of an overly hot microclimate inside the structure (if the greenhouse is not ventilated by opening the window), due to which the leaves of the plants may turn yellow.

Photo gallery: options for greenhouses from window frames

Each window frame can be lifted freely to ventilate the greenhouse
Two long window frames were used to create a greenhouse. In a greenhouse of small height it is better to plant seedlings of cabbage Plants in a greenhouse are planted on a layer of manure and fertilized soil A greenhouse can be created easily and with a minimum amount of materials.

Drawings and dimensions

If a gardener decides to make a greenhouse out of window frames, then he usually considers two design options. The first can be imagined as a small and low house with shed roof, and the second - as a small building with a roof in two slopes.

Greenhouses are designed so that water does not linger on their roof.

These greenhouses have the same length and height. Only the width distinguishes them from each other. The second greenhouse, the top of which is covered with not one, but two window frames, is more spacious. But to build it, you need more materials and building skills.

Therefore, the owners of gardens prefer to build a greenhouse in the form of a house with a pitched roof. If you plan to plant in a mini-greenhouse tall plants, for example, tomatoes, then the height of the lower side wall should be increased to 40 cm.

The frame of the greenhouse is made up of vertically installed boards.

If desired, you can make an in-depth greenhouse covered with a glass frame. Such a mini-greenhouse will allow you to quickly grow vegetables in early spring.

An in-depth greenhouse is suitable for those gardeners who want to get large fruits vegetables

To create an in-depth greenhouse in the ground, a hole is dug 75 cm deep. Manure and fertilized soil are placed in it. On top of the created ridge, a window frame measuring 160 × 106 cm is placed, installed on the couples.

Southern and northern couple - materials for the manufacture of an in-depth greenhouse

A glass greenhouse can be built from one long or several window frames. by the most the best option a rectangular frame with large glass is considered because it will give the plants more light. Although there are no special criteria for choosing this building material. The main thing is that the glass is intact, and the frame wood is not rotten.

To create a greenhouse, it is preferable to take large window frames.

To create a mini-greenhouse, windows remaining after repair are suitable. You can find used windows through an ad in a newspaper or at a company that dismantles old ones. wooden frames and puts in their place plastic double-glazed windows.

All frames taken as building materials for the construction of a greenhouse must be exactly the same. When using different wooden windows it will not be possible to make the greenhouse airtight, since the frames will not fit snugly together.

It is advisable to find window frames with vents. They will allow you to ventilate the greenhouse without raising its glass roof.

The vent of the window frame used to build the greenhouse will become an air vent

Window frames are recommended to be prepared for further use as a greenhouse material. This includes the replacement of broken and rotten parts, as well as the dismantling of handles, latches and unnecessary fittings. Wooden elements of window frames need to be sprinkled with an antiseptic that slows down the process of wood damage under the influence of precipitation.

Materials and tools

To realize the idea of ​​\u200b\u200bcreating a greenhouse from window frames, you need to find the following materials:

• concrete mortar;
• bricks;
• 3 thick boards;
• 2 thick boards;
• 6 scraps of boards;
• 2 thick boards in the shape of a right triangle;
• one long window frame.

When building a greenhouse, you will need materials for the foundation, frame and roof

It is necessary to assemble a mini-greenhouse from these parts using:

• loops;
• nails;
• self-tapping screws;
• screwdriver;
• door handle.

We build a greenhouse from window frames with our own hands - a step-by-step guide to making

The greenhouse is created in several steps:

Video: glass frame greenhouse assembly features

Greenhouse in the country - necessary building. It is built from a small amount of materials and is cheap for the gardener. You can save even more on the manufacture of a greenhouse if you use window frames instead of film and arcs. From them it will be possible to build a mini-greenhouse, which is easy to open and has a good microclimate.

O standalone devices we heard a lot of greenhouses, and even saw them. Windows are an excellent material for mounting a translucent structure. How to build a greenhouse from window frames yourself? We will talk about this in detail, with tips and recommendations.

Let's start with the statement that it is difficult to build a greenhouse from window frames. There is such a widespread opinion. In fact, this is said by those who are reluctant to move the brain gyrus.

Of course, it is easier to buy a ready-made structure and install it according to the instructions, and even easier - just dream of your own large stationary greenhouse. In fact, everything is limited only by the ability to get the material and dream up a little.

Since in Russia the complete replacement of old wooden windows with plastic ones will be relevant for many more years, it is very easy to acquire the necessary number of frames. It is enough to collect them from residential buildings in time. Well, experts in this article will help you with geometric fantasies.

Greenhouse from window profile – perfect solution! Wood is a durable and stable material, it is not exposed to atmospheric precipitation and does not soften under the sun. Glass transmits light and ultraviolet rays well and protects from cold air.

In such a structure, any ventilation can be performed, in addition to opening the main large door, since the windows are provided with vents. In other cases, we If you add some nuances, you can build a greenhouse from plastic windows but it will be more expensive construction. In any case, this building can be safely left for the winter without dismantling. And many more pluses.

We mean options

One can consider an infinite number variety of options how to build a greenhouse from window frames, but there will still be only three main ones:

1. Sheathing boards can be used for the lower part of the main frame. Then, when weeding the beds, you are guaranteed not to damage the glass, just like when digging, watering, and so on.
2. Can be in finished frame to supply glass from the same window frames. Such homemade construction will look more elegant and complete.
3. It is possible to dock different window frames available, and then the view will not be very presentable, and it will not be very convenient to connect different frames.

And what do we do when the frames are completely different? You need to show the wonders of engineering, measure the parameters of each individual element, and try to draw up a diagram on a piece of paper. Very often, homegrown builders begin to assemble greenhouses from a window profile “as it should”, installing everything in order, one frame after another, without worrying about the dimension.

So you get a very clumsy structure, uneven and uncomfortable. It will be very problematic to ensure sealing later. To make a roof - even more so.

"fast building" plan

We list:

1. Initially, it is necessary to take care of the foundation of the greenhouse, for which a trench with a width and depth of a shovel is dug around the entire perimeter of the greenhouse. The trench is filled with rubble and fragments of old bricks, then with cement mortar. Often the foundation dries for a week or more, after which it is already possible to continue construction work.
2. The second option for the base can be an ordinary stand made of bricks. This type simple, and does not require a long construction.
3. So that the latches do not interfere, they are torn out. Be sure to leave the window hinges, as they are used to connect the frames to each other. It is very important - the frames should be installed with vents inward so that they can be easily opened. Convenient to use automatic windows for greenhouses.

1. After the greenhouse is assembled, the last of the frames is screwed by hinges to the adjacent one on only one side, it will then serve as a door.
2. All frames must be fastened metal corners and plates.
3. In the corners of the greenhouse, metal corners are hammered into the ground, and between the greenhouse and the corner is placed timber 50x40 mm, the length of which is 2.5 m along the front edge, and 1.9 m along the back. Thus, the basis for the roof is formed, which will be shed. Vertical bars from above they are fastened with bars, between which a crate is made of bars 40x40 mm.
4. Two frames are installed horizontally on the front part, the gap between which is fastened with a metal plate. Do-it-yourself greenhouses from window frames - huge field for creativity. You can put it at an angle.
5. The roof sheathing is covered, which is attached with battens and self-tapping screws. Similarly, the film is attached to the sides and back of the greenhouse.
6. The final stage - foaming cracks mounting foam, and the door can be closed with a nail or latch.

And now what is usually the request "frame greenhouse window-video" does not show:

Fundamental knowledge

Why is a foundation needed? Because a do-it-yourself greenhouse made from old window frames is a “weighty” structure. Not only does wood have a solid specific gravity, glass also makes the ground structure very heavy. You need to take care of the "underground" building! So that the structure does not sag, especially when constant watering when the soil liquefies.

Choose:

• Brick - expensive, but solid foundation. If installed correctly, it will last a long time, and your window glass greenhouse will last a very long time. long term. However, when watering, the brick can be subjected to waterlogging, which, coupled with temperature changes, will cause its rapid destruction. Unless waterproofed, of course.
• Stone - even more expensive, but also more durable, reliable version of the foundation. It is acceptable if you have unused stone left from the previous construction lying on the site out of work. It can also be installed metal carcass and even brick walls. He treats external influences and waterlogging more calmly. If raw stones are used, the cost will be seriously reduced.
• Greenhouse from window glass not heavy enough to make solid foundations. For temporary structures, especially for those that will be removed for the winter, a wooden base is also a good fit. Withstands heavy use 6-8 years old, then it will need to be completely changed.

• Concrete - a good option, shallow strip foundation Easy to install, lasts a long time. A couple of decades will operate it without repair.

Most budget solution, of course - a do-it-yourself greenhouse on a wooden base. Although any of the options for self construction, suitable for both labor intensity and cost.

Anchoring

We fix everything: both knowledge and frames. The construction of a greenhouse from window frames after the foundation is just beginning. We planned the frames, how to put them, even adjusted them in size. It remains to fasten them together in place.

We are considering options:

• wooden and plastic frames can be attached both to the base and to each other using self-tapping screws and metal corners. The process is very simple, home-made greenhouses from window frames are assembled quickly and even alone. When working, use building level, observe the verticals (the horizontal will set itself on top if the frames are the same in size). Corners can be attached both outside and on inside corners windows. The method is reliable.

• Nails and beams- "old-fashioned" method, effective, angry and not entirely beautiful. But simple, even easier than self-tapping screws. How to build a greenhouse from old windows with one hammer - ask a carpenter neighbor. It will be enough to use bars of 30x30 mm, no more. From the inside, a bar or several bars are simply laid on the base, in any joint, to which the frames are nailed. From above, you can repeat the process. As a result, the frames do not stray directly to each other.
• Fastening with wire or clamps. The method is the most economical, but the most unreliable. Reminds me of a purely Russian rollicking approach, as they say, "where it hangs, we'll tie it there." Nevertheless, it has the right to exist and is often used in horticultural construction. With the note "I'll redo it later."

covering

A greenhouse made of plastic windows is more difficult in this regard - keep it in mind right away. She has a profile profiled from above, such a tautology. It is uneven, so it will not be easy to attach to it. If we are not talking, of course, about simple stretching over the entire structure of the greenhouse film.

In general, the structure turns out to be quite heavy anyway, so it’s not worth aggravating the situation with glass from above. Just stretching a greenhouse film is a normal option. But the roof will be “flimsy” ... Therefore, it is desirable to put the frames on top.

Then let an apple fall on her from your sinful tree from garden of paradise, the film will not break through. You can also use a mounting aluminum profile.

How to stretch the film - the fantasy is limitless. If you figured out how to make a greenhouse out of old window frames, and at the same time successfully fixed everything, then you can fix the film. Even ordinary wire twists will do, not to mention clamping clamps.

Also important!

After all the work done, after covering the greenhouse, you need to check how correctly you built everything. And do not forget that you need to not only know how to make a greenhouse out of window frames, but also remember that it must be looked after. This means washing, cleaning, maintaining the foundation, strengthening connections, and so on. Maintain stability, ensure light transmission, monitor tightness and constantly ventilate.

After installing plastic windows, a completely logical question arises: what to do with old windows? And the answer is quite simple. if you have suburban area, then the most optimal solution will be the construction of a greenhouse from window frames.

The dimensions of the structure are determined based on:

• dimensions of each frame;
• their total number;
• the size of the inside of the greenhouse.

The ideal option is to use window frames that are the same size. This is the only way to create an even and symmetrical structure, where there will be no gaps. The length of a greenhouse made from old window frames is determined by adding up the width of all windows used.

It is recommended to apply the design diagram on paper, where you can display the location of all passages and beds. The width of one bed is usually 0.8-1.2 m. If you make a bed too wide, it will be difficult to process it. Passages between the beds are made within 0.5-0.6 m.

Structure location

After the dimensions of the greenhouse are determined, you should think about its proper placement on the site. For normal plant growth, a greenhouse made of window frames should be located:

• on a flat area;
• in a place that is normally lit by sunlight;
• protected from strong wind zone;
• away from tall buildings and trees.

If you plan to build a window frame greenhouse consisting of a gable roof, then the best location for the long part of the structure is the east and west sides.

Particular attention should be paid to the soil composition of the site. For greenhouse perfect solution- chernozem fertile soil with sand impurities. If the soil on the site is clay, then to grow plants in a greenhouse, you will need to additionally prepare it:

• fill gravel;
• cover gravel with sand up to 10 cm;
• lay out fertile black soil;
• apply compost or mineral fertilizers.

You need to know about the level ground water. This is due to the fact that the greenhouse of window frames has a fairly solid weight. When groundwater is located at a depth of up to 1.5 m, it is not recommended to build such a structure.

Foundation device

An important role in such a process as making a greenhouse out of window frames is played by right choice foundation (even if the structure is located on stable ground). In fact, the purpose of the foundation is to protect:

• plants from negative impact external environment;
• the greenhouse itself from premature subsidence from the load emanating from heavy frames.

Experts say that the presence of a foundation will cause savings in thermal energy at the level of 10-15%. This, in turn, will lead to a reduction in the cost of heating the structure, and crops will be grown under a stable temperature regime.

When choosing the type of base, you should be guided by practical functions. Of course, you can use ready-made metal foundation, which is selected for certain dimensions of the greenhouse. Installation of such a product is carried out under supporting pillars. The lack of a metal foundation is a low level of protection.

The best option for a greenhouse made of window frames (pictured) is made of concrete. The width of the foundation is made from 0.1 m, the depth is 0.7-0.9 m. If the greenhouse is created in an area with severe frosts, then the base deepens to the freezing level of the soil and is additionally insulated with expanded polystyrene.

When constructing the foundation, the weight of the greenhouse must be evenly distributed. This is the only way to avoid getting cold air inside the structure. The space between the base and the frame of the greenhouse is sealed with bitumen and silicone sealant.

Frame preparation

This process includes the following actions:

• removal of old metal elements (hinges, latches, handles);
• removal of old paint;
• wood treatment with an antiseptic;
• removal of all glass (when attaching frames to the frame with nails).

If self-tapping screws are used to fix the window frames, then it is not necessary to remove the glass. To prevent glass from falling out in the future, you should check the old glazing beads and, if necessary, replace them with new ones.

All vents that serve to ventilate the plants are tightly closed. Minimum Height walls of the structure is 1.7-1.8 m.

Wireframe creation

Now let's move on to how to make a greenhouse out of frames. At the initial stage, a wooden frame is constructed, which makes the greenhouse as stable as possible. For these purposes, you can use both a beam (section 5 * 5 cm), and ordinary boards(thickness 4 cm).

Most economical option- the use of boards to which old windows will be attached. Moreover, the width of the boards usually coincides with the dimensions of standard frames.

The greenhouse frame consists of three main parts:

• bottom harness;
• racks;
• top rack.

The frame device provides for the following actions:

• the foundation is covered with waterproofing material;
• boards are laid along the perimeter of the base (two pieces each);
• racks made of timber are attached to the boards, which have the same height;
• the number of racks is determined based on the number of window frames;
• racks must be placed in the corners of the greenhouse and in places where the frames will be attached;
• the upper part of the racks is fastened with a beam, which is the basis for roofing material;
• if necessary, notches are made in the upper part of the beam for laying rafters.

Frame assembly

Fixing frames to the frame can be done using:

• wire or clamps;
• nails and beams;
• self-tapping screws and metal corners.

The use of wire (clamps) is less expensive and the easy way fastening windows to the frame. The only caveat is that you should correctly determine the attachment points. The greenhouse should not fall apart under the influence of factors environment. A wire is pulled around adjacent frames and bars and twisted with pliers.

When fixing windows with nails, the timber is applied immediately to two frames. After that, several nails are nailed into each of the frames through the timber.

Self-tapping screws and metal corners are the most reliable way to fasten old windows to a wooden frame. Thanks to their use, maximum structural stability is achieved:

• a corner is applied to the adjoining frames on both sides;
• a marker marks the points of drilling holes for the corner;
• holes for self-tapping screws are drilled;
• corners are fixed with self-tapping screws.

Do-it-yourself installation of a greenhouse from window frames begins from a predetermined angle. Frames are attached as tightly as possible to each other. A door opening is made in the end wall, for the manufacture of which you can use the boards (if you can not find the old door).

Sometimes you may encounter the problem of insufficient number of window frames. Do not despair. There are two solutions to this problem:

1. The front side is finished with polycarbonate.
2. The back wall of the structure (usually made from the northern part) is clogged with plywood or boards.

All gaps formed between the frames are sealed with mounting foam or heat-insulating material. There should be no drafts in the greenhouse.

If the glass accidentally breaks during operation, then:

• new glass is cut;
• the extreme part of the frame is covered with sealant (or window putty);
• glass is laid on the sealant;
• a glazing bead is stuffed, on which an antiseptic and paint are applied.

roof decking

The best solution for a greenhouse made of window frames would be a gable roof, due to which the most uniform flow of sunlight occurs. For the manufacture of a gable roof, you can use:

• old frames;
• polyethylene film;

To create a roof, old frames are used only in a small amount. This is due to the fact that when covering the entire roof, the greenhouse will overheat excessively. Which will negatively affect the normal development of plants.

The easiest and cheapest option would be to create a roof from polyethylene film:

• with wooden slats and nails, the film is attached to the frame;
• placed on top of polyethylene mesh material(nylon cord or the thickest fishing line).

The only drawback of this technology is the need to remove the film when winter comes. Under the influence of snow, rain or strong wind, it will tear.

The most suitable solution for the roof of a greenhouse made of old frames is the use of polycarbonate, which is characterized by optimal weight and increased reliability. This is roofing does not need to be dismantled for the winter, as it is resistant to snow and wind loads.

Installation of a polycarbonate roof consists of the following steps:

• a beam is laid that connects the long sides of the structure;
• the beam is placed in places where the rafters will be attached;
• rafters at the same angle are mounted on the upper trim;
• vertical racks are used to fasten the rafters to the timber;
• the creation of a crate from the boards;
• polycarbonate is attached.

Bolts with wide washers are used to fix polycarbonate sheets. Polycarbonate should protrude 20-25 cm above the greenhouse wall.

During the operation of the greenhouse from the window frames, it is necessary to take care of it:

• to extend the service life once every 3-4 years all wooden elements treated with an antiseptic and stained;
• to increase the flow of sunlight, polycarbonate and windows are washed in the spring.

When installing a non-separable greenhouse, you can carry out and create a heating system.

Video about the installation of greenhouses from window frames:

Window frames are a great option for building greenhouses with your own hands from improvised materials, even if you do not take into account the cost savings. One block at a time covers from 0.4 to 0.2 greenhouse walls: you get the opportunity to quickly build without the subsequent installation of covering material.

In addition, you do not have to think about the organization of ventilation - the sashes are already hung and functioning. From this article you will learn how to build a greenhouse from window frames with your own hands.

Construction of a greenhouse from window frames

To build a greenhouse from window frames with your own hands, you can take ordinary wooden, modern plastic, metal-plastic and aluminum frames. Construction for all options will be the same, there are differences only in the choice of foundation.

Design, drawings, choice of roofing material

Conventional design for homemade greenhouse from old window frames will not work, because most likely we will assemble the building from different-sized modules. You will need to do the following:

• Lay out the frames on the ground - for the side and end sides. Here you have to "play puzzles" to achieve a uniform layout.
• We measure the resulting modules, write down the parameters.
• We make a kind of drawing on paper, display the layout of the frames, overall dimensions modules.
• According to the dimensions of the first drawing, we make the second - the foundation.
• The third drawing is the frame on which the greenhouse frames will be installed.
• The fourth is the roofing part.

We design a greenhouse from window frames; it’s not at all difficult to make drawings with your own hands. We start with the layout of the modules

Note:frames can be used as roofing material, if there are suitable geometry, polycarbonate or cellophane film. The latter is the simplest, but short-lived option, it will last a maximum of one season. In addition, at winter use greenhouses, heat loss through a film roof will be greater than through a polycarbonate or glass one.

Option to build a greenhouse from window frames with your own hands, a photo with a polycarbonate roof

Foundation selection

A little about choosing a foundation for building a greenhouse from window frames. It all depends on the type of the latter and on how many seasons you plan to use the building. For example, if your frames are modern, metal-plastic or aluminum, then the greenhouse can last 5 years or more. Therefore, it makes sense to make a good strip foundation here.

Strong wooden frames will serve as walls for 3-4 years. You can make a strip foundation for them, but not necessarily. It will be enough columnar, made of concrete or brick with a strong beam (15 x 15 cm) as a strapping. The latter, being well soaked bituminous mastic or wrapped with roofing material, will easily withstand such a period without additional processing.

How to build a greenhouse from old window frames: a columnar foundation

Note: if a greenhouse made of frames is a temporary measure and you do not plan to use it for more than one or two seasons, then making a serious foundation does not make sense. You can get by with a simple strapping of timber, laid directly on the ground. So that the base does not rot too quickly, the bars should be wrapped with roofing felt or other moisture-proof material.

How to assemble a greenhouse from frames with your own hands, a photo of a strapping device

A simple assembly of a greenhouse from window frames with your own hands, the video presents a story about the construction of a structure from improvised materials.

Building a foundation

We will build a greenhouse from plastic windows, so the foundation is tape, reinforced. A trench for it is made 50 cm deep and 30 cm wide. At the bottom we fall asleep crushed stone (15 cm), on top we lay the armored belt, knitted from a steel bar. Along the edges we install formwork for the base, - 40 cm high, from boards, moisture-resistant plywood or other suitable technical specifications material.

We mix the cement-crushed stone-sand mortar. Fill in two steps:

1. Level with ground level.
2. Flush with the edges of the formwork or less than 10 cm from them.

We do not make an interval between fillings, we knead portions of concrete one by one. We cover everything from above with a film, leave until it solidifies. We do demoulding in three days, again we cover the foundation with cellophane. We start construction in four days.

Start building a greenhouse from window frames with your own hands, pouring the foundation

Frame assembly

We lay strips of roofing material on the foundation, on top of them we mount the strapping bars, - with anchors. We fasten the elements together with steel corners. You can use a half cut, coupled with self-tapping screws. Further, in order to make a greenhouse out of window frames with our own hands, we mark the strapping for installing vertical supports. We mount, using steel corners, first the corner posts, then the intermediate ones.

Additionally, we make a temporary fix - it will not allow the elements to tilt under their own weight. When all the supports are exposed, we lay and fix the upper trim on them - with the same corners. After we remove the temporary fixation of the racks.

How to build a greenhouse from old window frames: frame assembly diagram

The roof frame will consist of two uprights gables, ridge and rafter legs on the sides of it. First, we install the racks, then we throw the beam from one to the other, which will play the role of a skate. We support rafters on it. If the greenhouse from the frames is long, then we additionally make several more intermediate racks, based on a beam thrown over the sides of the strapping. Installation is carried out with steel corners, self-tapping screws.

How to make a greenhouse from old window frames: a finished frame

We make a greenhouse from frames with our own hands, the video contains a description of the design without a frame.

Frame installation

Further work is done very simply. The frames are screwed to the frame through the holes, which included self-tapping screws when installing windows in the apartment. If it turned out that the frame does not match the dimensions of the frames a little, we correct the situation:

• We remove an extra tree with a planer if the cells for windows are too small.
• We enclose strips of thick rubber where the cells are large. There is no point in using mounting foam.

We start from the sides, then move on to the ends. Last we install the frame that will serve front door. Strips of thin rubber can be used as a seal when installing all windows.

Note:if the roof is sealed with frames, we start work from it. So you exclude the possibility of damage to the sidewall glass by a fallen tool or stepladder. If modules with opening doors are used for the roof, before final fixing, we check whether they open and close normally, if there is any distortion.

Do-it-yourself greenhouse from old window frames: installing modules on a frame

The last stage of the construction of the greenhouse is the installation of polycarbonate on the roof, gables. The material is fastened with thermal washers, the joints of the sheets, if any, are carried out using connecting profiles. For cellular polycarbonate, it is obligatory to finish the cuts with perforated tape, and then with a trimming profile.

Ready-made greenhouse from window frames, photo of a building made of metal-plastic blocks

Assembling a greenhouse with your own hands from improvised materials, the video contains the main points of mounting simple wooden frames on a frame.

Old windows, which today are often replaced with double-glazed windows enclosed in plastic, are usually sent to the scrap later. But they can be given a second life by using greenhouses in the construction. Especially when there is not enough money for a factory product made of polycarbonate, for example, and a profile. And here at hand is solid, safe for plants and, most importantly, free material. Window glass has sufficient strength and perfectly transmits light, which is important for plant life.

Getting old frames is not difficult, especially when you need only a few for a small greenhouse. It's good if they survived after disassembly old building or glass replacement. In extreme cases, the required number of old frames can be asked from friends and neighbors who performed overhaul housing, or negotiate with plastic window installers who simply take their dismantled products to a landfill.

From the material obtained, you can assemble the main parts of the greenhouse. This process is creative. You will have to delve into the nuances of the foundation device for the intended design and determine the location of each window frame in it. If there are problems with fitting constituent elements structures, pieces of polycarbonate, mounting foam and screws, sealant and ordinary cement can come to the rescue.

In general, there are three main options for assembling a greenhouse from old windows:

• Sheathe lower part frame wooden planks. This will ensure that when watering plants or digging the soil, the glass of the greenhouse will remain intact.
• Glaze the finished frame with material taken from old windows. Then the greenhouse will look full, and the frames can be used at your discretion.
• Join window frames single structure. If they are of different sizes, you will have to be creative. To begin with, draw up a plan for placing frames in the structure so that the structure looks harmonious.

Advantages of greenhouses from old windows

Due to the availability of material and simple assembly, even a beginner in this business can make a greenhouse out of window frames with his own hands.

The advantages of such a structure "on the face":

1. Wood is strong enough good care frames made from it will last more than one year. Quality processing wooden products makes them immune to the influence of precipitation and sunlight.
2. Window glass, in addition to good light transmission, provides high-quality protection inner space greenhouses from outside cold air.
3. The assembly of the structure from window frames attracts many because in such a greenhouse it is convenient to carry out ventilation through any window.

In addition to all of the above, there are many more positive aspects in the construction and use of such a structure:

• Economy and practicality. They are due to the fact that at low costs for the purchase of consumables, you can get a ready-made greenhouse protected from external influences as a result of your work. Most often, old frames are covered with paint and not even one layer.
• Environmental Safety. wood like natural material harmoniously fits into the interior of the greenhouse.
• Durability. It depends on the type of wood that was used in the manufacture of the frame. The hardiest species are oak and larch. A greenhouse with a wooden frame can last an average of 5 years. However, this period varies depending on the care of the building and climate zone its location.
• Heat capacity. Window frames perfectly retain the accumulated heat. The sunlight passing freely through them contributes to the heating of the greenhouse in a natural way.
• Quality lighting. Due to the high light transmission of the window glass, the space of the greenhouse is illuminated no worse than the beds in the open air. Harmful to some plants, ultraviolet radiation can be eliminated by sticking a tinted film on the glass from the inside of the greenhouse.
• High strength wood. This quality is indispensable for the stability of the window frame greenhouse. It can be increased by impregnating products with modern preparations.

Advice! If there are no glasses in the frames assembled for construction, cellular polycarbonate can be successfully used instead or in worst case- polyethylene film.

Technology for mounting a greenhouse from window frames

The structure of the greenhouse from frames includes a support, a frame and a cover. Consider phased production each of these elements.

Preparing to build a greenhouse

This stage of work includes the choice of a place for the structure, its design, preparation of materials and the necessary tools.

Before you make a greenhouse out of window frames, you need to make it detailed drawing with the frame layout, especially if they different sizes. Each frame will need to be measured first. The total width of all products determines the length of the greenhouse. To make it symmetrical, it is recommended to select frames of the same height.

The width of the building should be chosen in accordance with the planned dimensions of the beds and passages, which are convenient in terms of walking and passing the household cart. The width of the beds in the greenhouse is usually 1 m.

After drawing up a detailed drawing, it will not be difficult to calculate expendable materials necessary for the construction of the greenhouse: fasteners, key parts, fittings, etc.

When the dimensions of the future greenhouse have already been determined, you need to choose a place to place it. The functionality of the structure will depend on how correctly this is done. It needs a flat, well-lit area. Near the greenhouse there should not be objects that can shade it: tall trees, fence, other buildings, etc. In addition, such structures are not recommended to be located in the path of the prevailing winds. AT winter period years it will reduce heat loss greenhouse. Ideally, the longitudinal axis of the greenhouse should be oriented from north to south.

The soil for a structure made of old windows should not be damp and strong, since the mass of such greenhouses is very significant, and excess moisture for wooden structure destructive. A successful soil structure for greenhouse farming should consist of a lower sandy layer and an upper layer of fertile chernozem.

If the soil on the site is clay, the place for the construction of the greenhouse must be covered with gravel, on top of it make a pillow with a thickness of at least 100 mm from sand, tamp it down and ennoble fertile soil. For such a "pie", you first need to remove from the entire building area upper layer soil to a depth of 30-40 cm.

The level of groundwater occurrence is of great importance. For a greenhouse, it must be at least one and a half meters down. Raw soil for the construction of such structures is not suitable.

Treatment of old windows

If you plan to build a greenhouse from old window frames, they should be prepared properly. Previously, the material must be carefully examined for damage. To facilitate this and subsequent work from the frames, it is required to remove the glass and all fittings - latches, handles, etc. After that, the surface of the products must be cleaned from paint to wood. If rotten elements are found, they must be replaced with new ones.

Cleaned frames must be treated with an antiseptic, which will protect the structure from dampness, mice and insects in the future.

The presence of small cracks is easily corrected with a special putty for wood. After it dries, problem areas need to be sanded. sandpaper. Then the prepared surface of the frames must be painted with enamel for outdoor use. Such paint is not afraid of moisture and frost.

The height of the walls of the future greenhouse from the frames should be planned at least 1.7-1.8 m. The total height of the structure depends on the slope of the roof slopes. For a film coating, it must be greater than for a polycarbonate or glass coating.

Building a foundation for a greenhouse from windows

A stationary frame structure, which is not dismantled for the winter and can serve 3-5 seasons, has a solid weight and therefore requires a strong foundation. Another need for its construction is the small height of the window frames, it averages 1.5 m. It is not enough for comfortable movement inside the greenhouse. Therefore, two or three dozen centimeters missing to the norm can be built up with foundation walls. Another advantage of this solution is the exclusion of direct contact between the wood of the bottom of the frame and the ground. This means that the window frames of the greenhouse will rot less.

Having decided on the desired height of the structure, it is easy to calculate the vertical size of the above-ground part of its support. The total height of the frames and walls of the foundation should allow you to move around the greenhouse without bending over.

The most reliable is the concrete strip foundation. After choosing a place and laying out a site for construction along its perimeter, you need to dig a trench 50-70 cm deep, depending on the level of soil freezing. Standard Width trenches - 15-20 cm. The large depth of the excavation will make the structure frost-proof. This will enable early planting in early spring.

The bottom of the trench must be covered with rubble, and a sand cushion 10 cm thick must be created on top of it. Then it must be impregnated liquid concrete, fill the trench with stones and pour the remaining mixture into it, filling the recess to the level of the soil surface.

The next day, you need to install a panel formwork to raise the walls of the foundation to the required height. Usually it is 15-25 cm. Stones or reinforcement can be laid in the formwork, which will make the above-ground part of the support under the greenhouse stronger. After that, everything should be poured with concrete and left for 28 days for it to completely solidify.

You can ignore the formwork device by making the above-ground part of the support from wooden beam section 150x150 mm. To obtain an additional 30 cm of greenhouse height, eight bars must be placed in pairs on top of each other. Before installation, they should be impregnated with used car oil. Between themselves, the bars must be connected with brackets, and the end joints of the structure should be strengthened with metal corners. The frame from the foundation must be separated with roofing felt waterproofing.

To build the foundation of a miniature greenhouse, it will be enough to dig a trench 30 cm deep, fill it first with rubble, then sand, and then immediately mount it from above support frame from a beam. The downside of this solution is that such a greenhouse can freeze in winter.

Installation of a frame for a greenhouse from window frames

It consists of racks and two harnesses - upper and lower. For strapping, you can use metal corners or timber and boards. horizontal bottom harness from steel corners should be performed when pouring the upper part of the foundation for a strong connection metal parts with support. The side racks of the structure in this case must be made from the same corners, then welded or bolted to the bottom trim. Height top harness needs to be determined with great care. It is important that the wooden frames do not suddenly end up behind her line - higher or lower.

For the manufacture of wooden frame greenhouses will require a beam with a section of 100x100 mm, eight boards 40 mm thick, four side racks and a few in between. Their number depends on the number of windows that need to be installed. For example, if the frame consists of four frames in length and two frames in width, three racks will be needed on each of its sides and one on the end.

The size of the cross-section of the beam for the racks must be at least 50x50 mm. All connections wooden parts the frame must be made with metal corners, pre-drilling in wood seats for screws. It is desirable to protect steel parts from rust with anti-corrosion enamel.

The frame assembly should be carried out in the following order:

1. Attach a beam 100x100 mm to the foundation with anchor bolts. It will serve as the basis for the further installation of the frame.
2. Install the side racks, checking their verticality with a building level.
3. Performing a half-tree cut at the junctions, use nails to fix the boards that form the lower trim of the greenhouse frame.
4. Install intermediate posts. The distance between them should correspond to the width of the window.
5. Run the top strapping with boards on the racks.
6. To protect against rot and insect invasion, the frame racks must be treated with an antiseptic.

gable roof frame it is convenient to shoot down below on the ground, and then install it on the walls of the structure. The central risers, which serve as a support for the roof, are recommended to be made of a more powerful beam than the one that will be used for the rest of the roof elements. For rafters and ridge, you can use a beam with a section of 50x50 mm. Intermediate rafters of the roof frame can be made from a thick board instead of timber. The distance between them usually corresponds to the width of the frames.

Greenhouse cover device

The coating of such a greenhouse is recommended to be made of polycarbonate or polyethylene film. Frames are less suitable for this. The fact is that they greatly increase the weight of the structure, and it is inconvenient to fix glass on the roof slopes. Another thing is plastic or film. They can be easily removed for the winter. And the glazed frames, which are difficult to disassemble, will accumulate snow caps in winter, creating an additional load and thereby shortening the life of the wooden frame of the greenhouse.

For a film coating of a window frame structure, the slope of the roof slopes must be large. This is useful so that rain water does not linger on the film when it is deflected and flows down well. Polycarbonate sheets are more rigid than film. Therefore, when they are used for covering, the slope of the roof of the greenhouse may be less than in the previous case.

Sheets of cellular polycarbonate must be fixed to the rafters and gables using bolts with wide washers. To protect the walls of the greenhouse from rainwater, it is necessary to leave roof overhangs, which should protrude beyond the side enclosing structures by 150-200 mm.

It is convenient to mount the film on the frame simultaneously from different sides. Therefore, this operation is best performed by two people, easily controlling the amount of material tension. For its fastening, thin wooden slats, which, after pressing the film, must be fixed with nails on the roof frame.

In order to minimize the sagging of the film on the greenhouse, it is recommended to lay the cover on a wire mesh frame stretched between the roof rafters.

Fastening window frames to the frame

After making the roof of the greenhouse, window frames can be installed in its frame. The fixation of these elements of the structure should be carried out with its outer side with screws. The gaps between the frames must be filled with mounting foam, and then closed with thin strips for maximum tightness.

Glasses in frames must be laid on a sealing compound, and then fixed with glazing beads. In this case, the movement of air through the closed frame will be excluded.

When mounting the frames, it is necessary to check the condition of the vents. They must not be skewed. If necessary, they must be corrected. To hold the vents in the closed position, hooks must be nailed. In addition, you should come up with a latch that holds them open.

Greenhouse doors should be installed at the end of the structure. If it is narrow, then its end can be left without frames at all - they will not fit there. It will be easier if in this case the entire end, except for the doorway, is sheathed with a film.

The door frame must be made of timber. Door leaf it can be hung on using the hinges taken out of the window frames. After that, it remains to fill the fertile layer of earth into the greenhouse, make beds and start planting.

How to make a greenhouse from window frames - look at the video:

As you can see, an environmentally friendly and convenient greenhouse from window frames can be built independently for mere pennies. Think about this opportunity when you are going to change the old windows in your home for new modern double-glazed windows. Good luck!