Lean To Greenhouses

For gardeners, learning how to build a lean to greenhouse can be a worthwhile investment. Unlike other types, this structure is cost effective. Because of its shape, it will be easier to position it near water, electricity and sunlight.

Required Tools and Materials

2- x -2 lumber
1/2 inch- x -1/2 inch wire mesh
(3) 8- x -8 treated timbers
6 mil polyethylene plastic
Tape measure
Safety glasses
Greenhouse zipper door
Staples
Work gloves
Cordless drill
Carpenter’s square
Hammer
Box of 2-3/4 inch wood screws
Staple gun
Box fans
Saw
Level
Portable electric heater

Step 1

Determine the size of the unit. If the unit will be 5 x 8 ft, mark this by the side of your home.

Step 2

After marking the perimeter, trench it. Use the 8-by-8 timbers for the structure’s base. Trench it as deep as the timbers. Make certain the trenches are level and set 90 degrees to each other. It will resemble a garden plot with the timbers at the sides and the house.

Step 3

For the wall frames, use the 2-by-2 lumber. Cedar or spruce is among the most reliable wood types you can use. Fasten the 2-by-2 board that is as long as the structure width onto the structure wall. The height should be eight feet.

The front wall frame needs to be 6 ft from the ground. This is necessary to give the roof pitch and allow the water to run off. Set the vertical framing studs about 2 feet in the middle. Leave about 30 inches of space among the studs at the front door.

Step 4

To build a lean to greenhouse, the sides must be framed to the appropriate height. Note that the sites are going to pitch downwards from the unit to the greenhouse. This means the vertical boards will
have to be of different lengths.

After framing the walls, put on a couple horizontal supports on the roof.

Step 5

Get the 1/2 inch x 1/2 inch wire mesh and attach it to your roof. If necessary, slice to make it fit. This should provide enough support for the structure.

Step 6

Next the polyethylene plastic should be stapled on the roof and 3 sides. For superior sealing, overlap the seams and staple it.

Step 7

Put the zipper door in the 30 inch space you made earlier. Refer to the zipper door manual for instructions on how to install it.

Tips and Warnings

To cover the polyethylene plastic at ground level, just leave the plastic long and top with some rocks and bricks. This will cover the bottom and make it safe from incoming air.

Keep the zipper closed during the cold season. During the summer, open the zipper door. This will provide the plants enough ventilation. If necessary, use the box fans to provide more ventilation. This will keep fungus away and stop mold from growing.

If you are going to build a lean to greenhouse, it is important to pay attention to the details. Spending some time thinking of the layout will be as important as the actual construction.