If you are one of the few plant lovers left in this world and have been planning to make a mini backyard greenhouse for yourself for years, this might be the perfect time to finally get on it. You probably would’ve done it a long time ago if someone had been kind enough to guide you through the process. You might still be confused on the best Frosted Glass you want for your greenhouse or on what kind of sheet you desire (it’s cheap Plexiglass sheets, always.)
Well, your choices vary depending on your budget and needs. Let’s take a look at how to make a mini greenhouse first. Click here to check out a selection of the plexiglass for your garden.
Structure of Your Greenhouse
Galvanized steel, aluminum, or wood framings are some of the options you might want to consider while laying down the structure for your greenhouse. Popularity-wise, wood has a head start. Just like another structure, the instructions for building a greenhouse from wood are the same.
Since a greenhouse traps solar radiation inside, the wood will be exposed to high levels of humidity. On the outside, however, it will find itself face to face with the sun more often than not. For this reason, make sure to use pressure-treated lumber and if possible, take the extra measure by painting and sealing it.
Just like wood, you can also use aluminum to build the structure. In fact, aluminum is lighter and way more durable when it comes to a wood structure. But unfortunately, it is quite expensive at the same time.
The most durable option out of all this is galvanized steel. There is also nothing quite as expensive like steel. You also need to stock up on the extra knowledge of welding and acquire the skills related to metalwork.
There is an alternative which is way less expensive. Plastic (PVC) pipes are good if you don’t live in an area prone to wind and snowstorms.
Covering the place
When it comes to the cover material for a greenhouse, the options are vast and can mainly be divided into glass and plastic. You can look for the best-frosted glass or choose economic options like cheap plexiglass sheets.
Traditionally, glass has always been the original greenhouse cover. The most well-known greenhouses around the world have a glass cover.
There are two main reasons why scientists opt for greenhouses with a glass cover. One is that looks good. You can peer inside from the outside and check on the outside from within the greenhouse if the cover is made of transparent glass. The second reason is easy maintenance polishing and cleaning glass is way easier than any other surface.
But glass tends to break easily. Initially, it’s also quite expensive. The frame for your greenhouse must be strong. Since glass is quite heavy, it, therefore, needs to hold up properly.
Acrylic glass sheets are durable
Acrylic plastics or polycarbonate sheets which are rigid and have a double layer usually make for a wonderful greenhouse covering. You don’t need to worry about light penetration, as the double-layer plastic sheets make sure you have ample amounts of illumination. The insulation from it is even better than glass. You can certainly save up on heating costs this way, especially if you live in a cold region.
Plastic sheets have a variety of options when it comes to thickness. They are also lighter and their costs are almost nonexistent. No matter the thickness grade for plastic sheets, the light penetration is as good as glass. However, you can’t allow yourself to think of them as a permanent companion for your greenhouse. In fact, five years is the maximum life span for PVC film.
Out of all this, your best option might be cheap plexiglass sheets. One reason for this is that it’s cheap. Two, in spite of its inexpensive rate, it is still quite durable. Unlike glass, it is also lightweight so you don’t have to worry about the frame.
Let the ample light in
Despite being lighter, the amount of penetration for light is equivalent to that of glass. The only thing you have to worry about dirt buildup.
This takes about 10 to 15 years to happen. Over time, the surface layer of your plexiglass sheet can degrade and dirt might be formed on it faster than you thought possible. The more the dirt builds up, the more it is blocked from light.
However, this is not something that can’t be avoided as long as you remember to clean the cover of your greenhouse – daily, if possible, with the weather conditions these days. Even if you can’t do it on a daily basis, make sure you clean it at least once or twice a week.
The instructions for cleaning plexiglass sheet are as straightforward as any other glass. A little bit of homemade vinegar with detergent or other mild products, your mop, a microfibre cloth, and a nice soak up of all the water after you’re done are needed so that no residue is left behind. This way, your greenhouse will be in tip-top condition on all days of the year.
Consider the Climate
Of course, one of the most important parts of a greenhouse is to make sure the weather inside is just right. Air circulation, ventilation, and humidity control – these are all things a greenhouse needs to have.
For heating, you can depend on natural gas, oil, and electricity. Choose wisely based on what’s more popular in the area you live in. You also need to make sure it is cost effective and the things that are readily available in your area will save on your transport costs.
Now that you know all you need to make your mini backyard greenhouse; it is time to get on it. For cheap plexiglass sheets or just glass for your greenhouse, you can order according to your specifications from Fab Glass.