diy-greenhouse-free-plan
The Free DIY Greenhouse Plan – light, airy, and sturdy.
Need a small greenhouse? Or maybe a she-shed, or a playhouse, or a backyard office?
Well, now you can build one without all the hassle and headache! Just order our plan, head to the hardware store, and get started.
The above design is sturdy and functional, and it should last for decades to come. The heavy-duty 4x4 vertical lumber is strong and aesthetic, and the stepped cross bracing elements look stylish even with clear paneling. The greenhouse itself is approximately 6.5’ by 8’ (l x w), and the roof slopes from 6.5’ up to a full ceiling height of 8’.
We also left the greenhouse fully customizable in terms of siding, paneling, and decoration. The choice of wood, materials, hardware, and decoration is all up to you – which is one of the joys of any DIY project!
Ideal for: greenhouse, plants, backyard projects, DIY projects, home office, off-grid, homesteading, small farms, family projects, playhouses, storage, and more.
Ready to build your own? Great! Just check out the DIY build guide and diagrams below to get started.
Step 1
To begin constructing the structure, we will use 2x4 profiles arranged in a U shape for the base. The profiles with a length of 77.5 inches will be positioned perpendicular to the profile with a length of 97.25 inches. This forms the foundation of the frame.
Next, we will install the vertical 4x4 profiles, considering their varying heights due to the roof's slope.
For the front part of the structure, we will place 4 posts of 4x4 with a height of 96 inches. These posts should be evenly and symmetrically distributed.
On the 77.5-inch profiles, we will install a pair of 4x4 posts with a height of 89.25 inches, followed by another pair of 4x4 posts with a height of 81.75 inches. Again, these posts must be evenly and symmetrically distributed.
On the 2x4 profile at the rear of the structure, we will place 4 vertical 4x4 posts with a length of 74.5 inches, aligning them with the posts at the front. These rear posts will provide additional support for the roof structure.
By following these steps, you will establish a solid foundation and support system for the greenhouse structure, ensuring stability and durability throughout the construction process.
Step 2
The lateral supports play a crucial role in connecting the previously installed posts, providing stability to the main greenhouse structure.
For the front part, we will place 6 profiles of 2x4 with a length of 30 inches in a uniform and proportional manner. Looking at the diagram, we can see that there are 4 posts forming 3 spaces between them. The 30-inch profiles will be positioned in the middle of these spaces, leaving the intermediate space empty.
On the lateral sides of the structure, we will staggeringly place 6 profiles on each side with a length of 23.5 inches. These profiles will enhance the rigidity of the structure's sides.
It's worth noting that a greenhouse requires maximum rigidity as it is exposed to the elements. It must be able to withstand various weather conditions.
Finally, for the back of the structure, we will install 4 profiles of 2x4 with a length of 30 inches. Two profiles will be placed per space, leaving the middle gap with 2 profiles of 30.25 inches.
By incorporating these lateral supports, you will effectively strengthen the greenhouse's overall structure, ensuring its ability to withstand external factors and provide a secure environment for your plants.
Step 3
In this step, we will construct the main structure that will support the roof. It involves the use of three profiles of 2x4 with a length of 104.25 inches.
Firstly, one of these profiles will be placed on the front posts of the structure. Secondly, another 2x4 profile will be positioned on the rear posts.
To ensure stability, four 2x4 profiles will be evenly and symmetrically attached to these main profiles using a bird cut. This arrangement guarantees a secure fit for the additional profiles.
Lastly, the final 104.25-inch profile will be installed at the front, intersecting with the four profiles that were previously attached with a bird cut. This placement adds rigidity to the overall structure.
When securing these profiles, it is crucial to utilize a fixation method that prevents corrosion. Additionally, we recommend applying an enamel coating specifically designed for exterior wood. This coating will help extend the useful life of the structure by protecting it from environmental factors.
Step 4
In this final step, we will address the installation of the door and the roof coverings. The door measures 30 inches by 6.7 feet and will serve as the main access point to the greenhouse.
As for the roof, it will consist of three polycarbonate segments strategically positioned to cover the entire structure. These segments should be arranged in a way that ensures comprehensive coverage and protection.
Please note that the design provided thus far covers the structural stage of the greenhouse. To complete the project, we highly recommend covering all the remaining spaces with polycarbonate sheets that are 8mm thick. This additional layer will enhance insulation and provide optimal conditions for your plants or crops.
Congratulations on completing your new greenhouse! We hope you enjoy the benefits it brings to your gardening endeavors.