How to Build a Greenhouse

DIY Greenhouse

Have you ever considered building your own greenhouse?

This greenhouse design is built to last, with heavy-duty 4x4 lumber. The high roof allows for plenty of growing room and light, and the sturdy lower wall adds extra functionality. 

We also left this greenhouse fully customizable in terms of siding, paneling, and decoration. The options are all up to you, the builder. You can opt for a fully enclosed structure, leave things airy and translucent, or add any number of interior or exterior add-ons. 

Also, this structure is a great base for anything else. Looking to build a tiny workshop or backyard office? This design would make for as great a DIY playhouse or storage shed as it would a greenhouse. 

Ideal for: off-grid, homesteads, home offices, backyards, family projects, and more. 

Ready to build your own? Great! Just check out the DIY build guide and diagrams below to get started.

DIY Greenhouse Kit Parts List

Part icon
Door 30" x 6'/7" for Greenhouse Type 1
Wood - Lumber
1
Part icon
4'' x 4'' Lumber - 39.75" Length
Wood - Lumber
1
Part icon
4'' x 4'' Lumber - 31.75" Length
Wood - Lumber
1
Part icon
4'' x 4'' Lumber - 79" Length
Wood - Lumber
1
Part icon
4'' x 4'' Lumber - 26" Length
Wood - Lumber
14
Part icon
4'' x 4'' Lumber - 77.75" Length
Wood - Lumber
5
Part icon
2'' x 4'' Lumber with 2 cuts at 45° - 15" Length
Wood - Lumber
4
Part icon
2'' x 4'' Lumber with 2 cuts at 45° - 67" Length
Wood - Lumber
1
Part icon
1'' x 6'' Lumber - 1.25" Length
Wood - Lumber
1
Part icon
4'' x 4'' Lumber - 94.75" Length
Wood - Lumber
3
Part icon
4'' x 4'' Lumber - 2.25" Length
Wood - Lumber
3
Part icon
4'' x 4'' Lumber - 89" Length
Wood - Lumber
1
Part icon
4'' x 4'' Lumber - 75.5" Length
Wood - Lumber
2
Part icon
2'' x 4'' Lumber with 2 cuts at 45° - 67.25" Length
Wood - Lumber
3
Part icon
1'' x 6'' Lumber - 31.75" Length
Wood - Lumber
5
Part icon
2'' x 4'' Lumber - 31.75" Length
Wood - Lumber
1
Part icon
2'' x 4'' Lumber - 93.25" Length
Wood - Lumber
2

Part icon
2'' x 4'' Lumber - 63.75" Length
Wood - Lumber
1
Part icon
2'' x 4'' Lumber - 33.5" Length
Wood - Lumber
1
Part icon
2'' x 4'' Lumber - 33" Length
Wood - Lumber
1
Part icon
1'' x 6'' Lumber - 93" Length
Wood - Lumber
10
Part icon
1'' x 6'' Lumber - 63.75" Length
Wood - Lumber
1
Part icon
1'' x 6'' Lumber - 63.5" Length
Wood - Lumber
4
Part icon
1'' x 6'' Lumber - 33.25" Length
Wood - Lumber
1
Part icon
1'' x 6'' Lumber - 33.5" Length
Wood - Lumber
4
Part icon
1'' x 6'' Lumber - 32.75" Length
Wood - Lumber
5
Part icon
Polycarbonate Panel 2' x 6' - 59" Length
Plastic - Mixed
2
Part icon
Polycarbonate Panel 2' x 6' - 5.25" Length
Plastic - Mixed
8
Part icon
Polycarbonate Panel 2' x 6' - 59.25" Length
Plastic - Mixed
1
Part icon
Polycarbonate Panel 2' x 6' - 30.5" Length
Plastic - Mixed
1

Building a greenhouse

How do you know which part is which from the parts list? Click on "Edit Design in 3D" button above and you'll be able to click on each part to see its name.

Step 1 Build the Structure of your Greenhouse

In order to construct the main structure of this project, we will require 4x4 profiles. This step is closely connected to step 2, as they are interdependent. In this particular step, we need to focus on using 12 vertically arranged profiles. These posts will have a length of 79 inches. On top of these posts, we will position 4 additional 4x4 profiles, each measuring 96 inches in length. These profiles will form the 4 main frames that will support the structure of the main roof.

It is crucial to note that outdoor projects like this one require a protective coating to safeguard the wood from adverse weather conditions such as rain and sun exposure. Therefore, we strongly recommend utilizing protective wood enamels to ensure the longevity and durability of the structure.

Step 2 Making the Supports of the Greenhouse

This step holds significant importance as it involves joining the posts from the previous step using 4x4 profiles measuring 26 inches in length. These profiles serve to provide the required spacing between each previously assembled frame.

For the front of the structure, two of these new profiles will be positioned at the bottom of the frames, leaving an empty space between them. As for the back, three of these profiles will be placed at the bottom of each available space.

On the sides, we will need a total of six 4x4 profiles, each measuring 26 inches in length. These profiles will be placed both at the top and bottom, in the middle of each frame. This arrangement ensures the necessary connection and strength to support the roof.

By following this step, you will establish a secure and stable framework for the structure, ready to receive the roof component.


Step 3 Building the Roof Structure of the Greenhouse

To complete the roof structure, we will require the following materials:

  • Eight profiles of 2x4 with cuts at the ends at 45 degrees. These profiles are essential for constructing the angled sections of the roof.
  • One profile of 1x6 with a length of 90.25 inches. This profile will be used as the topmost element of the roof structure.

Each frame you assemble using the profiles with 45-degree cuts should be placed onto the rigid frames at the bottom. This ensures that the load is distributed correctly and the roof structure remains stable.

It is important to note that the correct assembly order for the roof is to start with the base of the roof, incorporating the angled profiles, and then placing the 1x6 profile at the end to complete the structure.

By following this sequence, you will successfully construct the roof for your project, providing stability and protection for the underlying structure.

Step 4  Let's Affix the Covers and Doors of the Greenhouse

In this final step, we will focus on the roof coverings and the side sections of the greenhouse. The materials required for each section are as follows:

  • For the front part, you will need 10 profiles of 1x6 with a length of 32.75 inches. These profiles will be used to cover the front section of the greenhouse.
  • For the back section, 5 profiles of 1x6 with a length of 97 inches will be needed.
  • The left and right sides of the greenhouse will require 10 profiles of 1x6 with a length of 93 inches each.

Additionally, you will need a main access door measuring 30 inches wide and 6.7 feet in height.

To complete the roof, six segments of polycarbonate material will be required, each measuring 89 inches in length and with a thickness of 8mm. These polycarbonate segments will be used for the sloping roof section.

We highly recommend covering the empty spaces with polycarbonate pieces once the structure of your greenhouse is fully assembled. This will ensure optimal conditions for your plants and crops inside the greenhouse.

By following these guidelines, you will be able to effectively complete the construction of your greenhouse, providing a suitable environment for your plants and ensuring their growth and well-being.

Perfect for Gardenering, Your DIY Ram Pump

For DIY enthusiasts, here's your next adventure with a PVC project: building a Ram Pump. This project is simple to put together and can be extremely useful for off-grid living, gardening, DIY home projects, or landscaping. Find a customizable 3D model to suit your watering needs, review the parts list, and follow the step-by-step guide. Have fun with the process!

Finished Product in 3D!