I found an old picnic bench table and this fan and shelf in the garbage. I figured I can use them in my greenhouse and save them from a landfill.
Use a good outdoor caulk and seal all the cracks and holes between windows. Paint the wood to protect it from the weather when knowing how to build a greenhouse from old windows.
I was unhappy with having to remove the fan/vent window and having to prop it against something while cooling the greenhouse during the day. The frame was already designed to fit the window into it. I decided to have it slide up and be held in place.
I started by salvaging some hinges from an old entertainment center. They are the kind that sit completely outside the door. Plus these had a unique shape that fit around a right angle. This allowed the wooden “stops” to swing in place and hold the window up while I was venting or when the fan is in place.
Across the frame I nailed some boards to hold the fan window against the frame. Lastly, I found an old pulley and fastened it to the window so I can pull it up easily.
A local community greenhouse was torn down and replaced. I was able to get some great parts. Here is a picture of the new window system. It originally opened the windows on the side of the greenhouse. The wheel turns and rotates the gear attached to the pipe opening the windows. Makes opening and shutting easy. While every window now must be open at the same time, I can control the angle at which they are open.
Also pictured is a gutter claimed from the trash. The hinge side of the roof windows always leaked profusely. The gutter catches the water and stores it in a bucket for easy watering.
Spring Shading: Bought some secondhand rolling shades which are working great when knowing how to build a greenhouse from old windows. They easily roll up and down the south facing wall while not taking up too much room.
Here is the greenhouse in a mild winter. I overwinter many potted perennials inside on how to build a greenhouse from old windows from my end. To insulate the roof, I stretch a sheet of poly across the top to keep out the drafts.
All the wood is doing well. I hope that, with care, the greenhouse will last over 10 years. It has changed the way I garden, making my back yard much more productive.
Could this be the project that’s perfect for improving your garden? ?
Thanks to cheft for this great project on how to build a greenhouse from old windows.
Energy Efficiency in Your Greenhouse
Building a greenhouse from old windows is a fantastic way to upcycle materials while creating a nurturing environment for your plants. Ensuring your greenhouse is energy efficient can help reduce costs and environmental impact. Here are some strategies to maximize energy efficiency in your greenhouse.
Utilizing Thermal Mass
One effective way to increase energy efficiency is by incorporating thermal mass into your greenhouse design. Materials like stone, brick, or water barrels can absorb heat during the day and release it slowly at night, maintaining a more stable temperature. When learning how to build a greenhouse from old windows, consider adding these elements to help regulate the internal climate naturally.
Passive Solar Heating
Design your greenhouse to maximize sunlight exposure, especially during winter months. Orienting the structure to capture the most sunlight and using old windows with good solar gain properties can significantly reduce the need for additional heating. Implementing passive solar heating techniques is crucial when figuring out how to build a greenhouse from old windows effectively.
Insulation Techniques
Proper insulation is key to retaining heat within your greenhouse. Use bubble wrap or thermal screens to insulate the old windows, especially during colder months. This simple yet effective method helps keep your greenhouse warm without excessive energy consumption. Insulating your greenhouse is an essential step in how to build a greenhouse from old windows for energy efficiency.
Ventilation and Air Circulation
Good ventilation is necessary for maintaining a healthy greenhouse environment, but it should be managed efficiently. Use vents and fans to circulate air, but consider installing automated systems that open and close vents based on temperature and humidity levels. This ensures your greenhouse stays ventilated without losing excessive heat, an important consideration in how to build a greenhouse from old windows.
Energy-Efficient Lighting
While natural light is ideal, supplemental lighting may be necessary, especially during shorter days. Opt for LED grow lights, which are energy-efficient and effective for plant growth. Integrating these lights into your setup when building a greenhouse from old windows can reduce energy use while ensuring your plants receive adequate light.
Water Management
Efficient water use also contributes to energy savings. Install a rainwater collection system to utilize natural resources for watering your plants. Drip irrigation systems can further reduce water waste and ensure consistent moisture levels. This sustainable approach should be part of your plan when you learn how to build a greenhouse from old windows.
Ensuring energy efficiency in your greenhouse from old windows not only helps the environment but also reduces operational costs. Incorporate these strategies into your greenhouse design to create a sustainable and productive growing space.
Conclusion
Knowing how to build a greenhouse from old windows is an affordable and environmentally friendly initiative. This method not only recycles goods but also generates a special and useful area for plant development. If well planned and constructed, your greenhouse will be a useful and sustainable addition to your landscape.
