DIY greenhouse: step-by-step instructions with double-wall panels
In the Black Forest, characterized by dense forests and breathtaking scenery, gardening plays a vital role. A greenhouse is an essential feature in most gardens here. It offers the opportunity to protect plants from the Black Forest's changeable weather and provide them with a consistent temperature, allowing fruits and vegetables to be grown year-round. DIY greenhouses made from durable twin-wall polycarbonate sheets are particularly popular and blend perfectly into the natural beauty of the Black Forest.
That's why a DIY greenhouse made of double-wall sheets is worth it
The twin-wall polycarbonate sheets used in the Black Forest and other regions of Germany are plastic sheets that are particularly durable, weather-resistant, and shatterproof. These properties are crucial in a region with often unpredictable weather, such as the Black Forest. Furthermore, they offer high UV protection and excellent thermal insulation. Visually, 6mm twin-wall sheets are similar to conventional glass sheets and therefore blend perfectly into the natural surroundings of the Black Forest.
Build a greenhouse out of double-wall sheets – here’s how it works!
You can build a greenhouse yourself in the Black Forest in just a few steps. All you need is some manual skills and the right tools.
1. Prepare
First, decisions must be made regarding the construction method and material for the greenhouse and its foundation. The appropriate material must also be obtained. The required tools must also be provided. Which includes:
- a saw,
- a cordless screwdriver,
- Wood screws and screws with washers,
- a spirit level as well
- Wood glue and mounting brackets.
A frame made of metal or wood is required for the foundation. A foundation made of concrete is also conceivable. Double-wall panels are used for the walls and roof of the greenhouse.
2. Choice of location in the Black Forest
The perfect location for the greenhouse in the Black Forest should be sunny. Therefore, southern exposure should be considered to make the most of the limited sunlight. Also make sure that there are no shade trees near the greenhouse. In the middle of the picturesque Black Forest landscape, the site should also be windless to enable better heat retention.
3. Measure and prepare materials
First, the area where the greenhouse will be built needs to be measured. The foundation will be laid on this site . Next, the materials for the greenhouse's frame are laid out on level ground. Due to the hilly terrain in the Black Forest, it may be necessary to remove or add soil.
4. Creating the basic framework
The individual struts for the basic framework are first glued together with wood glue before they are screwed together or connected using a fastening bracket. Lastly, cross braces are attached. These are intended to stabilize and relieve the double-wall plates.
In order to integrate a door into the greenhouse, a crossbar with two vertical wooden beams must be inserted on the gable side.
5. Laying the multi-wall panels
Before the twin-wall polycarbonate sheets can be installed, their open chambers must be sealed to prevent the ingress of dirt, moisture, and pests. This is particularly important when the greenhouse is located near a forest. A breathable tape is suitable for this purpose. Profile systems are used to attach the twin-wall sheets; the sheets are inserted into these profiles. The twin-wall sheets are first mounted on the back of the greenhouse and then on the sides.
6. Covering the roof
The roof should be sloped either on one or both sides to ensure that the precipitation, which is often abundant in the Black Forest, does not accumulate on the roof but can flow away. The panels for the roof are laid on a crossbar at a distance of approx. 50 to 80 cm. It is recommended to drill holes in the panels and fix them to the base structure using screws with washers. The washers can prevent precipitation from penetrating as they seal the resulting holes.
Conclusion
A greenhouse in the Black Forest offers plants protection from the region's extreme weather conditions, as well as from wildlife , and can be built even without prior construction experience. Twin-wall polycarbonate sheets are ideal for the walls and roof. However, it is essential to ensure that all drill holes are properly sealed to prevent moisture and pests from entering.
