Features of glass greenhouses
All gardeners and gardeners think about how to collect the highest quality and great harvest. The traditional way of growing plants are greenhouses. One of the highest quality and beautiful recognized products made from glass. In this article we will look at the features and benefits of such greenhouses.
Special features
Experienced gardeners characterize glass greenhouses as structures that promote efficient growth and accelerated development of many plant crops.
There are several aspects to the main advantages.
- Impressive service life. Such greenhouses will last a long time. They are inert to various chemical and biological actions, which means that the structure will not rust, is not afraid of moisture, chemicals,insects and rodents.
- The undoubted advantage is the possibility of penetration of sunlight, which is important for each plant. Glass perfectly transmits the rays of the sun, which leads to a reduction in the ripening period of the fruit.
- Environmental friendliness. Quite an important factor for all nature lovers.
- Greenhouses from a double-glazed window have the increased level of thermal insulation.
- It is possible to mount the structure from the used material. This will allow you to save significantly, without having a detrimental effect on the quality of the product.
- Ease and ease of care. Glasses can be conveniently cleaned and washed, they will not deteriorate over time.
- If an unpleasant situation occurred and the glass was broken, you can always replace them.
- It tolerates various temperatures. That is why such greenhouses are used in different regions. When exposed to heat or frost, the material is not deformed, will not change its structure or size.
- Appearance. Such a greenhouse will look spectacular in the country. You can create the most original options that tell about your personality and help emphasize the style concept of the house.
Among all the many advantages, there are some disadvantages of glass greenhouses.
- Such a construction will require the creation of a solid foundation. The base must be strong and strong. Glass has considerable weight. That is why the design should be well thought out.
- It is worth remembering the fragility of such a material as glass. It can easily fall and break, subject to cracking. Therefore, one should be extremely careful and cautious while inside the product. Also afraid of glass of various mechanical damage. Even hail can significantly damage the product. It is better in this case to choose the options of tempered glass, you can also choose armored, reinforced. Of course, this will slightly increase costs, but the design will be more durable.
- The glass allows unobstructed sunshine. From this design quickly warms up. It is important to establish high-quality ventilation so that air flows around inside.
- As for the form, the glass models are made only in the form of a gable house.
- Glass to create a greenhouse should be impressive parameters.This complicates installation and maintenance a little.
- Such raw materials are capable of transmitting the ultraviolet spectrum A. And in the same C (important for the development and growth of plants) delays. In this case, it is worthwhile to use light-transmitting films to eliminate this drawback.
Despite all the drawbacks, experienced gardeners say that greenhouses made of glass are ideal for the backyard.
Specifications
The service life of the greenhouse made of glass will depend directly on the quality of the product and on the materials that are part of the model. When building it is necessary to consider snow loads. That is why you should make a sloping or gable sloping roof. To serve it for a long time, you should choose a glass thickness of 4-6 mm. It is worth noting that thicker options can crack, as the temperature drops inside and outside can be impressive. Often used for the frame aluminum or steel profiles.
Also the basis can develop from metal corners. You can make such a construction yourself if you have elementary welding skills. Pay particular attention to corrosion protection.Otherwise, the corners or profile under the influence of moisture and air over time will begin to collapse.
Variety of designs
There are various designs that will help you grow a good harvest in your summer cottage. One of the most common options is a tempered glass greenhouse, which you can easily create with your own hands using the necessary drawings. For the manufacture of such a model does not require impressive cash investments. Material can be easily obtained for a small amount.
The most popular options include glass and aluminum greenhouses. This raw material is quite light and practical, it is good for the various vicissitudes of the environment.
The design itself is presented in several versions.
- Stationary options created from aluminum and glass. Such a model is assembled with bolts. Here it is necessary to provide window vents.
- The model created from aluminum systems with a sliding design. It is noteworthy that the side parts can be opened to air the room. This is especially convenient and important on a hot, sunny day.Such greenhouses are mainly used in the summer. However, they can be insulated for the winter period.
The roof of the structures should be single or gable. Another type of construction in the country, which is preferred by many gardeners is a greenhouse from plastic windows. This design can not be called budget. Plastic profile with good glass will allow you to build a great option for the winter. In such a greenhouse will be kept warm. You can also save on heating the room. Metal constructions are more reliable and practical in relation to other types of construction. Even with the deformation of the base structure will remain intact.
There are also projects that involve the creation of a greenhouse using a metal frame. It will be difficult to install glass here. It is necessary to make additional wooden frames that are attached to the frame and after that glazing occurs. Similar with the iron frame.
Now on the market you can find various options for such greenhouses. Often the base is installed on a concrete monolithic foundation. It is compacted with rubble to a depth of about ten centimeters.Such models of glass must have a door. Well, if they are of a compartment type. It is also important to install air vents for effective ventilation. Usually they are placed on the ends of the model.
Among the popular models can be distinguished "Lux" and "Luck." The latter is a design that is quite functional. The windows, which are located on the ceiling, help to ventilate the greenhouse. Also, the required moisture and heat parameters will be maintained. Hermetic greenhouse glazing with a plastic profile makes the design reliable. It will not crack in the cold or dry under the scorching rays of the sun.
As for the “Lux” models, they are available in two versions: the gable house and non-standard models. The standard greenhouse will have a width of three meters. The length will be six meters, and the height of the greenhouse - 2.95 meters. Also in the kit you can see the transom for ventilation, there is an entrance door, thermal actuators, internal partitions. Non-standard options have a stylish and creative appearance. This greenhouse will be the highlight of your backyard.Here you can see the trapezoidal, angular, multifaceted buildings, buildings in the English style with three-dimensional architecture. All this will help to emphasize the individuality of the site.
Materials
Not so long ago boards were used for the frame of the greenhouse, as well as metal rods. For the material that covered the product, used polyethylene greenhouse film. Doors while welded from the corners. Now you can buy a variety of products from a variety of raw materials.
When creating greenhouses, aluminum profiles are now one of the most sought-after options for frames. This material is relatively inexpensive in cost, practical and reliable. Structures of various complexity and forms are also constructed from metal. Also, aluminum does not rot, as, for example, a frame made of wood. This construction looks solid and stylish. It can be easily and naturally assembled and disassembled at any time. The glass profile of such products is characterized by ease of maintenance. Pollution is quickly removed from the surface. For the construction of this option will need a number of aluminum pipes.Their thickness should be 2-2.5 centimeters. Also worth stocking up fasteners.
The material for creating fasteners for glass will depend on the design chosen. In order to effectively seal the gap, you should use a sealant. If you decide to choose an aluminum construction, then be sure to take care of the quality of the profile. Durable robust frame should be the main design. Also glass greenhouses can be built with an iron frame or brick. For a solid base and plexiglass, the same quality requirements apply.
Many gardeners are wondering which greenhouse is better to choose - from glass or polycarbonate. Definitely answer will not work. Glass is less likely to scratch, retains its transparent properties. On the other hand, polycarbonate buildings are much more stable, and they are somewhat cheaper than glass options.
Frame
The hothouse glass option will become the successful decision for your seasonal dacha. The important point is the base of the glass greenhouse. You should always take into account the mass of the product, features of the geodesic conditions, the height of groundwater and many other characteristics.If you make even a small mistake in the calculations, the ground will simply squeeze out the base. This will entail adverse effects, such as cracks, deformation, destruction of the glass model.
Often, a shallow foundation is used for a lighter structure. It lay at a depth of 700-800 mm, width - 300 mm. There is also a small drawback - such a foundation will be located in the zone of ground freezing. There is a risk of devastating effects, especially in the spring during the flood period. To avoid such adverse situations, it is worth laying a sand-crushed-stone cushion, drainage, drainage, and also strengthen the structure.
Particular attention should be paid to the shape of the greenhouse. It is important to know that glass bends only on a special technology. It is not cheap, so often modern buildings build a rectangular type. The roof is always single or gable. Popularly now the implementation of the combined options under the glass. Such a frame will be created from a bar 50-100 * 50-100 mm using old window frames, double-glazed windows in the PVC profile. There is a high-quality piping along the upper tips, where the arched roof is installed.
To create a greenhouse yourself, you should choose a ready-made version, adjust the drawings that will fit your product parameters. Greenhouses made of glass can be separately standing under a different roof. There are options that are attached to the house. They come mainly with a single-pitch roof. This is optimal for small areas.
A solid, reliable foundation is a guarantee of structural stability. Experts advise installing a greenhouse of glass on a monolithic block or strip foundation. As for the depth of the bookmark, it should be more than 80 centimeters. The base is made of wood or steel. It is important that such a greenhouse has an inclination angle of at least 15 degrees. It is worth laying waterproofing material on the lower strapping bars. You can buy or use old glass for a similar construction. Installation takes place from the bottom up, the material is placed on the supports using a layer of putty. It should be noted that the glass must be sealed, without any cracks, so that as a result of the installation the material does not crumble in the hands.
Glass subtleties
Those who want to save their finances can make a greenhouse with their own hands. Here you can create a creative design that will delight not only the plants, but also the household with its attractive appearance. The main thing - to choose the right project. In the construction guide drawing. All the necessary tools and materials should be prepared in advance.
The main elements of the design of products include the presence of the foundation, frame, walls, roof, air vents. If you plan to create a large area for your crops, then you should take care of heating the room. Glazed area cools quickly in cold weather. For these purposes, you can purchase a heating radiator, a carriage furnace, infrared heaters, use cable heating of the soil. The latter types can be attributed to the more modern. They are widely used for heating greenhouses.
Greenhouses, manufactured independently, are often based on wooden or metal frames. To create your own design, you must purchase the necessary materials in a special store, study all the recommendations of expertsas well as view master class videos.
The main stages of self-construction include the following nuances.
- Choose a location. It is necessary to find the landscape without any flaws, shadows, groundwater.
- Lay the foundation. This moment is one of the most important in the construction of the greenhouse.
- The construction of the frame. For temporary construction suitable option from the boards. If you decide to use the greenhouse next season, it is better to create a frame made of aluminum or other metal. So you will make a design strong.
- It should work in detail the mount. Glass canvases can be attached with clips. Screws and screws are suitable for this purpose. To fasten the design can also be bolted.
- The roof can be made according to the type of walls. Just cover it with a wrap. This will cover the vegetation from the burning sun rays and make the construction easy, as well as the structure itself.
Do not forget to glue the glass so that the whole structure is airtight. You can create an ideal greenhouse with the help of a well-designed project. Also, do not forget to comply with all rules and safety standards.
Tips and tricks
If you want to buy a greenhouse, then you should carefully and responsibly approach this issue. Of course, to make yourself a similar design will be much cheaper. However, if you are not confident in your abilities, then it is better not to waste your nerves, time and money. High-quality models will allow you to get the desired harvest, as well as profitable to decorate your garden. Before you go to the store for shopping, it is worth exploring in detail the reviews of customers. Also review the characteristics of the product that is right for you.
Ready greenhouses can be selected in various formats. They are of different sizes and quality: spacious and small, cheap and expensive. Take into account the time of year when you will grow crops. For example, it may be a summer greenhouse or winter version, where there is heating and autonomous water supply.
Be sure to determine in advance the location of the object. So you can accurately calculate the parameters of the product. It is necessary to conduct a thorough analysis of the area, to note the source of the water supply. Getting the ready greenhouse, look, whether the parameters necessary to you match.If you make an item to order, then tell the customer in detail all the requirements and conditions. Check if the product has instruction and drawing.
Of course, the more expensive the greenhouse, so it will be better, better glazed. And this parameter is the basis of your successful construction and use of the subject. The dimensions of the glass will directly depend on the type of frame construction. The ideal indicator is a minimum thickness of 4 mm.
If you use a winter construction, then you should take care of the heating system, create additional light sources. If at construction ready-made glazed frames are used, then do not forget to remove all accessories, and also to check whether the glass is securely fixed. If you want to get more impressive thermal insulation parameters, then you should use single-chamber or two-chamber double-glazed windows. However, the cost of such a construction will increase here, but you can always please yourself with a fresh harvest.
Experienced experts advise you to inspect the product yourself before purchasing. You must ensure the high quality of the product, no defects and deformations.Look, whether all doors, window leaves open. There are no scratches or creases. If you find a defect, then such products should not be purchased.
When making a greenhouse yourself, you should pay attention to the design of the vents and the ventilation system. Well, if transom will have automatic systems that react to air temperature.
Beautiful examples
There are many attractive options that you can purchase in the store from modern manufacturers. However, the best way to create a creative greenhouse will be its independent construction. And not necessarily that it will be some expensive option. You can show imagination and create a fashion model at a reasonable price. For example, the most economical option would be a glass greenhouse, which consists entirely of window frames. Such a composition will look simple, but at the same time will emphasize the concept of your home, will give comfort to a summer cottage.
Material for such buildings can be collected near the landfills, where almost every day people carry their old windows. So simple and easy you can get the necessary elements for construction. It is also worth taking care of the foundation and frame.It is worth collecting a product with use of self-tapping screws, cement, construction foam, and also silicone sealant. It is possible to use wood for the foundation.
Do not forget to perform the following work:
- prepare the ground, laying crushed stone and cement with cement for 15-20 centimeters;
- Lay a layer of cement completely with stones or bricks and refill the cement;
- then lay the bricks and stones so tight that the bottom row is not visible;
- lay on this design several layers of waterproofing roofing material.
Then work is carried out on the preparation of window frames, laying the floor and others. As a result of your own work, you will be able to build a useful product for yourself where you can cultivate plants.
You can create a simpler version, which is an extension to a residential building. Such a greenhouse will require much less materials. It is located on the south side. So the plants will receive the right amount of sunlight.
An interesting option will be with a raised one slope above the other. In this case, a continuous row of transom is built into the vertical wall. This will make good ventilation, which will have a beneficial effect on the plants and the microclimate of the room.
There are options that are located below the ground level.Such a greenhouse will be made of solid brick or concrete wall. Such a design will have high thermal insulation. Prefer to create a winter version - then this design will be perfect. However, there is a significant drawback to this model - the high cost. You will need a lot of materials, as well as large labor costs, to build it.
For a perfect distribution of sunlight, you can create a complex high building with glazing elements of irregular shape. Such a model will be resistant to wind gusts in all directions. It will be great to skip the lighting, and the plants will feel comfortable inside.
The design in the form of a pyramid will create the most optimal temperature conditions. Its design is a bit more complicated than that of a standard greenhouse with a gable roof, but it is simpler than a dome greenhouse.
Now you know the advantages and disadvantages of glass greenhouses. Consider them to achieve your goals. Do not regret the money spent. The better the model is, the bigger and better the crop you will be able to collect in the future.If you purchase a product in the store, then preview all the models in advance and select the appropriate one. You should also read reviews about the manufacturer in order to know whether to trust him or not.
How to assemble an aluminum greenhouse, see the video below.