Long story short: Located in Northeastern Pennsylvania, USA. I’ve always wanted a greenhouse but can’t afford a pre-fab, so I went the DIY route. With my partners help, I constructed the frame with metal and PVC pipes. I purchased plenty of 6 mil greenhouse plastic, four large ground anchors (rated for 125 lb force each) and planned to use masonry blocks at the base for additional security. I researched what the highest wind speeds were in our area (20 mph,) and local building code requires wind resistance up to 90-120mph. I knew it could be destroyed by wind or snow, I was just going to make my best effort and see what happens. We wouldn’t get that far because our neighbor came over and pulled my partner aside and said it won’t work. Partner now thinks it’s a bad idea and won’t help me continue construction.
I’ve been trying to come up with different ways to make it work, but partner is understandably skeptical and discouraged. Although I can certainly handle finishing it, I wouldn’t dream of trying to continue this against my partner, and neighbor’s advice/wishes. The whole situation has become very embarrassing to me. I don’t want to have wasted money/supplies on nothing, I’ve been staring at this hulking skeleton of my dreams and I just want it done or gone.
I understand the clearing in the yard is a corridor for wind. Third photo is facing directly left from the “greenhouse,” for reference. I would put it against the house (not pictured) for a wind-break, if I thought it would get any sun there but the open yard seems to be the only place. Any advice would be appreciated. Is my project doomed or can I salvage it?
by _jamzz
9 Comments
Edit, to add: The structure isn’t directly below the power lines as the perspective would suggest. It’s about 10 feet over and the lines are over 50 feet up.
Just do it, if it colapses you will learn from it, your half way there. Add some extra structure if you want. Nobody ever succeeded from be afraid of the “what ifs?”
I have learnt so much from trial and error, it hurts a bit more when it cost you, but thats what makes you remember it. People are afraid of their shadow most days. Every step forward is making something happen, education, production and elevation. You will only grow from the experience, including the dillemmas along the way.
Wait a second, you’d need some sort of code or permit for a structure like this? It’s a carport tent. I can’t imagine those requiring a permit or code.
Just build that shit. I’ve got a pop up greenhouse that’s essentially a glorified shade canopy with greenhouse plastic held down with tent stakes. You’ll be fine.
Add some angled bracing to the uprights at the bottom corners in both directions, and add poles/rafters between the arches to prevent them from spreading apart. Install some ground anchors to keep it from blowing away. https://ibb.co/02xkGrM <—drawing of where to add bracing. 1/2″ EMT conduit would probably be adequate for bracing. Here’s an easy way to attach the bracing to your other pipes: https://youtu.be/ZAQdzWZTZME?si=VyjASKn7GvqodBm3
This vid has a good method for drilling through round: pipe https://youtu.be/1XX907nf2bs?si=3s0HO6f_LLL2UII5
Use a cobalt drill bit to save time drilling through steel.
Sounds like you put solid thought into it, don’t be embarrassed! Idk where your neighbor is getting off shooting down your plans (or why they wouldn’t talk to you directly) but screw them, I say go for it! You don’t know until you try!
Just do it..
I don’t think building code applies for temporary garden structures. It applies for permanent buildings, barns, additions to your house, or permanent greenhouses over a specific size. The kind of greenhouse your pic showed is sort of a glorified garden shade/protecter, but can definitely be reinforced and tethered or staked for more stability for the winds and snow loads.
You might consider contacting a local attorney and requesting a free consultation, or give your town/county gardening extension a call. Good luck and best wishes! 🙏🦋
Forget the greenhouse. Make sure the piping is anchored and throw some verticle rope tie downs so your tomatoes and other climbers have a nice trellis to grow on. In Pennsylvania, you need a stronger structure, those plastic things always blow away.