Chloe Zhang
Plastic greenhouses are a cheap and convenient way to start growing your own produce, but they can be vulnerable to wind damage. In high-wind areas, plastic greenhouses can be blown away unless they are properly anchored to the ground. There are several ways to do this, including using land or mobile home anchors, sleeper rails, or bolting the greenhouse to threaded rods drilled into buried pavers. Adding weight to the greenhouse by doubling the stacked rows can also help to windproof it.
How to stop a plastic greenhouse from blowing away
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Use of weights | Cinder blocks, logs, sleeper rails, and double-stacked rows of 6' x 6's |
| Bolting | Bolt the greenhouse to pavers with threaded rods, or to 4x4 bases with lag bolts |
| Anchoring | Land or mobile home anchors, or rebar spikes with welded nuts and washers |
| Piers or foundation | Permanent structure that may require a permit, depending on size and building code |
| Cable ties | Replacement plastic pieces cable-tied to the frame |
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What You'll Learn
Use heavy materials like metal and glass instead of plastic
When building a greenhouse, it is important to consider the local climate, weather, and seasonal patterns. The materials used must be durable enough to withstand the elements, especially if your greenhouse is not built on a stable foundation.
One way to ensure durability is to use heavy materials like metal and glass instead of plastic. Metal, such as steel, can be used for the frame of the greenhouse. While steel is more difficult to work with for novice builders, it is a strong and long-lasting option. Pressure-treated wood is another option for the frame. This type of wood is infused with preservatives that make it resistant to rot and decay and help deter insects and pests.
For the covering of your greenhouse, glass panels are a traditional and sturdy choice. They allow the highest percentage of light to enter, which is beneficial for plant growth. Tempered glass is recommended as it shatters into small, less dangerous pieces if broken. Double-pane glass is also a better insulator than single-pane. While glass can be more expensive upfront and susceptible to hail damage, it can last for many years with proper care.
If you opt for glass panels, ensure your greenhouse has adequate ventilation during hot days as plants can burn in excessive heat. Additionally, consider using old windows or glass panels to save money.
By choosing heavy and durable materials like metal and glass, you can create a strong and long-lasting greenhouse that withstands harsh weather conditions and provides an optimal environment for plant growth.
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Bolt your greenhouse to the ground with anchors
One effective way to secure your greenhouse is to bolt it to the ground with anchors. This method ensures that your greenhouse remains firmly in place, even in high winds. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
First, you'll need to purchase suitable anchors, such as mobile home anchors or land anchors. These anchors are designed to provide a secure and sturdy foundation for structures. They are typically made of strong materials like metal and are equipped with features to grip the ground tightly.
Next, you'll want to determine the placement of the anchors. Depending on the size of your greenhouse, you'll likely need multiple anchors positioned at the corners and possibly in the middle as well. Mark the spots where you plan to install the anchors, ensuring they align with the greenhouse frame. This step is crucial for ensuring even weight distribution and maximum stability.
After marking the anchor points, you'll need to drill holes into the ground at those spots. The depth of the holes should be sufficient to accommodate the length of the anchors, typically around one to two feet deep. This depth ensures that the anchors are securely embedded in the ground and can withstand strong winds.
Once the holes are drilled, place the anchors into the holes. Make sure the anchors are level and securely fixed in the ground. You can use a variety of tools and methods for this step, such as driving the anchors into the ground with a mallet or using power tools to screw them in, depending on the type of anchor you've chosen.
Finally, with the anchors firmly in place, you can now bolt your greenhouse to the anchors. Use bolts that are appropriate for the material of your greenhouse frame, ensuring they are tight and secure. This step will vary depending on the specific design of your greenhouse, but the goal is to create a solid connection between the greenhouse and the anchors, forming an anchor system that keeps your greenhouse firmly grounded.
By following these steps and bolting your greenhouse to the ground with anchors, you can have peace of mind knowing that your greenhouse is well-protected from strong winds and won't blow away.
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Bury threaded rods in the ground to bolt the greenhouse to
Burying threaded rods in the ground to bolt your greenhouse to is a reliable method to prevent it from blowing away in the wind. This method involves creating a concrete foundation for your greenhouse, which provides a solid and secure hold. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you with the process:
Step 1: Prepare the Ground
Start by marking the location of your greenhouse on the ground. Dig trenches for the stringers to sit in, ensuring they are level and stable. The trenches should be deep enough so that the greenhouse sits at ground level when installed.
Step 2: Assemble the Framework
Create a framework for your concrete foundation by using 2x10x20 stringers. Place the stringers on either side of the posts, aligning them with the threaded rods. You can use dirt or sand to hold the stringers in place horizontally and vertically. Ensure the forms line up, and the greenhouse seams meet smoothly.
Step 3: Secure the Threaded Rods
Before pouring the concrete, cut the threaded rods to the appropriate length. Typically, a length of 16 inches is recommended. Skewer the threaded rod through the post form, and secure it with washers and nuts. If you're using concrete tubes, consider placing a piece of rebar inside the tube, bending one end into a 'U' shape to provide additional strength.
Step 4: Pour the Concrete
Mix concrete in a concrete mixer, wheelbarrow, or large container. Pour the concrete into the trenches, ensuring it surrounds the threaded rods and stringers. Allow the concrete to cure for 72 hours to one week. This curing time ensures that the concrete sets properly before you apply any additional force or weight.
Step 5: Attach the Greenhouse
Once the concrete has cured, you can attach your greenhouse to the foundation. Secure the greenhouse to the concrete foundation using bolts and washers. Ensure that the greenhouse is level and firmly attached to the foundation.
By following these steps and burying threaded rods in the ground, you can effectively secure your plastic greenhouse and prevent it from blowing away in high winds. This method provides a strong and durable solution, ensuring the safety and stability of your greenhouse structure.
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Add weight with sleepers or 4x4 bases
Adding weight to your plastic greenhouse with sleepers or 4x4 bases is a great way to ensure it doesn't blow away. Here are some detailed steps and considerations to help you secure your greenhouse effectively:
Firstly, it's important to level the ground where you plan to place your greenhouse. Clear the area, grade it with sand or cement, and ensure it is as level as possible. This step is crucial for achieving a stable base.
Next, consider using a weed barrier or weed membrane. This will help prevent weeds from growing through and potentially destabilizing your structure. Lay the weed barrier over the leveled ground before adding your chosen base material.
Now, you can start adding weight with sleepers or 4x4 bases. Hardwood sleepers, such as African or Indian Azobe, are excellent options as they are hard-wearing and rot-proof, even when untreated. These sleepers can be screwed onto the greenhouse's frame to provide stability and weight. If you're using reclaimed sleepers, be aware of the potential risks associated with creosote treatments. Modern, pressure-treated timber is a safer alternative.
When placing the sleepers, ensure they are secure and cannot move independently, as this could cause stress on the greenhouse structure and potentially crack the glass. You may want to consider bolting the sleepers to the ground or using a concrete foundation for added stability.
Additionally, consider the weight of your sleepers. Calculate the total base weight required to keep your greenhouse anchored, especially if you plan to use glazing or glass.
Finally, if you're concerned about pests and mould infections, a concrete foundation is recommended. While sleepers can be effective, concrete provides a more permanent solution that will also protect your greenhouse from burrowing pests.
By following these steps and considerations, you can effectively add weight to your plastic greenhouse with sleepers or 4x4 bases, ensuring it remains securely in place even during high winds.
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Cable-tie plastic pieces to the frame
First, you will need to source some replacement plastic pieces that are compatible with your greenhouse frame. These can be purchased online or from a garden centre. It is worth checking that these pieces are the correct size and thickness to ensure a snug fit.
Once you have the plastic pieces, you can begin attaching them to the frame. Start by lining up the edges of the plastic with the frame, ensuring that they are flush and there are no gaps. Then, take your cable ties and feed them through the holes or slots in the plastic pieces. Secure the cable ties tightly, but be careful not to over-tighten as this may cause the plastic to warp or crack.
Depending on the size and design of your greenhouse, you may need to attach multiple cable ties at regular intervals along the frame to ensure a strong hold. It is also a good idea to check the tension of the cable ties periodically, as they may loosen over time due to wind or temperature changes.
By following these steps, you can effectively secure your plastic greenhouse and prevent it from blowing away in high winds. This method is a cost-effective solution that can be easily reversed if you need to move or replace your greenhouse in the future.
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Frequently asked questions
You can try securing it with anchors, such as land or mobile home anchors.
You can try drilling holes in the middle of some pavers and bolting threaded rods into them before burying them in the ground and bolting the greenhouse to them. Alternatively, you can use 4x4 bases bolted to the greenhouse and anchored into the ground with a 2-foot-long rebar spike.
You can add weight to the structure by doubling the rows that the greenhouse is attached to.
You can try to cable tie the plastic pieces to the frame.
