Jump to content
  • WELCOME GUEST

    It looks as if you are viewing PalmTalk as an unregistered Guest.

    Please consider registering so as to take better advantage of our vast knowledge base and friendly community.  By registering you will gain access to many features - among them are our powerful Search feature, the ability to Private Message other Users, and be able to post and/or answer questions from all over the world. It is completely free, no “catches,” and you will have complete control over how you wish to use this site.

    PalmTalk is sponsored by the International Palm Society. - an organization dedicated to learning everything about and enjoying palm trees (and their companion plants) while conserving endangered palm species and habitat worldwide. Please take the time to know us all better and register.

    guest Renda04.jpg

RE-doing the greenhouse


DoomsDave

Recommended Posts

My greenhouse, actually a giant cold frame, was erected circa 2012, and now it's rotting.

The basic structure was made of pressure treated lumber; the parts that didn't get or stay too wet have held up well, while those that got and stayed wet have rotted, in some cases almost to nothing.

So, I'm going, if I can, to replace the horizontal shelves with stainless steel. Mesh is available from a local metals dealer for 6 dollars a pound, which will get expensive. Some have suggested shelves from old refrigerators, which I'll look into.

Anyone have any thoughts or experiences?

Thanks!

Plant Flowerpot Houseplant Grass Automotive tire

 

Plant Flowerpot Botany Wood Grass

  • Like 1

Let's keep our forum fun and friendly.

Any data in this post is provided 'as is' and in no event shall I be liable for any damages, including, without limitation, damages resulting from accuracy or lack thereof, insult, or lost profits or revenue, claims by third parties or for other similar costs, or any special, incidental, or consequential damages arising out of my opinion or the use of this data. The accuracy or reliability of the data is not guaranteed or warranted in any way and I disclaim liability of any kind whatsoever, including, without limitation, liability for quality, performance, merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose arising out of the use, or inability to use my data. Other terms may apply.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

The best I could I could find was plastic pallets you can cut them up with a chainsaw or a reciprocating saw there cheap I got these one free. They sell for $10 each at industrial wharehouses. Or when I built my deck I found some industrial platform decking not cheap but will last forever. They use it a walkways in national parks as well so tough very professional looking. Both are not going to rust or rot out.

IMG_3863.jpeg

IMG_3861.jpeg

IMG_3831.jpeg

IMG_6697.jpeg

IMG_6667.jpeg

  • Like 2
  • Upvote 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

As long as you have some overhead UV protection, go with plastic. Wood and thin metal degrade very fast and you can usually find modular plastic shelving at a bigbox store for decent prices.

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Dave, I used many products from this company when I rebuilt my greenhouse 25 years ago.  They offer waterproof plastic electrical boxes and fittings. stainless steel hardware, and much more.  I used these plastic panels for my bench surfaces.  They are still in perfect condition all these years later.  Also, the company does not have a minimum purchase, and has fast shipping.

https://www.teksupply.com/prod/pgha2215.html

 

 

  • Like 1
  • Upvote 2

San Francisco, California

Link to comment
Share on other sites

3 hours ago, Darold Petty said:

Dave, I used many products from this company when I rebuilt my greenhouse 25 years ago.  They offer waterproof plastic electrical boxes and fittings. stainless steel hardware, and much more.  I used these plastic panels for my bench surfaces.  They are still in perfect condition all these years later.  Also, the company does not have a minimum purchase, and has fast shipping.

https://www.teksupply.com/prod/pgha2215.html

 

 

very cool darold.  i am thinking of retrofitting my greenhouse so this link will come in handy.  

got a pic of your greenhouse with this product?  

cheers

tin

My Santa Clarita Oasis

"delectare et movere"

Link to comment
Share on other sites

On 10/27/2024 at 2:27 PM, amh said:

As long as you have some overhead UV protection, go with plastic. Wood and thin metal degrade very fast and you can usually find modular plastic shelving at a bigbox store for decent prices.

Might be worth considering. I also have size concerns as well, but thank you for a good tip

Let's keep our forum fun and friendly.

Any data in this post is provided 'as is' and in no event shall I be liable for any damages, including, without limitation, damages resulting from accuracy or lack thereof, insult, or lost profits or revenue, claims by third parties or for other similar costs, or any special, incidental, or consequential damages arising out of my opinion or the use of this data. The accuracy or reliability of the data is not guaranteed or warranted in any way and I disclaim liability of any kind whatsoever, including, without limitation, liability for quality, performance, merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose arising out of the use, or inability to use my data. Other terms may apply.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

59 minutes ago, DoomsDave said:

Might be worth considering. I also have size concerns as well, but thank you for a good tip

The plastic panels in the link @Darold Petty posted look like a really good Idea.  Also, cinder blocks can be a good alternative to wood, depending on the desired height.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I will provide images tomorrow,  :greenthumb:

  • Like 2

San Francisco, California

Link to comment
Share on other sites

The plastic pallets are quite effective and strong once filled up.

IMG_1306.jpeg

  • Like 1
  • Upvote 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Here are details of my greenhouse,  the first image is a 1/2x10 inch stainless steel all thread stud, washer, and nut which I have used as the foundation bolt for the Trex  sill plate.  The next images are the plastic, waterproof electrical boxes.  

( I purchased the NEMA 4x thermostats from Grainger.)

The last images  show the recommended plastic panels I use as the bench surface.  The bench framing is bronze anodized aluminum, with support for the panels on 12 inch centers.

IMG_0689.JPG

IMG_0695.JPG

IMG_0696.JPG

IMG_0690.JPG

IMG_0691.JPG

IMG_0692.JPG

  • Like 1
  • Upvote 1

San Francisco, California

Link to comment
Share on other sites

37 minutes ago, Darold Petty said:

Here are details of my greenhouse,  the first image is a 1/2x10 inch stainless steel all thread stud, washer, and nut which I have used as the foundation bolt for the Trex  sill plate.  The next images are the plastic, waterproof electrical boxes.  

( I purchased the NEMA 4x thermostats from Grainger.)

The last images  show the recommended plastic panels I use as the bench surface.  The bench framing is bronze anodized aluminum, with support for the panels on 12 inch centers.

IMG_0689.JPG

IMG_0695.JPG

IMG_0696.JPG

IMG_0690.JPG

IMG_0691.JPG

IMG_0692.JPG

Nice set up quality grower I see👍 some anthurium warocqueanum in there would do the trick well.

  • Like 1
  • Upvote 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

On 10/29/2024 at 11:43 AM, Darold Petty said:

Here are details of my greenhouse,  the first image is a 1/2x10 inch stainless steel all thread stud, washer, and nut which I have used as the foundation bolt for the Trex  sill plate.  The next images are the plastic, waterproof electrical boxes.  

( I purchased the NEMA 4x thermostats from Grainger.)

The last images  show the recommended plastic panels I use as the bench surface.  The bench framing is bronze anodized aluminum, with support for the panels on 12 inch centers.

IMG_0689.JPG

IMG_0695.JPG

IMG_0696.JPG

IMG_0690.JPG

IMG_0691.JPG

IMG_0692.JPG

Darold:

Thanks for the link and suggestion! Those poultry floor thingies look like they might work, at least for the "narrow side" of my greenhouse.

What did you use for uprights to support them in your greenhouse? I'm contemplating using wood (knowing it will need replacement too soon); I suspect you'll have another superior suggestion.

Muchas gracias from way hell down south . . . .

Let's keep our forum fun and friendly.

Any data in this post is provided 'as is' and in no event shall I be liable for any damages, including, without limitation, damages resulting from accuracy or lack thereof, insult, or lost profits or revenue, claims by third parties or for other similar costs, or any special, incidental, or consequential damages arising out of my opinion or the use of this data. The accuracy or reliability of the data is not guaranteed or warranted in any way and I disclaim liability of any kind whatsoever, including, without limitation, liability for quality, performance, merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose arising out of the use, or inability to use my data. Other terms may apply.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Dave,  I first built my greenhouse in 1982.  It was 300 square feet and featured all aluminum framing, fastened with aluminum 'pop-rivets'.  In year 2000 I disassembled it completely and  rebuilt it smaller, down to 200 square feet.  I used the left-over framing to construct the bench supports. 

I did have to purchase some additional aluminum angle metal, which was expensive !  :winkie:

My greenhouse is a brand called Sunglo.  It was an inexpensive unit in 1982, but a very good design.  When I reduced the greenhouse size in 2000 I re-used all the framing and just ordered new plastic glazing. 

  A quick internet search does not show a direct website for Sunglo, but apparently one can still be purchased through other sources, like the following link.  Alas, it seems that the bronze anodized is no longer offered, and the framing is now just mill finish aluminum.

https://epicgreenhouses.com/sunglo-greenhouses.php

 

  • Upvote 1

San Francisco, California

Link to comment
Share on other sites

55 minutes ago, Darold Petty said:

Dave,  I first built my greenhouse in 1982.  It was 300 square feet and featured all aluminum framing, fastened with aluminum 'pop-rivets'.  In year 2000 I disassembled it completely and  rebuilt it smaller, down to 200 square feet.  I used the left-over framing to construct the bench supports. 

I did have to purchase some additional aluminum angle metal, which was expensive !  :winkie:

My greenhouse is a brand called Sunglo.  It was an inexpensive unit in 1982, but a very good design.  When I reduced the greenhouse size in 2000 I re-used all the framing and just ordered new plastic glazing. 

  A quick internet search does not show a direct website for Sunglo, but apparently one can still be purchased through other sources, like the following link.  Alas, it seems that the bronze anodized is no longer offered, and the framing is now just mill finish aluminum.

https://epicgreenhouses.com/sunglo-greenhouses.php

 

Okay, thanks!

You answered an even more important question: will relatively inexpensive and light aluminum work in a greenhouse and the answer appears to be yes.

That's helpful because while stainless is an obvious choice, it's also expensive.  My local metals dealer has some for much more reasonable prices than stainless. I'm not a metallurgist, so I wasn't sure how aluminum would take a greenhouse.

Also, were you able to make those plastic chicken floor things hold together with sufficient rigidity without using horizontal supports? Looks like that might have been the case.

Thanks again!

Let's keep our forum fun and friendly.

Any data in this post is provided 'as is' and in no event shall I be liable for any damages, including, without limitation, damages resulting from accuracy or lack thereof, insult, or lost profits or revenue, claims by third parties or for other similar costs, or any special, incidental, or consequential damages arising out of my opinion or the use of this data. The accuracy or reliability of the data is not guaranteed or warranted in any way and I disclaim liability of any kind whatsoever, including, without limitation, liability for quality, performance, merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose arising out of the use, or inability to use my data. Other terms may apply.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Dave, the panels are oriented so that the bench depth is 24 inches,  They are supported continuously along the front and back 48 inch  edges, and on 12 inches centers throughout the surface area.  They are very solid, and will easily support 5 or 10 gallon pots of wet soil.

  • Like 1

San Francisco, California

Link to comment
Share on other sites

27 minutes ago, Darold Petty said:

Dave, the panels are oriented so that the bench depth is 24 inches,  They are supported continuously along the front and back 48 inch  edges, and on 12 inches centers throughout the surface area.  They are very solid, and will easily support 5 or 10 gallon pots of wet soil.

So they're supported in a grid pattern, front back and center? With aluminum?

Let's keep our forum fun and friendly.

Any data in this post is provided 'as is' and in no event shall I be liable for any damages, including, without limitation, damages resulting from accuracy or lack thereof, insult, or lost profits or revenue, claims by third parties or for other similar costs, or any special, incidental, or consequential damages arising out of my opinion or the use of this data. The accuracy or reliability of the data is not guaranteed or warranted in any way and I disclaim liability of any kind whatsoever, including, without limitation, liability for quality, performance, merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose arising out of the use, or inability to use my data. Other terms may apply.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

On 10/28/2024 at 8:52 AM, Darold Petty said:

Dave, I used many products from this company when I rebuilt my greenhouse 25 years ago.  They offer waterproof plastic electrical boxes and fittings. stainless steel hardware, and much more.  I used these plastic panels for my bench surfaces.  They are still in perfect condition all these years later.  Also, the company does not have a minimum purchase, and has fast shipping.

https://www.teksupply.com/prod/pgha2215.html

 

 

Did you use overlapping or non-overlapping, and why?


Thanks!

Let's keep our forum fun and friendly.

Any data in this post is provided 'as is' and in no event shall I be liable for any damages, including, without limitation, damages resulting from accuracy or lack thereof, insult, or lost profits or revenue, claims by third parties or for other similar costs, or any special, incidental, or consequential damages arising out of my opinion or the use of this data. The accuracy or reliability of the data is not guaranteed or warranted in any way and I disclaim liability of any kind whatsoever, including, without limitation, liability for quality, performance, merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose arising out of the use, or inability to use my data. Other terms may apply.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

 

Dave,  I used the overlapping panels, since the support bar  (12 inches on center)  underneath is only 1.25 inches wide.

San Francisco, California

Link to comment
Share on other sites

On 10/28/2024 at 3:36 AM, DoomsDave said:

My greenhouse, actually a giant cold frame, was erected circa 2012, and now it's rotting.

The basic structure was made of pressure treated lumber; the parts that didn't get or stay too wet have held up well, while those that got and stayed wet have rotted, in some cases almost to nothing.

So, I'm going, if I can, to replace the horizontal shelves with stainless steel. Mesh is available from a local metals dealer for 6 dollars a pound, which will get expensive. Some have suggested shelves from old refrigerators, which I'll look into.

Anyone have any thoughts or experiences?

Thanks!

Plant Flowerpot Houseplant Grass Automotive tire

 

Plant Flowerpot Botany Wood Grass

Ps @DoomsDave the first picture the poor little chamaedorea elegans on the ground can please pick him up and repot or plant him in the ground I can’t bare to see a little chamaedorea in such condition. 🙏

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Here’s an old greenhouse I built 24 years ago. Australian hardwoods last a lot longer but still rot away over time. The metal brace is the only repair I had to do when the wooden support rotted away with the rusted out tek screws . The whole bench crashing down what a mess that day. Now I never build anything out of timber living in the bush, concrete and steal or whatever material that’s not organic that won’t rot away. Eventually timber will get dry rot even if you keep it dry or white ants eat it in Australia steel eventually rusts away the refrigerator shelves you mentioned will do the job but will rust away sooner than later. I have a water source high in iron so steal mesh iam not an option to use as it will rust away,  @Darold Petty has the best looking and economical solution. Unfortunately plastic is here to stay it’s a modern world but definitely as a human race we should be looking for better alternatives for future generations, the only thing I want to leave for future generations is my palm garden not micro plastic in the ecosystem.

IMG_3553.jpeg

IMG_3551.jpeg

IMG_3549.jpeg

IMG_3554.jpeg

  • Upvote 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now



  • Recently Browsing

    • No registered users viewing this page.
×
×
  • Create New...