You finally purchased all new windows, now what to do with all those old windows. This is a fantast project for an avant garde gardener or the green thumb who needs a good place to keep all the home grown herbs.

If you are an expert DIY’er you should be able to tackle this little project with no problem.

Materials:

  • Old windows
  • Lumber (for the frame)
  • Screws
  • Caulk
  • Latches
  • Door
  • Fan
  • Roofing material
  • Gravel (optional)

The first thing to do is layout the pattern of the windows that will make the two equal sides. Its ok if it doesn’t fit perfectly you can easily have a piece of glass cut and caulk it into place or add a piece of wood to fill the hole. The size of the greenhouse will depend on the size and the amount of windows you have.   For the other two smaller sizes, don’t for get to leave an opening for a door in one end and a fan in the other. This is key to having a successful greenhouse.

Next scope out where your greenhouse will be located and make sure the ground is level. If not take the necessary steps to flatten and grade the area properly.

Using the windows you chose as a guide, construct a frame for each wall. Using good lumber is important because the structure that holds the weight of all the windows. Using 2 x 4s for studs and 4 x 4s for corner posts will give you sturdy structures. Choose a length that allows at these 14” of the stud to be placed in the ground for support.

Screen Shot 2014-11-12 at 3.08.32 PMThe roof can be made out of windows or if you don’t have enough you can get a clear lightweight, waterproof plastic that would work well. Keep in mind venation is key so if you have the ability to prop up the roof at times that is ideal. So be sure not to completely screw closed any of the windows so they can’t open

Finally just caulk and gaps and paint as desired. Additionally you can and a gravel for the flooring, which is good for drainage and heat storage.  Add shelves a
nd plants and you are all set for year round gardening in your one of a kind green house!  Are you an avid gardener? Have you ever built your own green house? Do you have any amazing uses for old windows? Tells us about it!