how to attach greenhouse plastic to wood frame
Attaching greenhouse plastic to a wood frame is a crucial step in constructing a functional and effective greenhouse. Here’s a general guide on how to do it:
Materials and Tools Needed:
- Greenhouse plastic sheeting
- Wood frame structure (already built)
- Screws or nails
- Staples or greenhouse clips
- Lath strips or furring strips
- Measuring tape
- Utility knife or scissors
- Drill or hammer
- Safety goggles
Steps:
- Prepare the Greenhouse Frame: Ensure that your wood frame structure is complete, level, and securely anchored in place. It should be ready to accept the greenhouse plastic.
- Measure and Cut the Plastic Sheeting: Unroll your greenhouse plastic and measure it to fit the dimensions of your greenhouse frame. Leave some excess plastic on all sides to allow for proper attachment. Use a utility knife or scissors to cut the plastic sheeting to the required size.
- Attach Lath or Furring Strips: To secure the plastic to the wood frame, you’ll need to create a stable attachment surface. Attach lath strips or furring strips to the wood frame horizontally or vertically, depending on your preference. These strips will serve as anchors for the plastic.
- If using screws: Pre-drill holes in the strips to prevent splitting, and then screw them into the wood frame.
- If using nails: Hammer the nails through the strips and into the wood frame.
- Secure the Plastic at One End: Begin at one end of your greenhouse. Unroll the plastic sheeting over the frame, allowing it to overlap the sides and bottom slightly. Secure the edge of the plastic to the wood frame using staples or greenhouse clips.
- Tighten and Straighten: Carefully pull the plastic sheeting taut over the frame to eliminate wrinkles or sagging. Make sure the plastic is evenly distributed and extends to the opposite end of the frame.
- Secure the Opposite End: Once the plastic is straight and taut, secure the opposite end to the wood frame with staples or clips. Ensure that it’s evenly tensioned.
- Secure the Sides: Now, work on securing the sides of the plastic sheeting to the wood frame. Begin in the center of one side and work your way towards the corners, pulling the plastic tight as you go. Secure the plastic with staples or clips approximately every 12 to 18 inches.
- Trim Excess Plastic: Use a utility knife or scissors to trim away any excess plastic hanging over the edges of the wood frame. Be careful not to cut too close to the staples or clips to avoid weakening the attachment.
- Secure Any Remaining Edges: If there are any remaining edges or corners that need securing, make sure they are tight and secure using staples or clips.
- Inspect and Make Adjustments: After attaching the plastic sheeting, inspect the greenhouse covering for any wrinkles, sagging, or loose areas. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure a snug fit.
- Ventilation and Access: Depending on your greenhouse design, remember to create appropriate openings for ventilation and access, such as doors, windows, or vents. Seal these openings with appropriate materials like weather stripping or zippers if needed.
Properly attaching greenhouse plastic to a wood frame ensures that your greenhouse retains heat, provides a stable growing environment, and protects your plants from the elements. Regularly inspect the plastic covering for wear and tear, and replace it as necessary to maintain an effective greenhouse.
