Building a Shed Roof Greenhouse in Your Backyard

Building a shed roof greenhouse in your backyard can be a fun and rewarding project that provides a unique space for growing plants year-round.

The first step is to choose a suitable location for your greenhouse, taking into account the amount of sunlight and wind it will receive.

A south-facing slope is ideal, as it will capture the most sunlight and provide a stable temperature.

You'll also need to consider the size of your greenhouse, which will depend on the space available in your backyard and the type of plants you want to grow.

A typical shed roof greenhouse is around 8 to 12 feet wide and 12 to 16 feet long, but you can adjust the size to fit your needs.

If you're designing a shed roof greenhouse, you'll want to consider the type of roof that suits your needs. A single sloped roof, also known as a skillion roof, is a great option for smaller greenhouses, providing decent headroom along one side.

This design is ideal for lean-to greenhouses built against existing structures and can be angled to optimize sunlight during specific seasons. It's also easier and faster to build than other types of roofs, with less components to install.

A skillion roof provides better drainage and is generally more durable than straight gable roofs or flat roofs. It's a sleek and modern design that's perfect for a small greenhouse.

Here are some key features of a skillion roof:

For larger greenhouses, a sawtooth roof is a great option. This design features a zigzag pattern of sloping surfaces, with the steeper edges often glazed with glass or polycarbonate material to admit sunlight.

A sawtooth roof is ideal for large commercial greenhouses, particularly in warmer climates where airflow is crucial. It requires a bit more structural complexity and cost, but provides excellent temperature control.

This design allows for natural ventilation as one side of each "tooth" can open, releasing hot air.

Converting a shed into a greenhouse requires thoughtful planning to ensure success.

Before making any changes, take a good look at your shed and assess its structure to ensure it's sturdy enough to handle the modifications. Check for any repairs that need to be made, like sealing leaks or reinforcing weak areas.

A structural assessment from an engineer is recommended to guarantee a solid foundation for your greenhouse conversion.

Quonset or Hoop greenhouses are a popular choice for their affordability and ease of installation.

Their curved, arch-like design is made from flexible materials like polycarbonate or polyethylene stretched over a metal frame.

Quonset or Hoop roofs are lightweight and highly wind-resistant, making them a great option for areas with strong gusts.

They provide efficient drainage, as snow and rain slide off the curved surface.

Hoop roofs may lack adequate headspace along the edges, but they're suitable for commercial and backyard greenhouses focused on productivity.

In fact, hoophouses generally lack foundations or permanent environmental control systems, which can be a consideration for some gardeners.

If you're looking for a cost-effective option, Quonset or Hoop greenhouses are definitely worth considering.

Converting a structure into a greenhouse requires thoughtful planning. Before you start making changes, consider the potential complexity of the project.

Think about the structure's sturdiness and whether it's suitable for modifications. Check for any repairs that need to be made, like sealing leaks or reinforcing weak areas. A solid foundation is crucial for a successful conversion.

Get a structural assessment from an engineer if you're unsure about the structure's integrity. This will give you peace of mind and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Your kit will come with wall sections and other supplies. Make sure you have all the necessary materials before starting the conversion process.