Most buildings are built from the ground up. You don’t start with the roof and work your way down – the actual starting point is a solid, dependable foundation.
But if you’re researching how to build a greenhouse, you might be wondering if the same concept applies. In this quick guide, we’ll tell you if greenhouses need a base, and discuss the concept of bases even further.
Let’s take a closer look.
Quick Answer: Do Greenhouses Need a Base?
We’ll keep the answer nice and brief: yes, your greenhouse needs a base. A well-constructed base stabilizes the structure and prevents it from being blown to pieces by high winds.
Of course, if you’re using a mini greenhouse like this one, or one that’s staked to the ground like a tent, you might not necessarily need a permanent base.
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What Does a Base Do for Your Greenhouse?
To give you an idea of everything a base does for your greenhouse, it’s best to look at what would happen if you didn’t have one, or if you had a low-quality one.
Without a base, your greenhouse might be blown away in the first storm with high winds. Obviously, this would be more than a little disappointing, especially give how much many people invest in their greenhouses.
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The base provides a level resting space for your greenhouse’s frame. If there isn’t a base or the base isn’t even, the frame might be distorted over time. Frames have to maintain a specific shape to cradle your greenhouse’s panels, so if the frame is distorted, panels could pop out and break.
On top of that, the base makes it possible to add flooring into your greenhouse. It gives you the perfectly even area you need to lay down a durable floor.
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Types of Bases for Greenhouses
When it comes to choosing a base for your greenhouse, there are tons of options out there for you. Because there are so many possibilities, you can find a type of base for just about every budget and need.
If you think a base has to be complicated and expensive, you’d be surprised. Simple soil bases are possible in areas where the soil is firm, compacted, and level. You can drive posts in at each corner of the frame to support the greenhouse and keep it in place.
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Concrete pads are also common for greenhouse bases. These are perhaps the most long-lasting and tough bases you can choose. They’re easy to clean, resistant to all kinds of weather conditions, and resistant to pests.
Looking for another affordable choice with more stability than compacted soil? A perimeter base could be exactly what you need. Like the name implies, this means that you just build a base around the perimeter of the greenhouse for the frame to sit on, rather than filling the entire area in.
Wood bases are also occasionally used. This could be better for you if you’re in search of something that’s a bit more natural, but also still sturdier than soil. If you’re going with a wood base, make sure you treat the wood or choose a type that can withstand moisture and pests.
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Wrap Up
Like any other structure you’d add to your property, your greenhouse needs to have a solid foundation. Without one, it’s susceptible to blowing away in powerful winds or your frame will lack the support it needs to last for years.
If you’re worried about costs, there are many kinds of bases out there. Some greenhouse kits even come with bases included, so you don’t even need to worry about figuring out what to do for the base.
Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!
