Greenhouse Site Prep
Welcome to our site prep page!
Proper site preparation is crucial for the successful installation of a backyard greenhouse. In this section, we will provide you with all the information you need to prepare your site for the installation of your new greenhouse. From choosing the right location to preparing the ground, we've got you covered. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or new to greenhouse gardening, our site prep guide will help you get your greenhouse off to a great start. Let's get started!
We Offer Site Prep Ourselves
We do the site prep for you unless you choose to do it yourself. We are not liable for any damage or problems resulting from improper DIY surface preparation.
Below the necessary steps for a proper and legal foundation for any of our greenhouse models.
Always remember to check with your township and local authorities before proceeding.
Choose your foundation type
- Crushed Stone Base: Ideal for cost-effectiveness and drainage.
- Concrete Pad: Provides a permanent, solid foundation.
Step 2: Site Clearing and Leveling
- Remove all vegetation, debris, and topsoil from the designated area.
- Ensure the ground is level. Use tools like a laser level or string line to check for evenness.
Step 3: Excavation
Excavate the area to a depth of 4–6 inches to accommodate the base material.
Ensure the excavated area extends beyond the structure's footprint:
- Stone Base:
- Extend 6–12 inches beyond the building's dimensions on all sides.
- Concrete Pad:
- Match the exact dimensions of the structure for a watertight sea
Step 4: Base Installation
If Crushed Stone
For Crushed Stone Base:
- Lay 3–4 inches of 2A modified stone.
- Compact the stone using a plate compactor to prevent settling.
- Ensure the surface is level and smooth.Home Improvement Stack
For Concrete Pad:
- Install formwork using straight boards (e.g., 2×4 or 2x6) to outline the pad.
- Place a 4-inch layer of ¾-inch clean stone as a sub-base and compact it.
- Install reinforcement (e.g., wire mesh) slightly elevated above the stone base.
- Pour concrete to a thickness of at least 4 inches.
- Ensure the pad is level and smooth
If Concrete
For Crushed Stone Base:
- Lay 3–4 inches of 2A modified stone.
- Compact the stone using a plate compactor to prevent settling.
- Ensure the surface is level and smooth.Home Improvement Stack
For Concrete Pad:
- Install formwork using straight boards (e.g., 2×12) to outline the pad.
- Place a 4-inch layer of ¾-inch clean stone as a sub-base and compact it.
- Install reinforcement (e.g., wire mesh) slightly elevated above the stone base.
- Pour concrete to a thickness of at least 4 inches.
- Ensure the pad is level and smooth
Step 5: Edge and Anchor Considerations
- Maintain a minimum distance of 1¾ inches from the edge of the concrete pad to any anchor bolts, as per the International Building Code.
- For structures anchored to the pad, ensure proper placement of anchor bolts to avoid edge cracking.
Step 6: Drainage and Final Touches
- Grade the surrounding area to direct water away from the structure.
- For stone bases, consider installing a perimeter border (e.g., pressure-treated lumber) to contain the stone and prevent erosion.
