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How to Build a Hothouse

How to Build a Small Hothouse - Construction

With some idea now of what we are aiming at it becomes profitable to discuss construction, and an error which may easily be made when planning brickwork is to assume that a brick measures 9in. x 41/2in. x 3in., and proceed to set out accordingly. Actually bricks vary a good deal, according to the district in which they are made, and their positions in the kiln, but a general average size is 9in. x 41/2in. x 3in., to which must be added a full 3/8 in. for each joint, as, for instance, when two 4 1/4in. plus one joint will sit neatly beneath an 8 7/8in. stretcher or brick showing its full face on a wall. With these sizes in mind and remembering also that stock sized glass is cheaper to buy and easier to replace than odd sizes, we have taken some trouble to work both in, which is the reason for our greenhouse being 11'5 1/2in. x 8ft. 10in., instead of what might seem the more practical 12ft, x 9ft., without odd inches. The glass size throughout is 16in. x 10in., 16oz for walls and 21oz. on the roof.

If second-hand material is bought, as it may well be, the best procedure will be to set out a rod with 15 1/2in. between studs, lay it on the ground and space out a row of bricks alongside with allowance for joints. It may then be found more practicable to deduct or add a brick or a sheet of glass, or it may be necessary to use cut bricks or "closers" similar to those shown on right and left (see above). When we remember that soil surrounding our job will generally be loose and damp and that any settlement will break the glass, the importance of good foundations is apparent.

Beginning by laying out the trench plan with lines and pegs, test the diagonals to make sure of being square, and excavate at least bin. until the trench bottom is reasonably solid, ramming any doubtful spots until satisfactory. Proportions of 4:2:1 screenings, sand and cement will make a perfect mixture not likely to be disintegrated, and care must be taken not to knock pegs over when laying concrete and so lose the level. Also, in dry weather, it is important to damp the trenches and so prevent undue absorption of moisture from the mixture.

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How to Build a Hothouse