How to Turn a Shed into a Greenhouse: A Step-by-Step Guide

Have you ever dreamed of having a greenhouse but don’t have the space or budget to build one from scratch? Good news—you can transform an existing shed into a fully functional greenhouse! Whether you want to grow fresh vegetables year-round, cultivate exotic plants, or create a cozy green oasis, learning how to turn a shed into a greenhouse is an exciting and rewarding project. 

With the right planning and modifications, your old (or new) shed can become the perfect environment for healthy plant growth. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps, from choosing the right shed to installing ventilation, insulation, and lighting. Plus, we’ll show you how Lapp Structures can provide the ideal garden shed to kick-start your greenhouse conversion. Let’s get started! 

Why Convert a Shed into a Greenhouse? 

Converting a shed into a greenhouse is a fantastic way to repurpose an existing structure while enjoying all the benefits of controlled gardening. Here’s why many gardening enthusiasts choose this option: 

1. Cost-Effective Solution

Building a traditional greenhouse from the ground up can be expensive. However, if you already have a shed or invest in a high-quality garden shed from Lapp Structures, you can save significantly on construction costs. 

2. Year-Round Gardening

A greenhouse extends your growing season, allowing you to cultivate plants even in colder months. With proper insulation and temperature control, you can grow vegetables, flowers, and herbs all year long. 

3. Customizable Growing Environment

When you turn a shed into a greenhouse, you have complete control over ventilation, humidity, and sunlight. You can modify it to suit the specific needs of your plants, ensuring optimal growth. 

4. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable

Repurposing a shed reduces waste and promotes sustainability. Plus, a greenhouse allows you to grow your own produce, reducing your reliance on store-bought fruits and vegetables. 

5. Multi-Purpose Use

Unlike a traditional greenhouse, a converted shed can still serve other functions. You can use part of the space for storage or as a workspace for potting plants and gardening projects. 

By turning a shed into a greenhouse, you maximize your backyard space while creating a thriving plant sanctuary. But before you start making changes, it’s important to check local regulations—let’s dive into that next. 

Check Local Regulations Before You Build 

Before you turn a shed into a greenhouse, it’s important to check your local zoning laws and building regulations. Many areas have specific rules regarding outbuildings, including size limits, placement, and modifications. 

A great resource to check is your local municipality’s website or the International Code Council (ICC), which provides general guidelines for structures like sheds and greenhouses. 

Skipping this step could result in fines, required modifications, or even the removal of your converted shed. Save yourself the hassle by verifying the regulations before making any changes! 

Choosing the Right Shed for Conversion 

Not all sheds are ideal for greenhouse conversion. To ensure a smooth transformation, consider these key factors when selecting a shed: 

1. Size and Space

Think about how much room you need for your plants, shelving, and workspace. A small shed can work for seedlings and potted plants, but if you plan to grow a variety of crops, a larger shed will give you more flexibility. 

2. Material Matters

• Wooden sheds are easy to modify and provide good insulation, but may require extra sealing to prevent moisture damage. 
• Metal sheds are durable but can overheat in the sun, so proper ventilation is crucial. 
• Plastic or resin sheds are low-maintenance but may not offer the best insulation for temperature-sensitive plants. 

3. Natural Light Availability

Since plants need plenty of sunlight, choose a shed with windows or one that can be modified to allow light in. If your shed lacks windows, you’ll need to cut out sections for polycarbonate panels or add a transparent roof. 

4. Structural Integrity

Your shed should be sturdy enough to support modifications like ventilation systems, heating elements, and added glazing. If the structure is weak or rotting, it might be better to invest in a new, high-quality shed rather than repurposing an old one. 

5. Ease of Modification

Some sheds are easier to convert than others. Once you have the right shed, you’re ready to start the transformation. Let’s go over the key steps to successfully turn a shed into a greenhouse. 

How to Turn a Shed into a Greenhouse: Key Steps for a Successful Conversion 

Once you’ve chosen the right shed, it’s time to start the transformation. Follow these key steps to successfully turn a shed into a greenhouse: 

1. Increase Natural Light

Plants need plenty of sunlight, so modifying your shed to allow maximum light is crucial. You can do this by: 

• Replacing solid panels or sections of the roof with clear polycarbonate panels or greenhouse plastic. 
• Adding large windows or enlarging existing ones to improve light penetration. 
• Installing a glass or acrylic door to increase sun exposure. 

2. Improve Ventilation

Good airflow prevents overheating and humidity buildup, which can lead to mold and plant diseases. To improve ventilation: 

• Install roof vents or louvered side vents to allow hot air to escape. 
• Add a small oscillating fan to improve air circulation. 
• Consider installing automatic vent openers, which adjust based on temperature. 

3. Seal and Insulate the Structure

While greenhouses need warmth, temperature control is key. To regulate the climate: 

• Seal gaps and cracks to prevent drafts and pests from getting in. 
• Use weather stripping on doors and windows to retain heat in colder months. 
• If you plan to grow plants year-round, consider adding bubble wrap insulation or thermal curtains. 

4. Install Proper Flooring

Most sheds come with a solid wooden or concrete floor, but for a greenhouse, consider: 

• Gravel or sand, which improves drainage. 
• Brick or pavers, which absorb heat during the day and release it at night. 
• A raised wooden floor with gaps for air circulation if needed. 

5. Set Up Irrigation and Watering Systems

Watering is essential, and hand-watering can become tedious. To make it easier: 

• Install a rain barrel system to collect and store water. 
• Set up a drip irrigation system for consistent watering. 
• Keep a hose connection inside or near your shed for convenience. 

6. Add Shelving and Workstations

To maximize space and keep plants organized: 

• Install sturdy shelves along the walls for potted plants. 
• Add a potting bench for transplanting and seed starting. 
• Use hanging hooks for tools and lightweight plants. 

7. Consider Heating and Lighting for Year-Round Growing

If you want to grow plants in colder months, consider: 

• Electric or propane heaters to maintain warmth in winter. 
• Grow lights or LED plant bulbs to supplement light during short daylight hours. 
• A small thermostat to monitor and control temperatures. 

By following these steps, you can successfully turn a shed into a greenhouse and create an ideal environment for growing plants. 

Why Choose Lapp Structures for Your Greenhouse Conversion? 

At Lapp Structures, we provide high-quality, durable garden sheds that make the perfect foundation for your greenhouse conversion. Our sheds are built with sturdy materials, allowing for easy modifications like extra windows, skylights, and ventilation adjustments. Whether you prefer wood, vinyl, or metal, we have a variety of styles and sizes to suit your space and gardening needs. 

Lapp Structures started off just building sheds, but now we also know our way around greenhouses too! Our team can help you select the right structure and customization options to make your transition to a greenhouse as smooth as possible. With our expertise and top-tier products, turning your shed into a greenhouse has never been easier. 

Learning how to turn a shed into a greenhouse is an exciting and rewarding project that allows you to grow plants year-round while repurposing an existing structure. By choosing the right shed, modifying it for light and ventilation, and equipping it with essential tools, you can create a functional and thriving greenhouse in no time. 

If you’re looking for a high-quality shed to convert into a greenhouse, Lapp Structures has you covered! Browse our selection of garden sheds, or contact us today for expert advice on finding the best structure for your backyard greenhouse.