8 Years Later: Is My Greenhouse Falling Apart?
Eight years ago, I made an investment in a 12x10x10 greenhouse, hoping it would provide a long-lasting, sturdy space to nurture plants while withstanding the unpredictable elements of nature.
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Now, nearly a decade later, I wanted to take a close look at how well it's held up—without any repairs, upgrades, or replacements. this greenhouse
The Condition of the Greenhouse Panels
For this inspection, I focused on the condition of the polycarbonate panels, especially those on the roof. When I first set up the greenhouse, I took the extra step of weatherproofing the panels, which I believe contributed to its longevity. I used Nashua Waterproofing tape.
Side Panels: Still Holding Strong
One of the most impressive things is that the side panels still look perfect. They remain clear, free of holes, and show no signs of moisture or mildew. Despite years of exposure to rain and wind, they’ve held up remarkably well, proving that the initial build was solid.
Roof Panels: The Trouble Spot
The real wear and tear are on the roof panels. These panels have endured heavy rain, hail, and wind gusts of up to 70 mph. Over time, they’ve developed small holes, likely caused by a combination of:
Hailstorms
Embers from the neighbor’s bonfires
General aging and wear
I removed one of the roof panels to inspect it more closely, and that’s when I noticed the biggest issue—moisture, dirt, and debris trapped inside. The holes have allowed the elements to seep in, making the panel look much worse than the others.
How Did the Weatherproofing Hold Up?
One of the steps I took early on was applying weatherproofing tape to help seal and protect the panels. After eight years, the results were mixed:
On one side, the tape is still perfectly intact, holding up as if it were just applied.
On the other side, the tape has come loose, likely due to the holes in the roof panels letting in moisture and weakening the adhesive.
This makes me think that if I replace the roof, I’ll need to reinforce the weatherproofing again to keep it as durable as possible.
Stability and Support: Still Standing Strong
Beyond the panels, the greenhouse has been incredibly sturdy, even in rough weather. One of the best decisions I made was mounting it to my back deck and adding a gazebo frame inside for extra support. This additional reinforcement has helped it withstand high winds and storms without shifting or collapsing.
Would I Buy This Greenhouse Again?
Absolutely. Despite the roof needing some attention, the overall structure has exceeded my expectations for durability. The side panels have remained in excellent condition, and the weatherproofing worked well for the most part.
If you’re considering investing in a greenhouse, I highly recommend mounting it securely and using weatherproofing materials to extend its lifespan. And if I ever need another one, I wouldn’t hesitate to purchase the same model again!
What’s Next?
Looking ahead, I’ll likely replace the roof panels this year to maintain the greenhouse’s integrity. I may also explore alternative materials or improved weatherproofing techniques to make the next set last even longer.
Have you dealt with greenhouse maintenance or weather-related damage? Share your experience in the comments!
