How to Build a Cold Frame

This step by step diy woodworking project is about how to build a cold frame. If you want to learn more about building a cold frame, we recommend you to pay attention to the instructions described in the article. There are many other designs and plans to choose from when building projects for your backyard, so make sure you take a close look over the related plans that are featured on our site.

There are many plans and designs to choose from, so make sure you take a close look over the rest of the cold frame plans featured on our website. Plan everything with attention and adjust the size and the shape of the cold frame to suit your needs. Plumb the legs and make sure the corners are right-angled before inserting the galvanized screws into place. Drill pilot or pocket holes to prevent the wood from splitting. See all my Premium Plans HERE.

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Building-a-cold-frame

Cut & Shopping Lists

A – 4 pieces of 1×6 lumber – 22 1/2″ long, 3 pieces – 48″ long SLATS
B – 2 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 11″ long, 2 pieces – 6″ long POSTS
C – 1 pieces of 1×4 lumber – 48″ long SUPPORT
D – 2 pieces of 1×2 lumber – 21″ long, 2 pieces – 21 1/4″ long 2xLID

3 pieces of 1×6 lumber – 8 ft
1 piece of 2×2 lumber – 3 ft
1 piece of 1×4 lumber – 4 ft
2 pieces of 1×2 lumber – 8 ft
poly-carbonate
2 1/2″ screws
1 5/8″ screws
1 1/4″ screws
wood filler
wood glue
stain/paint

Tools

Hammer, Tape measure, Framing square, Level

Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander

Safety Gloves, Safety Glasses

Time

One day

Greenhouse plans

Building a cold frame

Building-the-sides

The first step of the woodworking project is to build the sides of the cold frame. Therefore, we recommend you to build the corner posts out of 2×2 lumber. Take accurate measurements and cut the front posts at 15 degrees.

It is essential to use durable and high-quality lumber, otherwise the end result won’t raise up to your expectations. It is essential to add waterproof glue to the joints and clamp the components together.

Building the sides of the cold frame

The next step of the garden project is to attach the side slats into place. Therefore, make sure you take accurate measurements and cut the top slat at 15 degrees. Attach the slats to the posts and secure them into place by using 1 1/4″ galvanized screws.

Make sure there are no gaps between the slats and add waterproof glue to the joints, in order to create a durable and rigid structure. Smooth the edges and remove the residues with a damp cloth.

Building the frame of the cold frame

Attach the slats to the face and to the back of the cold frame. Drill pilot holes and secure the slats to the corner posts by using 1 1/4″ galvanized screws. Make sure the corners are right-angled and add waterproof glue to the joints.

Building-the-lid

Building the lids for the cold frame is a straight-forward process, as you need to take accurate measurements and to work with attention. Build the frame for the lid out of 1×2 lumber. Drill pilot holes through the components before inserting the screws, in order to prevent the wood from splitting.

Attach the polycarbonate sheets to the back of the lid and secure them into place by suing several screws. Fit the lids into place and secure them to the back support using metal hinges.

How to build a cold frame

One of the last steps of the woodworking project is to take care of the finishing touches. Therefore, fill the pilot holes with wood putty and smooth the surface with 120-grit sandpaper.

Top Tip: If you want to enhance the look of the woodworking project and to protect the table from decay, we recommend you to cover the components with paint or stain. Place the cold frame in a proper location and move it whenever necessary.

This woodworking project was about how to build a cold frame. If you want to see more outdoor plans, we recommend you to check out the rest of our step by step projects. LIKE us on Facebook and Google + to be the first that gets out latest projects.

How to Build a Cold Frame

Projects made from these plans