Solid Brick Base Greenhouse: A Complete Guide
A brick base greenhouse brings together the solid strength of brickwork and the functional growing space of a traditional greenhouse.
These greenhouses are built with sturdy brick walls that form the lower portion, while the upper structure is typically made of glass or polycarbonate.
Many gardeners choose this setup not only for its strong foundation but also for how well it blends with the home or garden.
A brick base adds warmth, structure, and long-term value to your outdoor space.
If you’re thinking about building a greenhouse that lasts and looks good all year, this guide will help you understand why a brick base greenhouse might be the right choice for your garden.
What is a Brick Base Greenhouse?
A brick base greenhouse is simply a greenhouse structure that sits on a permanent foundation made of bricks rather than directly on the ground or on other materials.
Unlike other foundation types, brick provides a solid, permanent base that can be built to various heights.
Concrete bases tend to be flat slabs, wooden bases may rot over time, and metal frames can lack the thermal benefits of brick.
Benefits of a Brick Base
A brick base adds strength and helps your greenhouse last longer.
It also keeps the structure steady during storms or strong winds.
With the added height, you can hide tools or pots along the edges, keeping your space neat and clean.
1. Durability and Stability
Brick foundations last for decades with minimal maintenance.
They provide excellent stability for your greenhouse, especially in areas with high winds or unstable ground conditions.
2. Aesthetic Appeal
Brick bases can be matched to your home’s exterior, creating a cohesive look throughout your property.
The timeless appearance of brick adds character and value to your garden space.
3. Hidden Storage and Organization
The space within brick walls can be designed to include shelving, storage compartments, or even cold frames, helping keep your greenhouse organized and clutter-free.
4. Improved Heat Retention
Brick absorbs heat during the day and releases it slowly at night, creating a more stable temperature inside your greenhouse.
This natural temperature regulation can help extend your growing season.
When Should You Use a Brick Base?
Consider a brick base when:
- Do you want a permanent greenhouse installation
- Your garden is in a colder climate and needs better insulation
- You want your greenhouse to complement your home visually
- You plan to use your greenhouse year-round
- You have the budget for a more substantial initial investment
Design and Structural Options
Brick-based greenhouses come in several layout choices, from full-height walls to low-level designs that act as a visual border.
You can go with a single-brick thickness for smaller setups or double-thickness walls for larger and heavier structures.
Using materials that match your home can also help the greenhouse blend in more naturally with your space.
Height Variations
Brick bases can be built as low as a single course of bricks or as high as 3-4 feet.
Many gardeners choose a height that allows comfortable seating along the interior edge.
Wall Thickness
Single brick thickness (4 inches) works for smaller structures.
Double brick thickness (9 inches) provides better insulation and stability for larger greenhouses.
Material Matching
For the most attractive result, try to match your brick type, color, and bond pattern to existing structures on your property.
Built-In Features
Consider incorporating:
- Cold frames along the southern exposure
- Storage cabinets with doors
- Ventilation bricks for air circulation
- Water collection systems
How to Build a Brick Base for a Greenhouse
Tools and Materials Needed
- Bricks (quantity depends on dimensions and height)
- Mortar mix
- Concrete for foundation
- Spirit level
- Trowel and jointer
- String and stakes
- Shovel and wheelbarrow
- Measuring tape
- Safety equipment (gloves, eye protection)
Step-by-Step Process
1. Measure and mark your site
Start by checking that the ground is flat and square. This will help ensure that your brick base will sit correctly.
Use stakes and string to outline the exact size and shape of your greenhouse base.
Double-check all measurements before moving forward.
2. Excavate and lay the foundation
Dig a trench around the marked area. It should be at least 12 inches deep in most cases.
If you live in a colder region, go deeper to stay below the frost line.
Once the trench is ready, pour a concrete foundation that’s about 6 inches thick.
Let the concrete set and harden fully, which may take 7 to 10 days.
3. Lay your bricks
Begin laying bricks at the corners of the foundation. Work your way inward from each corner to maintain straight lines.
Use a level often to check that the walls stay even as you build.
If you’re constructing a solid wall, leave weep holes at the bottom for proper drainage.
4. Allow proper curing time
Once the brickwork is finished, let the mortar set for at least 24 to 48 hours.
This helps ensure that the structure is firm and won’t shift when additional weight is added later.
5. Prepare for greenhouse installation
After the mortar has cured, add a damp-proof layer on top of the brick wall to keep moisture from rising.
Then install anchor points that will hold the greenhouse frame securely in place.
This final step sets the stage for a stable and long-lasting build.
Brick Base vs. Other Base Types
Brick bases offer strong support and long-lasting performance, especially in colder climates.
Compared to wood or metal bases, brick resists moisture damage and requires less upkeep over time.
It also blends well with home exteriors, making the greenhouse feel like a natural part of the space.
Comparison
| Base Type | Lifespan | Insulation | Cost | Appearance | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brick | 50+ years | Excellent | High | Premium | Very low |
| Concrete | 30+ years | Good | Medium | Functional | Low |
| Timber | 10-15 years | Fair | Low | Natural | High |
| Metal | 20+ years | Poor | Medium | Modern | Medium |
Key Differences
Brick bases provide better temperature regulation than other options and, compared to metal or wood bases, can increase your growing season by several weeks on each end.
Maintenance and Longevity of a Brick Base Greenhouse
A brick base is strong and holds up well over time. It doesn’t rot or warp like wood, and it stays in place through different seasons.
To keep the mortar in good shape, you should check it once in a while and clear away any moss or buildup.
Basic Maintenance
- Inspect mortar joints annually
- Clear weep holes of debris
- Clean with gentle water spray if needed
- Repair any damaged mortar promptly
Common Issues
- Cracking from ground movement (add expansion joints to prevent)
- Mortar erosion in wet climates (use appropriate mortar mix)
- Efflorescence (white deposits that can be brushed away)
Expected Lifespan
A properly built brick base should last 50+ years with minimal maintenance, often outlasting several greenhouse coverings.
Conclusion
A brick-base greenhouse is a smart, long-lasting solution for any gardener who values structure, strength, and consistent performance.
It offers solid protection for your plants and adds a clean, finished look that blends well with most homes.
While the setup may take more effort at the beginning, it pays off through stability, reduced upkeep, and better growing conditions.
This type of base is especially useful for those planning a fixed, reliable space for year-round gardening.
If you’re looking to build something that truly lasts, a brick-based greenhouse is one of the most dependable options.
It’s a decision that brings lasting function to your gardening space for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Retrofit an Existing Greenhouse with a Brick Base?
Yes, but you’ll need to disassemble the greenhouse first, build the base, then reinstall it.
Will I Need a Permit to Build a Brick Base Greenhouse?
In many areas, permits are needed for permanent builds, so check with your local office.
How Deep Should the Foundation be for a Brick Base?
It should go below your area’s frost line, which is usually between 12 and 36 inches.
Can I Build a Brick Base Greenhouse Myself?
You can build a small one with basic skills, but larger builds may need a pro.
How Do I Connect the Greenhouse Frame to the Brick Base?
Use base plates and masonry anchors, and seal the space between the frame and brick.
