Knowing that the most efficient cold frames utilize rigid glazing, a solid insulated structure, and heat retaining materials, I decided that it would be a chore to assemble + diassemble a cold frame each year - just for a few weeks use. I chose to build a custom, free standing unit - which stays put all year. It's served us well for three years now. This decision was based mostly on my house's extensive back yard, situated north of the main house. Building a cold frame against the southern exposure brick veneer, which is the home's front facade, was never a consideration. However, if the house's rear facade faced north, I would definitely have built a lean-to greenhouse against the rear facade Consider a permanent, 3-sided installation, attached to the brick facade. I believe that the smaller scale of most cold frame designs (compared to the size of most typical greenhouses) would not pose significant moisture issues associated to your brick veneer. Therefore, attaching a three-sided fixed wooden frame with hinged, sloped glass sash panels, will serve your purposes most effectively. There are so many details to consider once this decision is made, but with thoughtful planning, skillfully executed details, correct flashing to mortar-joint procedures, and good choices in building materials, you should be proud of the results achieved.

Better than either tempered glass or plexiglass, would be the same twin walled polycarbonate used in greenhouses. For a cold frame, 4 ml would be enough, although 6 ml would be more insulating. If you can't find it locally, check out: http://www.farmtek.com/farm/supplies/prod1;ft1_building_material-ft1_corrugated_sheets_panels;pg104618.html Or: http://www.charleysgreenhouse.com/index.cfm?page=_productdetails&productid=1274 Twin walled polycarbonate panels are not particularly expensive, but if shipped in large panels, the cost of shipping could exceed that of the materials, so do look for a local supplier. If there aren't any in your area, ask any online seller if they will cut it to the size you need. If you can use panels cut to a size that would not dim out, it would ship UPS Ground at a faily reasonable rate, because twin walled polycarb is pretty lightweight and it's not the weight that drives up the shipping cost, but the dims. The two seller references above are simply what first came to my mind. There are many others, perhaps at better prices, but now that you know what you are looking for- Google.

3jsmom31, Yes, the cold frame would extend the season, and help protect it in the winter too. Figs do go dormat in Greece, however I think I've heard that in HI they don't. You might want to check out Paradise Nursery as a possible source. They send out very nice plants, but they're closing after this coming spring.

I like your idea about the black water containers in the frames. I'm doing the same thing and it seems to help. One way to determine that is to have a Max/Min thermometer and record the results. If you have access to straw bales you can surround the frames for added insulation. I have two frames 80" x 36" with white painted 3/4'" foamboard house insulation on the inside that relects light and has an R value of 3 (?) or so. The spinach is doing well and I've just palnted gobs of radishes and some romaine. I made mine from double insulated patio doors hinged on the high side of sloping cedar frames. I built an metal frame with old cast iron window sash weights that acts as a counter weight for the rather heavy door. I reduced the effort to open them from 35 lbs. down to 8 lbs. One way to add more days to the growing season is to cover them with another layer of protection such as a plastic and frame mini greenhouse. I've got more patio doors and I'm thinking about making a temporary greenhouse structure to cover the coldframes in order to grow my beloved veggies. I would also get another frame going because you'll outgrow that one you have now. More is better when it comes to having successive plantings. Check out Eliott Coleman's FOUR SEASON GARDENING. Tons of inspration and cold frame stuff from a master.