Hi poaky1, I definately, absolutely needed extra clips for my HF 10x12 greenhouse, as well as screws through the panels into the frame. I can positively state that my greenhouse would not be standing today if I had not taken these steps. I did not caulk my panels in place, because I like to be able to remove them if needed. So, my solution was extra clips and screws, but Saturn3600 (above) used both extra clips and caulk, on his or her 6x8 greenhouse. There used to be more frequent threads around here, years ago, about Harbor Freight disasters, back before people knew to take a few extra steps to make the panels and foundation more secure. Here's one, for example. Greenhouse Disaster HFGH 10x12 You're the only one who can decide if it's worth the extra $9.99 plus shipping, for a package of 72 clips. To me, a little extra insurance seems like a no-brainer. Even if I lived in a climate that did not have uniformly high winds, I would not want to risk the loss of my greenhouse, or plants, but that's just me. An unusual gust of wind or errant windstorm can happen anywhere, even if it's not the norm. You can order extra clips by calling the 1-800 number on your Harbor Freight manual. For the 6x8 greenhouse, Harbor Freight uses the part number 46 for the panel clips. The SKU number is SKU number 27339, for a set of 72 clips, $9.99. Hope this helps, I know some of these decisions can be confusing. I sleep better if I err on the side of stability and safety (I really hate surprises.) I think they usually ship the clips pretty quickly.

Well that's a bummer. Here's a secret that sometimes works, and sometimes doesn't. When you want DH to do something, and he's not getting with it, go out and start doing it yourself. If he's like a lot of guys, he'll want to get involved and/or take over as soon as you get started, to make sure you're "doing it right"! ;-) If that doesn't work, just do like I did, and do it yourself. I did ask for (and received) DH's help in screwing panels onto the frame and repairing the damage, but I did all the insulating myself. Granted, it's not pretty, or professional, and it probably could be tighter, but it does the job, and I didn't have to wait for him. I used bungee cords and packing tape to put my bubble wrap up (clear, so light could still come through), and foam board insulation for the bottom 2ft. of the walls, and 4ft. of the north wall (it's just leaned up against the polycarb panels, and I had it cut at the hardware store). I used the foam in a can to seal off gaps in the frame - yes, even the ones at the roof line and corner seams. Not pretty, but it worked and was easier than calking the whole thing. Anyways, good luck for next year...at least most of your plants are still alive, which means with a little work, they'll probably spring back nicely. Plants are resiliant that way... :-)

If this is the one I saw in their store last year, I would recommend that you pass. It did seem very flimsy and the single-pane polycarbonate panels will provide very little insulation value, resulting in very cold temps at night and high heat in the daytime. If your budget is limited, then you might want to look at the Harbor Freight Greenhouse. It usually lists for $329, I believe, often going on sale for $299, and if you sign up for their mailing list, you'll eventually get a coupon for another 10 or 20% off. I have the 6x8 model, which is easier to assemble than the 10x12 (my adult son and I put it together in one day) and does not require modification to make it sturdier. I've had mine three years and am very happy with it ... just wish it was larger (but I'd probably feel that way about anything that would fit on this suburban lot anyway). Adding up all the costs for fan, heater, insulation, thermo-hygrometer, benches, flooring, solar pool cover (for winter), and treated lumber for foundation (we set it on 2x10's), it still comes in well around $800. The HFGH has an aluminum frame, sliding door, and 4mm twin-wall polycarbonate panels. The twin-wall gives better insulation in the winter and helps to diffuse sunlight so your plants are less likely to burn on bright days. There are several threads in this forum on them, just do a search for HFGH ... but when you read them, notice whether you're reading about a 6x8 or 10x12 model; there's a big difference.

From my experience in California, 30-40% shade offers little help in the summer. I have 50%, 60% and 70%, starting with the lowest in the spring, changing to the highest in the hot summer. Right now I have 70% on the west side and 50% on the east side. The amount of greenhouse area you cover depends on how much heat you need to prevent. For my area, I cover the roof and sides, especially on the south and west ends. Again, now that it is in the heat of the summer, I have all roof and sides covered, a full misting system, and a powered exhaust fan. I can keep the greenhouse about 8 degrees cooler than the outside with that set-up.