GrowSpan Flip-Top Cold Frame User manual

1
Revision date: 10.25.12
©2012 GrowSpan™
All Rights Reserved. Reproduction
is prohibited without permission.
GrowSpan™
Flip-Top Cold Frame
Photo may show a different but similar model.
STK# DIMENSIONS
105144 8' W x 5' H x 6' L
105145 8' W x 5' H x 8' L
105146 8' W x 5' H x 12' L

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SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
• Wear eye protection.
• Wear head protection.
• Parts may be sharp. Wear gloves when handling the pipe and PolyCor
material.
• Use a portable GFCI when working with power tools and cords.
• Do not climb on the cold frame during or after construction.
• Do not occupy the structure during high winds, tornadoes, or hurricanes.
• Provide adequate ventilation if the structure is enclosed.
• Do not store hazardous materials in the cold frame.
ANCHORING INSTRUCTIONS
Prior to assembling this cold frame, please read the MUST READ document
included with the shipment.
WARNING: Strong winds can cause the cold frame to shift if it is not
adequately secured to the site. Failing to properly anchor the cold frame
may cause serious injury and damage.
The site on which the cold frame is constructed will determine the anchoring
method that is required.
Consult a professional contractor to determine the best and safest way to
anchor the frame.
Contact your sales representative at 1-800-245-9881 for anchoring
suggestions.
YOU MUST READ THIS DOCUMENT BEFORE YOU ASSEMBLE THE COMMERCIAL COLD FRAME.
Thank you for purchasing this GrowSpan™ Flip-Top Cold Frame. These instructions include helpful hints and important information needed to safely assemble
and properly maintain the cold frame. Please read these instructions before you begin. If you have any questions during the assembly, contact Customer Service
at 1-800-245-9881 for assistance.
LOCATION
Choosing the proper location is an important step before you begin to
assemble the cold frame. The following suggestions and precautions will help
you determine whether your selected location is the best location.
• Identify whether underground cables or pipes are present before preparing
the site or anchoring the cold frame.
• Location should be away from structures that could cause snow to drift on
or around the cold frame.
• Do not position the cold frame in a place where large loads such as snow
and ice, large branches, or other overhead obstacles could fall.
SITE
After choosing a location, proper preparation of the site is essential. The
following site characteristics will help ensure the integrity of the greenhouse.
• The site must be level to properly and safely erect and anchor the cold
frame.
• Drainage: Water draining off the structure and from areas surrounding the
site should drain away from the site to prevent damage to the site, the
structure, and contents of the structure.
WARNING: The individuals assembling this structure are responsible for
furnishing all temporary bracing, shoring and support needed during the
assembly process (if applicable). For safety reasons, those who are not
familiar with recognized construction methods and techniques must seek
the help of a qualified contractor.
Important Information

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Revision date: 10.25.12
ASSEMBLY PROCEDURE
Following the instructions as presented will help ensure the proper assembly
of your cold frame. Failing to follow these steps can result in an improperly
assembled and anchored cold frame. The steps outlining the assembly
process are as follows:
1. Verify that all parts are included in the shipment. Notify Customer Service
for questions or concerns.
2. Read these instructions, the MUST READ document, and all additional
documentation included with the shipment before you begin assembling
the greenhouse.
3. Gather the tools and assistance needed to assemble the cold frame.
4. Re-evaluate the location and site based on the information and
precautions presented in the documentation included with the shipment.
5. Assemble the frame components in the order they are presented in these
instructions.
6. Read the Cold Frame Care and Maintenance information at the end of
these instructions.
7. Complete and return all warranty information as instructed.
REQUIRED TOOLS
The following list identifies the main tools needed to assemble the cold frame.
Additional tools and supports may be needed depending on the structure,
location, and application. Recommended two (2) people for assembly.
• Tape measures or measuring devices
• Variable speed drill (cordless with extra batteries works best) and drill bits
(1/8" or smaller for pilot holes)
• Saw to cut recycled plastic lumber and metal
• Hammer and gloves
• Additional hand tools as needed.
QUICK START GUIDE
For a quick overview of this shelter, its components, and connection details
consult the Quick Start Guide at the back of these instructions.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
Proper care and maintenance of your Flip-Top Cold Frame will help to ensure
reliable service. The following items identify areas that must be periodically
checked to ensure that your cold frame is maintained properly:
• Check the anchoring system (if equipped) to verify that all components are
tight and in good repair.
• Check all fasteners to verify that they remain tight.
• Verify that all connections and connectors are secure. Tighten these if
necessary.
• Check the PolyCor™ cover to verify that it is in good repair.
• Do not climb or stand on the cold frame.
• Remove debris and objects that can accumulate on the cold frame. Use
tools that will not damage the cover when removing debris.
• Remove snow to prevent excess accumulation. Use tools that will not
damage the cover when removing snow.
• Check the contents of the shelter to verify that nothing is touching the
PolyCor™ cover that could cause damage.
• If the cold frame is disassembled, inspect all parts and connections before
reassembling.
• For replacement or missing parts, call 1-800-245-9881 for assistance.
NOTE: With the exception of Truss Arch buildings, GrowSpan™ shelters, cold
frames, and greenhouses do not have any tested loading criteria.
Important Information
UNPACK AND IDENTIFY PARTS
The following steps will ensure that you have all the necessary parts before
you begin to assemble the greenhouse.
1. Unpack the contents of the box or boxes and place them where you can
easily inventory the shipment. Refer to the Bill of Materials/Spec Sheets.
2. Verify that all parts listed on the Bill of Materials/Spec Sheets are present.
If you have questions or parts are missing, contact customer service at
1-800-245-9881.

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Swaged
Plain
Swaged and Plain Pipe
102921B
Neo-Bonded Washer
105233
4-Way Fitting
FA4482B
Tek Screw
104643
Middle Connector
103620b
Plain End Strap
100441
Nut Setter
104639
Pass Through Connector
105234
Slip Tee
104636
Corner Bracket
104642 A-Angle
Bracket
104645 Bracket
Important Information
PICTORIAL GUIDE
The following graphics and photos will help you identify the different
parts of the cold frame. Consult the Quick Start Guide for additional
details and diagrams. (Some parts are not shown.)
105237
105236
111997
1-1/2" x 5-1/2" x 8'
111994
3/4" x 2-5/8" x 8'

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Revision date: 10.25.12
Overview
Main cover not shown.
End Panel
Mid Rafter
End Rafter
104642
104639
104636
Middle Connector
(104643) is installed
after the top is
assembled and set
on the base frame.
Actual frame length may differ from what is shown.
OVERVIEW
This section describes assembling your flip-top cold frame.
The illustration below helps identify the main parts of the
cold frame.
1. Locate the required parts for each assembly procedure.
2. Assemble base frame.
3. Assemble the end rafters.
4. Cut and attach end panels to end rafters only.
5. Assemble and attach mid rafter or rafters for frame
cover.
6. Cut and assemble the cover and attach to cover frame.
7. Attach cover frame to the base.
8. Install support pipe and straps.

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After identifying the parts included with the shipment, assemble the frame
using the steps below.
ATTENTION: Consult the Frame Diagrams before you begin to become
familiar with the parts and part locations.
1. Take one (1) 105236 end base board and connect it to one (1) 105237
end base board using one (1) 104643 middle connector as shown. Use
the FAF25P screws to install the bracket.
NOTE: When assembled correctly, the open end of the slots are up and
the 104643 middle connection is on the top of the assembled end frame
section as shown below.
2. Repeat to assemble the remaining end frame section. Use the FAF25P
screws to install the brackets.
3. Locate the plastic lumber for the remainder of the base and place the
boards and the end frame members (Steps 1 and 2) on a level surface
for assembly.
CONSULT THE BASE FRAME DIAGRAM (near the back of
these instructions) FOR PART LOCATION AND FRAME LENGTH
DIMENSIONS.
1ASSEMBLE THE BASE
105237
105236
Assembly Instructions
4. Using the Frame Diagram for your cold frame, cut the #111997 and the
#111994 recycled plastic lumber (if needed) to the correct length as shown
on the diagram.
ATTENTION: Locate the Base Frame Diagram at the back of these
instructions for your cold frame and cut the boards (if needed) to the
dimensions shown on that diagram. NOT ALL BOARDS NEED CUT.
For the 105146 cold frame, the front and back frame boards each consist
of two sections joined and secured (as were the end frame boards in
Steps 1). The front board sections are joined using a 104643 middle
connector on the top. The back board sections are secured using a 3" x 3"
bracket (104645).
105236
105237

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Revision date: 10.25.12
1
Assembly Instructions
ASSEMBLE THE BASE (continued)
5. Attach the long boards to the precut end boards
using the deck screws (#FAS14).
ATTENTION: Note the position of the small board
and the slot in the end board. Center of the back
board is aligned with the center of the slot.
6. Attach the two 104642 A-angle brackets to the
assembled frame to reinforce the back board. Use
FAF25P screws for the brackets.
Front Board
Back Board
Wide Slot
A
B
C
Wide Slot
FAS14
FAS14
Narrow Slot
Small slot for
hinge pipe
A
104642
A-Angle
Narrow Slot
B
Narrow Slot
FAS14
A C
Back Board

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1
Assembly Instructions
Front
Back
ASSEMBLE THE BASE (continued)
7. Locate all remaining base frame brackets and
the screws (#FAF25P) and assemble the frame
as shown on the Frame Diagram pages of these
instructions.
REMEMBER: Flip the frame as shown. The
frame is assembled upside down and then flipped
over after it is completed. The extensions of the
corner brackets are driven into the ground to keep
the frame square during the remainder of the
assembly.
Longer frames include additional brackets to
secure the joints of the long boards. Consult
the Frame Diagrams for the locations of these
additional brackets if your frame includes two (2)
boards for each long frame member.
ATTENTION: To avoid interfering with the back board and the brackets securing that
board, install the back brackets a few inches to the inside of the back board.
FAS14
104639 104636
FAS14
Back Board
Back Board

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Revision date: 10.25.12
2SQUARE THE BASE FRAME
1. After assembling the frame, flip the frame over and set
the frame in place on the site.
2. With the frame positioned in the desired spot, measure
diagonally from corner-to-corner and adjust the frame
until both distances are equal.
3. Once the distances are equal, tap the corners down to
set the frame in place.
NOTE: Verify that the frame remains square as you
complete Step 3. The site must be level for best results.
It may be possible to simply step on the frame to push it
into the ground depending on the site.
Diagram may show a similar frame. Ground Level
Photo shows a different but similar frame.
FRAME IS SQUARE WHEN
DIAGONAL DIMENSIONS
ARE EQUAL.

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All end rafters consist of one (1) 94" straight pipe and two (2) curved sections of
pipe: one pipe has plain ends and one pipe has a plain end and a swaged end that
is inserted into the plain end of the first pipe.
Complete these steps to assemble the rafters.
1. Locate the two pipes for the first end rafter: #08R105P2 and #08R105S1.
2. Assemble the rafters by inserting the swaged (or tapered) end of one pipe into
the plain end of the other as shown in the diagram to the right. Do not install a
Tek screw to secure the joint at this time.
3. Locate two (2) 4-way PVC fittings (#105233) and select one straight plain pipe
approximately 94" long (#105P094375).
4. Insert the fittings onto the ends of the pipe as shown until they are seated
tightly in place. Verify that the base of the end rafter aligns with the base frame
(A). Adjust as needed. Do not Tek screw at this time.
5. Select one of the assembled rafters and insert the ends of the rafter pipes into
the 4-way fitting as shown until seated (B). Verify that fittings align with slotted
baseboards.
6. With the pipes properly seated, secure the end rafter using FA4482 Tek
screws (C & D).
7. Repeat the steps to assemble the remaining end rafter.
3
Assembly Instructions
ASSEMBLE THE END RAFTERS
Install the screw so that its head will
not interfere with the installation of
the cover. Photo below shows the
screw is installed on the underside
of the rafter assembly.
105233
A B C D
08R105P2
08R105S1
94" Pipe
Step 2

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Revision date: 10.25.12
4
Assembly Instructions
CUT AND INSTALL THE POLYCOR™ FOR THE END PANELS
Complete the following steps to cut the end panels for the end rafters.
1. Unroll the PolyCor™ roll enough to place the rafter on a flat section of the roll.
If needed, you can rest something on the roll to keep it from rolling back up as
you mark the panel.
NOTE: Do not stand on the roll or use anything to weight it down that will
damage the PolyCor™ material.
2. Position the rafter as shown below (A) and use a marker to trace around the
rafter to mark the outline of the end wall and draw a vertical line to the edge of
the panel material. (See arrows in Diagram A.)
3. After marking the material, cut the end panel from the material (B).
4. Attach the end wall PolyCor™ to the end rafter using Tek screws and the neo-
bonded washers (C) evenly spaced around (8" to 10") the rafter.
NOTE: Trim the corners of the end panel to fit around the 4-Way connectors. It
may be helpful to predrill the holes for the Tek screws if it is difficult to get the
screw started. Use a drill and drill bit (1/8" or smaller) if you predrill the holes.
5. Repeat steps for the remaining end rafter (D).
Cut end panel corners to
fit around the conduit.
Panel Outline
A B C D

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1. Locate the long, straight pipes used for the long frame tubes of
the top. For the 105146 cold frame, these long tubes consist of
two pipes (105P021875 and 105S123) connected and secured
with a Tek screw.
ATTENTION (SKU #105145 only): Cut each 105P093875 pipe
to 91-3/4" and continue.
2. Slide one slip tee onto each pipe as shown (A). For the 105146
cold frame, slide 2 slip tees onto each pipe assembly: one for
each remaining rafter.
3. Insert the pipe ends into the 4-way fittings to assemble the top
of the cold frame (B). Verify that the straight pipe is seated into
each 4-way fitting.
4. Move to one (1) 4-way fitting at one end rafter and insert the
short 2'' section of pipe used as a hinge for the top (C).
5. Move to the remaining 4-way fitting on the same end rafter and
insert one 7" section of pipe used for the handle and support
pipe (D).
6. Repeat the above steps to install the remaining short sections
of pipe into the 4-way fittings of the other end rafter.
5
Assembly Instructions
ASSEMBLE FRAME
Slip Tee
2" Pipe
7" Pipe
A B C D
Slide slip tees
onto long tubes.
C
D
The 7" pipe lengths are installed at the
front of the cold frame top and function as
handles and mounts for the support pipes.

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Revision date: 10.25.12
Assembly Instructions
ASSEMBLE FRAME (continued)
5
7. After all pipes are seated into the proper fittings and the slip tee fittings
are in place and slide freely on the long pipes, carefully lift the cover
frame and set it on the base frame (E).
8. Adjust the frame as needed so that it fits the base. Use a light hammer
to tap the frame fittings to adjust length if needed. Do not damage the
fittings.
9. After dry fitting the cover frame to the base frame, remove the cover
frame from the base and install Tek screws to secure the pipes in the
4-way fittings as shown below (F).
NOTE: Do not over tighten the screws. Doing so may strip the threads
in the hole cut by the self-tapping Tek screw.
10. Locate the pipes needed for the mid rafter or rafters: #08R105P2 and
#08R105S1. With the pipes properly seated, secure the rafter using
FA4482 Tek screws (G).
11. Install the remaining rafter or rafters by inserting the rafter ends into the
slip tee fittings on the long frame pipes.
12. Evenly space the middle rafter (or rafters for the 105146) between the
two ends and secure the rafter to the fitting and the fitting to the frame
pipe using Tek screws (H).
ATTENTION: Consult the All Frame Diagrams for additional information
and dimensions.
When installing the Tek
screws, it may be helpful
to use a drill to start
the screw and to keep
it in place during the
installation.
Drill bit should be 1/8"
or smaller.
Ground Level
E F
Tek
screw
G
Tek screws are
installed on the
inside of cold
frame.
H

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NOTE: Remember to measure and account for the width of the
H-channel when cutting the PolyCor™ cover material to size. Consult
the Cover Frame diagrams for cover length details.
During the installation, it may be helpful to predrill the holes for the Tek
screws to get the screw started in the rafter. Use a drill and drill bit (1/8"
or smaller) if you predrill the holes.
1. After cutting the PolyCor™ material to the desired length and width
for the cover, install the H-channel trim on the ends of the cover.
2. With the H-channel trim on both ends of the cover, bend the
H-channel over each end rafter and attach as shown. For best
results, install Tek screws through the H-channel and PolyCor™.
NOTE: Verify that the length of the cover with the H-channel
installed fits within the base frame. Remove H-channel and trim
cover to size for a proper fit if needed.
The 105146 cold frame has an H-channel splice between the end
rafters where sections of the PolyCor™ cover meet. See the Cover
Frame diagram.
Helpful Hints: The edges of the main cover are trimmed with the white,
vinyl H-channel. This trim is typically installed after the PolyCor™ is cut
to the proper size and before the cover is attached to the cover frame.
Consult the following for the location of the trim and how to attach it.
Dashed lines show the location of the H-channel. The 105146 cold
frame has an H-channel splice between the end rafters where sections
of the cover meet. Consult the diagrams near the back of these
instructions to assemble properly.
6INSTALL MAIN COVER
H-channel
NOTE: Evenly space the screws
and washers every 8'' to 10'' along
the top of each end rafter.
It may be helpful to predrill the holes
for the Tek screws if it is difficult to
get the screw started. Use a drill
and drill bit (1/8" or smaller) if you
predrill the holes.
Tek Screw
and Washer
Assembly Instructions
Two (2) or more people are required to install the main cover.

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Revision date: 10.25.12
After the end panels and main cover are installed, the assembled
frame can be set on the base.
NOTE: The assembled frame and cover are lightweight and easily
moved by wind. To prevent damage to the frame and to prevent
personal injury, DO NOT attempt to set the frame on the base during
windy or stormy conditions.
Anchoring the base to the site: Your sales representative has
anchoring suggestions to help you anchor your cold frame in place.
Call 1-800-245-9881 to talk to a representative about the best way to
anchor your cold frame.
Continue with these steps:
1. With adequate assistance, lift and set the assembled frame onto
the recycled plastic lumber base. The short hinge pipes are set into
the slots of the base end boards.
2. Locate one (1) 104643 mid connector and secure it as shown
using screws (#FAF25P). See diagrams below.
NOTE: It is best to install a few screws to secure the bracket and
then to check the operation of the cover before all screws are
installed. Adjust as needed.
3. Repeat the step for the remaining mid connector.
4. Check the operation of the main cover and adjust brackets
and reinstall screws if there is any interference with the cover
operation.
7SET THE ASSEMBLED FRAME ONTO THE BASE
104643
Assembly Instructions
Frame may differ from actual frame.
Ground Level
Front
Back

16 Revision date: 10.25.12
Complete these steps:
1. Locate the remaining 105234 slip tee fittings and the two (2) lengths of
straight pipe (105P094375).
2. Slide one fitting onto one straight pipe and slide that assembly onto the
handle of the main cover (A).
3. Secure the support pipe to the slip tee fitting using a Tek screw (B) to
prevent the pipe from sliding out of the fitting.
NOTE: For proper operation, the fitting must be allowed to rotate on the
handle. Do not attach the fitting to the handle.
4. Repeat the procedure to install the other support pipe.
5. After installing both support pipes, open the top of the cold frame and use
the pipes to keep the top open as shown in the photo to the right.
6. Locate the black nylon straps. Loop one strap around the end rafter pipe
and attach it to the inside of the pipe using a Tek screw and washer (C).
7. Angle the doubled strap about 45 degrees, pull it snug and attach it to the
base frame using a Tek screw and washer.
NOTE: Straps are attached on the inside of the frame at both ends of the
cold frame.
8ATTACH SUPPORT PIPES AND STRAP
8. Attach the remaining strap to the opposite end of the frame using Tek
screws and washers (D).
9. Check the operation of the top and verify that all fittings are secured to the
pipes as previously described.
DCA
105234
105P094375
BTek Screw
The fitting must be
allowed to rotate on the
handle. Do not attach the
fitting to the handle.
Assembly Instructions

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Revision date: 10.25.12
105146
DIMENSIONS*: 8' W x 5' H x 12' L
QUICK START GUIDE
8' Wide Flip-Top Cold Frame
Quick Start Guide
DIMENSIONS*: 8' W x 5' H x 6' L
105144
105145
DIMENSIONS*: 8' W x 5' H x 8' L
*Actual dimension may vary slightly.

18 Revision date: 10.25.12
Base Frame - 105144
DIMENSIONS*: 8' W x 5' H x 6' L
Length of the Front and Back Base
Frame Boards is 74-1/8''.
NOTE: Dimension shown is
between the end frame members.
The frame is positioned upside down for assembly. It is flipped
when set on the site (shown above). The long boards of the
frame are positioned between the pre-slotted end boards.
Install brackets toward the inside of
the brackets that secure the back
board of the base frame as shown.
Install these brackets last and
after the hood is in place.
*Actual dimension may vary slightly.

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Revision date: 10.25.12
Base Frame - 105145
The frame is positioned upside down for assembly.
It is flipped when set on the site (shown above). The
long boards of the frame are positioned between
the pre-slotted end boards.
DIMENSIONS*: 8' W x 5' H x 8' L
Length of the Front and Back Base
Frame Boards is 96''.
NOTE: Dimension shown is
between the end frame members.
Install brackets toward the inside of
the brackets that secure the back
board of the base frame as shown.
Install these brackets last and
after the hood is in place.
*Actual dimension may vary slightly.

20 Revision date: 10.25.12
Base Frame - 105146
The frame is positioned upside down for assembly.
It is flipped when set on the site (shown above). The
long boards of the frame are positioned between
the pre-slotted end boards.
Install brackets toward the inside of
the brackets that secure the back
board of the base frame as shown.
DIMENSIONS*: 8' W x 5' H x 12' L
Length of the Front and Back Base
Frame Boards is 146-1/8''.
NOTE: Dimension shown is
between the end frame members.
3" x 3" Bracket (#104645)
Install this bracket last and
after the hood is in place.
Install this bracket last and
after the hood is in place.
*Actual dimension may vary slightly.