We've moved! I took down the HFGH in one day, but with all of our modifications for support, it was a b$tch.
I have to say that our support system held up really well. All of the treated lumber was in great shape and only 2 screws rusted (had to grind them off). The hardware on the greenhouse held up pretty well also. The bottom frame screws and nuts were a bit rusted, but I was able to get everything apart with a 10mm wrench and a couple of channel locks for the stubborn ones.
What I learned about the project is this: Long-term this greenhouse will do the job if you never plan to move it. After taking it apart, we realized that the panels would have to be replaced. I got an email from HF and they said it would almost be cheaper to buy a brand new kit instead of ordering the panel replacement kit. After all of the intensive preparation work involved in sealing the panels and frame, most of that was damaged when we took it down. So we would have to clean the adhesive off first and then re-strip it. That is NOT worth the effort. We used weather stripping and it stuck VERY tight. There is adhesive gunk everywhere.
But it was worth it. We only had a couple of drips even during the most severe thunderstorms.
As far as the swamp cooler, it did okay. I didn't like the gale force blowing action of the fan. It was too loud and I had to divert the wind away from direct contact with the orchids. It did cool, but it was too small for our climate. Adding the air conditioner was very helpful.
The wet wall was useful, but I would not put that in again.
The rocket mass heater did work well, but we would not put the "mass" into a new GH. We would reconfigure the design.
The benches worked great, but when I moved to mostly vandas, they got in the way. We would rethink the ideas.
The hot water heater was the BEST improvement. The orchids definitely grew better with heated water. The other great improvement was the overhead hose. Keeping the hose out of the way is critical in tight spots. The next greenhouse will have to be wider.
Bottom line: great greenhouse on a budget and if you don't plan to move.
Our next greenhouse will have to be a different brand, because it will have to be wider. Having walking room is critical to enjoyment of the space. If you are constantly having to duck down and squeeze past plants, it becomes a chore.
I hope this helps!
