Buy a tent vs. Build a tent

[bsgospel]

(If this spins out into a larger discussion/open Q & A, no worries but I have a situation to kick it off.)

The goal here is to have many small modules within which to breed. New closet, open space- very few limitations. Money is not really an issue. I'm already in the camp of building one but if there's something I'm not seeing here, chime in.

Build it pros- I know exactly what I want and I can customize towards that. Individual lights, fans, the works. I want a 2x2 square PVC structure which in a pinch can become a 4x2 with some inserts. I can use whatever exterior material I so choose (but there are only so many options.) Plus I like to build shit.

Build it cons- Deciding on a material to cover the exterior/separate each module. I'm not great with stitching or zippers so trying to recreate what I've seen on tents will yield less than desirable results when pollinating or preventing light leaks.

I could ditch the PVC entirely and cut up some uni-struts. This would give me great flexibility with dividing modules, assigning lights.

Buy it pros: Parts that break are replaceable. Light leaks become less of an issue. Generally easier.

Cons: None of the prescribed sizes are quite what I had in mind and might not fit in the space I have set aside. If I want to modify it and make permanent changes, the resale value hits the floor.

Thoughts?

 

[Jonnysact]

i built exactly what you described, with PVC and panda film. a 2x2x4. It's in my thread if you want to check it out. I highly recommend building for the customization but it really comes down to what you want/need. And from the looks of it you just want someone to convince you not to do it hehe.

I say go for it, it's a great and very fun project.

Here's my thread with the build, very, very simple. Tent is on the last page.

https://www.icmag.com/ic/showthread.php?t=338093

 

[bsgospel]

Dig it! And your photos are fantastic. Good show.

 

[MrBungle]

if a part breaks on your DIY tent, didn't you buy the parts in the first place? I think with a DIY you are more likely to find a creative solution.... those tents in a box don't leave you any room for experiments... they are designed for plain jane traditional growing methods, and thats about all you are going to get out of em.. besides a few light leaks....

 

[sillyhead123]

im in same situation. I would love a micro sized tent that has both veg/flower compartment. The veg compartment can really be small.... Guess I will just make my own also. Surprised more companies arent going innovative in hidden grow setups they can sell. The market is BOOMING all over, especially in the west coast of usa. However we are still stuck with huge tents and large setups that most of us will never need.

 

[exploziv]

I use dried timber structure with metal pieces at the corners for extra rigidity. Covered with panda film. You need some basic tools, some screws and L shape corner plates, double sided scotch tape and panda film. Completely customisable, very easy to hang things. Very sturdy. Cheap. Can be taken apart and rebuilt (panda film needs to be replaced when u move and rebuild tho).