[hiccup]

           Evening all
                I will be putting down a concrete base this weekend ( weather permitting of course )
                   and plan to insert an old piece of water pipe from the outside up through the
                   concrete inside to run an electrical feed through. My question is should I do something
                   similar at the other end to run a grapevine in from outside. very much appreciate
                   any advice. cheers

[jrko]

I think it's usually best if the vine comes in thru the wall/glass rather than the base.

[sunshineband]

Ours comes through at the top of the base, through a "missing" corner of glass.

Just to say-- please make sure the base is on absolutely solid level ground  or over time your glass might crack as the ground settles (and yes, I have been that person  )

[Kristen]

My vine is on the North side and I "glazed" it witha  sheet of marine ply instead of glass; the hole in the middle is generous (no idea how big the vine trunk will grow!) and is stuffed with an old compost bag.

Couple of suggestions:

Slope your foundations slightly (quarter bubble??) to the back so the gutters run that way (assuming you will have water butt at the back).

Make sure measurement of both diagonal are identical - structure will then be square, otherwise you won't be able to get the glass in

[hiccup]

Thanks everyone, never thought of the marine ply. makes perfect sense though,
      that will do for me. Again thanks all.