Determine materials and plastic covering needed for your greenhouse or hoop house.
Structure Specs
Material List
Enter dimensions to estimate materials
About this calculator
Overview
A hoop house (or polytunnel) is a cost-effective way to extend the growing season. This calculator estimates the total length of the pipe hoops, the amount of plastic film required to cover the structure, and the potential heating needs.
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Pro Tips
Include at least 2 feet of extra plastic on all sides for securing to the baseboard or burying in a trench.
Space hoops closer together (2-3 ft) in areas with heavy snow or high wind.
Orient the long side of the hoop house toward the south for maximum solar gain in winter.
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Fun Facts
"Most hoop houses use PVC, EMT conduit, or specialized spring steel for the hoops."
"Greenhouse plastic is typically UV-treated to last 3-4 years in direct sunlight."
"A hoop house can be 5-20°F warmer than the outside temperature without active heating."
