A hoop house consists of a framework of galvanized steel hoops. A hoop house that is short and wide is preferred to a long, narrow tunnel covering the same area, as ventilation is better with this configuration.

Hoop houses have a much moister atmosphere than greenhouses, so good ventilation is critical. Install large doors or double doors at each end of the structure for maximum area circulation. Another possibility is to install retractable sides that will roll up several feet of mesh netting.


Types of Cover- A hoop house is covered with a single plastic sheet, which is stretched over the hoops. These covers can vary in thickness, life span, light transmission, and cost. Some sheets are treated on one side to improve insulation. The life span of a cover varies from 3 to 7 years, depending on the quality. The life span can be increased by a year or so by sticking anti-hotspot tape to the hoops before assembly.


Ventilation- is essential for both temperature and disease control.. Unlike ventilation which can be controlled drafts are bad for plants and should be eliminated, especially at the base and eaves Ideally the area of the roof vent should equal one fifth of the floor area, but few greenhouses or hoop houses have this amount. Additional vents are sometimes available as an optional extra and are well worth the additional investment.

A louver vent, placed opposite the door near the floor, is more effective than additional roof vents, because it acts as an air

intake, replacing the warm air that leaves through the roof vents. Lime wash can be painted on the glazing to provide shading in the heat of the summer.


Other Plastic Covered Structures- A solar tunnel has a PVC cover, reinforced with fabric and assembled in sections. It is easier to cover, and the green color gives a more pleasant appearance. There are also many small hobby greenhouses with single, double, or triple wall, polycarbonate glazing. Some suppliers even offer combination garden shed/greenhouses, which act like large coldframes. Click Hobby Greenhouse picture at the top left of the page for more information


Cedar Gardeners Tool & Potting Shed