A PVC hoop house is a simple, cost-effective structure for gardening and plant protection. It typically consists of arched PVC pipes, covered with UV-resistant greenhouse plastic. These structures extend the growing season, provide frost protection, and can be customized in size. Proper ventilation, anchoring, and insulation are key considerations for successful PVC hoop house construction.
PVC Hoop House Calculator
Certainly, here’s a table summarizing key information about building a PVC hoop house:
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| Materials Needed | PVC pipes, connectors, greenhouse plastic, anchors/stakes, tools (saw, drill, etc.), fasteners. |
| Size | Customizable, but common size is 12 ft wide, 20 ft long, 7 ft high. |
| PVC Pipe Diameter | Typically 1-inch to 1.5-inch diameter, Schedule 40 PVC. |
| PVC Pipe Spacing | Hoops spaced 4-6 ft apart along the length. |
| Covering Material | UV-resistant greenhouse polyethylene plastic (6 mil is common). |
| Insulation | Additional layers of plastic, bubble wrap, or row covers for winter insulation. |
| Ventilation | Vents or roll-up sides for temperature and humidity control. |
| Anchoring | Ground stakes, sandbags, or concrete blocks at the base of each hoop. |
| Average Cost | $500 – $2,500+ depending on size and materials used. |
| Temperature Increase | Can raise temperatures by 10-30°F or more compared to outside. |
| Lifespan of PVC Hoop House | Several years with proper maintenance. |
| Maintenance | Periodic checking and replacement of plastic covering. |
| Building Time | Can be assembled in a day to a weekend, depending on size and complexity. |
| Use and Purpose | Extending the growing season, protecting crops, or as a low-cost greenhouse. |
| Location and Orientation | South-facing for maximum sunlight exposure. |
Please note that specific details and dimensions can vary based on individual needs and preferences, so these are general guidelines for building a PVC hoop house.
FAQs
How much PVC for hoop house? The amount of PVC needed for a hoop house depends on its size and design. On average, for a small hoop house, you might need around 20 to 30 lengths of 20-foot PVC pipes.
How do you calculate a hoop house? To calculate the dimensions of a hoop house, you need to consider the desired length, width, and height. For example, a common size might be 12 feet wide, 20 feet long, and 7 feet high.
How far apart should PVC hoop house be? The PVC hoops in a hoop house are typically spaced about 4 to 6 feet apart, depending on the design and intended use.
How do you measure plastic for a hoop house? Measure the length and width of your hoop house, and add extra length for overhang and securing the plastic. For example, if your hoop house is 12 feet wide and 20 feet long, you might need a 14×22-foot piece of plastic.
What kind of PVC to use for hoop house? You can use schedule 40 PVC pipes for most hoop houses. The diameter (thickness) of the PVC pipe will depend on the size and intended use of your hoop house.
Can you use PVC pipe for a hoop house? Yes, PVC pipe is commonly used for building hoop houses.
What is the average size of a hoop house? The average size of a hoop house can vary, but a common size is around 12 feet wide, 20 feet long, and 7 feet high.
How much does it cost to build a DIY hoop house? The cost of building a DIY hoop house can vary widely depending on size, materials, and location. On average, it may cost anywhere from $500 to $2,500 or more.
How much warmer is it inside a hoop house? A well-constructed hoop house can be significantly warmer than the outside environment. It can raise temperatures by 10-30 degrees Fahrenheit or more, depending on the insulation and heating methods used.
How far down should PVC pipe be buried? PVC pipes for a hoop house are usually not buried; they are typically secured above the ground using anchors or stakes.
How often do you have to strap PVC pipe? PVC pipes in a hoop house should be secured with straps or clamps as needed to prevent movement or bending, typically every 4-6 feet along the length of the hoop.
How wide should a hoop house be? The width of a hoop house can vary, but a common width is around 12 feet for small to medium-sized structures.
How long does hoop house plastic last? Hoop house plastic can last 2-5 years or longer, depending on the quality of the material, UV resistance, and environmental factors.
How many mil should greenhouse plastic be? Greenhouse plastic is commonly available in 4 mil and 6 mil thicknesses, with 6 mil being more durable and longer-lasting.
How do you secure a hoop house to the ground? Hoop houses are typically secured to the ground using anchors, stakes, or concrete blocks at the base of each hoop.
What size PVC should I use for greenhouse? For a small to medium-sized greenhouse, 1-inch to 1.5-inch diameter schedule 40 PVC pipes are often used.
Which is better for a greenhouse PVC or polycarbonate? Polycarbonate is generally considered better than PVC for greenhouses because it offers better insulation and durability.
Do hoop houses need ventilation? Yes, hoop houses need ventilation to regulate temperature and humidity. Vents or roll-up sides can be added for this purpose.
Why can’t you use PVC for water lines? PVC is commonly used for water lines, but it may not be suitable for extremely hot water or high-pressure applications.
What is the best material for a hoop house? The best material for a hoop house frame is typically galvanized steel or PVC pipes, while the covering material is often UV-resistant greenhouse plastic.
What is the most popular hoop size? A popular hoop size for small to medium-sized hoop houses is 12 feet wide and 20 feet long.
Are hoop houses worth it? Hoop houses can be worth it for extending the growing season and protecting crops, but their value depends on your specific needs and climate.
How tall is a 20-foot hoop house? A 20-foot long hoop house is typically about 7 feet tall at the peak.
Is a hoop house as good as a greenhouse? Hoop houses are more affordable and easier to build than traditional greenhouses, but they may not provide the same level of temperature control and insulation.
What is the cheapest way to build a modern home? The cheapest way to build a modern home may involve using cost-effective materials, efficient design, and doing some of the construction work yourself. Costs can vary widely by location and design.
Is it cheaper to build a house by hand? Building a house by hand can be cheaper in terms of labor costs if you have the skills and time, but it can be more time-consuming.
Is it cheap to build a house from scratch? Building a house from scratch can be cost-effective if you plan carefully and minimize unnecessary expenses, but it’s not necessarily cheap.
Why is it called a hoop house? It’s called a hoop house because of the semi-circular or hoop-shaped structure created by the arched frame.
How do I keep my hoop house warm at night? You can keep a hoop house warm at night by insulating it, using row covers, adding a heater, or using thermal mass materials to trap heat.
How do I keep my hoop house warm in the winter? To keep a hoop house warm in the winter, you can insulate it with additional layers of plastic or bubble wrap, use heaters or heat lamps, and minimize drafts.
Will PVC pipe freeze underground? PVC pipes can freeze underground in extremely cold conditions if they are not properly insulated or if the ground doesn’t provide sufficient insulation.
Is Schedule 40 PVC good for underground water line? Schedule 40 PVC is commonly used for underground water lines, but it should be buried below the frost line and adequately insulated.
Can Schedule 40 PVC pipe be buried? Yes, Schedule 40 PVC pipe can be buried, but it should be buried below the frost line and protected against damage.
Is Schedule 40 or 80 PVC better for electrical pipes? Schedule 40 PVC is typically used for electrical conduits because it’s easier to work with and less expensive than Schedule 80.
Where is PVC not permitted to be used? PVC may not be permitted for certain high-temperature or high-pressure applications, and local building codes may dictate where it can and cannot be used.
How deep does Schedule 40 PVC need to be buried under concrete? Schedule 40 PVC should be buried at least 18 inches deep under concrete to prevent damage.
Does PVC weaken over time? PVC can degrade over time when exposed to UV radiation, but it generally has a long lifespan when used for underground or indoor applications.
How long to wait after cementing PVC pipe? You should wait at least 24 hours after cementing PVC pipe joints before pressurizing the system.
Do you need to wrap PVC pipe? PVC pipes exposed to sunlight should be wrapped or painted to protect them from UV degradation.
What is the best floor for a hoop house? Gravel or a well-compacted dirt floor is often used in hoop houses. The choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.
What direction should a hoop house face? A hoop house should generally face south to maximize sunlight exposure.
How far apart should PVC hoop house be? PVC hoops in a hoop house are typically spaced about 4 to 6 feet apart, depending on the design and intended use.
What is the best poly for a hoop house? 6 mil UV-resistant greenhouse polyethylene plastic is often used for covering hoop houses.
Which is stronger 4 or 6 mil plastic? 6 mil plastic is thicker and generally stronger than 4 mil plastic.
What color plastic is best for greenhouse? Clear or translucent plastic is best for greenhouses, as it allows sunlight to pass through.
Is 4 mil or 6 mil better for gardens? 6 mil plastic is better for gardens as it provides more durability and insulation.
How do you anchor a PVC hoop house? PVC hoop houses can be anchored using ground stakes, sandbags, or concrete blocks at the base of each hoop.
How do you insulate a hoop house? Hoop houses can be insulated using additional layers of plastic, bubble wrap, or row covers during colder months.
How long does it take to put up a hoop house? The time it takes to put up a hoop house depends on its size and complexity. A small one can be assembled in a day, while larger ones may take a weekend or more.
How much warmer is a PVC greenhouse? A PVC greenhouse can be significantly warmer than the outside environment, raising temperatures by 10-30 degrees Fahrenheit or more, depending on insulation and heating.
How do I keep my PVC greenhouse warm? To keep a PVC greenhouse warm, you can use insulation, heaters, thermal mass materials, and proper ventilation.
How long will a PVC greenhouse last? The lifespan of a PVC greenhouse depends on factors like UV exposure, climate, and maintenance, but it can last several years with proper care.
How thick should PVC be for greenhouse? 1-inch to 1.5-inch diameter schedule 40 PVC pipes are often used for small to medium-sized greenhouses.
Do hoop houses stay warm in winter? Hoop houses can stay relatively warm in winter, but additional insulation and heating may be needed in colder climates.
How do you secure a hoop house to the ground? Hoop houses are typically secured to the ground using anchors, stakes, or concrete blocks at the base of each hoop.
Can I use PVC for my main water line? PVC is commonly used for water lines, including main water lines, but local building codes and regulations may apply.
What is the best pipe for outdoor water lines? PVC, CPVC, or PEX pipes are commonly used for outdoor water lines, depending on the specific requirements and local codes.
How long does hoop house plastic last? Hoop house plastic can last 2-5 years or longer, depending on quality and environmental factors.
Do hoop houses need ventilation? Yes, hoop houses need ventilation to regulate temperature and humidity. Vents or roll-up sides can be added for this purpose.
How tall should my hoop be? The height of a hoop house can vary, but a common height is around 7 feet at the peak.
How big should my hoops be? The size of the hoops depends on the width and height of your hoop house. Commonly, they are made from 1-inch to 1.5-inch diameter PVC pipes.
Can you grow year round in a hoop house? With proper insulation and heating, you can extend the growing season and potentially grow year-round in a hoop house.
Will a hoop house protect from frost? Hoop houses can provide some protection against frost, but additional insulation and heating may be needed during freezing temperatures.
What is the average size of a hoop house? The average size of a hoop house can vary, but a common size is around 12 feet wide, 20 feet long, and 7 feet high.
How tall should greenhouse walls be? Greenhouse walls are typically about 5-7 feet tall, but this can vary based on the design and purpose of the greenhouse.
How much wind can a hoop house withstand? Hoop houses can withstand moderate winds, but strong gusts can damage them. Proper anchoring and bracing can help improve wind resistance.
Should a greenhouse have a floor? Greenhouses often have bare earth or gravel floors to allow for drainage, but you can install a concrete floor or other materials if desired.
What is the simplest cheapest house to build? The simplest and cheapest house to build is usually a small, single-story, rectangular or square-shaped structure with basic amenities and materials.
What is the cheapest shape of house to build? Square or rectangular-shaped houses are typically the cheapest to build because they have fewer corners and are more space-efficient.
GEG Calculators is a comprehensive online platform that offers a wide range of calculators to cater to various needs. With over 300 calculators covering finance, health, science, mathematics, and more, GEG Calculators provides users with accurate and convenient tools for everyday calculations. The website’s user-friendly interface ensures easy navigation and accessibility, making it suitable for people from all walks of life. Whether it’s financial planning, health assessments, or educational purposes, GEG Calculators has a calculator to suit every requirement. With its reliable and up-to-date calculations, GEG Calculators has become a go-to resource for individuals, professionals, and students seeking quick and precise results for their calculations.