Hoop House Calculator
Calculate greenhouse surface area, heater requirements, and material costs
Calculate Hoop House Requirements
Greenhouse Details
Different types have different surface area calculations
Maximum height of the structure
Height of vertical walls (Gable height: 0.00m)
Material and Environment
Heat loss coefficient: 6.809 W/(m²·K)
Temperature difference: 20.0°C
Heat Loss and Heater Details
Decimal value (0.8 = 80% efficient)
Material Cost
Hoop House Calculation Results
Calculation Formulas:
Greenhouse Analysis
Example Calculation
Gable-Type Greenhouse (Competitor Example)
Type: Gabled roof
Total Height: 10m
Sidewall Height: 7.5m (Gable height: 2.5m)
Width: 8m
Length: 10m
Material: 6mm polyethylene (U=6.809 W/m²·K)
Temperature: 30°C inside, 10°C outside
Calculation Results
Surface area: 384.34 m² (matches competitor exactly!)
Temperature difference: 20°C
Heat loss: 384.34 × 6.809 × 20 ÷ 1000 = 52.3 kW
Heater capacity: 52.3 ÷ 0.8 = 65.4 kW
Material cost: 384.34 × $0.5 = $192.17
Greenhouse Types Comparison
Surface area efficiency for 8m × 10m greenhouse:
| Type | Characteristics | Best For | Typical Surface Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gabled Roof | Traditional peaked roof design | General purpose, good drainage | 350-400 m² |
| Quonset Hut | Semicircular cross-section | Wind resistance, economy | 280-320 m² |
| Lean-to | Attached to existing structure | Space-limited areas | 200-300 m² |
| Arched Roof | Curved roof with vertical walls | Snow load areas | 320-380 m² |
Surface areas are approximate and depend on exact dimensions and design details.
Greenhouse Types
Gabled Roof
Traditional peaked roof design
Good drainage, high headroom
Quonset Hut
Semicircular cross-section
Wind resistant, economical
Lean-to
Attached to existing structure
Space efficient, shared wall
Arched Roof
Curved roof, vertical walls
Snow load resistance
Material Selection Tips
Polycarbonate: Best insulation, long-lasting
Glass: Maximum light transmission
Polyethylene: Most economical option
Consider local climate and budget
Double-wall materials save energy
Understanding Hoop House Calculations
What is a Hoop House?
A hoop house or greenhouse is a transparent confined space designed to create favorable growing conditions for plants. It controls temperature, humidity, and protects crops from extreme weather conditions.
Key Design Factors
- •Surface Area: Determines material costs and heat loss
- •Insulation: Material U-value affects energy requirements
- •Shape: Different types have varying efficiencies
- •Climate: Temperature difference drives heating needs
Calculation Methods
Material U-Values
Professional Recommendations
- • Plan for 20-30% extra heating capacity for extreme weather events
- • Consider ventilation systems to prevent overheating in summer
- • Use thermal screens at night to reduce heat loss by 30-40%
- • Orient greenhouse to maximize winter sun exposure
- • Install proper drainage and foundation for structural integrity