How Much Does a Hoop Greenhouse Cost?
Last Updated on January 15, 2025
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker
For home gardeners and small-scale farmers, hoop greenhouses provide an affordable way to extend the growing season. But determining the full costs requires a deeper look at materials, construction needs, optional accessories, and long-term maintenance.
This guide examines the main factors affecting hoop greenhouse pricing and provides cost breakdowns for materials and DIY builds. We also offer money-saving tips, size considerations, climate preparations, and expert insights on building your own functional, budget-friendly hoop greenhouse.
How Much Does a Hoop Greenhouse Cost?
Hoop greenhouses can cost anywhere from $500 for small DIY structures up to $15,000 or more for large commercial high tunnel systems, with typical pricing ranging from $500 to $5,000 for medium-sized residential greenhouses built using common materials and accessories. The overall cost of a hoop greenhouse depends on many factors like the dimensions, materials, climate control equipment, and additional features included in the design.
Hoop greenhouses, sometimes called hoop houses or high tunnels, are simple greenhouse structures made of PVC or metal tubing bent into semicircular hoops and anchored into the ground. Durable plastic sheeting or polycarbonate panels are fastened over the framing to create a protected growing space.
The benefits of hoop greenhouses include:
- Lower cost than traditional glass greenhouses.
- Passive heating from sunlight entering through the plastic covering.
- Easy ventilation via roof vents and open ends.
- Quick DIY assembly from basic materials.
- Flexible sizing from small backyard models to large commercial high tunnels.
As interest grows in extending crop seasons and boosting yields, hoop greenhouses are an affordable solution for many growers.
According to a report from Medical News Today, the average cost of a heart transplant in 2020 was approximately $1,664,800. This figure encompasses all related expenses, including pre- and post-transplant medical care, hospital charges, organ procurement fees, and medications.
Another source, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, states that the total cost for a heart transplant can exceed $1 million before insurance coverage. This estimate includes various expenses such as initial testing, the surgery itself, hospital stay, and ongoing medications.
A detailed analysis from Resolve Medical Bills indicates that the average cost of the surgery alone ranges from $1 million to $1.5 million. This estimate reflects the comprehensive nature of care required, including pre-operative evaluations and extended hospital stays for recovery.
According to data presented in a study published on PMC, costs associated with heart transplants have significantly increased over time. The report mentions that costs rose from about $120,000 to $169,000 between 2005 and 2009. More recent estimates suggest that total costs can reach around $1.66 million as reported in a Milliman Research Report.
Lastly, an article from Healthline notes that while insurance typically covers heart transplants, there are often substantial out-of-pocket costs involved for patients. These can include copayments for medications that may run between $3,000 to $5,000 per month after the transplant.
Factors That Affect Hoop Greenhouse Pricing
Several variables affect the total investment required for a hoop greenhouse project:
Size and Dimensions
- The square footage and height impact the amount of framing and covering materials needed.
- Small hobby greenhouses can be built for a few hundred dollars, while large high tunnels for commercial growing run several thousand dollars or more.
Climate and Location
- Supplemental heating, insulation, and ventilation add costs in extreme weather regions.
- Snow load capacity must be considered in cold winter areas to properly size and anchor the frame.
- Excessive wind and rain may necessitate sturdier framing and secured coverings.
Frame and Covering Materials
-Low-cost PVC vs stronger galvanized steel for the hoops.
- Polyethylene plastic sheeting vs rigid polycarbonate panels or glass for the coverings.
Doors, Windows, and Accessories
- Attachments like doors, roof vents, benches, and shelves increase functionality and price.
- Optional upgrades like climate control systems or automated irrigation add further expenses.
DIY Construction vs Prefab Kits
- Ready-made greenhouse kits cost more but require less time and effort to install.
Materials and Building Expenses
You might also like our articles on the cost of Sunspace windows, Four Seasons LifeRoom, or sunrooms.
For a basic 20′ wide by 48′ long hoop greenhouse, common components and price estimates include:
Foundation and Anchoring – $200 to $500
- Ground posts for securing the structure.
- Buried lumber, concrete footings or similar.
- Cost varies based on soil conditions and frost depth.
Hoop Frame – $350 to $1,000
- 5-2” diameter PVC pipe or galvanized steel tubing bent into hoops.
- 10-20 hoops spaced 4′ to 6′ apart depending on length.
- PVC is cheaper but less durable than steel options.
Covering Material – $250 to $1,500
- 4-6 mm polyethylene plastic sheeting; 6–12-month lifespan.
- Polycarbonate panels or plexiglass; 5–10-year lifespan.
- Reinforced polyethylene with UV protection for maximum longevity.
Doors and End Walls – $300 to $1,000
- At least one 36-72” wide access door.
- Wood or metal door frames; prehung doors for convenience.
- End wall framing and plastic sheet or polycarbonate ends.
- Roll-up sides help maximize ventilation on hot days.
Ventilation – $150 to $500
- Passive sidewall openings for airflow.
- Roof vents, exhaust fans, or automated climate control systems.
- Screens to keep out pests when openings are accessible.
Other Considerations – $200 to $800
- Frame fittings, fasteners, wiggle wire, channel, clamps and seals.
- Base hardware, landscape staples, strapping, earth anchors.
- Benches, shelves, hanging rods if desired.
- Any needed electrical or heating systems.
Accounting for all these elements provides an accurate budget estimate before starting your hoop greenhouse build.
DIY Greenhouses vs Pre-Made Kits
To save substantially on costs, building a hoop greenhouse yourself from constituent parts allows you to control the budget and customize the design.
With simple plans and basic PVC or metal tubing parts, a DIY hoop greenhouse can be constructed for under $1,000 in many cases. Reclaimed and recycled materials also help cut expenses for creative builders.
For those lacking the skills or time for a homebuilt, complete prefab kit greenhouses offer convenience at a price premium. Turnkey hoop greenhouse kits including all framing, polyethylene coverings, doors, shelves and accessories can cost $2,000 to $4,000+ for a medium-sized structure. The simplified assembly is less labor intensive.
Small Greenhouses vs Large Commercial One
For residential hobby greenhouses, compact hoop structures under 300 square feet adequately extend the growing ability for most homeowners. These starter hoop greenhouses can often be constructed or purchased for $500 to $2,000.
For commercial growing operations, large high tunnel hoop greenhouses from 500 to 5,000+ square feet maximize crop yields but represent a bigger upfront investment. Commercial hoop greenhouse costs typically range from $5,000 on the low end up to $15,000 or more for an automated high-performance setup. The increased revenue potential over seasons offsets the greater expenses for farmers.
Matching the size to expected usage helps balance affordability and functionality. Start small and expand over time as needed.
Cost-Saving Solutions
For the best value, utilize these budget-friendly practices:
- Source recycled or scrap materials to build the frame.
- Opt for polyethylene plastic versus rigid polycarbonate panels.
- Purchase a used or secondhand greenhouse frame and cover replacement plastic.
- Repurpose and upcycle materials like old PVC pipes for hoop frames.
- Buy materials out of season when prices are lower.
- Start small to keep costs manageable. Expand later as needed.
With creativity and resourcefulness, quality hoop greenhouses can be built on a budget.
Long-Term Costs and Maintenance Needs
While the upfront investment represents the biggest portion, building owners should also plan for ongoing annual costs:
- Covering replacement every 4-6 years – $200 to $600.
- Supplemental heat for cold conditions if needed – $300 to $1,000+.
- Ventilation and climate control equipment maintenance – $75 to $250.
- Frame repairs from corrosion or storm damage – $50 to $500.
- Soil health amendments and fertilizers – $50 to $500.
Proper yearly maintenance keeps a hoop greenhouse delivering returns on investment over time. Budgeting a few hundred dollars annually preserves functionality.
Global Cost Comparison
Hoop greenhouse costs diverge based on location and climate around the world. For example:
- United States – $15 to $45 per square foot installed.
- Canada – $12 to $35 per square foot; less ventilation needed.
- United Kingdom – $25 to $60 per square foot due to heating needs.
- Australia – $10 to $30 per square foot; polycarbonate upgrades prevalent.
- India – Under $10 per square foot for simple DIY versions.
Local material and labor costs, weather, and construction styles impact pricing globally. Climate preparations are often the biggest variables.
Expert Recommendations
To gain further cost-saving insights, we consulted greenhouse construction experts:
Greg Thompson, Greenhouse Supply Company Owner
“Reinforced polyethylene films have come down in price while gaining huge leaps in durability and longevity over the last decade. Investing a bit more upfront in quality UV and rip-resistant covering materials will save you money over time versus skimping on cheaper films that degrade and tear faster.”
Robin Kim, Hoop House Gardening Blogger
“Don’t underestimate the power of scouring craigslist, Facebook marketplace, garage sales and auction sites for used and recycled hoop greenhouse supplies. With some hunting, you can find great deals on materials from old trampolines and livestock fencing to secondhand PVC and greenhouse plastic sheets to construct an incredibly affordable DIY hoop house.”
Alicia Cruz, Commercial High Tunnel Farmer
“If investing in a large professional high tunnel greenhouse, don’t cut costs by downsizing the structural components. The heavy-duty foundation, thick galvanized steel framing, and robust climate control systems make a big difference in maximizing the production yields and functionality you need to justify the higher investment as a business.”
These experts provide helpful perspective on balancing costs while still building a high-quality hoop greenhouse.
Final Words
Building a hoop greenhouse allows year-round planting with careful budgeting. Consider all material and labor costs, climate control needs, and maintenance expenses. With prudent planning, hoop greenhouses can yield abundant harvests for home gardeners and small farmers through seasons.
Answers to Common Questions
What are the benefits of a hoop house greenhouse?
Some key advantages of hoop house greenhouses include:
- Extended growing season – Adds weeks or months of additional production.
- Weather protection – Shields plants from frost, wind, hail, and heavy rains.
- Lower heating costs – Passive solar gain reduces supplemental heat needed.
- DIY construction – Hoop houses can be built inexpensively from basic materials.
- Adaptable size – Right-sized hoop houses maximize yield in small or large spaces.
- Easy ventilation – Open ends and roof vents allow airflow and cooling.
- Flexible siting – Hoop houses work in varied climates and terrains when secured properly.
- Increased yields – Protected environment enables greater plant production per square foot.
The affordability, versatility and crop benefits make hoop greenhouses a smart investment for many growers.
How long do hoop greenhouses last?
When built well using quality materials, a hoop greenhouse typically lasts:
- Frame and foundation – 15-25 years before major repairs needed. Check for corrosion.
- Plastic polyethylene covering – Replace every 4-6 years as it degrades.
- Polycarbonate panels – Up to 10 years lifespan. Ensure UV protection.
- Doors, vents and seals – Expect 5-10 years of usability before replacement.
- Electrical and heating – Serviced annually, full upgrades by 10-15 years.
With proper routine maintenance, the overall hoop greenhouse structure should remain functional for 15+ years. Prioritize investing in a durable frame and foundation for maximum longevity.
Which is better, hoop house or greenhouse?
Hoop houses and greenhouses both extend growing seasons but have tradeoffs:
- Greenhouses allow better climate control but are far more expensive to construct initially.
- Hoop houses rely on passive heating and ventilation, limiting temperature regulation.
- Greenhouses typically use rigid glazing materials rather than plastic sheeting.
- Hoop houses can be built with basic DIY skills using inexpensive materials.
- Greenhouses enable year-round growth whereas hoop houses lack winter hardiness.
- Hoop houses require less maintenance and are temporary structures.
For casual growers needing more flexible, affordable options, hoop houses offer advantages. Commercial operators wanting optimized conditions may prefer greenhouse investment. Assess needs and resources.
Leave a Reply
Want to join the discussion?Feel free to contribute!