Hoop House vs Greenhouse

Choosing between a hoop house vs a greenhouse depends on budget, durability, climate control needs, and growing goals. Both structures extend the growing season and protect plants from harsh weather, but they serve different purposes.

Greenhouses are permanent, climate-controlled environments ideal for year-round growing, while hoop houses are more affordable, flexible, and primarily used for seasonal growing. Cost, longevity, and ventilation also set them apart. This article breaks down the key differences, benefits, and considerations to help determine the best option.

What this article covers:

• Greenhouse vs Hoop House: What's the Difference?
• Should You Choose a Hoop House or a Greenhouse?
• Hoop House vs Greenhouse (FAQs)

Greenhouse vs Hoop House: What's the Difference?

At first glance, hoop houses and greenhouses may seem similar—they both create a controlled environment to protect plants and extend the growing season.

However, from our experience, they differ significantly in materials, cost, durability, and functionality. Understanding these differences is essential to choosing the best option for your needs:

Structure & Materials

Greenhouses are typically built using sturdy materials like galvanized steel, aluminum, or wood for the frame, with rigid panels made from polycarbonate, glass, or other durable plastics. Many are permanent structures that require a concrete foundation, making them strong enough to withstand extreme weather conditions.

Hoop houses, on the other hand, are designed with flexibility in mind. They feature a lightweight frame made from steel, PVC, or aluminum, covered with a polyethylene plastic film.

Unlike greenhouses, they are often semi-permanent and can be moved if needed. While they offer protection from the elements, they are generally not as sturdy or long-lasting as a greenhouse.

So, it essentially boils down to your preferences in deciding between polycarbonate vs PVC for a greenhouse and plastic vs glass for a greenhouse.

Cost

One of the biggest deciding factors for many growers is cost. Greenhouses require a larger investment due to the high-quality materials, climate control features, and permanent foundation. Even a small greenhouse can start at $1,500, while larger structures can cost several thousand dollars or more.

Hoop houses are a much more budget-friendly option. Depending on size and materials, they typically cost between $500 and $2,000. For growers looking for an affordable way to extend their growing season without the expense of a full greenhouse, a hoop house is a practical choice.

Climate Control

Greenhouses provide superior climate control, making them an excellent option for growers who want precise management of temperature, humidity, and airflow. Many greenhouses include automated heating, cooling, and ventilation systems, allowing plants to thrive in a stable environment year-round.

Hoop houses rely on passive ventilation, with roll-up sides or open doors allowing for airflow. They trap heat from the sun, which helps extend the growing season, but they don't have built-in climate control.

Some growers add portable heaters or shade cloths to help regulate temperature, but a hoop house cannot match the level of environmental control offered by a greenhouse.

Growing Season & Plant Variety

A greenhouse allows for year-round growing, making it the preferred choice for those who want to cultivate plants continuously, regardless of the season. The stable climate makes it possible to grow delicate plants, herbs, and even exotic fruits that wouldn't survive in an outdoor setting.

Hoop houses are primarily used for extending the growing season, making it possible to start planting earlier in the spring and continue later into the fall.

However, in extremely cold conditions, they may not provide enough protection to keep plants alive throughout the winter. If year-round growing is a priority, a greenhouse is the better option, especially because you can create a hothouse greenhouse.

Durability & Longevity

In our experience, greenhouses are built to last. With proper maintenance, polycarbonate panels can last 10 to 20 years, and glass panels can last a lifetime. These structures are designed to withstand wind, snow, and heavy rain, making them a long-term investment for serious growers.

Hoop houses, while cost-effective, are not as durable. The plastic film covering typically needs to be replaced every 4 to 6 years.

Additionally, strong winds or heavy snowfall can cause damage, making them less reliable in extreme weather conditions. For long-term durability, a greenhouse is the superior choice.

Mobility & Flexibility

Greenhouses are permanent structures that are not easily moved once installed. They require careful planning before construction to ensure they are placed in the best location.

Hoop houses, in contrast, offer more flexibility. They can be moved, resized, or even taken down as needed, making them a great option for those who want to adjust their growing space over time. For growers who need a temporary or mobile structure, a hoop house is the better choice.

Installation & Setup

Setting up a greenhouse is a more complex process that often requires professional installation or advanced DIY skills.

Since many greenhouses have a solid foundation and include electrical or heating systems, installation can take several days or even weeks, depending on the size and complexity of the structure. However, our greenhouse kits simplify the process, allowing for much easier assembly.

Hoop houses, on the other hand, are much easier and faster to set up. They are designed to be lightweight and straightforward, often taking just a few hours to a couple of days to construct.

Many hoop house designs do not require a foundation, and because they don't rely on electricity or automated systems, the setup is significantly simpler.

Maintenance

Greenhouses require ongoing maintenance to ensure proper function. Cleaning glass or polycarbonate panels, maintaining heating and cooling systems, and repairing any structural damage are all necessary tasks to keep a greenhouse running efficiently.

Regular checks on ventilation, humidity levels, and structural integrity help prevent issues that could impact plant health.

Hoop houses require less maintenance overall but do come with their own set of upkeep needs. The plastic film covering is vulnerable to wear and tear from wind, snow, and UV exposure, meaning it will need to be replaced every few years.

Additionally, securing the frame and ensuring proper ventilation are essential to maintaining a hoop house over time.

Energy Efficiency & Sustainability

Greenhouses consume more energy due to their heating, cooling, and lighting systems. While this allows for year-round growing, it also increases operational costs.

However, energy-efficient greenhouses can help reduce electricity use by incorporating solar panels, passive heating, or geothermal systems. Proper insulation and smart ventilation can also improve efficiency.

Hoop houses are more energy-efficient by design. They rely on passive solar heating and natural ventilation, meaning they don't require electricity to function.

This makes them a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective option for growers who want to reduce their energy footprint. However, in colder climates, supplemental heating may be needed to keep plants alive in winter, which can increase energy costs.

Should You Choose a Hoop House or a Greenhouse?

For most growers, a greenhouse kit is the better long-term investment. It provides a stable, controlled environment that allows for year-round growing and supports a wider variety of plants, including delicate and tropical species.

With superior durability, insulation, and climate control, greenhouses offer the reliability needed for serious gardeners and commercial growers alike.

That said, a hoop house like our ShelterLogic GrowIt Greenhouse-In-A-Box might be the better choice if you need a more affordable solution for extending your growing season, similar to when considering a cold frame or greenhouse, or a greenhouse vs high tunnel.

If full climate control isn't a priority, and you're looking for a temporary or mobile structure, a hoop house can serve your needs well.

They are a cost-effective, easy-to-build option that provides protection from harsh weather while still allowing for seasonal cultivation.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to your budget, growing goals, and long-term plans. If you're looking for a flexible, budget-friendly option, a hoop house is a practical choice.

However, after putting them to the test, we've found that if you want a stronger, more versatile structure that will support your growing efforts for years to come, a greenhouse is the best investment.

Conclusion

Both hoop houses and greenhouses provide valuable benefits, but the right choice depends on your budget, growing goals, and long-term plans. Hoop houses offer an affordable way to extend the growing season with a simple, flexible design, making them ideal for those who don't need full climate control.

Greenhouses, on the other hand, provide a durable, year-round growing environment with superior insulation and climate management, making them the best option for serious gardeners and commercial growers.

If you're looking for a structure that offers strength, longevity, and versatility, a greenhouse is the best investment. No matter which option fits your needs, Homestead Supplier has high-quality greenhouse kits and supplies to help you grow successfully—browse our selection today and start building your perfect growing space!

Hoop House vs Greenhouse (FAQs)

How do hoop houses and greenhouses handle extreme weather?

Greenhouses are built with sturdy materials and often have insulation and heating systems, making them better suited for extreme cold, heavy snow, and high winds.

Hoop houses are more vulnerable to harsh weather but can be reinforced with stronger frames, additional anchoring, and double-layer plastic for extra insulation.

Do either of these structures require a building permit?

It depends on local regulations. Many areas allow hoop houses without a permit since they are considered temporary structures, but permanent greenhouses may require one, especially if they have a concrete foundation or electrical hookups. Always check with your local zoning office before construction.

What is the lifespan of each structure?

Greenhouses built with polycarbonate or glass panels can last 20+ years with proper maintenance. Hoop houses typically last 5–10 years, though the plastic covering may need to be replaced every 4–6 years due to sun exposure and wear.