Wind & Snow Load Calculator for High Tunnel Greenhouse

Our all-metal hoop house has been reviewed and stamped by an engineer for the state of TX.  That document can be viewed here. 

If you need engineering approval for NRCS or otherwise, you will need to contact a structural engineer.  Many can be found on Upwork, local to your area.

Calculating snow/wind load for hoop house:

A few things to note while using this calculator:

This calculator estimates the load local to your area. If you need certified calculations for your structure, you'll need to work with your own engineer.  This calculator is only meant to serve as a reference, not an official measurement of snow load local to a given location. 

This calculator uses the rough calculation of the slope of a 10,12 and 20 foot high tunnel. It uses your location to find the ground snow load as a baseline.

Most snow load problems can be avoided by using 4 foot spacing between hoops and keeping the plastic tight.  When plastic is allowed to sag, it can accumulate rain and snow.  Water weighs 8.34 pounds per gallon, which can add up quickly over a large structure.

Here is the link to download the calculator:

Snow Load Calculator (.xls)

More Hoop House Planning & Calculators:  

NRCS Planning Guide - Plastic Sizing Calculator - Selecting the Ideal Location -Upgrading a Caterpillar Tunnel

Take me back to: BSF Guide to Hoop Houses & High Tunnels