Materials Used in Hoop Barn Fabric Buildings
Introduction
Hoop barns, also known as hoop houses or high tunnels, are popular in agriculture for their simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and versatility. These structures are primarily composed of a framework covered with a durable fabric material. The choice of materials is crucial to ensure the longevity, durability, and functionality of the hoop barn. This article explores the materials commonly used in constructing hoop barn fabric buildings.
Framework Materials
Galvanized Steel:
Durability: Galvanized steel is the most common material for the framework of hoop barns. It is coated with zinc to prevent rust and corrosion, making it highly durable and suitable for long-term use.
Strength: The high tensile strength of steel provides a sturdy and stable structure that can withstand heavy snow loads and strong winds.
Ease of Assembly: Steel pipes and tubes are relatively easy to assemble, and their lightweight nature simplifies the construction process.
Aluminum:
Lightweight: Aluminum is lighter than steel, making it easier to handle and assemble. This can be advantageous in situations where quick and easy installation is required.
Corrosion-Resistant: Aluminum is naturally resistant to corrosion, providing a long-lasting framework with minimal maintenance.
Flexibility: The flexibility of aluminum allows for a variety of shapes and designs, making it adaptable to different structural needs.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride):
Cost-Effective: PVC is an economical alternative to metal frameworks, offering a lower-cost option for constructing hoop barns.
Lightweight and Easy to Assemble: PVC pipes are lightweight and easy to cut and assemble, making the construction process straightforward.
Suitability for Smaller Structures: While PVC may not provide the same level of strength as metal, it is suitable for smaller hoop barns or greenhouses where heavy snow loads and strong winds are less of a concern.
Cover Materials
Polyethylene (PE) Film:
Cost-Effective: Polyethylene is one of the most affordable materials for covering hoop barns. It is widely used in agricultural applications due to its low cost.
Light Transmission: Polyethylene film allows a high level of light transmission, which is beneficial for plant growth in greenhouses.
UV Resistance: Treated polyethylene films are UV-resistant, extending their lifespan by protecting them from sun damage.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Fabric:
Durability: PVC fabric is more durable than polyethylene film and can last longer under various weather conditions.
Waterproof and Weather-Resistant: PVC fabric is highly waterproof and resistant to weather extremes, making it suitable for protecting livestock and equipment.
Ease of Cleaning: The smooth surface of PVC fabric is easy to clean, maintaining a neat and sanitary environment.
Polyester Fabric with Vinyl Coating:
Strength and Durability: Polyester fabric coated with vinyl combines the strength of polyester with the durability of vinyl, providing a robust and long-lasting cover.
Tear-Resistant: This material is highly tear-resistant, reducing the risk of damage and extending the lifespan of the cover.
UV Protection: The vinyl coating provides excellent UV protection, preventing degradation from sun exposure.
Woven Polyethylene Fabric:
High Tensile Strength: Woven polyethylene fabric is known for its high tensile strength and resistance to tearing and punctures.
Durability: This fabric is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, making it ideal for use in areas with extreme climates.
UV Stabilization: Woven polyethylene fabric is UV-stabilized, ensuring it remains effective and intact for extended periods.
Conclusion
The materials used in constructing hoop barn fabric buildings play a crucial role in their performance, durability, and functionality. The framework is typically made from galvanized steel, aluminum, or PVC, each offering distinct advantages in terms of strength, corrosion resistance, and ease of assembly. The cover materials, such as polyethylene film, PVC fabric, polyester fabric with vinyl coating, and woven polyethylene fabric, provide varying levels of durability, light transmission, and weather resistance. By selecting the appropriate materials, farmers and other users can ensure their hoop barns meet their specific needs and withstand the demands of their environment.