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I remember a while back someone here saying what the best diameter of pvc to use for a hoop house? Also what is the best way to anchor to the ground without it being permanent?

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Run two level parallel boards along the bottom of each side.  Use a minimum of 1" PVC.  I like electrical conduit because it is UV resistant.  Place one purlin at the top ridge.  If you feel it is necessary to add more be sure to keep them low, and at a place where the angle is steep.  Otherwise your plastic will catch rain and fill with water.

The ends need to act as strong sheer walls.  Otherwise you green house will be wobbly.

I used 1 inch for mine, I believe it was Sheri who said that she used 1/2 inch and wished she used 1 inch instead.

I hope Paul does not think I'm picking on him, but this is an example of what not to do.  Water will catch at the purlin he is installing.  It starts with just a little pool and then as the plastic begins to stretch it becomes a pond.  I attempted to ask Paul how this worked out for him, but Ning never gave me an opportunity to leave a message before initiating the 'Friends Request'.

The property we purchased has two sheds in the backyard. A 12x12 and a 12x24 which is comprised of two 12x12s. I suspect that was the original home owners genius shortcut around paying for a permit for a structure over 200 sqft. I was contemplating on on skinning one of the 12x12's and wrapping the skeleton in plastic while leaving the other side in tack which would/could house the fish tank. This would keep the tank out of the sun. I would need to add a skylight to allow some light but I think this might be a good idea for keeping the temp in the tank semi controlled. Thoughts? Suggestions? Questions? I'll post a pic/vid tomorrow to give you all a better idea. I could really use the advice from you seasoned aqua-farmers!

One solution to the puddling (and insulation, and rigidity) is to put two layers of PE, and inflate the airspace between them.


Bob Campbell said:

I hope Paul does not think I'm picking on him, but this is an example of what not to do.  Water will catch at the purlin he is installing.  It starts with just a little pool and then as the plastic begins to stretch it becomes a pond.  I attempted to ask Paul how this worked out for him, but Ning never gave me an opportunity to leave a message before initiating the 'Friends Request'.

Next year I plan on moving up to flagstaff and want to build a Chinese style passive solar greenhouse. I know over on friendly aquaponics they have a few designs for sale but $500 and up for a drawing seems expensive. I'm willing to pay it though if its worth it. Does anyone have some input on this? Should I just buy the plans from them or should I try to build it myself? They're not complicated, its just the system integration that concerns me.

Samson, did anyone ever answer your question? What have you decided to do?

Stephan, Are you a DIY kind of guy? If you intend to use plastic, you can probably build it for $500. :)

@ Stephan:  If you going to Flag you will need extra heat during the coldest days.  If you are considering the suggestion regarding inflated double construction.  Consider using soap bubble insulation since you'll already have the air pump and double walls.  I would also consider  subterranean heating   which makes ton of sense especially this far south.

Stephen,

I have built a number of greenhouses that are similar to the so called "Chinese" design. The concept is not difficult, but you need to have some building skills. If you sketch up a design and want some feedback why not post it? 



Stephan Youngers said:

Next year I plan on moving up to flagstaff and want to build a Chinese style passive solar greenhouse. I know over on friendly aquaponics they have a few designs for sale but $500 and up for a drawing seems expensive. I'm willing to pay it though if its worth it. Does anyone have some input on this? Should I just buy the plans from them or should I try to build it myself? They're not complicated, its just the system integration that concerns me.

Hey Sheri. I actually decided to leave the shed alone at this time and build a greenhouse by extending the carport into my yard. That particular area is perfect because it also has a smaller shed. I figured I can use the smaller shed to house the fish tank, radial filter and sump since this area has power too. Then I can use the greenhouse exclusively for my grow beds. So the small shed will be connected and accessible from the greenhouse but it act as a separate room so-to-speak where I can the fish food, extra pump and such.

Sheri Schmeckpeper said:

Samson, did anyone ever answer your question? What have you decided to do?

Stephan, Are you a DIY kind of guy? If you intend to use plastic, you can probably build it for $500.

Sounds like a great plan, Samson!

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