Greenhouse Surface Area Calculator
Calculate material requirements for different greenhouse shapes
Calculator
📐 Measurement Guide
- • Wall height: Height of vertical walls
- • Roof peak: Additional height above walls
Calculations
Enter dimensions to calculate surface area
Covering Material Guide
🎯 Polyethylene
- • 6 mil standard thickness
- • 20-40 ft roll widths
- • 3-4 year UV life
- • Most economical option
🏗️ Polycarbonate
- • 8-16mm twin wall
- • 4x8 ft or 4x12 ft sheets
- • 10+ year lifespan
- • Better insulation
🪟 Glass
- • Tempered recommended
- • Custom cut sizes
- • 20+ year lifespan
- • Premium appearance
Why Calculate Greenhouse Surface Area?
Knowing the exact square footage of your greenhouse walls and roof prevents costly material over‑orders and ensures you buy enough film, polycarbonate or shade cloth the first time. It also reveals the total exposure area that drives heating, cooling and humidity needs—vital numbers for budgeting year‑round energy costs.
Our calculator handles classic gable houses, curved Quonset tunnels, snow‑shedding gothic arches, lean‑to sheds and evengeodesic domes. Just enter your dimensions, pick a shape and click the button—no trig homework required.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate greenhouse surface area?
Measure length, width, wall height and roof peak (if applicable), select the shape and press the calculate button. The tool adds 10 % extra for overlaps so you don’t run short.
What size plastic sheet do I need for a 10 × 20 ft hoop house?
A standard 10 × 20 ft Quonset tunnel needs around 620 ft² of film. The calculator rounds up to common roll widths so you order the right size.
Does the calculator work for geodesic domes?
Yes. Pick 'geodesic', enter diameter and height, and we estimate dome surface area, volume and covering required.
How accurate are the material estimates?
With precise measurements, results are typically within 5–10 % of actual surface area. Always measure unique end walls separately for premium materials.
Can I switch between feet and metres?
Definitely—toggle Imperial/Metric above the form and all inputs and outputs convert instantly.
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