Types of Greenhouse Structures Based on Frame, Covering, and Design

Greenhouse structures are categorized based on the type of frame, covering material, and design. The choice depends on your cultivation goals, budget, climate conditions, and crop type.

Kian Kesht Yaran Toos, a pioneer in greenhouse construction and agricultural structures in Iran, helps farmers build efficient, high-performance greenhouses using advanced technologies and specialized services.

In this article, we review the common types of greenhouse structures.

Classification by Frame Type and Shape

1. Tunnel (Quonset) Greenhouses
Tunnel greenhouses are among the most popular and cost-effective types. Featuring semi-circular roofs and lightweight galvanized pipe frames, they are ideal for low-wind areas.
Advantages:

• Low construction cost

• Quick and easy installation

• Suitable for growing vegetables, seasonal flowers, and crops

Kian Kesht Yaran Toos offers expert consultation and services for building tunnel greenhouses.

2. Gable Greenhouses
These have a triangular sloped roof with a sturdy metal frame (iron or galvanized steel). They are often used for specialized crops like ornamental flowers, medicinal plants, or high-value crops.
Pros and Cons:

• High resistance to weather conditions

• Better ventilation than tunnel greenhouses

• Higher construction cost

Kian Kesht Yaran Toos provides expert design and construction for gable greenhouses.

3. Gothic Greenhouses
With sharp pointed roofs inspired by Gothic architecture, these greenhouses feature gutters for better water and snow drainage compared to tunnel types.
Advantages:

• Suitable for snowy and cold regions

• High structural strength

For Gothic greenhouse projects, Kian Kesht Yaran Toos delivers expert planning and execution.

4. Multi-Span Greenhouses
These industrial greenhouses consist of multiple connected spans and are ideal for large-scale production.
Pros and Cons:

• High construction and maintenance costs

• Increased crop yield

• Integrated temperature and humidity management

Kian Kesht Yaran Toos supports multi-span greenhouse projects with specialized equipment and consulting.

Classification by Frame Material

1. Metal Frames (Galvanized Steel or Iron)
Metal frames offer strong resistance to wind and rain with a lifespan of 15 to 20 years but require higher initial investment and foundation work.

2. Wooden Frames
Wooden frames are sensitive to moisture and termites and have a shorter lifespan than metal. They are cheaper but generally considered outdated and suitable mostly for hobby or recreational greenhouses.

3. Plastic Frames (PVC or Polycarbonate)
Plastic frames are lightweight, easy to install, and rust-resistant but lack strength against strong winds. Not generally recommended for long-term commercial greenhouses.

Classification by Covering Material

1. Plastic Covering (Polyethylene)
Used mainly for temporary or semi-permanent greenhouses, available in standard and UV-resistant types. Standard polyethylene lasts 2-3 years, while UV-treated lasts 5-7 years depending on brand.

2. Polycarbonate Covering
Ideal for permanent and research greenhouses with good thermal insulation and high impact resistance (hail).

3. Glass Covering
Used in luxury and advanced research greenhouses. Heavy and expensive with high breakage risk but can last over 20 years with proper care and excellent light transmission.

4. Net House Covering
Best for hot climates and organic farming. For more information, see the article “Types of Net House Greenhouse Mesh” and visit our “Net House Greenhouses” project page.

Final Note

Choosing the right greenhouse structure depends on budget, crop type, climate, and your goals. Consulting experts like Kian Kesht Yaran Toos will guide you toward the best decision.

If you plan to build a modern, high-yield greenhouse, contact Kian Kesht Yaran Toos today to benefit from professional services.