Which Greenhouse Structure Is Most Suitable for Snowy Regions?

For growers in snowy or cold regions, building a greenhouse isn’t just about growing—it’s about surviving winter. Heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and reduced sunlight make it essential to choose a structure that can withstand harsh climates and still support productive cultivation.

But which greenhouse structure is best suited for snowy areas? In this article, we compare popular greenhouse types, materials, and shapes to help you make the most cost-effective and durable choice.

1. Key Challenges of Greenhouse Growing in Snowy Regions

Snowy climates create unique structural and operational challenges:

• Heavy snow load: Can collapse weak or poorly designed greenhouses.

• Low temperatures: Require strong insulation and heating systems.

• Short daylight hours: Impact plant growth and energy efficiency.

• Condensation & humidity control: Essential to prevent fungal diseases.

2. Structural Frame: Go for Strength and Snow Load Capacity

✅ Best Option: Hot-Dip Galvanized Steel Frame

• High strength-to-weight ratio – essential for supporting heavy snow.

• Corrosion-resistant – long lifespan even in wet or icy environments.

• Low maintenance – compared to aluminum or wood.

A-frame and Gothic-style steel structures are the top choices in snow-prone areas due to their ability to shed snow easily and support heavier loads.

⚠️ Avoid: PVC or Wood Frames

• PVC becomes brittle in extreme cold.

• Wood can warp and rot due to freeze-thaw cycles and humidity.

3. Greenhouse Shapes: Gothic vs. Quonset vs. Gable

• Steeper peak angle allows snow to slide off naturally.

• Minimizes structural stress during blizzards.

• Suitable for heavy snow regions like Canada, Northern Europe, and the US Midwest.

4. Glazing Materials: Polycarbonate, Glass, or Film?

When choosing the covering, insulation and durability are key for cold climates.

✅ Best Choice: Multi-Wall Polycarbonate Panels

• High insulation (R-value 1.5–3.0).

• Impact-resistant and won’t crack under snow.

• Lightweight compared to glass.

• UV-protected and diffuses light well.

✅ Alternative: Double Tempered Glass

• Offers excellent clarity and lifespan.

• Heavier and more expensive, but very durable.

• Requires stronger framing to handle snow weight.

⚠️ Not Ideal: PE Film (Plastic Film)

• Low insulation value (R-value < 1.0).

• Prone to tearing under snow or ice.

• Needs frequent replacement (2–4 years lifespan).

5. Foundation and Anchoring Considerations

In snowy areas, it’s critical to have a deep and insulated foundation:

• Use frost-proof concrete footings to avoid heaving during freeze-thaw cycles.

• Anchor the greenhouse securely to withstand winter winds.

• Consider raised beds or radiant floor heating to optimize root-zone temperatures.

6. Heating and Insulation Strategies

No matter how strong the structure, maintaining warmth is essential:

• Install thermal screens or insulated curtains to reduce heat loss at night.

• Use energy-efficient heaters (gas, biomass, electric, or geothermal).

• Consider double-wall polycarbonate or double-glazing glass for better heat retention.

• Insulate the north wall or use reflective insulation to conserve energy.

7. Ventilation in Winter: Don't Overlook It

Even in the cold, ventilation is important to control humidity:

• Use roof vents with snow guards.

• Install circulation fans to prevent condensation.

• Automate controls (Priva, Argus, etc.) for balanced environment management.

8. Real-World Example: Snow-Resistant Greenhouse in Norway

A commercial grower in Norway upgraded to a gothic steel-frame polycarbonate greenhouse with heated floors and thermal curtains. The structure withstood multiple snowstorms with over 1.5 meters of accumulated snow, with no structural damage and 40% less heating cost compared to their previous PE tunnel design.

Conclusion: Choosing the Best Greenhouse for Snowy Climates

If you’re building or upgrading a greenhouse in a snowy region, prioritize the following:

✅ Structure: Hot-dip galvanized steel
✅ Shape: Gothic arch or A-frame
✅ Covering: Multi-wall polycarbonate or tempered glass
✅ Foundation: Insulated and frost-proof
✅ Insulation & Heating: Thermal curtains + efficient heating
✅ Ventilation: Balanced airflow even in winter

These features combined will ensure your greenhouse survives the winter and supports healthy, year-round production.

Need Help Building a Snow-Resistant Greenhouse?

We specialize in designing and manufacturing custom greenhouses for cold and snowy regions, using high-grade steel frames and polycarbonate materials. Contact us today for a quote or design consultation tailored to your local climate and crop needs.