Materials & Specifications
Our hoop buildings are constructed using proven materials and fabrication methods designed for long-term agricultural use. The information below outlines the primary structural components and standard materials used in our buildings.
Main Rafters
• 2-7/8" OD tubing
• 12-gauge galvanized steel
• Two-piece construction
Our main rafters form the primary structural framework of each hoop building. They are fabricated from heavy 2-7/8" OD, 12-gauge steel tubing manufactured to ASTM A787-2 specifications and finished with a durable galvanized coating for long-term corrosion resistance in agricultural environments.
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Each rafter is built as a two-piece assembly to allow for proper transport, handling, and precise alignment during installation. Rafter spacing is engineered based on building width, with 6-foot spacing on 30-foot-wide structures and 5-foot spacing on 35-foot-wide structures to balance strength, material efficiency, and long-term performance.
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This rafter design has been proven across equipment storage, hay storage, and livestock applications, providing consistent load distribution and structural reliability under real-world farm conditions.
Purlins
• 1.66" OD steel tubing
• 12-gauge ASTM A787-2
• Galvanized finish
• Three continuous runs per building
Purlins provide longitudinal strength and stability to the hoop structure by tying all rafters together along the length of the building. Our purlins are fabricated from 1.66" OD, 12-gauge steel tubing manufactured to ASTM A787-2 specifications and finished with a galvanized coating suitable for agricultural environments.
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Each building includes three full-length purlin runs to ensure consistent load distribution, structural rigidity, and long-term durability. These continuous runs help resist racking forces and maintain alignment of the rafter system over time.
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This purlin configuration has been proven across a wide range of agricultural applications and is a key component in the overall strength and longevity of our hoop buildings.
Center Joints
• Precision-fit DOM steel tubing
• Internal rafter connector
• Welded 3" transition collar
• Integrated center purlin connection
Center joints connect the two-piece main rafters at the peak of the structure and are fabricated with tight tolerances to ensure proper alignment and load transfer. The main body of each center joint is manufactured from DOM steel tubing sized for a precise, snug internal fit inside the rafters.
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This exact fit is critical to eliminate looseness and prevent improper internal contact during installation and long-term use. At the midpoint of the joint, a 3-inch collar fabricated from the same tubing as the main rafters is welded in place to create a smooth transition at the connection point. This design helps reduce the potential for fabric abrasion at the peak.
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A welded nipple located beneath the collar provides a secure attachment point for the center purlin run, maintaining alignment and continuity along the length of the building. Center joints are engineered for accuracy, durability, and long-term performance in agricultural environments.
Nipples
• 1.66" OD steel tubing
• 12-gauge ASTM A787-2
• Galvanized finish
• Internal purlin connector
Nipples are used as internal connectors to join purlin sections and maintain proper alignment along the length of the building. They are fabricated from the same 1.66" OD, 12-gauge steel tubing used for the purlins to ensure consistent strength and material compatibility.
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Each nipple is mechanically formed and compressed on opposing sides to create a tight, secure fit inside the purlin pipes. This snug internal connection helps maintain straight purlin runs, resists movement over time, and contributes to the overall rigidity of the structure.
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Using matched materials and precision-formed connections ensures reliable performance and long-term durability under agricultural working conditions.
Base Plates
• 3/16" flat steel construction
• 6" angled rafter nipple
• Wood or concrete foundation options
• Corrosion-resistant coating
Base plates provide the primary connection between the building structure and the foundation. They are fabricated from 3/16" flat steel and include a 6-inch steel nipple welded at an angle to allow the main rafters to slip over and seat securely.
Two base plate configurations are used depending on foundation type.
Base plates for wood foundations are formed to sit over 6×6 treated posts and are designed to be lag-bolted from both the top and the back side of the post, providing increased holding strength and resistance to movement.
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Concrete base plates feature a flat profile with four anchor holes for fastening directly to concrete block walls or poured concrete foundations. All base plates are coated in a heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant paint finish to protect against long-term exposure in agricultural environments.
Fabric Cover
• Nova Shield RU88X fabric
• Agricultural-grade material
• UV-resistant
• Multiple color options available
Our hoop buildings are covered using Nova Shield RU88X fabric, a high-performance agricultural fabric designed for durability and long-term outdoor exposure. This material is selected for its strength, weather resistance, and consistent performance in working farm environments.
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The fabric provides reliable protection for equipment, hay, and livestock while maintaining flexibility and proper tension across the structure. Color options are available to match functional and aesthetic preferences, depending on current availability.
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Fabric selection and installation are matched to building size and application to ensure proper fit, secure attachment, and long service life under real-world agricultural conditions.
