Single or multibay tunnel — which to choose?
A multibay tunnel (bays in a block on shared Y-legs, with gutters) works out cheaper per m² and suits larger areas: from €5.30/m² net. A single tunnel stands on its own on ground anchors: from €6.40/m² net. It is easy to relocate and warmer inside, so it works better for very early crops.
The choice between a single and a multibay tunnel depends mainly on three things: how large an area you want to cover, whether the tunnel is to stay in one field permanently, and how early you want to pick. Below we compare the two types on specific parameters.
How the two types differ
Single tunnel (Solo)
A single tunnel is one bay standing on its own. We fix the hoops (the arches of the structure) on ground anchors screwed into the soil. This kind of tunnel is easy to take down and put up somewhere else, for example when moving strawberries to a new site.
A single tunnel is warmer inside. That is why it works better for very early crops, when every day ahead of the market counts.
Multibay tunnel (Multibay)
A multibay tunnel is anything from a few to several dozen bays joined into one block. Neighbouring bays stand on shared rows of Y-legs: we screw the legs into the soil, and a Y-shaped connector welded on top joins the hoops of neighbouring bays. Gutters run between the bays and carry rainwater off the roof. This rainwater can be collected.
Shared legs mean less steel for every square metre of covered area. Hence the lower cost per m² and the better economics on larger areas.
Side-by-side comparison
| Parameter | Single tunnel (Solo) | Multibay tunnel (Multibay) |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | one bay, free-standing | bays in a block on shared Y-legs |
| Foundations | ground anchors screwed into the soil (700 / 850 / 1000 mm) | Y-legs screwed into the soil, 2.5–3.5 m long |
| Arch and width | round or gothic, 6–11 m | round or gothic, 6–11 m per bay |
| Water from the roof | no gutters | gutters between the bays, rainwater can be collected |
| Mobility | easy to relocate | a solution for a permanent site |
| Microclimate | warmer, better for very early crops | — |
| Cost per m² | From €6.40/m² net | From €5.30/m² net |
| Typical use | smaller plots, very early crops, changing sites | larger areas, permanent plantation |
We build both types with bay widths of 6–11 m, with a round or gothic arch, and cover them with single film 150–200 µm thick.
What it costs
Indicative prices: multibay tunnels from €5.30/m² net, single tunnels from €6.40/m² net — steel structure with film, excluding transport and installation. Installation: from €1.90/m² net. We quote transport separately.
The simplest way is to describe your plan in the configurator, and a sales advisor will prepare an offer.
Prices are indicative and do not constitute an offer within the meaning of the Polish Civil Code. As of 13 October 2026.
When to choose a single tunnel
- You want to pick very early and a warmer microclimate matters.
- You plan to move tunnels between fields, for example with crop rotation.
- You are covering smaller, scattered plots where a block of bays will not fit.
When to choose a multibay tunnel
- You are covering a larger, compact area and counting the cost of every square metre.
- The plantation is to stay in one place for seasons to come.
- You want to carry water off the roof with gutters and collect rainwater.
Round or gothic arch — for both types
We choose the arch shape independently of the tunnel type. The Cornell University guide states that gothic tunnels have a pointed roof that snow slides off better than off a round arch. The same guide notes that gothic tunnels, being taller and more exposed, need additional bracing to cope well with wind.
Hoop spacing also affects strength. The University of Missouri states that, with the same tube diameter, a tunnel with hoops every 4 feet (about 1.2 m) is clearly stronger than one with 6-foot (about 1.8 m) spacing.
We settle the arch, bay width and tube profile during a visit to the customer, because they depend on the location, the crop and conditions in the field.
Steel and profiles — the same rules for both types
Whatever the tunnel type, we make legs and anchors from E370+Z275 steel, which is about 10% stronger than S350+Z275, at the same price. We bend the hoops from S350+Z275 steel. You can choose round tubes Ø40 / Ø50.8 / Ø60.3 mm or oval tubes 80×40 and 90×50 mm. The 90×50 tube gives +29% strength at a similar price.
We bend the tubes in the customer’s field. The components arrive packed, and we can carry out the complete installation or support the customer’s own crew with one of our fitters.
How to decide
- Work out the area and check the shape of the field. A large, compact piece of land favours a block of bays.
- Decide how early you want to pick. For very early crops, consider a single tunnel.
- Decide whether the tunnel is to stay put or move between fields.
- Check whether you want to collect rainwater from the gutters.
If you are still unsure, configure your tunnel or call us: +48 512 208 808. During the visit we will match the type, bay width, tube profile and arch to your field.
Sources
- Structures — Cornell High Tunnels (Cornell University) (accessed 11 October 2026)
- Snow Removal From High Tunnels — D. Trinklein, University of Missouri, Missouri Environment & Garden (accessed 11 October 2026)