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Looking for a practical way to protect your crops without the cost and complexity of building a traditional high tunnel?
The Bootstrap Farmer All-Metal Caterpillar Tunnel Kit combines the simplicity of a traditional caterpillar tunnel with the durability of a galvanized steel hoop-house frame.
Designed for market gardeners, homesteaders, and small farms, this growing tunnel helps create a more protected environment for vegetables, flowers, seedlings, and specialty crops.
Its innovative butterfly-style end doors provide convenient access and ventilation without requiring conventional framed end walls.
With U.S.-made steel framing fabricated in Texas, heavy-duty 16-gauge hoops, included greenhouse film, and multiple size options, this kit offers a flexible approach to season extension and crop protection.
Traditional caterpillar tunnels are popular because they're relatively simple to build and operate.
However, lightweight tunnel designs can require frequent adjustment, and loose plastic at the ends can make access and ventilation inconvenient.
Bootstrap Farmer's all-metal design addresses these challenges with a reinforced steel framework and an innovative end-opening system.
Heavy-duty galvanized steel construction
U.S.-made steel framing fabricated in Texas
Butterfly doors for convenient end access
No conventional framed end walls required
Included 6-mil greenhouse covering
Manual side ventilation
Multiple widths and lengths
Optional upgrades for different growing needs
Designed for efficient assembly and seasonal use
One of the most distinctive features of this caterpillar tunnel is its butterfly-door system.
Rather than relying on loose plastic gathered at the ends, the butterfly doors allow the end covering to open and close in a more organized way.
This design helps growers:
Open the ends for ventilation
Access crops more easily
Move compatible tools and harvesting equipment through the tunnel
Manage heat buildup during warmer weather
Close the ends when additional weather protection is needed
The butterfly-door design also eliminates the need for traditional framed end walls in the standard configuration.
Planning note: When the doors are closed, the end covering extends beyond the nominal tunnel length. Allow adequate space around both ends.
The tunnel's steel framing is made from U.S.-sourced steel and cut, bent, and fabricated at Bootstrap Farmer's Texas facility.
The manufacturer uses clear-coated galvanized tubing designed to resist corrosion during outdoor use.
The protective finish combines zinc, a conversion coating, and a clear organic polymer layer.
This construction helps provide a durable framework for repeated growing seasons.
Country-of-origin clarification: The steel framing is U.S.-made and Texas-fabricated. Some other components, including greenhouse film and fasteners, are sourced internationally.
The tunnel uses precision-bent 16-gauge steel hoops to support the greenhouse covering.
The steel framework also incorporates ridge-pole and wind-brace components manufactured from 1.375-inch outside-diameter, 16-gauge steel tubing.
These components help improve frame rigidity compared with a basic lightweight caterpillar tunnel.
The manufacturer also uses 1-inch outside-diameter, 16-gauge steel ground posts instead of conventional rebar pins.
Proper installation and anchoring are essential for safe structural performance.
The Bootstrap Farmer Caterpillar Tunnel Kit is available in two widths and multiple lengths.
14-Foot-Wide Tunnel
Approximate center height: 9 feet 4 inches
20-Foot-Wide Tunnel
Approximate center height: 11 feet 4 inches
20 feet
40 feet
60 feet
80 feet
100 feet
Longer custom lengths may be available upon request.
When the doors are closed, the manufacturer lists the following additional end extension:
14-foot-wide model: Approximately 9 feet beyond each end
20-foot-wide model: Approximately 12 feet beyond each end
For example, a nominal 20-foot-long tunnel may require substantially more total site length when the end extensions are included.
Always plan your installation area using the full required footprint, not just the nominal growing length.
The kit includes 6-mil greenhouse plastic with a manufacturer-listed four-year warranty.
The covering helps create a protected growing environment and supports season-extension applications.
The kit also includes a batten strap for securing the greenhouse plastic to the frame.
As with other greenhouse coverings, actual performance depends on installation, environmental exposure, and ongoing maintenance.
Good airflow is essential for managing greenhouse temperatures and humidity.
The included hoop springs allow growers to manually raise and secure the side curtains for ventilation.
This provides a simple way to increase airflow without requiring a complex mechanical ventilation system.
An optional roll-up side upgrade may be available for customers seeking additional convenience.
This caterpillar tunnel can support a variety of growing applications, including:
Market gardening
Vegetable production
Flower farming
Homestead food production
Season extension
Seedling protection
Specialty crop cultivation
Small-scale commercial growing
Actual growing conditions depend on local climate, crop selection, irrigation, and ventilation practices.
The standard Bootstrap Farmer Caterpillar Tunnel Kit includes:
U.S.-made, Texas-fabricated galvanized steel frame components
Precision-bent 16-gauge steel hoops
16-gauge steel ground posts
Ridge-pole and wind-brace components
Galvanized hardware kits
Brace bands, nuts, bolts, and washers
Zinc self-tapping screws
Specialized nut drivers and drill bits
Ground post driver
6-mil greenhouse plastic
Batten strap for securing the covering
Hoop springs for manual side ventilation
Butterfly-door end-opening design
Installation instructions
Optional accessories are not included unless selected as part of your order.
Customize your growing tunnel with optional accessories.
Available in black or white to help manage sunlight and heat.
Helps manage weeds and maintain cleaner growing and walking areas.
Optional structural support components are available for customers who need additional reinforcement.
These accessories do not establish a particular wind or snow-load rating. Confirm engineering requirements with the manufacturer.
An optional upgrade may be available for easier side ventilation.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Bootstrap Farmer |
| Product Type | All-Metal Caterpillar Tunnel Kit |
| Frame Style | Round Hoop |
| Frame Material | Galvanized Steel |
| Frame Origin | U.S.-Made Steel |
| Fabrication Location | Texas, USA |
| Hoop Gauge | 16 Gauge |
| Ridge Pole / Wind Brace Tubing | 1.375" OD, 16 Gauge |
| Ground Post Tubing | 1" OD, 16 Gauge |
| Available Widths | 14 ft and 20 ft |
| Available Lengths | 20, 40, 60, 80, 100 ft |
| 14 ft Model Center Height | Approx. 9'4" |
| 20 ft Model Center Height | Approx. 11'4" |
| End Access | Butterfly-Style Doors |
| Side Ventilation | Manual Curtain Ventilation |
| Greenhouse Covering | 6-Mil Plastic |
| Covering Warranty | 4 Years, Manufacturer-Listed |
| Cover Securing System | Batten Strap |
| Hardware | Included |
| Ground Post Driver | Included |
| Custom Lengths | Available by Request |
| Shipping Method | Motor Freight |
The Bootstrap Farmer Caterpillar Tunnel Kit ships by motor freight.
Because of the size and length of the steel components, delivery arrangements may differ from standard parcel shipments.
Before ordering, confirm:
Delivery address accessibility
Freight truck access
Unloading arrangements
Available delivery services
Shipping costs and lead times
Freight requirements may vary depending on the selected tunnel size.
The kit includes guided assembly instructions to help growers install the tunnel.
Before beginning:
Select a level, well-drained installation area.
Allow enough space for the full tunnel and butterfly-door extensions.
Review local zoning and permit requirements.
Confirm ground conditions and anchoring requirements.
Inventory all kit components.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for ground posts, hoops, ridge pole, braces, and covering.
Install and adjust the butterfly doors and side ventilation system.
The manufacturer recommends reviewing its installation guide before starting.
Download the Official Bootstrap Farmer Caterpillar Tunnel Instructions
A traditional caterpillar tunnel generally uses a simpler structure and covering system, while a conventional high tunnel often includes more permanent end walls, hip boards, and other structural components.
This Bootstrap Farmer design combines the simplicity of a caterpillar tunnel with a heavier-duty steel framework.
The product is described as a caterpillar tunnel with butterfly doors. Confirm the exact included components for your selected size before ordering.
Yes. The kit includes 6-mil greenhouse film with a manufacturer-listed four-year warranty.
Yes. The kit includes components for manual side curtain ventilation.
The steel framing is made in the United States and fabricated in Texas. Certain components, including greenhouse film and fasteners, are sourced internationally.
The manufacturer offers custom lengths beyond the standard size range by request.
Yes. The manufacturer specifies motor freight delivery.
The manufacturer describes the design as more robust than a traditional lightweight caterpillar tunnel, but the supplied information does not provide certified wind or snow-load ratings.
Customers should verify structural suitability for their location and follow manufacturer guidance for anchoring and severe-weather care.
The Bootstrap Farmer All-Metal Caterpillar Tunnel Kit offers a practical solution for growers who want to extend their season without the expense and complexity of a conventional high tunnel.
With its American-made steel framing, butterfly doors, included greenhouse film, and flexible size options, it provides a versatile growing structure for farms, gardens, and homesteads.
Protect your harvest. Simplify your setup. Keep growing.
Not sure which tunnel size or style is right for your property?
Home Outpost Supply offers a variety of greenhouse, storage, and outdoor property solutions.
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Need help comparing tunnel sizes, understanding freight delivery, or reviewing available accessories?
Call Home Outpost Supply at 1-888-831-9277.
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