Analysis

Tensile structures are becoming more common, with soaring panels of lightweight material twisted into fantastic geometric forms above our heads in airports, sports arenas and commercial buildings.  However, most of us pass right under them without giving a thought to the complex design and engineering principles that go into their construction. 

The starting point is understanding the loads exerted by the fabric itself (known as pre-stress or pre-tension), then quantify the live loads that the structure will be exposed to (wind and snow).  These loads enable us to determine the type of fabric required, the size of structural support system required and the foundations that the structure will be anchored to.

Manufacturing

Our in-house design team will produce all the necessary fabrication drawings for the support structure and generate the pattern for the fabric canopy.  Most of the specialist manufacturers we use are based locally, which allows for complete quality control throughout the fabrication process.

Installation

Highly skilled crews take full control of the planning and installation of our structures.   With 100’s of structures installed worldwide, our excellence in installation is appreciated by all our customers – from Head Teachers and Parents to large Contractors and corporate clients. 

Maintenance

The following minimum maintenance regime is recommended:

• A wash with warm soapy water (mild liquid detergent i.e. soap flakes) once or twice a year is all that is necessary. 
• ‘As you would do on your car’, avoid abrasive cloths or brushes and mild detergents, definitely no bleach or solvents! 
• Using a pressure washer is fine at a distance, however caution should be taken as the water jet can damage and even tear the fabric. 

We would always recommend that you have a professional company maintain your structure, as not only will the fabric be cleaner, the company will also check over fixings and rigging hardware.  As with any piece of equipment that contains moving/working parts it is essential to carry out regular checks to ensure optimum performance and longevity.

Specific maintenance prices are based on the location of structure and frequency of the service.  To get the maximum life from the fabric, clean every six months as above.