Safe Shade Structures. Fabric shade structures protect people and property and are a better option than wood or metal shade systems, because fabrics can be porous, which allows air to pass through, keeping the area beneath much cooler and more comfortable. Specialty fabrics such as high density polyethylene (HDPE) can block out up to 96 percent of the sun’s harmful UV rays and, as they are a mesh material, allow for cool air circulation. Other products simply trap the heat and don’t allow for cool air circulation. Metal structures, for instance, heat up and radiate heat downwards, which creates an oven effect. Wood structures require significant maintenance such as re-painting and/or water sealant treatment on a regular basis.

Durability. Properly designed and built, architectural quality fabric structures have life spans that range from 10 to 25 years or more. They have proven to be weather resistant, and have been successfully deployed in Alaska, the Northwest Territories, Greenland and many countries in the Middle East, as well as many other extreme locations around the world. Fabric structures can be designed and engineered to meet the wind, snow load and seismic conditions particular to the area in which they are to be used.

Reduced Materials. When efficiently designed, the tensile capacity of the fabric itself has the potential to mitigate some of the load requirements, resulting in a significant reduction in the size and quantity of the supporting framework. The “whole system” then works to mitigate some of the tension load requirements. This in turn leads to a much more lightweight and less costly structure than other types of construction. Even in instances where sizable foundations are required, often times there are fewer costs than are associated with conventional construction materials.

Community Value. A fabric structure can transform an ordinary space into a stylish outdoor room, and with correct illumination, it can ratchet up the visual appeal of the location during nighttime hours. These unique and distinctive structures serve to increase community pride and can be a magnet for tourism and commercial investment.

Revenue Enhancement. Increased appeal means increased usage, which translates to more revenue to owners. Fabric structures also play a part in revenue enhancement. Locations such as water parks will often rent areas with permanent shade structures for special events such as birthday parties, corporate events, school retreats and more, which results in bottom line benefits. Incorporating fabric structures into locations like outdoor amphitheater locations and other civic spaces can lead to revenue-generating opportunities such as special events, concerts and other performances. Fabric-covered venues can gain income from year-round activities via rental and cover charges.

Contribution to LEED Points. The goal of being sustainable is to make places and products, and to offer services in a way that reduces the use of non-renewable resources, minimizes environmental impact and respects the natural environment. One of the leading ways to measure sustainability is the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system. While LEED has undergone several iterations over its lifespan, the basic categories in which credits can be earned have remained constant. Fabric structures have the potential to earn LEED points in the following categories: Heat Island Effect (examples: roof top shade, covered parking); Energy and Atmosphere (examples: renewable energy credits for fabrics with integrated photovoltaics); Sustainable Sites; Materials and Resources (examples: use of recycled materials); Indoor Environmental Quality; and Innovation in Design (examples: use of PV design, water collection, adaptability/design excellence).

Common Types of Fabric Structures

Fabric structures can either be custom designed or pre-engineered, depending on the needs of the project. Pre-engineered structures offer the benefits of standard forms and quick turnaround times, making them less costly than their custom-designed counterparts. But whether pre-engineered or custom designed, fabric structures typically take the following basic shapes and configurations.

Mast Supported. These structures are tent-like in form, characterized by one or several peaks supported by central poles and perimeter cables. They typically use a compression ring or “bale” ring and have traditional conical shape.

Point Supported. In these structures, a clear span avoids a center mast. This type of form uses an exterior frame or series of peripheral masts and utilizes high and low points to create a series of ridge and valleys.

Arch Supported. A curved compression member supports the membrane in these structures, which are often visually dramatic. Cross arches are often used. In this case, the fabric is often not taking its natural shape, but rather conforming to the lines of the curved steel members.

Simple Saddle. Often resembling a bird poised to take flight, these structures have a double curvature created by two high points and two low points. Their saddle shape can be either horizontal or vertical.

Tensioned Awnings. This is an awning with minimal framing, held in place by lateral forces. It can be a self-supporting or a hybrid structure. A variety of edge details are available.