Logan Village Green Shade Structure
Project Scope
Versatile Structures was commissioned to design, supply, and install three new shade sails supported by eight structural columns at Logan Village Green. The project required meticulous planning and execution to meet the client’s needs while adhering to the highest industry standards. The primary objective was to provide durable and aesthetically pleasing shade structures that would enhance the public space and withstand the harsh environmental conditions typical of the region.
Shade Sails
The shade sails are constructed from Monotec 370 shade cloth, known for its durability and UV protection, and backed by a 15-year manufacturer's limited warranty. The fabric choice ensures long-lasting performance, even under Queensland's intense sunlight. To maximize the lifespan of the sails, the stitching is done using Tenara PTFE thread, which matches the warranty of the fabric, ensuring it withstands prolonged exposure to the elements without degrading.
The sails are reinforced with dual-layered and stitched corners, edges, and seams, providing additional strength at critical stress points. The edges are tensioned using marine-grade 316 stainless steel tension hardware and SS316 7x19 cables with a diameter of 6-8mm. These materials were selected for their corrosion resistance, which is crucial for outdoor structures in a coastal environment.
Engineering and Structural Integrity
The project’s engineering phase involved the preparation of detailed workshop and design drawings. Versatile Structures adhered to all relevant Australian standards, ensuring that the structural steelwork and footings were built to last. The eight support columns were made from 350-grade steel, with varying heights ranging from 4.0m to 6.5m above ground. These columns, with diameters of 168mm, 219mm, and 273mm, were designed to handle the tensile forces exerted by the tensioned sails.
The footings were excavated to a depth of approximately 2.4m and had a diameter of 0.6m, following the engineer’s specifications. Around 4.5 cubic meters of concrete were used for the footings, ensuring stability and support for the columns. Engineering certification, including Form 15 and Form 16, was provided to guarantee that all aspects of the construction met safety and compliance standards.
Installation Process
The installation was executed in a two-phase process to maximize efficiency. The first phase involved setting out the site, excavating the holes for the footings, pouring the concrete, and installing the columns. Once the steelwork was in place, the sails were measured, fabricated, and installed in the second phase.
Specialized equipment, including a crane truck and a diesel scissor lift, was used to ensure precise placement of the sails and columns. The team adhered to strict health and safety protocols throughout the installation, following OHS standards and utilizing personal protective equipment (PPE) as per AS/NZS guidelines.
Warranties and Quality Assurance
Versatile Structures offers a two-year warranty on workmanship, with extended warranty options available. All materials, including the steel coatings, are warranted as per the manufacturer’s specifications, ensuring that the structure remains in optimal condition for years to come.
Conclusion
The Logan Village Green shade structure project by Versatile Structures is a testament to the company's commitment to quality and durability. By using premium materials and adhering to rigorous engineering and safety standards, Versatile Structures has delivered a functional and attractive shade solution that enhances the usability of the public space while withstanding the challenges of the local climate.